Let’s be real—Montreal student life is exciting but not cheap. Food costs can pile up fast between rent, transit passes, textbooks, and the occasional (or frequent) late-night outings. Luckily, the city is packed with affordable eats that are delicious and often just steps from campus.

Whether you're rushing to class at Concordia, cramming for exams at McGill, or exploring the Plateau between lectures at UQAM, here are the best wallet-friendly spots to fuel your brain without draining your bank account.

Why Finding Cheap Eats Matters to Students

The average student in Montreal lives on a tight budget, especially with the rising cost of rent and groceries. Eating out might seem like a luxury, but when done smartly, it can be a lifesaver, saving you time, stress, and even cash if you know where to look.

The key is proximity, price, and portion size. You want something fast, filling, and fun. If you flash your ID, Montreal's got you covered with spots offering $5 meals, giant sandwiches, and student discounts.

Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Eateries by Campus

Concordia University (Downtown Campus)

Nilufar
A Concordia student staple, Nilufar is famous for its $2 falafel sandwiches and good vibes. This Lebanese joint is entirely vegetarian and super kind on your wallet. They even have student combo deals under $10.
📍 1923 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Boustan
For fast Middle Eastern food, Boustan is an institution. Their shawarma pitas are hearty and flavorful, and the lunch deals keep the line out the door.
📍 Various locations, closest to Concordia

Kazu
A tiny but mighty Japanese bistro known for ramen, rice bowls, and long lineups. It’s not the cheapest on this list, but the portions are massive and worth the wait.
📍 1862 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

McGill University

Lola Rosa (Milton-Parc)
Vegetarian, cozy, and perfect for post-class hangouts, Lola Rosa offers lasagna, curries, and quesadillas—all around $12. Students rave about the generous portions.
📍 545 Milton Street

Universel Déjeuner & Grillades
Known for its breakfast specials and hearty lunch plates, Universel is a go-to for group meals. Their weekday lunch specials are under $15.
📍 2055 Rue Peel

Ginkgo Café
It's a calm, stylish space perfect for studying or catching up. Try their grilled cheese or daily soup deals. Bonus: it’s located right on the McGill campus.
📍 680 Sherbrooke St W

UQAM, ÉTS, and Downtown Colleges

Cinko
Every item on the menu is $5. Enough said. Expect burgers, mac and cheese, and funky drinks in a trendy space. It is popular with students all over downtown.
📍 1641 Rue Saint-Denis

Patati Patata
A funky fry bar with sliders, poutine, and the best grilled cheese around. Vegetarian-friendly and fast.
📍 4177 Boulevard Saint-Laurent

Marché Jean-Talon (Quick Bites)
OK, it's not a restaurant per se, but it's full of stands offering tacos, crepes, samosas, and more for under $7. It's great if you’re near the UQAM science pavilion.
📍 7070 Henri-Julien Ave

Université de Montréal & Polytechnique

Pushap
An unassuming Indian spot with incredible vegetarian thalis for under $10. A must for those in Côte-des-Neiges.
📍 5195 Rue Paré, near Namur Metro

Dobe & Andy
Great for Chinese BBQ lovers. Fast service and significant portions of roast pork, duck, and more.
📍 1081 St Laurent Blvd

La Panthère Verte
Vegan shawarma that even meat-eaters love—affordable wraps and smoothies, with several locations across the city.
📍 Various locations, including one near Côte-des-Neiges

Tips for Saving Money While Eating Out

• Always ask for a student discount. Even if it’s not advertised, some places will knock off 10–15% with your ID.
  
  
• Use Too Good To Go to grab cheap meals from bakeries and restaurants closing for the day.
  
  
• Apps like Ritual, Uber Eats, and DoorDash often offer student promo codes and loyalty perks.
  
  
• Lunch specials > dinner prices. Eat your big meal at noon and snack at home later.
  
  

Hidden Gems Worth the Extra Walk

Sometimes the best eats aren’t right outside the campus gate. Explore these lesser-known gems:

Chez Boris – Russian-style donuts and coffee in the Mile-End, super chill and affordable.
La Maison de Mademoiselle Dumpling —and made dumplings in Parc-Ex. It's a short metro ride, but so worth it.
Pizza Bouquet – Thin crust, Montreal-style slices hidden behind Bar Suzanne on Saint-Laurent.

Also, look for food trucks near campuses during warmer months and festivals, especially at Place Émilie-Gamelin and Mount Royal Park.

Final Thoughts

Being a student in Montreal doesn’t mean you have to survive on instant noodles. With a bit of digging (or a lot of munching), you’ll find some fantastic budget-friendly eateries that keep your stomach and wallet full. Plus, you get to explore the city one bite at a time.

Bon appétit!