Eating Ramen every night can get really old, really fast for college students, and dining halls and meal plans don’t cure our late-night cravings, either. This list of cheap, student-friendly eateries has everything from pizza to breakfast. —Amy Daire
9 Bangkok Having a taste for Champagne on a beer budget makes eating good sushi hard. But the lunch deals at 9 Bangkok boast one spring roll, its soup of the day and two sushi rolls for under $9. 571 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-894-5990, 9bangkok.info.
The Avenue eat/drink This restaurant’s got 50-cent wings on Mondays, $5 burgers on Wednesdays and a discount available for USF students. It’s within walking distance of USF’s St. Pete campus, and there are happy hour specials and live music on the weekends. 330 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 727-851-9531, theavenuedtsp.
The Egg Platter A you-can’t-miss-it spot in Pinellas Park that’s old-school and delicious. Since breakfast is served all day, go for a three-egg omelet that’s sure to hit the spot after the sun goes down. 6767 U.S. Highway 19 N., Pinellas Park, 727-521-0111.
Loving Hut Trade meatloaf and steak for one of the dishes at this vegan restaurant. Once you try the Fabulous Mongolia — with vegan soy protein, bell peppers, onions and more — you’ll become a regular. Loving Hut is less than 5 minutes from the USF Tampa campus, too. 1905 E. Fletcher Ave., Tampa, 813-977-7888, lovinghut.us.
Mama’s KitchenThis diner puts that much-needed “oomph” in breakfast with its diverse menu. Take note of the signature breakfast special — eggs, meat and your choice of three pancakes or French toast for less than $10. 9312 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 813-932-7111, mamaskitchen3.com.
New York New York Pizza Whether you’re drunk at 2 a.m. after night of parading around SoHo or simply looking for a quick pizza pick-me-up, this spot offers massive slices at tiny prices (not to be cheesy). 533 S. Howard Ave., Tampa, 813-253-3929, nynypizzeria.com.
PDQ A fast-casual chain that got its start on Dale Mabry. PDQ’s menu offers chicken in all varieties, ranging from a massive crispy chicken salad to a delectable chicken sandwich placed in a savory egg bun. The milkshakes also give other franchises a run for their money. 5706 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 813-864-8003, eatpdq.com.
Spaghetti Warehouse Conveniently located right under CL’s offices, Spaghetti Warehouse gives college kids inexpensive full-course meals. On Wednesdays, the Warehouse slashes prices for its classic spaghetti meal, which comes with your choice of meat, a salad or soup and fresh bread. 1911 N. 13th St., Tampa, 813-248-1720, meatballs.com.
Taco Bus The beloved Mexican restaurant-on-wheels that’s open late and even 24 hours at some of its locations. With tacos under $3, your Taco Bell budget could stretch a long way. 2320 E. Fletcher Ave., Tampa, 813-977-6808, taco-bus.com.
The Tavern at BayboroLocated right near the USF St. Petersburg campus, this cozy restaurant has burgers, fries, beer and more. Students and teachers gather for good times and the occasional open-mic night. 121 Sixth Ave. S. #2, St. Petersburg, 727-821-1418.
Tour De PizzaSpecialty pies, massive subs and breakfast pizzas allow this eatery to fulfill any college student’s wildest chowing dream. And with dollar cheese slices from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, Tour De Pizza won’t break the bank. 212 37th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, 727-898-5555, tourdepizza.com.
Wawa There are few things in life that sound sketchier than gas station food, but Wawa raises the bar. With options like pizza, salads, customized sandwiches and iced coffee, it makes ultra-cheap dining easy. There are locations throughout Tampa Bay. 2901 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 813-971-5434, wawa.com.