Drew’s Eats: 5 Lunch Specials Under $15

Looking for a tasty, cheap STUVAC snack on King Street this week? Kiran Gupta has done the research for you and has found the best places within walking distance of Drew’s.

As you look for a study break this week and want a break from dining hall meals, it’s great to keep in mind some cheap eats on our doorstep where you can find a delicious lunchtime meal without spending too much money. This certainly isn’t an exhaustive list but as a self-confessed foodie, these are five of my favourite places within walking distance of Drew’s.

 1.     Jin’s Teahouse – 111 King St, Newtown NSW 2042

Editor’s Note (22/06/2021): Unfortunately Jin’s Teahouse closed down on the 13th June. This is a real shame but they say that they are moving so you can find more about that here.

This is by my favourite lunch deal. If you walk just past Alice’s Thai, you will find this gem, which is a relatively new Chinese restaurant. For lunch, you get a fantastic meal (from a wide range of typical Chinese restaurant choices), complemented by rice and 4 spring rolls for just $15. I can never finish the food and it is always of extremely high quality and very tasty. Most meat options can also be substituted for vegan equivalents as well and I am told by a vegetarian friend that it is some of the best tofu they have ever had. So hands down would recommend this. Unfortunately, they seem to have closed for lunch except for Friday and Saturday now but if they open up for more days again, I would highly recommend.

2.     Fat Franks – 172 King St, Newtown NSW 2042

When a restaurant claims to do a Philly Cheesesteak, they’re setting themselves a very high standard. A Cheesesteak needs to be completely nailed, with the perfect balance between meat and cheese. These guys nail it. The meat is succulent and juicy and the cheese perfectly compliments the steak. For lunch, your steak also comes with chips and a drink. A great deal. Also look out for their $3 onion rings as a nice snack (available all day).

3.     Thairiffic – 224 King St, Newtown NSW 2042

There’s so many good Thai restuarants on King Street, I had a hard time picking but this one is my go-to. A bit further away but with a bit more glitz and glam, if you want a good Pad Thai or a Pad See Ew – this is the place. I’ve never had a bad dish from here, with generous amounts of meat and great flavours all the way down the menu. There’s also great side dishes if you are a big eater. Worth the walk in my opinion.

4.     Pie Tin – 1a Brown St, Newtown NSW 2042

If you haven’t discovered this place, you’re missing out. Just off King Street, this place makes savoury and sweet pies in house. And not just your chunky beef pie either. Bacon and Cheese pies, Peking Duck pies, you name it, they do it. And don’t get me started on their sweet pies. A creamy, rich Banoffee pie loaded with subtle banana flavour – yes please. Or if you’re in the mood for black forest, rocky road, chocolate, cherry ripe or hazelnut. They’ve got it all. One of the best places near college for sure (and very well-priced too for a snack).

5.     Loaded – 170-172 Missenden Rd, Newtown NSW 2042

I will preface that this is not my favourite burger (often dry and a little bit plastic-y) but their 11-12 ‘tradie’ deal is a good one if you’re an early eater. Reasonably well-priced and easy to be customised to your taste, not to mention the closest place to College, it’s definitely one to keep in mind.

Honourable mentions

Pastizzi Café – 109 King St, Newtown NSW 2042

I find their lunch to be a bit pricey and a bit underwhelming but if you want a snack, they do excellent $3 pastizzis and are walking distance from College.

Huxtaburger – Shop C/66 Regent St, Redfern NSW 2016

Ok, you need to get on a train for this one but it’s right next to Redfern station and I reckon the best burgers in Sydney. Originally a Melbourne chain which I discovered when working in Melbourne, their cheesus burger is to die for. Absolutely insane. So worth the quick train ride. They also give you a free drink if you bring your student ID.

Maya Masala – 470 Cleveland St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

Also in Redfern/ Surry Hills, this wouldn’t be complete without an Indian restaurant. With delectable sweets and amazing Vegetarian curries, if you want a hearty Indian meal, this is where you go. Only a short bus ride away (catch the 352 and it will take you to the door).

So there you have it, some of the best food in Sydney, cheap and right on our doorstep. This is certainly a working list, if anyone has any sweet deals to add to this list, let me know and I’ll be sure to add them!!

Image: Sydney.com