New York City has become a haven for food enthusiasts, and for Marco Lombardi, a TikTok and Instagram influencer with a huge following, the search for affordable eats is a passion. He’s known for his keen eye, often discovering mouthwatering meals that won’t put a dent in your wallet—sometimes finding options for as low as five dollars.

In a recent chat, Lombardi shared insights with the New York Post, revealing that some of his top meal recommendations are priced at nearly one-third of what you might pay at more upscale restaurants. For example, he suggests heading to “Mei Wah Pork Chop Chicken King” in Chinatown for a pork chop rice dish at just $7.50 or indulging in a $5 chicken skewer from the iconic food cart, Souvlaki Lady.

Lombardi refers to family-owned eateries as the “engine” of New York City, expressing that their presence is crucial to the city’s identity. “We can’t all afford $20 sandwiches,” he points out, shedding light on the financial strain many face amid rising costs, which have surged nearly 6% over the past year. He also notes with a sigh that the legendary “dollar pizza” is now a thing of the past.

Having faced his own financial challenges due to gambling, which left him nearly broke, Lombardi understands the struggles of budget-conscious foodies. It was a transformative moment when he found a $7 meal at “Lucky Lee’s” in Chinatown that inspired him to turn his life around.

Now dedicating himself to creating food content full-time, he partners with brands like Chevy, Poland Spring, and Popeyes Chicken, all while spotlighting New York City’s hidden culinary treasures for those seeking affordable meal options.

Lombardi emphasizes that “affordable food” doesn’t equate to low quality. He often reminisces about the 1990s in New York, when grandmothers cooked to make ends meet. “These restaurants have been around for 25 to 30 years—why should they change their prices?” he questions.

Here are Lombardi’s top five favorite meals under $5, along with their locations:

1. Tacos from Tacos Al Gusto food truck: 102-96 Roosevelt Ave (Corona Plaza).
2. Stewed chicken at Elsa La Reina de Chicharron: 4840 Broadway.
3. Pork chop rice from Wah Fung Fast Food: 79 Chrystie St.
4. Pasta and rotisserie chicken from Color World: 305 E. 116th St.
5. Burgers at 20 Gram Cafe: 145 West St, Green Point (Jubilee Marketplace).