Patch Picks: Five Low-Cost Meals

1. , 777 N. York Rd., Hinsdale 

Hua Ting serves up Szechwan and Mandarin cuisine at a reasonable price. To get dinner for two for under $25, share Chicken with Cashews ($9.50), Vegetable Fried Rice ($7.95), and an appetizer of Pot Stickers ($4.75).  

2. , 78 Burr Ridge Pkwy.,  Burr Ridge

Moondance Diner is a casual breakfast and lunch spot with a wide variety of entrees on the menu. For a low-cost breakfast, get the French Toast & Eggs for $7.89, accompanied by fresh-squeezed lemonade ($2.59). For a healthier alternative, try the Iron Man ($7.79), an egg-white omelet with mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. 

3. , 94 Burr Ridge Pkwy., Burr Ridge 

Although Kirsten's has been a Burr Ridge favorite since 1989 due to its classic Danish treats, it has also recently started serving lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Treat yourself to kringle (an authentic Danish pretzel) or pumpernickel bread. 

4. Doggie Diner, 13 W. 1st St., Hinsdale

Even though Hinsdale-favorite Zingelman's closed this past summer, hot dog lovers won't be out of lunch options. Doggie Diner, which also has locations in Woodridge, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Aurora and Romeoville, has opened in Zingelman's old location. The menu includes classic lunches like the Gyros Plate with Fries ($7.39) and a Chili Dog with Fries ($3.50). 

5. , 13 Grant Sq., Hinsdale

Grant Square's menu includes classic American fare such as cheeseburgers, soup, and baked mostaccioli, as well as Greek classics like gyros and avgo lemono. Grant Square also offers a $5 special that lasts all day, which makes for wallet-friendly meals all week long.