Late-night cravings don’t always wait for payday. Whether you’re working overtime, leaving a concert, or just feeling hungry after hours, affordable food options can be hard to come by once the sun goes down. Fortunately, several chains and local favorites offer late-night eats that satisfy both your appetite and your budget. Here’s where to find the best low-cost bites after dark.
- Jack in the Box – Late Night Munchie Meals
Jack in the Box is famous for its Munchie Meals, available exclusively after 9 PM. These combos include a main item, halfsie fries (regular and curly), and two tacos—all for around $7–$8. It’s one of the best deals in the fast food scene for late-night eaters.
View Munchie Meal options - Taco Bell – Cravings Menu
Taco Bell is a go-to for budget night owls. Its Cravings Menu includes items like the Spicy Potato Soft Taco and Cheesy Bean & Rice Burrito starting at just $1. The $5 Cravings Box, which includes a drink, is also a great value. Most locations are open until 2 AM or later.
Explore the Cravings Menu - Denny’s – Value Slam Meals
Open 24 hours in many locations, Denny’s offers Value Slam meals and rotating deals that start under $8. These include options like pancakes, eggs, and bacon—perfect for a late-night breakfast. Join the Denny’s Rewards program for additional discounts and birthday perks. - Waffle House – All-Day Breakfast at Night
With more than 1,900 locations, Waffle House is a reliable and affordable late-night destination. Their full breakfast menu is served 24/7, and many items like waffles, hashbrowns, and breakfast sandwiches stay under $10. - Whataburger – Late-Night Burger & Breakfast Deals
Open 24/7 in many southern states, Whataburger offers hearty burgers, taquitos, and breakfast biscuits around the clock. Prices are competitive, and the Breakfast on a Bun is a favorite for under $4.
Check out the Whataburger menu - Perkins – Midnight Pie & Coffee
While not all locations are open late, those that are serve up comforting meals and desserts for less than $10. Their pie slices and bottomless coffee make for a cozy and budget-friendly late-night snack.
Visit Perkins Restaurants - 7-Eleven – Hot Snacks on the Go
Need something fast and super cheap? 7-Eleven’s Hot Foods section includes pizza slices, taquitos, and wings, often available 24/7. Paired with a $1 drink or snack deal, this is one of the most accessible options for night owls. - IHOP – Late-Night Pancakes and Combos
IHOP’s affordable meal combos, like the 2x2x2 (two eggs, two bacon strips, two pancakes), are served all night at many locations. Join MyHop Rewards for birthday rewards and exclusive offers. - Five Guys – Big Portions, Shareable Value
Though not open super late everywhere, many Five Guys locations close at 10 PM or later. Their portions are large enough to split—especially the fries. You can buy a Five Guys gift card with cashback through Fluz for added savings if you’re grabbing food just before close.
Explore the Five Guys menu - Del Taco – 20 Under $2 Menu
Del Taco’s 20 Under $2 menu is one of the best-kept secrets in fast food. It includes tacos, mini burritos, quesadillas, and drinks—perfect for assembling a filling late-night meal for under $5.
Late-Night Dining Tips for Budget Eaters
- Order directly from the restaurant’s website to avoid third-party delivery fees
- Use restaurant apps to access late-night exclusive deals or app-only menu items
- Stick to value menus or create your own combo with low-cost à la carte items
- Pay with gift cards purchased through cashback platforms like Fluz for an extra layer of savings
Final Thought
Whether you’re craving fries at midnight or pancakes at 3 AM, there’s no shortage of wallet-friendly food options available late into the night. With the right approach—and a few cashback tools—you can keep your cravings satisfied without overspending.
