City Cast Houston logo

The Best Summer Meals Under $25

Posted on July 24, 2025   |   Updated on September 30, 2025

City Cast Houston Staff

A burger with a yellow mini umbrella on top sits on a blue flowery plate.

The Smashburger in Paradise at Good God, Nadine’s. (Brooke Lewis/City Cast Houston)

When I make it to the dog days of summer, I usually find myself in a food rut. Between spending money on summer trips, eating out, and expensive grocery runs, I’m looking for ways to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. If you’re tired of eating the same meal every night, then I’m here to spice up your summer food routine with budget friendly ideas. Let’s dig in!

Marmo’s Happy Hour

If you have not been to Marmo’s happy hour yet, then what are you waiting for?! Seriously, run, don’t walk to this Montrose happy hour, which happens every day from 3 to 6 p.m and includes $5 pasta plates, $6 wine, and $2 oyster shells. Earlier this summer, I tried the happy hour for the first time and devoured the rigatoni alla vodka while delicately sipping a glass of prosecco. As someone who enjoys Marmo during non-happy hours, I felt like I was getting away with something because in what world can you indulge in tasty pasta and drinks for under 20 bucks?!

Good God, Nadine’s

This brand new Southern cocktail restaurant and lounge on Washington Avenue has a killer menu that you can enjoy on a budget. I’m still thinking about the $14 Smashburger in Paradise, a one-of-a-kind burger that they topped with a colorful mini umbrella. You could also try one of their po’boys made with shrimp, braised beef, or blackened redfish for $14. They also have a stellar happy hour from Tuesdays to Friday between 4 and 7 p.m. with menu items like the smashburger for a cheaper price.

Tacos Doña Lena

It can be hard to find tacos that stand out from the pack in a taco city like Houston. Not only do these authentic street tacos stand out from the competition, but you can enjoy multiple ones and keep your bill under $25 at either their Heights or Spring Branch location. For example, order three birria street tacos in double corn tortillas for only $13. Take it a step further and get their enchiladas rojas, which includes three Mexican enchiladas rojas topped with grilled potatoes, sour cream, and queso fresco for $13.

Trill Burgers

Besides their tasty burgers, another major plus about Trill Burgers is their menu is actually affordable! Order the OG Burger combo, which includes a delicious burger, fries, and a drink for a little over $15. Do you have little ones with you? Try the Lil G’ Trill Meal and they can enjoy their own smaller burger and fries alongside you for around $10.

Share article

Hey Houston

Thank you Houston, we’ve loved the conversation we’ve been having with you for the past three years. City Cast Houston and Hey Houston have suspended operations. Our last newsletter and podcast episode was Oct. 24, 2025.