Everyone needs to eat, and sometimes circumstances force us to go out to get what we need. This can prove to be a daunting task, especially for those on a budget. But Milwaukee’s East Side has its share of affordable places to eat out.

El Chico Zuma

1814 E. North Ave.
276-1277

Cheap tacos, piping hot taquitos and hefty burritos are some of the things you will find at El Chico Zuma. With a wide selection of Mexican entrees at affordable prices and generous hours of business, Chico Zuma is a convenient late-night stop. Don’t forget to get your share of the complimentary chips and salsa, either.

Apollo Cafe

1310 E. Brady St.
272-2233

Decidedly more upscale than some of the East Side’s other Greek places, Apollo serves affordable, quality Greek food. Enjoy gyros, mousakka, chicken souvalki and other Greek staples in a nice, clean atmosphere. Apollo also has outdoor seating when the weather permits.

Zaffiro’s Pizza and Bar

1724 N. Farwell Ave.
289-8776

Just north of Brady Street, Zaffiro’s offers affordable Italian food in a quiet, neighborhood-bar-like setting. A variety of sandwiches, pastas and, of course, pizzas are on the menu. There’s also a cheap and tasty selection of appetizers.

Sil’s Drive Thru

1801 E. North Ave.
223-9365

For cheap, late-night food, it’s hard to beat Sil’s. A former bus shelter, Sil’s is now a spot for hot dogs, mini donuts and more food to-go. For those who need to line their stomachs after a long night, check out the $1.50 “Wieners for the Wasted” deal.

Hooligan’s

2017 E. North Ave.
273-5230

From 4 to 6 p.m. on weekdays, Hooligan’s has a $2.99 happy hour menu featuring appetizer standards like jalapeno poppers, mini corn dogs and a plate of three small “slider” burgers. If you miss that, fear not, because Sunday through Thursday, it has another $2.99 menu featuring hot wings, egg rolls, breaded mushrooms and more. For less than the cost of most drinks, you can actually have a meal.

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