Are we in danger of losing the Lunchtime Special? My office recently moved from Chatswood where there is a plethora of lunch specials available. Ranging from $5.00 pizza to $10 (or sometimes $15 for a good curry or steak and chips. I have very fond memories of a $7 kabab with extra chili sauce that was worthy of impure thoughts.
That $5 pizza is no longer on the menu. The Lunchtime Special price range has now moved to $20 or more in some places. Is this a sign of the times for the stagnant economy? Is the price of living just too damn high!? I have made it a mission to find real lunch specials within walking distance of my new office or home office in South Sydney. (Go Bunnies!).

Find a Budget Lunch in Sydney
Sometimes You Need An App
I have found that the EatClub App is very useful in finding your budget lunch. EatClub will provide some generous discounts. Some of my favorite places offer up to 40% off for takeaway and or eat in. The deals can be sorted by price or, more importantly, distance. EatClub allows you to pay in app and your food is ready when you arrive at the restaurant. Keep in mind that EatClub offers a limited number of discounts per day so get in early.
David’s Kitchen
127 Liverpool St, Sydney NSW 2000
A not so well kept local secret. David’s Kitchen serves delicious Asian cuisine in an unassuming takwaway spot near the city center. Their window menu features your favorite dishes, sweet and sour pork, honey chicken as well as some not found so often, deep fried pork ribs and a great Captain Chicken. Not only is their food flavorful and filling it is fresh and does not go overboard on the batters like so many lesser places. They also offer generous portions at budget friendly prices – making them ideal for those short on cash yet still wanting quality eats. Furthermore, their service has always been speedy, reliable and straight through their window to the sidewalk. So you don’t have to worry about waiting around to get your order.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to break from work without breaking your wallet, then definitely try out David’s Kitchen Takeaway for a real lunch special sure to satisfy!
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Khao Neow Tahi Street Food
429 Pitt St, Haymarket NSW 2000
Khao Neow Tahi Street Food is a fantastic foodie experience, its delicious array of spicy and zesty flavors that will awaken taste buds you never knew you had. Serving authentic, non-westernized Thai food with good pricing and a great selection of food options you will be hard pressed to find better lunch specials in Sydney under $15 than here. With generous portions, vibrant colors and unparalleled aromas, it’s easy to see why this place is so popular among Sydneysiders looking for cheap yet flavorful eats.
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Malibu Sandwiches
62 Foster St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
This miniature sandwich shop has been compared to the Seinfeld “Soup Nazi” episode and has a cult following for huge sandwiches and singular service style.
Located down a Surry Hills alley, the shop holds one person at a time. A long line starts to form around 11:30 so be early. A mayo herb blend that has addictive qualities is used on the signature chicken schnitzel sandwich. Schnitzel and accompany lettuce tomato are all fresh. The sandwiches are massive and a large one will often provide a person with two meals.
Some Tips.
- Get there early. A long line forms quickly and the sandwiches are made (with care) one at a time.
- Cash Only! This cannot be stressed enough.
- Adding extra mayo is tempting as it is awesome, but may result in a soggy sandwich.
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Coming Soon
More places as I find them.. Check back soon!