10 Best Cheap Eats in Aruba: Budget Restaurants to Visit

If you’re looking for where to eat for cheap in Aruba, you’re in luck. While this beautiful Caribbean island is not known for being inexpensive, there are hidden gems that offer delicious food at a price that won’t break the bank. Best of all? You’ll still get to indulge in the Caribbean and Aruban flavors that many of the more expensive restaurants serve up – just at a cheap restaurant in Aruba!

In this post, we’ll take you on a quick tour of the island’s hidden gems and guilty pleasures – the cheat eats of Aruba. This is where you’ll be able to wine and dine with the locals, eating fresh fish, juicy burgers, and even the perfectly priced Taco Tuesday! So, loosen your belt and tighten your wallet, it’s time to dive into the ultimate cheat eats of Aruba.

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Map of the Best Cheap Restaurants in Aruba

Find the most affordable restaurants in Aruba with this helpful map. It will show you where to go for Aruba’s best cheap eats and even how to find each of the restaurants that we’ll talk more about!

Continue on to learn more about Aruba’s best cheap restaurants in Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and Oranjestad.

Best Cheap Eats in Palm Beach, Aruba

If you’re looking for a cheap restaurant in Palm Beach, Aruba, you’re in luck. There are a number of good options located within walking distance of the high-rise hotel district. Here are some of your best bets, but if none of them interest you, or maybe you’ve already eaten at all of them – there are more listed at the bottom that deserve a spot on your “budget eating in Aruba” list.

Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill

Located over the waters of the gorgeous Palm Beach, Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill is one of the go-to beach bar destinations for fun, relaxation, and entertainment. From sunrise cocktails to casual breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Bugaloe offers cheap food in Aruba with daily specials and a vegan-friendly menu. You’ll also be able to catch special events, like live bands, DJs, and karaoke every night against the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets.

Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 79, Noord, Aruba

Smokey Joe’s Island Grill

Smokey Joe’s offers alfresco dining in Palm Beach serving up only the freshest local fish and mouthwatering grilled baby back ribs. In fact, they’ve often been hailed as the “Best Ribs in the Caribbean.” You’ll also find delicious open-fire rotisserie-grilled chicken and Argentine grass-fed filet mignon for a culinary experience that’s sure to impress.

Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, Noord, Aruba

Pika’s Corner

Pika’s Corner stands out as a budget-friendly restaurant in Aruba, serving up some of the island’s finest local cuisine. If you’re willing to get off the beaten path and try something more local, check it out! It’s best known for its irresistible meat skewers and daily fresh catches. Choose from a variety of traditional Aruban fare and a taste of the Caribbean – all without breaking the bank.

Address: Route 3 Palm Beach, Noord, Aruba

Wacky Wahoo’s

Wacky Wahoo’s is among the best restaurants in Aruba, and you don’t want to miss it. It’s sure to be one of your favorites! However, it does operate on a no-reservation policy. To skip the wait, arrive before they open at 5:30pm. If you do encounter a waitlist, it is worth the wait! When its time to order, make sure to find out their specials, but you can’t go wrong with their barracuda, grouper, and fish soup. You’ll love the food at Wacky Wahoo. After all, it is known for having the best fish in Aruba!

Address: Rte 3 33B, Noord, Aruba

Local Store

From its humble beginnings as a beloved rum shop in 1980, Local Store Aruba has become one of the best inexpensive restaurants in Aruba. Here you’ll find some of the island’s best burgers, wings, and local delicacies with a laid-back vibe. All this combined makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Stop by for good food and great times.

Address: Palm Beach 13A, Aruba

Cafe 080

Stop by Cafe 080, the ultimate local hangout in Aruba. With its inviting atmosphere, outdoor seating, and affordable prices, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in fish and chips while soaking up the island vibes. Join locals and travelers alike at this delicious restaurant to enjoy a cheap meal in Aruba!

Address: Noord 90 Noord, Aruba

Best Cheap Eats in Eagle Beach, Aruba

While not as busy as Palm Beach, you can find some great cheap restaurants in Eagle Beach. My two favorites are Twist of Flavors and Red Fish Aruba. Check them both out and let me know which you preferred in the comments!

Twist of Flavors

Twist of Flavors is one of the best “Aruba cheap eats” featuring an international menu with Dutch pancakes, sandwiches, pasta, and steaks. Located in the Alhambra Mall, its cozy European design is perfect for coffee indoors or wine on the terrace. You’ll want to try their most popular menu items – the Dutch pancakes, grouper, and of course their Friday burger specials.

Address: J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 47, Oranjestad, Aruba

Red Fish Aruba

Red Fish is a casual restaurant where tourists and locals alike enjoy delicious, affordable seafood in Aruba. Located off the highway, it’s renowned for its fresh daily catch and authentic local cuisine. From fish and shrimp sold by the pound to specialty dishes like lobster and filet mignon, every bite promises quality seafood just the way the locals like it.

Address: Italiestraat 50, Oranjestad, Aruba

Best Cheap Eats in Oranjestad, Aruba

If you’re staying in Oranjestad, don’t worry – there are plenty of great cheap restaurants in Oranjestad too. The two I recommend trying are Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant and West Deck, both of which serve up great views in addition to tasty, affordable food. For additional restaurant recommendations in Oranjestad, check out the list at the bottom. After all, we want to make sure you’re well fed!

Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant

Lucy’s Aruba is a retired surfer’s paradise located at Wind Creek Marina in downtown Oranjestad. Here you can enjoy laid-back vibes, waterfront views, and coastal-inspired bites in this family and dog-friendly restaurant. Sip on killer cocktails or bring your fresh catch to them to cook while you soak up the Caribbean sunset. You won’t want to miss Taco Tuesday at Lucy’s where tacos start at just $2/each – one of the best restaurant deals in Aruba!

Address: L.G. Smith Blvd 82, Oranjestad, Aruba

West Deck

The West Deck is found in Governor’s Bay on Aruba’s new Linear Park with a stunning beachfront setting and panoramic ocean views. Set on a spacious wooden deck, you can enjoy close-up views of landing planes and departing cruise ships. Whether you’re looking for drinks or a relaxed meal, it’s the perfect spot to stop for a cheap meal in Aruba. Make sure not to miss out on their renowned grouper and coconut shrimp!

Address: Lloyd G. Smith Blvd, Oranjestad, Aruba

Additional Options for Cheap Food in Aruba

While the above restaurants get my vote for “must-visit” places for cheap eats, Aruba offers a lot of budget-friendly restaurants if you know where to look. While you might not get the “feet in the water” experience of some of the more romantic restaurants on the island, you will get tasty food and a memorable, more local experience!

Here are some additional options for cheap restaurants in Aruba.