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THE BEST CHEAP EATS AROUND CAMPUS

Rose Spangler Student Contributor, West Virginia University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at WVU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Most college students are balling on a budget, but that doesn’t mean we have to get McDonald’s every time we feel like eating out. There are many walkable and affordable places in Morgantown that have great food and even better hours. This is a list of the best, cheapest food in Morgantown from lowest to highest prices.

Hot Dog Guys- $

The Hot Dog Guys are a traveling business that supplies students with cheap, all-beef franks and a slew of toppings all over Morgantown. Sometimes they’re located in front of the busy mountain lair during the weekdays or on the bustling High Street scene on the weekends. You never know where you might find these very convenient glizzy’s, but their prices are extremely affordable, ranging from $3-$6 a dog.

Laynes- $

Laynes is basically a cheaper (and in my opinion, better) version of Raising Cane’s that lives at the top of High Street. You can get a three-finger combo, which comes with a piece of Texas toast, sauce, fries and a drink all for just $12. Their prices are significantly better than Cane’s, and they are open super late for those nighttime cravings. Their house sauce is a cross between Cane’s sauce and an Old Bay flavor, giving it that perfect level of spice. This is a great option when you don’t feel like cooking without spending an arm and a leg.

Great Wall- $

Great Wall sits in the middle of Morgantown right at the intersection of High Street and Pleasant Street. This is definitely one of the more affordable Chinese restaurants in town, with their prices ranging from $7-$15 for an entree. They have everything you’d expect to see on a Chinese restaurant’s menu, with their fried rice dishes being the cheapest. They specialize in take-out, which means they’re super fast and friendly. And don’t forget about the complimentary fortune cookie!

Chaang Thai- $$

Chaang Thai ranks the highest on my list for good food, big portions and great prices. They have discount codes for almost every day of the week, including ones for WVU students and hospital staff. Not only do they sell fantastic curries, pad Thai and noodle dishes, but they also serve boba, beer and wine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and there’s even a little robot to bring you your food and drinks. Chaang Thai is a fun place to go with friends and family, plus its High Street location is super convenient for students.

Tikka Shack- $$

Tikka Shack is the best place when you’re on the go and need a quick, hot lunch. They have a wide array of traditional Indian dishes along with spiced sodas and teas. Located on University Avenue, close to Beechurst, this restaurant also has a nice sit-down vibe, making it perfect for doing homework during free time. The food comes out fast, and they give it to you in a to-go container, so all you have to do is grab a lid when you’re ready to leave. I recommend this place to anyone who wants to try something new but might be scared to commit to a full sit-down dining experience.

Rose Spangler is a third-year student at West Virginia University studying English and minoring in Spanish. Her academic interests include creative writing, historical literature, and investigative journalism. She was awarded a scholarship from Saint Agnes Catholic Church in 2025 entitled the Knights of Columbus Essay Scholarship. She was also the recipient of a full scholarship to the 2026 West Virginia Writers Workshop as a prize for winning the 2026 Appalachian Writers Award along with the Waitman Barbe Non-Fiction Writing Contest. One of Rose’s flash-fiction pieces was also exhibited in WVU’s 2026 Calliope Literary Journal. Her career goals include becoming a freelance writer and published author. Rose is currently working on a mixed-media memoir combining poetry, visual art, photography, and flash non-fiction. After Rose graduates she plans to join the Peace Corps in hopes of traveling to a Spanish speaking country to teach English. She intends to continue pursuing creative and professional writing opportunities as well as exploring careers in the United Sates Government.