The average cost of living in Detroit, Michigan is over 25% lower than the national average. Of course, this kind of statistic is no reason to go out on the town in Detroit. But a quick look at the affordable eateries and drinking establishments in the area may give you more reason to go.



Try dinner at one of the top five spots for cheap eats and then stay out for a drink either at one of the more affordable happy hours or just somewhere you can get yourself a good deal on a drink.


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Best bets for cheap eats:
5. Jerusalem Garden
Located in Ann Arbor, this spot may be a bit of a hike but it's well worth the trip. Few Mediterranean places in Detroit and surrounding areas can measure up to the quality of a Jerusalem Garden falafel. And no one can beat the price. For added value, go for the combination plate and fill up on a whole meal for under $7.

4. Woodward Avenue Brewers
The brewery has been repeatedly recognized for its superb microbrews but what really draws the crowd is the tasty bites for less than $10. Of course, if you would like a pint of beer to complement dinner, feel free to order up one of their unique brews or even some custom-made root beer. The flat-bread pizzas look to be the crowd pleaser.

3. Green Lantern Lounge
Quality ingredients and a family atmosphere make this one of the best pizza joints in the Detroit area. Each pie is made to order and served hot. Their subs are also mouth-watering with jaw-dropping prices. A full meal at Green Lantern will not require you to reach too far into your pocket. Pies start at $5.50 and subs are as low as $3.50.

2. Zumba Mexican Grille
Fueled by a Southern California tradition, Zumba serves up Mexican treats made from quality products. Their menu even includes a "Baja-style" fish tacos, a delicacy you rarely find in the Midwest. And all this flavor can be had for a small price. Tacos, even the fish tacos, start at abou $2.50 a piece.

1. Lafayette Coney Island
Who can really enjoy a night out in Detroit without taking a bite out of a quality Coney Island dog? And most Detroit natives know that there is no Coney dog like a Lafayette Coney Island. Plus a cheap date could easily start here if that date likes chili and pork enough. Eat for under $5 and save the rest of your paycheck for drinks later on.

Where to go for drink deals:
5. Kona Grill
Kona has received nods from Hour Detroit as the best happy hour around town. The specials at Kona last from 3:00 to 7:00 pm and include deals on appetizers too if you need a little something to soak up that cheap alcohol.

4. Goodnight Gracie
Those searching for a spot to wind down post-work will do well to flock to Goodnight Gracie. Monday through Friday, the restaurant offers half-priced drinks to the thirsty who pass through their doors.

3. Anchor Bar
Located downtown, some might describe Anchor as a bit of a dive. But most bar goers know that such a description usually hints at cheap drinks and food. Stop on by the bar after work and have a cheap happy hour drink but feel free to stay because even after happy hour slips away, the regular prices aren't half bad.

2. The Necto
This Ann Arbor joint features specials every night of the week like 3 for $10 shots of Jaeger, Cherry or O Bombs. And weekend visitors will also enjoy extended happy hours. All this and some great club mixes make The Necto a great place to get down for a small price.

1. Post Bar
Each night you step into this hot spot, you'll be able to enjoy a new special. From Monday's beer deals to 1/3 off everything behind the bar on Sunday, Post Bar will never ask you to spend too much on your night out on the town.