Feeding the family without draining your wallet? Yeah, it can be challenging.

Food costs seem to just keep going up and up, and Mid-Michigan moms and dads know that finding good food that's affordable isn't always easy.

READ MORE: The Best Burgers in Lansing — RANKED!

That's why we've tracked down five hidden gems in and around Lansing where you can grab kid-friendly meals for under $10 — without sacrificing taste, quality, or local flavor.

Ready to find your next go-to spot?

El Oasis — Lansing

El Oasis has a handful of locations around Lansing, the newest of which being its food truck at Horrocks on the city's west side.

Most menu items at El Oasis are under $10, including tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, and most burritos.(Photo via Facebook - El Oasis)
Most menu items at El Oasis are under $10, including tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, and most burritos.(Photo via Facebook - El Oasis)
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The El Oasis Dinner Special goes for $9, and includes three tacos with your choice of meat, rice and beans.

Zaytoon Mediterranean — Holt

If you're craving authentic Mediterranean cuisine, Zaytoon in Holt offers some budget-friendly options.

If you miss Zaytoon Mediterranean off Elmwood Road in Lansing, you can still enjoy those amazing flavors at the Holt location. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
If you miss Zaytoon Mediterranean off Elmwood Road in Lansing, you can still enjoy those amazing flavors at the Holt location. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
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You can get a chicken shawarma pita or falafel pita with choice of rice, hummus, salad or fries for just $9.75.

Chen's Restaurant — Lansing

The lunch menu at Chen's Restaurant in Lansing is a great deal.

We couldn't help but notice that the Chen's Restaurant building is shaped like a heaping plate of food - not unlike what you'll be served here. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
We couldn't help but notice that the Chen's Restaurant building in Lansing is shaped like a heaping plate of food - just like what you'll be served here. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
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Come in during lunch hours and you can snag one of 21 specials (including white or pork fried rice) for just $7.25, including General Tso's Chicken, Moo Goo Gai Pan, Broccoli with Garlic Sauce or Shrimp with Lobster Sauce, just to name a few. Add an egg roll and you're still under $10.

LeRoy's Classic Bar & Grill — Lansing

LeRoy's Classic Bar & Grill on South Cedar Street has been a Lansing staple for decades.

LeRoy's also has breakfast before 11am for less than $10. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
LeRoy's also has breakfast before 11am for less than $10. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
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Most of its burgers come in at under $10, and the 2-piece fish and chips is a steal at $9.50. You can also get a variety of other sandwiches, hot dogs, or coneys for less than $10.

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Lansing Brewing Company — Lansing

Lansing Brewing Company is located in the heart of downtown right behind Jackson Field. Don't let the "brewing company" part fool you — this menu brings it.

Lighter fare can be had at LBC for under $10, including several rotating daily specials.(Photo via GoogleMaps)
Lighter fare can be had at LBC for under $10, including several rotating daily specials. (Photo via GoogleMaps)
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Specials include the Fire Roasted Vegetable Soup for $8, Birria Steak Tacos for right at $10. You can also get some delicious salads without venturing into the double digits.

Where's Your Go-To Spot?

Got a family-friendly meal under $10? Share your pics on your favorite social media using #LansingCheapEats and tag us — we might feature your suggestion next!

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