Day 2 of Cheap Eats: Cary, Carrboro, Raleigh

On Monday, WRAL Reporter Kim Dean sought out some of the best local meals under $10. WRAL.com viewers also recommended their favorite cheap eats.

On Tuesday, Dean featured great meals that don’t break the bank in Cary, Carrboro and Raleigh.

A fun atmosphere and great prices are promised at Gypsy's Shiny Diner in Cary. Most of the menu items are under $10, and that's important to Owner Tony Gilliam.

Prices on milk and eggs continue to rise, but so far, Gilliam said he hasn’t raised menu prices. He still has daily homemade blue plate specials.

“You can have a meat and two vegetables with your drink, under $10,” he said.

Ordering country style steak, string beans, black-eyed peas and a drink, including tax, is $9.13.

Dean’s next stop was at Elmo’s Diner in Carrboro. Managers there say they are really feeling the pinch with rising food costs. Still, they know their customers are looking for a deal.

Dean ordered an Elmo’s Diner favorite – a Greek grilled cheese loaded with American and feta cheeses, tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce. A grilled cheese, drink and tax came to $9.08.

Some viewers recommended The Farmhouse in Raleigh – a favorite of N.C. State University students. Managers say they have to keep prices down to accommodate a college kid's budget.

The Farmhouse is known for its pizzas, cheese steaks and prices. Dean ordered a sandwich and a drink, with tax, for $7.85.

Tune in Wednesday to the WRAL Morning News at 6 as Dean debuts more affordable fare. She finds traditional Vietnamese food, a Mediterranean dish and a loaded burger – each under $10.