Billy Vasquez―a.k.a. the 99-Cent Chef―dishes on inexpensive dining in L.A.
Jenny Cunningham | Photographs by Lisa Romerein
1 /4
Finding Frugality
In today’s economy, spending less doesn’t have to mean getting less. Chef Billy Vasquez shares his favorite frugal finds―at every price point―in the Los Angeles area.
2 /4
Less than $1
Billy grabs perky romaine,olive oil, and lemons at the 99-Cent-Only Store, a jolly, brightly-lit place where everything costs under a buck.
6121 Wilshire Blvd. 323/939-9991
3 /4
Less Than $5
What does the chef like about Carney's Restaurant? Everything! "The hot dogs are steamed and have a nice snap when you bite into them. Every seat is a window seat in the converted train car. And parking is free.”
Happy hour: 4:30–7 Mon–Fri 8351 W. Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood 323/654-8300
4 /4
Under $15
Ciudad’s tacos and mojitos are so fresh, they taste like they’re good for you. “All the happy-hour items are only $4 to $7 each,” Billy says, lifting another pork slider. “The 99 Cent Chef is living high on the hog here.”
Happy hour: 4–7 Mon–Fri 445 S. Figueroa St. Downtown Los Angeles 213/486-5171