Cheap Eats

If you're around downtown and you've got a taste for something unusual, it may be worth a trip to L.A.'s classic Grand Central Market (317 S. Broadway). Here you can truly find foods and flora from around the world, from Central American pupusas to Vietnamese pho. A group of four can easily get very full for under $40. And in addition, there's a 99 Cent Store in the basement if you've got any change left over.

Cheap Eats

Just because we're in a recession doesn't mean you're stuck with Sizzler coupons when you want to dine out. Los Angeles Magazine lists six gourmet restaurants where you can get an appetizer, main course and dessert for $35 or under. Personal favorite: Local in Silverlake's grilled artichoke halves with roasted maitake mushrooms and aioli for dipping; then Osso buco-style pork shank on brioche and finished up with house-made cream cheese tart with poached pears and fleur de sel caramel sauce--all for $28.