Red Line Bargains: $5 Finds Near SD Trolley Stops

by Erin Chambers - Citysearch Editor - 9,287 Reviews - 164 Lists

Updated: May 04, 2009

Why not ditch the car and put some fuel into what really drives you: your belly? Five dollars may not get you far in a car, but it'll get you plenty to snack on at these humble eateries, all within a short walk of local trolley stops.

$5 Fill-Ups

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended Ikea
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    2149 Fenton Pkwy, San Diego, CA 92108 (map)

    Get off near the Qualcomm Stadium stop and hear south towards Ikea, where hot dogs, soft serve ice cream and meatballs all run less than $5.

  2. 2 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended East Village Tavern & Bowl
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    930 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Take the trolley downtown and get off at the Park Blvd stop in time for happy hour. At EV Tavern, they serve up tons of $3.50 drink specials and half-price apps, too.

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Iowa Meat Farms
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    6041 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 92120 (map)

    Hop off the trolley at Mission gorge Road and head north just a few blocks to this venerable deli and butcher shop. Fresh cold cuts, beef jerky and sausages are all available a la cart for under $5.

  4. 4 3 Star Rating: Average Woodstock's Pizza
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    6145 El Cajon Blvd Ste P, San Diego, CA 92115 (map)

    Cruise just a few blocks from the SDSU trolley stop to Woodstocks where the cheesy "wild bread" comes with your choice of dipping sauce--can't go wrong with ranch dressing and marinara--for less than $5.

  5. 5 4 Star Rating: Recommended Fred's Mexican Cafe Restaurant
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    2470 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110 (map)

    Stroll up to the heart of Old Town from the Old Town Trolley station on "Taco Tuesdays" where you can get a taco and a fresh margarita for less than $5.