When it comes to dining out, the word “budget” comes to mind perhaps quicker than any other. So to all you starving students out there: Before you choke down one more bowl of ramen, feast your eyes on this list of wallet-friendly eateries.

Red Mill Burgers

312 N. 67th St., Seattle

If you haven’t heard of Red Mill Burgers, then you have been missing out. Luckily, you didn’t know what you were missing, but now you do, so go try it! The original Red Mill operated on Capitol Hill from 1937 to 1967, at which point it burned down. The business wasn’t resuscitated until 1994.

In its first year back, Red Mill received honorable mention in the best burger category of Seattle Weekly’s annual “Best of Seattle” issue. The revered restaurant subsequently won the award every single year since, along with a multitude of other accolades.

It’s hard to say exactly what makes the burgers so excellent, but the best answer might simply be “everything.” The patties are flame-broiled to smoky perfection, the vegetables are crisp and the sauce is, well, it’s very popular. The burger joint is also known for the mouthwatering mountain of pepper bacon, which is conveniently situated behind the counter in plain view of eager patrons.

For those who don’t eat red meat, or meat at all, Red Mill offers lemon-honey marinated chicken sandwiches, as well as three different veggie burgers that even a carnivore could love.

It’s not quite as cheap as some fast-food, value-menu fare, but for $5 to $10, you can treat yourself to a meal that includes what Oprah Winfrey deemed “one of the 20 hamburgers you must eat before you die.”

Musashi’s

1400 N. 45th St., Seattle

There are more than 50 sushi restaurants in and around Seattle, but none combine quality and affordability as well as Musashi’s.

Sashimi a la carte starts at $1.70 per piece, a very low price relative to most places. The pieces are especially sizeable, and the rolls are also a great deal.

The restaurant’s main supplier says the salmon and tuna are always super fresh. The quarters are very small and basic, but if you like sushi, there’s no better value.

Taco trailers

They are known by many names and found on many street corners, but don’t let the casualness deter you: These trailers-turned-kitchens dispense some of the most authentic Mexican food around at extremely low prices.

Dishes are prepared fresh and seem far less fatty than traditional sit-down Mexican fare.

Also, items generally come in modest, reasonable portions, so it’s easy to order exactly the amount you want, whether it’s a single taco or a feast.

The food is fantastic, but the greatest selling point is the price. With minimal overhead, these stands can afford to offer the best deals in town. Meals are generally about $5, with individual items priced as low as $1. Boasting exemplary quality and value, vehicular food preparation might be the wave of the future.

Thanh Vi

4226 University Way N.E., Seattle

One of the tastiest, most fun and most affordable Vietnamese restaurants sits right in our own backyard.

The banh mi sandwich, a handiwork of charbroiled chicken or pork on a crispy, fluffy baguette, is absolutely delicious and costs about $3.

Other scrumptious options include grilled pork chops, tofu salads and, of course, pho.

The food is great, and the price is right, but the service just might be the most impressive aspect of this humble eatery. The staff could not be more cheerful and friendly.

So, if you love great food, but your bank balance has few zeroes, don’t despair; there are great values to be had. These spots will allow you to save your precious cash, while still tasting some of the best food Seattle has to offer.

Reach contributung writer Will Giersch at specials@dailyuw.com.