When you want cheap eats, you may find yourself spending more than you’d like. So when I say cheap, I’m talking cheap – absolute maximum $8, and that’s not for a tapa sized plate. Follow my lead for the cheapest and tastiest in our borough.

1. Tacos Matamoros (4508 Fifth Avenue) is a supercheap deal. They give Sunset Park its reputation for having some of the best Mexican food in the city.

2. Krolewskie Jadlo (694 Manhattan Avenue) In a neighborhood known for its Polish treats, it’s hard to distinguish the best. But when you’re talking prices, this restaurant is a no-brainer. For $7.75, you get pierogis, stuffed cabbage, vegetables, kielbasa, potato pancakes, and potatoes.

3. Red Hook Ballfields (corner of Clinton Street and Bay Street): are a mecca for South American food. Fresh ceviche, tacos, and other delicacies are ideal if you’re hungry and on a budget.

4. Ferdinando’s(151 Union Street) is old world Brooklyn. If you want traditional Sicilian delicacies, this is your joint. At $5, the panelle special is a delicious steal.

5. Ba Xuyen (4222 8th Ave.) is a traditional banh mi restaurant. If you want the BBQ pork, the cucumber spear, the creamy pate, it don’t get much better, especially when it’s from 3 to 5 bucks. Make sure you get there early – they close at 6:30.

Bushwick is super cool, we all know that. But for those of you who don’t, it’s about time you got acquainted. Here are this hip neighborhood’s best watering holes.

1. The Narrows: This gorgeous new bar on Flushing feels like it could be in the West Village, but the drinks are Bushwick prices. The bartenders are knowledgeable, attractive, and they have fresh cocktails fixings, which are essential to a good drink. The outside patio is quiet and well furnished – heck, I’ll head here even in the winter.

2. Duck Duck: Their renovation is noteworthy, especially for being one of the only bars south of Grand and before Morgantown. Darts, booths, and $2 beer make this bar a great weekday jaunt.

3. King’s County: Dark, dank, and divey, this bar is another classic. Little known, but awesome: Tuesday’s at midnight they have free mac and cheese (with hot sauce).

4. Tandem: This is a nice bar. Their food is tasty, the service is good, and the crowd is cool. They hold it down in the heart of Bushwick.

5. Roberta’s: They put Bushwick on the spot before East Williamsburg became its own hood. Although it’s more expensive than many Wickers are willing to admit, it makes for the perfect place to take your date, or enjoy a killer pizza.