cheap eats in NYC?

My mom and I are meeting in New York for a few days in early April--sort of a last junket before I start packing and moving. We'll see a couple shows, catch some museums, and do plenty of walking and talking. I can't wait! It'll be a welcome break from the frustrations of trying to sell a home in a flat market.

Can anyone recommend inexpensive places to eat near the theater district, or a little further afield? I just don't see us trekking to the ends of Manhattan for a meal, but we'll eat just about anything.

What kind of food do you like?

Carmine's is a good italian place just of off Broadway on W 44th St.  Not cheap, but the big portions more than make up for the price.

What kind of food do you like?

Italian, Indian, all types of Asian, Cuban, Middle-Eastern, deli, vegetarian, soups...That probably doesn't help you much, does it?

Carmine's is a good italian place just of off Broadway on W 44th St.  Not cheap, but the big portions more than make up for the price.

Carmine's--I'll remember that! Thanks guys!

OK, well since you want theater district, most of the restaurants in the area will off a pre-fixe or pre-theater dinner.  Usually you need to be there before a certain time (Technically because you need to catch a show at however, they don't ask to see tickets, so it's possible to go for a meal anyway.  I suggest calling to make a reservation and when doing this ask about the pre-fixe and the requirements.  This is always a great way to eat a good restaurant for less money.  Here are some places to consider:
http://gonyc.about.com/od/restaurants/tp/pre_theater.htm

http://gonyc.about.com/od/restaurants/tp/times_square.htm

Ruby Foos is one of my favourites, however it is pricey, but well worth the money.  Great drinks and atmosphere as well.

I just went to Victor's Cafe 236 W 52nd Street @ 7th  212-586-7714 last time I was home, it's Cuban and really really good.

I personally am not a fan of Carmine's, it's a family style restaurant meant for big groups to share.  But personally I don't like the food there, just my opinion.

The thing with NY is that there is some amazing food, but it comes with a price, which is not always cheap.  Hope this helps!

When DH and I were in NY for our honeymoon, we went to Island Burger on 9th between 50th and 51st.  It's just a little hole-in-the-wall, but they have HUGE homemade burgers and you can choose from about a million different types of toppings.   

Edit -- and they have a website!  http://island.citysearch.com/page/nrl5/Home_Page.html

Try at least a few street vendor meals. All sorts of very reasonably priced ethnic foods that you will probably never have the opportunity to sample anywhere else.

Thanks everyone. We definitely won't starve! My mom doesn't want to spend huge amounts on meals (we're shootin' our wad on those theater tickets!) and she tends to like light, healthy fare. I'll make some suggestions, but I'll let her have the final say on restaurants. (I chose the shows!)