11 Criminally Cheap Chicago Restaurants

It's one of the best things about living in Chicago: Walking into a restaurant you've never been to, and sometimes never even heard of, ordering, and being absolutely blown away by what comes out of the kitchen. What makes the experience even better? When you pay with a $10 bill and get change back. Now that's a spot you'll never forget.

With that thought in mind, we rounded up the following 11 destinations, each offering some of the best bang-for-your-buck dining in town. And, no, we're not talking about quick counter spots. Rather, sit-down establishments that encourage you to actually stay awhile. From the fried chicken at Parson's to the to-die-for enchiladas verde at Lake View standout Buena Vista, these restaurants offer food for the people, by the people, and of the people — at a price you simply can't refuse.