There's a reason the cost of a slice in New York City has stayed largely in line with the cost of a subway ride. Because (despite what the cost of rent would have you believe) it's a profoundly egalitarian city, not to mention one that has the culinary influence of the waves of immigrants who've passed through. So in addition to all of the thrifty dishes that have been indelibly linked to the city, from bagels to hot dogs and yes, pizza, a variety of gently priced global staples have been added to the canon, including Chinese dumplings, Middle Eastern falafel, Polish pierogies and West Indian roti. So while the cost of a shared studio may threaten to exceed your salary, at least you can reliably fill your belly for $10 or less.