Bargain bites: A filling $12 salad from Afro Deli

What to expect: Flavor-packed salads, bowls, sandwiches and wraps featuring curries, meats and veggies cooked with African spices.

What we tried: The AfroGreen house salad ($7.99) — lettuce, carrots, peppers and onions with a tangy lemon dressing — topped a heaping serving of yellow, mustardy Chicken Yassa ($3.49). That's about $11.50 pre-tax.

• I was so hungry that I impulsively added a single beef Sambusa ($2.49) to my order.

Yes, but: My eyes were bigger than my stomach. The salad was huge and left me stuffed.

• While it was also delicious, I definitely didn't need the Sambusa and could have saved that cash.

Pro tip: Reader Brian H. wrote us recently that a pair of the "delicious, real-deal" Sambusas can make a cheap and filling meal on its own!

• "Get [two] and you'll be set," he said.

The bottom line: If you're looking for generous portions for a reasonable price, Afro Deli is a solid option. A rice bowl or another side could easily turn into two or more meals for under $15.

• (Reminder that some local salad chains will set you back $16 or more.)