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If you're touring Philadelphia with a huge appetite and a small wallet, you're in luck. The city is known for its large portions of belly-filling food at prices that seem to be the exact opposite of New York City's inflated budget-killing fare. Be careful where you go, though: some restaurants will gouge every penny out of gullible tourists. Here are the insider secrets for making sure you eat on the cheap in Philly.

1) Eat like the locals.

Prices are always going to be higher in places that cater to tourists. That means that restaurants clustering near City Center and the Historic District are more likely to be overpriced if you're not careful. Search out the restaurants that are filled with locals rather than tourists, and you'll find meals that fit a regular working person's budget. Baja Fresh Mexican Grill (4001 Welsh Road) is an East Coast chain where you can eat fat, overstuffed burritos for under $10. Ben & Irv's Deli Restaurant (1962 County Line Rd.) is a kosher deli with New York-sized sandwiches. Pastrami, brisket or grilled, buttery Monte Cristos are just a few of the choices. The lean corned beef is a favorite, and it'll only cost you $7.75 with a side of cole slaw and Russian dressing.

To really eat like the locals, eat the locals' favorite food: the cheesesteak. A mountain of thinly-sliced steak on a roll with cheese will leave you so full you won't need dinner. Some locals add Cheese Whiz, but other purists say provolone is the way to go. Whichever you choose, you'll have a filling meal on the cheap. You can find one on any street corner, but for a top local choice try Tony Luke's (39 E. Oregon Ave), where a legendary sandwich of fresh beef dripping with cheese will only set you back $6.75.

2) Be a test subject.

This is truly a well-kept secret. If you desire a meal that's a little more gourmet without paying gourmet prices, you can dine at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College (4207 Walnut St.). Before you balk, you should know that this is a highly acclaimed culinary school with a menu developed by world-class chefs. The dining area is in a restored Victorian building where the students turn out European-style food that is extraordinary. One fixed price, usually $15-$17, gets you both appetizers and an entree that could be prepared by the next big cooking superstar.

3) Load up at an all-you-can-eat.

Why take a chance on restaurants that might not fill you up? Buffets allow you to make sure you get more bang for your buck. Aoi Japanese Restaurant

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