Cheap Chinese restaurants in Markham and Richmond Hill are sure staples in the community. Whether you're craving seafood, congee, or Hong Kong-style eats, these spots are bound to serve it at affordable prices.

Here are my picks for cheap Chinese restaurants in Markham and Richmond Hill. 

Phoenix Restaurant (Markham)

The tall green exterior of this Markham institution is a sight for sore eyes when driving along Woodbine Road. With a menu so good it's branched out with a location downtown, the curry and Hong Kong-style food here will make both your stomach and your wallet feel good. 

Jim Chai Kee Noodles

The outside of this Richmond Hill restaurant may be understated but the shrimp wontons inside will make you rethink the word scrumptious. Of course the noodles here are tasty too, and will cost you less than a John A. Macdonald (that's $10). 

Federick Restaurant

The go-to place for Hakka in Markham, you'll be pleased to find belly-warming portions of chili chicken, chow mein, and pakoras. Not only are they cheap here, they're also halal. 

Congee Queen

Even in the mecca of cheap Chinese eats, this congee chain still holds its own in the Chinese community. An extensive menu plus consistent service and food quality make this inexpensive restaurant a true gem.

Northern Dumpling Kitchen

One of the best dumpling spots in Markham and Richmond Hill, this small spot serves up affordable, traditional Beijing-style dumplings and an authentic green onion pancake (not the flat kind). 

Ocean Seafood

Hong Kong-style set meals are available here, some for just under $5. With a clean interior and decent selection, Ocean is one of those places you go for lunch when you're feeling some frugal eats. 

Keung’s Delight

It gets busy here, and for good reason – the prices are fantastic and the portions are huge. Congee is always a good idea at Keung's but their general menu of Canto eats makes them one one of the most popular spots in Markham. 

House of Garden

At most places, Hong Kong-style lunch deals accompanied with milk tea are made available between 3 and 5 p.m., but at House of Garden the specials are $5.99 and start at 11 a.m. and end at 3 p.m. Start early, eat more. 

Glorious Chinese Cuisine

Dim sum here is cheap, and some of the best in the area. After several renovations, this place has finally settled into its own and now provides a spacious dining area and good service. Head to the karaoke lounge next door afterwards to dance off the meal.