I’m new in Columbus. Help me find the best cheap eats in the Chattahoochee Valley

Japanese going to steakhouses in Texas. Germans trying Waffle House in Georgia. The Dutch “Orange Army” rolling into Buc-ee’s by bus.

With fans from around the world pouring into the United States for the FIFA World Cup, many are using food as an introduction to America. That’s because a place’s unique cuisine can be a celebration of regional identity and a unifier across cultures.

As an intern at the Ledger-Enquirer this summer, I’m excited to learn more about what makes the city special. And like the World Cup visitors across the United States, I’m keen to discover how food captures the heart and soul of Columbus and the Chattahoochee Valley.

I grew up in Connecticut. I’m used to New England summers of seafood, especially buttery lobster rolls toasted to perfection, and drives to the pizza capital of the U.S. (Yes, in typical Northern fashion, I’ll argue with anyone about why pizza from my state is best.)

I also spent the past four years in Atlanta while attending Emory University, tasting cuisines from just about every corner of the world. I even got to review an Uzbek restaurant for Atlanta magazine, where I ordered a hand-pulled noodle dish I still dream about today.

Last summer, L-E intern Grace McClung asked for your best food recommendations. Readers’ top choices included favorites like Animal Farm, Mabella’s and Chili Thai.

This time around, I hope to find the best cheap eats Columbus and the Chattahoochee Valley have to offer. Where can you get the most bang for your buck? Which treat at a hole-in-the-wall eatery is a must for me to try while I’m here? I’ll eat food from any cuisine and all meals — including dessert.

Please fill out this form or email me at madeline.shapiro@ledger-enquirer.com by June 26, if you have a recommendation. I can’t wait to learn more about this foodie city through its best dishes.