Taqueria Mexico near Gulfgate has good food. I get two tacos on corn tortillas with lettuce, tomato, cilantro, onions, pico de gallo, avocado, white cheese and carne asada for about $ 3.25. It's very fresh and really good. Comes with a basket of chips and hot sauce for the table. Order water and save money for a 30% tip. They also have mole on Thurs. I think I'll go there now.
You know about Lai Lai. You are now a member of my family. Man, that is one of my favorite places to eat. We've probably talked about this before and I comepletely forgot.
Speaking of dumplings, the BEST dumplings in town are at this place at "The Park" in Downtown called Doozo's. Get the combo-5 pork/5 vegetable for $4. Man, it's awesome.
If you like Lai Lai, check out Chinese Cafe, further down Bellaire near Sinh Sinh. Between Corporate and the Beltway. Not as cheap as Lai Lai but damn good food in huge portions.