Budget Eats in London: A Food Lover’s Guide to Affordable Dining

London is often considered one of the most expensive cities in the world, and when it comes to eating out, it’s easy to imagine that delicious food comes with a hefty price tag. But that’s far from the whole story. The capital is brimming with incredible food options that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a student, a traveller on a tight budget, or simply someone who enjoys great value, this guide to Budget Eats in London will help you enjoy mouth-watering meals without spending a fortune.

From street food stalls and hole-in-the-wall takeaways to café chains and ethnic gems, London offers something for every palate at a budget-friendly price. Let’s dive into the best ways to eat well for less in the capital.

1. The Rise of Affordable Street Food in London

Street food has seen an enormous boom in London over the past decade. It’s no longer just about a quick bite—many vendors are serving restaurant-quality food at street-level prices. Areas like Borough Market, Camden Market, Brick Lane, and Maltby Street Market are packed with vibrant stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to Venezuelan arepas, Korean fried chicken, Ethiopian stews, and vegan innovations.

• KERB Camden: Try Club Mexicana’s plant-based tacos or Biff’s vegan jackfruit wings.
• Southbank Centre Food Market: Affordable international cuisine, including delicious Sri Lankan hoppers and Turkish gözleme.

Prices usually range between £6 and £10 per meal, making these spots perfect for quality food on a budget.

2. Classic British Meals That Don’t Cost the Earth

You don’t need to dine in posh restaurants to enjoy iconic British cuisine. Plenty of traditional meals are available at bargain prices if you know where to look.

Fish & Chips

• Poppies Fish & Chips (Spitalfields or Soho): Retro interiors and great value, with generous portions for around £12.
• Toff’s in Muswell Hill: Widely considered one of London’s best fish and chip shops, offering crispy, fresh fish at reasonable prices.

Full English Breakfast

A hearty breakfast can keep you fuelled for the day.

• Regency Café (Pimlico): A no-frills London icon serving full English breakfasts under £7.
• E. Pellicci (Bethnal Green): A charming East End Italian café serving traditional breakfasts with a side of history.

3. International Cuisine: Cheap and Delicious

London is home to over 270 nationalities and cultures, which means you can taste the world without leaving the city—or spending much.

Chinese

• BaoziInn (Soho/Chinatown): Northern Chinese street food like dumplings and noodles, mostly under £10.
• Wong Kei (Chinatown): A cult favourite known for huge portions and ultra-low prices.

Indian

• Dishoom (Various Locations): Though a little trendier, Dishoom’s breakfast naan rolls and lunchtime specials offer great value.
• Lahore Kebab House (Whitechapel): Massive portions of curries and grilled meats from under £9.

Middle Eastern

• Falafel King (Portobello Road): One of the best falafel wraps in town for just £5.
• Moorish (Exmouth Market): Affordable wraps, shawarma and mezze boxes packed with flavour.

Turkish

• Mangal 1 Ocakbasi (Dalston): Charcoal-grilled meats and breads served with generous salads—great food at great prices.

4. Vegan and Vegetarian Budget Bites

You don’t need to compromise taste or variety if you’re after plant-based meals on a budget. London’s vegan scene is thriving, and many of the best spots are surprisingly affordable.

• What The Pitta! (Shoreditch, Camden): Vegan kebabs starting around £7.
• Mildreds (Soho, Camden, Dalston): Vibrant vegan mains with lunchtime deals.
• Rasa (Stoke Newington): South Indian vegetarian restaurant offering thalis and dosas for under £10.

5. Supermarket Meal Deals and Chains

If you’re looking for a quick lunch that’s cheap and convenient, supermarket meal deals are a city staple.

• Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Boots: Offer sandwiches, crisps, and a drink for around £3.50.
• Pret A Manger & Itsu: Though slightly more expensive, both offer value with quality, especially late in the day when discounts kick in.

6. Hidden Gems and Local Favourites

There are countless lesser-known eateries in London where locals flock for quality, inexpensive food.

• Tayyabs (Whitechapel): A family-run Punjabi restaurant with legendary lamb chops—BYOB and bustling vibes.
• Tibits (Mayfair): A vegetarian buffet with pay-by-weight pricing, allowing you to control your spend.
• Flat Iron (Various Locations): Steak dinners at just £14 with free popcorn while you wait—trendy yet affordable.

7. University Areas and Student Discounts

Student-heavy areas such as Bloomsbury, Camden, and New Cross often have an abundance of cheap food options.

• Roti King (Euston): Malaysian flatbreads and curries in a tucked-away basement, usually under £10.
• Pizza Union (Kings Cross, Aldgate): Super-fast, stone-baked pizzas starting from £4.

Always ask about student discounts—many chains and independent places offer 10–20% off with ID.

8. Lunch Deals and Happy Hours

Restaurants across London often offer lunch specials and happy hour prices that significantly undercut evening rates.

• Bancone (Covent Garden): A pasta bar offering lunch deals with fresh dishes under £10.
• Tortilla: Mexican chain with regular burrito discounts, especially on student nights.
• Wasabi & Itsu: Sushi boxes often drop in price near closing time—great for end-of-day bargains.

9. Food Halls and Markets: Eat More for Less

Food halls offer a way to try lots of dishes affordably, with communal dining and regular deals.

• Mercato Metropolitano (Elephant & Castle): Global food options in a sustainable, community-focused market.
• Seven Dials Market (Covent Garden): Good for groups—budget options alongside pricier picks.
• Market Halls (Oxford Street, Canary Wharf): Rotating vendors and shareable plates under £10.

10. Tips for Saving Even More on Food in London

• Use food apps like Too Good To Go and Olio for discounted surplus meals and free food from locals.
• Follow street food vendors on social media for pop-up events and exclusive discounts.
• Eat lunch instead of dinner at restaurants—many offer cheaper daytime pricing for similar menus.
• Bring your own water bottle: Save money (and the planet) by refilling at public fountains.
• Avoid tourist traps: Areas like Leicester Square or Oxford Circus tend to overcharge—walk a few blocks and save pounds.

Conclusion: Eating Well in London Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune

There’s no denying that London can be expensive—but it’s also one of the best cities in the world for budget eats. Whether you’re after authentic international cuisine, hearty British classics, or trendy vegan fare, you’ll find affordable options all across the capital. From bustling food markets and generous lunch deals to student spots and street vendors, London proves time and again that good food doesn’t need to come with a luxury price tag.