Affordable Restaurants London – Best Cheap Eats for Every Craving

If you think London is only about pricey dining, think again. The city hides dozens of spots where you can enjoy great food for under £15. Below you’ll get a quick guide to the most reliable cheap eateries, plus tips on how to score the best deals.

Where to Start: Neighborhood Picks

East London’s Brick Lane still serves up massive portions of Indian and Bangladeshi dishes for around £8. In Camden, the market stalls offer falafel wraps, fish‑and‑chips, and vegan bowls at student‑budget prices. If you’re near Southbank, pop into a riverside café for a flat‑price lunch menu that includes soup, salad, and a drink for £10.

Quick Tips to Keep the Bill Low

Look for “daily specials” or “early‑bird” menus – they’re usually the cheapest items of the day. Signing up for a restaurant’s email list often lands you a free appetizer or a percentage off your first visit. And don’t forget to check apps like Too Good To Go; many places sell leftover meals at a fraction of the price.

Here’s a short list of solid budget spots you can trust:

1. Dishoom Shoreditch – Breakfast plates start at £6, and the pork bun is an iconic, affordable treat.

2. Franco Manca – Their sourdough pizza costs £7 and you can add a side salad for under £3.

3. Bancone – The popular ‘tagliolini al limone’ is £12, plus you get a complimentary glass of house wine on Wednesdays.

4. Gino’s Pizza – Slice a classic Margherita for just £3. Perfect for a quick bite between sightseeing.

5. The Real Greek – Lunch combos of mezze and a drink run you £9, and the portions feel generous.

For vegetarians and vegans, head to Wahaca in Covent Garden. Their taco combos are under £8, and the plant‑based churros are a sweet finish without the guilt.

A lot of cheap eats hide behind a plain storefront. If you see a small, unmarked door in a busy street, chances are it’s a family‑run place serving home‑cooked meals for pennies. Don’t be shy – ask the staff what the day’s special is.

Timing matters, too. Most restaurants cut their menu in half after 7 pm, leaving you with a small selection of cheaper dishes. If you’re flexible, plan dinner around the “late‑menu” to stretch your budget.

Finally, bring a reusable water bottle. Many cafés now offer free tap water, which saves you a few pounds on drinks that add up quickly.

London’s food scene is huge, and you don’t need to splurge to enjoy it. Use these neighborhoods, tips, and restaurant picks to fill your plate without emptying your wallet. Happy eating!