London is an expensive city to live or visit, but that shouldn’t stop you from exploring its vibrant food scene. With a diverse range of cuisines and experiences available, the city’s restaurant scene is perfect for travelers looking for budget-friendly options without compromising on quality. In this five-part article series, we will explore the best budget-friendly restaurants in London that offer great food at a reasonable price.
Indian cuisine
Indian cuisine is hugely popular in the UK and London for a reason, it is packed with flavor and spices that tantalize the taste buds. Among the more budget-friendly Indian restaurants is Dishoom, where you can enjoy some of the best dishes without breaking the bank. At Dishoom, you can expect to find dishes like Chicken Ruby, Lamb Raan, and Black Daal for around £10-£15 – making it an incredibly affordable and accommodating spot for dinner. Additionally, it is easy to find with several locations scattered throughout London.
Chinese cuisine
In recent years, Chinese cuisine has become increasingly popular throughout London and there are plenty of budget-friendly restaurants that offer great Chinese food. One such place is the Dumplings’ Legend, located in London’s Chinatown. Here, you can enjoy dumplings and buns that are freshly made and steamed right before your eyes. You can find a variety of dishes to choose from depending on your preference like pork buns, prawn dumplings, and chicken cakes. Moreover, their prices are reasonable at around £10-£15 per person.
Italian cuisine
If you are searching for Italian cuisine, then you should visit Franco Manca, known for its Neapolitan pizzas and sourdough bread. They focus on traditional methods, fresh ingredients, and minimalistic recipes that result in an authentic and filling experience. At Franco Manca, you can order custom-made pizzas that you can load up with all your favorite toppings for a value price of around £10-£15. They also have many convenient locations throughout London, so you can easily find a restaurant nearby.
British cuisine
When in London, it’s important to savor traditional British dishes like fish and chips without spending a lot of money. One highly recommended spot is The Fryer’s Delight located in the heart of London’s East End. The Fryer’s Delight has been serving traditional fish and chips since 1962, and their menu has barely evolved ever since. The portions are huge and the prices are very reasonable – around £8-£10 for a large fish and chips.
These are just a few of the incredible budget-friendly restaurants that you can find in London. The city has so much to offer regardless of your budget and culinary preference. Hence, you don’t have to be rich to enjoy delicious food in London. By exploring these highly affordable spots, you’ll be able to savor a great meal without breaking the bank.
Part 2: Indian cuisine
Indian cuisine is one of the most popular and beloved food choices in London. The city is home to some of the best Indian restaurants outside India itself, making it the perfect place to sample a variety of dishes at a variety of price points.
One of the budget-friendly restaurants that comes highly recommended is Dishoom, which pays homage to the bustling Irani cafes that were once an important part of Bombay’s dining scene. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of Indian-inspired dishes, including a wide variety of vegetarian options. Guests can expect to find classic dishes like Chicken Ruby, Lamb Raan, and Black Daal, all of which come in at around £10-£15 per dish – making it an incredibly affordable and accommodating spot for dinner.
Another popular Indian food spot is Masala Zone, which has been serving up traditional Indian dishes to the city since 2001. With its extensive menu of authentic and flavorful dishes, Masala Zone attracts diners of all ages and backgrounds. What’s more, the restaurant has several locations scattered throughout London, making it easy to find a spot nearby. For those on a budget, the restaurant offers “thali” plates, which come with a selection of curries, rice, bread, chutneys, and salads, and start at around £10 per person.
For those searching for something a little different, head to Kricket, which serves modern Indian small plates with a British twist. At Kricket, diners are encouraged to share and explore the impressive range of dishes on offer. The restaurant’s “Krackers” are a must-try – these small plates are packed with flavor and come in at around £3-£7 per dish. Larger plates and sides, such as the Keralan Fried Chicken and the Bhel Puri, are still affordable, with prices ranging from £10-£15.
In conclusion, London’s Indian food scene is diverse, exciting, and easily accessible, with plenty of budget-friendly options available. Whether you’re looking for traditional and authentic dishes or modern and innovative takes on classic recipes, there is certainly something for everyone. By exploring these highly affordable spots, you’ll be able to savor the rich and complex flavors of Indian cuisine without breaking the bank.
Part 3: Middle Eastern cuisine
From juicy shawarmas to tantalizing falafel, Middle Eastern cuisine is a delicious and affordable option for hungry Londoners. With its wide range of flavors and ingredients, this cuisine offers something for everyone, whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian or vegan.
One of the most popular Middle Eastern restaurants in London is Yalla Yalla, which serves up delicious Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes at an affordable price point. The restaurant’s menu boasts a diverse range of mezze dishes like halloumi fries, baba ghanoush, and kibbeh nayeh, which are all perfect for sharing with friends. For those looking for something more substantial, Yalla Yalla also offers a range of shawarmas, wraps, and kebabs that are packed with flavor and won’t break the bank. Prices range from £5-£15 per dish, making it a highly affordable option for a quick bite or a sit-down meal.
Another top spot for Middle Eastern cuisine is Palomar, an Israeli restaurant that brings Jerusalem flavors to London. The restaurant’s vibrant and eclectic menu features inventive dishes like kubaneh bread, beetroot carpaccio, and Jerusalem bagels that showcase the bold flavors and unique ingredients of Israeli cuisine. Prices are slightly higher than some of the other restaurants on this list, but with dishes starting at around £10 and going up to £25, it’s still a reasonably affordable spot for a special occasion meal.
Lastly, for those on the hunt for some exquisite Persian dishes without breaking the bank, try Berenjak, a small but popular Iranian restaurant located in the heart of Soho. The restaurant offers a range of dishes that are perfect for sharing, including traditional kabobs, lamb chops, and Persian stews. They also offer a tasty selection of vegetarian small plates and sides. Prices range between £6-£16 per dish, so diners can try a variety of plates without spending too much.
In summary, Middle Eastern cuisine is a fantastic and budget-friendly option to indulge in London’s dining scene. The city is home to many restaurants that serve up delicious and affordable dishes from across the region, offering something for every taste and budget. From innovative Israeli cuisine to classic Lebanese dishes, London’s Middle Eastern food scene is sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.
Part 4: Chinese cuisine
London has a thriving Chinese food scene, and there are plenty of affordable places to indulge in some delicious Chinese cuisine. From crispy roasted duck to sweet and sour pork, the city has many restaurants that serve up traditional dishes and modern twists on Chinese classics.
One of the most popular Chinese restaurants in London is Baozi Inn, located in Chinatown. This authentic restaurant offers some of the best Sichuan cuisine in the city, including spicy hotpot and dan dan noodles. It’s also known for its freshly made dumplings, which come in a variety of flavors, including pork and vegetable. Best of all, prices are very reasonable, with most dishes ranging from £8-£15 and the quality of the food is top-notch.
Another restaurant in Chinatown that’s a must-visit for Chinese food lovers is Jen Café. Known for their juicy and delicious traditional Chinese dumplings, Jen Café serves up affordable and delicious meals in a casual setting. The prices for dumplings start at just £6 for six pieces, and the restaurant also offers noodle dishes and soups at equally affordable prices. With its mouth-watering menu and unbeatable prices, Jen Café is a great spot for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
For those looking for something a little more upscale, China Tang at The Dorchester is an excellent option. This restaurant offers exquisite Cantonese cuisine in a beautiful Art Deco setting, with prices around £20-£40 per dish. Highlights include the Peking duck, steamed sea bass with ginger and spring onion, and the famous Dim Sum platter. While this restaurant is a bit more expensive than some of the others on this list, the quality of the food and dining experience is worth the extra splurge for a special occasion.
In conclusion, if you’re in London and craving Chinese food, there are great options available for every budget. From authentic hole-in-the-wall spots to high-end establishments, London has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Sichuan, savory dumplings, or classic Cantonese dishes, the city’s Chinese food scene is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.
Part 5: Conclusion
London is a diverse and vibrant city with a food scene to match. From Indian curries to Middle Eastern mezze and Chinese dumplings, the city has an array of affordable dining options that cater to every taste and budget.
Whether you’re a student on a tight budget or a tourist exploring the city, London’s food scene is accessible and affordable. With so many delicious and affordable dining options, it’s easy to experience the city’s diverse culinary offerings and indulge in a range of flavors and cuisines.
When it comes to budget-friendly dining in London, there are many options to choose from. From pop-up street food markets to hidden gems tucked away in neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of affordable places to eat in the city. Many of these spots offer high-quality, freshly prepared meals that won’t break the bank.
In conclusion, London’s food scene offers something for everyone, no matter your budget. With its diverse range of affordable dining options, the city is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional British pub fare or exotic international cuisine, there’s sure to be a great spot to satisfy your appetite and your wallet.