A local's guide to eating out in London on a shoestring

A Local’s Guide to Eating Out in London on a Shoestring

London is a culinary melting pot, but eating out here doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting, this guide highlights great-value restaurants where you can enjoy quality food without spending a fortune.




1. Brick Lane Beigel Bake (Shoreditch)

Price: Under £5
This 24-hour bakery in the heart of Shoreditch is a favorite for many Londoners. Known for its salt beef bagels with mustard and pickles, it's a go-to spot for a quick and satisfying bite at any hour. The prices are low, but the portions and flavor deliver far more than expected.




2. Dishoom (Multiple Locations)

Price range: £7–£9
Dishoom offers reasonably priced breakfasts in a stylish setting. Their Bacon Naan Roll paired with a cup of chai is a popular pick — simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly. If you’re looking for a relaxed start to your morning, this is a great option.




3. Padella (Borough Market)

Price range: £6–£14
Located near Borough Market, Padella serves hand-rolled pasta at prices that are hard to beat. Their cacio e pepe, a peppery cheese pasta, is a crowd favorite at just £7. Be prepared for a short wait, as the restaurant doesn’t take reservations — but most agree it’s worth it.




4. Roti King (Euston)

Price range: £7–£12
Close to Euston Station, Roti King is well-known for its rich Malaysian roti canai and flavorful curries. The food is hearty, the prices are fair, and it’s often recommended by both locals and visitors for a no-frills, satisfying meal.




5. Eat of Eden (Brixton, Clapham, Lewisham)

Price range: £9–£12 per box
This plant-based Caribbean spot serves up vibrant, comforting meals in generous portions. Dishes like jerk tofu, callaloo, and chickpea curry are served with rice, plantains, and other sides — great value whether you're vegan or not.




6. Franco Manca (Multiple Locations)

Price range: £6–£9 per pizza
If you’re in the mood for sourdough pizza, Franco Manca delivers quality without the high price. With many branches across London, it’s an easy, affordable choice for lunch or dinner. Their house lemonade also makes for a nice pairing.




7. Bao (Soho, Fitzrovia, Borough)

Price range: £5–£12
Bao offers Taiwanese-style fluffy buns filled with things like pork belly, fried chicken, or mushroom. It's ideal for a light, tasty meal while exploring the city. Their simple menu and casual atmosphere make it a popular stop.




8. Marugame Udon (Multiple Locations)

Price range: £4–£10
Marugame Udon provides freshly prepared udon noodle dishes and sides like tempura or onigiri at very low prices. It’s fast, satisfying, and great if you’re looking for Japanese flavors without the premium price tag.




9. Tóu by TĀTĀ Eatery (Pop-ups and Markets)

Price range: £8–£10
Tóu’s Iberian pork katsu sando is a standout item that often appears at pop-up markets. While a little pricier than other items on this list, it’s considered well worth it by those who try it. You can follow their social media to see where they’ll pop up next.




10. Bancone (Soho & Covent Garden)

Price range: £9–£14
If you want a more polished dinner without spending too much, Bancone’s pasta dishes offer excellent value. Their “silk handkerchiefs with walnut butter” are a favorite. With locations in Covent Garden and Soho, it's a reliable option for a cozy night out.




Conclusion

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy great food in London. From street food classics to trendy sit-down spots, these restaurants prove that good meals can be both delicious and affordable. Whether you’re on a budget or just looking for new favorites, these picks are worth checking out.

Have your own go-to cheap eats in London? Feel free to share — discovering new spots is part of the fun.




AI Disclosure

Note: This article was created with the help of AI for drafting and research purposes. All content was reviewed and edited by the author.

Author:Rubis