London’s food scene is legendary, but let’s be real—eating out in this city can drain your wallet faster than a double-decker bus speeding through Piccadilly Circus.
But guess what? You don’t need to sell a kidney to enjoy incredible meals here. From mouthwatering kebabs to hearty vegan feasts, we’ve scoured the streets to bring you the best cheap restaurants in London that deliver big flavors without the hefty price tag.
Whether you’re a broke student, a thrifty traveler, or just someone who loves a good deal, this list is your golden ticket.
We’re talking hidden gems, iconic street food spots, and underrated joints where every bite feels like a steal. Ready to eat like royalty on a peasant’s budget? Let’s dive in!
1. Dishoom – Bombay Comfort Food That Won’t Break the Bank
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a vintage Bombay café without hopping on a plane, Dishoom is your spot. This place nails the vibe—dim lighting, retro posters, and aromas that’ll make your stomach growl on arrival.
Their black daal is legendary—slow-cooked for 24 hours until it’s rich, creamy, and downright addictive. Pair it with their chili cheese toast or the gunpowder potatoes, and you’ve got a meal that’ll make you forget London’s rainy weather.
Best part? Most dishes hover around £6-£12, making it one of the best cheap eats in London for Indian cuisine.
Pro tip: Go early or prepare for a queue—this place is always buzzing.
2. Franco Manca – Sourdough Pizza Heaven for Under a Tenner
Craving pizza but don’t wanna drop £20 on a single pie? Franco Manca is here to save the day. Their sourdough crust is next-level—chewy, slightly tangy, and baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
The tomato, garlic, and oregano pizza is a steal at £6.95, and their specials (like the slow-roasted lamb) rarely cross the £10 mark.
With locations all over London, this is hands-down one of the best budget-friendly restaurants in London for pizza lovers.
3. Bao – Taiwanese Buns That Pack a Flavor Punch
Bao started as a tiny street food stall and blew up into a must-visit spot for pillowy-soft steamed buns. Their classic bao (braised pork, peanut powder, and coriander) is a flavor explosion for just £5.50.
Vegans, don’t fret—the fried chicken bao has a plant-based version that’s just as crispy and satisfying. With three locations in Soho, Fitzrovia, and Borough, this is one of the top cheap eats in London for quick, delicious bites.
4. The Cheese Bar – Gooey, Melty Goodness Without the Fancy Price Tag
Calling all cheese addicts! The Cheese Bar is a paradise of oozing grilled cheese sandwiches, decadent fondue, and crispy halloumi fries. Their classic grilled cheese (£7.50) is simple but life-changing—sharp cheddar, caramelized onions, and sourdough, all toasted to golden perfection.
Located in Camden Market and Seven Dials, this spot proves that cheap restaurants in London can still be indulgent.
5. Honest Burgers – Juicy Patties and Rosemary Fries for Less
Forget fancy burger joints charging £15 for a basic beef patty. Honest Burgers keeps it real with 100% British beef, crispy rosemary-seasoned fries, and prices starting at £10 for a full meal.
Their Tribute Burger (cheddar, bacon, onion relish) is a crowd favorite, and they even have a killer vegan option with a Beyond Meat patty. With over 30 locations, this is one of the best cheap restaurants in London for burger cravings.
6. Padella – Handmade Pasta That Feels Luxe (But Isn’t)
Fresh, silky pasta shouldn’t cost a fortune—and Padella gets it. Nestled in Borough Market, this tiny spot serves up hand-rolled pappardelle with beef ragu (£9.50) and tagliarini with lemon butter (£7) that’ll make you question why anyone pays £20+ for pasta elsewhere.
Be prepared to wait (no reservations), but trust us—it’s worth it.
7. Roti King – Malaysian & Singaporean Flavors for Under £10
Tucked away near Euston, Roti King is a hidden gem serving flaky, buttery roti canai for just £4.50. Pair it with their flavorful dhal curry or kari laksa (spicy coconut noodle soup), and you’ve got a meal under £10 that’ll transport you straight to Southeast Asia.
8. Greggs – The Ultimate British Budget Bite
Yeah, we said it. Greggs might be a chain, but their vegan sausage rolls (£1.20) and steak bakes (£1.60) are iconic for a reason. When you need a quick, dirt-cheap bite, this is the spot.
9. Dumpling Shack – Juicy Soup Dumplings in a Market Stall
Located in Broadway Market, Dumpling Shack serves xiao long bao (soup dumplings) so good, you’ll forget they only cost £7.50 for six. Watch them make each dumpling by hand—now that’s fresh.
10. The Athenian – Greek Street Food That’s Fresh & Affordable
Craving a souvlaki wrap loaded with tender meat, tzatziki, and crispy fries? The Athenian does it right for under £8. Their halloumi fries are also a must-try.
11. Pilpel – Flavorful Falafel Wraps for Veggie Lovers
Pilpel’s falafel is crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and stuffed into warm pitas with tahini and pickles. At £5.50, it’s one of the best cheap eats in London for a quick, healthy bite.
12. Mestizo – Authentic Mexican Tacos on a Budget
Mestizo’s tacos al pastor (£4.50 each) are packed with flavor, and their quesadillas are cheesy perfection. A full meal here rarely tops £12.
13. The Vurger Co – Plant-Based Burgers That Actually Satisfy
Even meat lovers won’t miss beef at The Vurger Co. Their Auburger (smoky BBQ jackfruit) is a must-try, and at £8.50, it’s a steal.
14. Beigel Bake – The Legendary 24-Hour Salt Beef Bagel
A salt beef beigel with mustard and pickles at Beigel Bake costs just £5.50—and it’s open 24/7. Need we say more?
15. Silk Road – Fiery Uyghur Cuisine in a No-Frills Spot
This Camberwell spot serves spicy cumin lamb skewers (£2 each) and big plate chicken (£14, feeds two). Bold flavors, tiny prices.
16. Morito – Affordable Spanish & Middle Eastern Tapas
Morito proves that tapas don’t have to be pricey. Their chargrilled lamb chops, hummus, and crispy patatas bravas are all under £10.
The vibe is cozy, the flavors are bold, and the bill? Surprisingly light.
Final Thoughts: Eat Well, Spend Less
London doesn’t have to be expensive if you know where to look. From Dishoom’s rich curries to Beigel Bake’s iconic bagels, these cheap restaurants in London prove you can feast like a king without blowing your budget.
What’s your favorite budget bite in London? Drop a comment and let us know—we’re always hunting for the next hidden gem!