Craving delicious food without breaking the bank? Here’s a roundup of my fave spots in Central London where you can eat well on a budget! From cosy cafes to street food gems, there’s something for every craving.
🥇 1. Dishoom – Bombay-Inspired Breakfasts
Dishoom pays homage to Mumbai’s Irani cafés, offering a unique breakfast experience. Their Bacon Naan Roll is a must-try, featuring smoked streaky bacon wrapped in freshly baked naan with cream cheese, chili tomato jam, and coriander. Other popular options include the Akuri (spiced scrambled eggs) and the Big Bombay, a hearty platter with eggs, sausages, and masala beans. Breakfast is served daily until 11:45 am.
🍕 2. Pizza Union – Superfast, Affordable Pizzas
Pizza Union specializes in 12-inch Roman-style thin and crispy pizzas, baked in stone ovens and ready in minutes. Prices start at £3.95 for a classic Marinara, with options like the Margherita at £5.95 and the Pepperoni at £7.95. They also offer frozen cocktails for £5.50. With multiple locations across London, it’s a favorite for quick, budget-friendly meals.
🍕 3. Franco Manca – Sourdough Pizza Perfection
Franco Manca is renowned for its sourdough pizzas, made with slow-rising dough and baked in wood-fired ovens. Prices are wallet-friendly, starting from around £6 for a basic tomato and mozzarella pizza. Toppings range from cured meats to seasonal vegetables, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
🍜 4. Bang Bang Oriental Food Hall – Pan-Asian Delights
Located in North London, Bang Bang Oriental is the city’s largest Asian food court, housing over 20 vendors. From Chinese dim sum to Malaysian laksa and Korean BBQ, the variety is immense. Meals typically range from £5 to £10, making it a haven for affordable, authentic Asian cuisine.
🍝 5. Padella – Fresh Pasta at Great Prices
Padella offers hand-rolled pasta dishes starting at just £5. Their signature Pici Cacio e Pepe is a crowd favorite, delivering rich flavors with simple ingredients. Located near Borough Market, it’s an ideal spot for a quick, delicious meal.
🥙 6. Roti King – Malaysian Street Food
Tucked away near Euston Station, Roti King serves authentic Malaysian dishes. Their Roti Canai, a flaky flatbread served with curry, is a standout, priced around £7. The no-frills setting adds to the charm, offering a genuine street food experience.
🥩 7. Flat Iron – Quality Steaks Without the Price Tag
Flat Iron is known for its simple menu: a tender, juicy steak for just £12. Served with a side salad, it’s a steal for meat lovers. Additional sides like beef dripping chips are available at reasonable prices.
🥘 8. Mercado Central – Spanish Tapas and More
Mercado Central brings the flavors of Spain to London, offering a range of tapas dishes. Items like patatas bravas, chorizo, and tortilla are priced between £4 and £8, allowing you to mix and match without overspending.
🍛 9. Hoppers – Sri Lankan Flavors
Hoppers specializes in Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine. Their namesake dish, the hopper, is a bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, priced around £5. Pair it with a selection of curries for a flavorful meal under £15.
🥯 10. Beigel Bake – Iconic Brick Lane Bakery
Open 24/7, Beigel Bake is a London institution. Famous for its salt beef bagel, priced at approximately £5, it’s a go-to spot for late-night cravings or a quick, satisfying bite any time of day.
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