London is home to a vibrant food scene, and these are some savvy options you can’t miss.
London just about has it all- a melting pot of flavors where everything and anything is available. And sometimes, even the wealthiest travellers want something local, fresh and young. And with price tags to match.
When in London, experiencing it all is part of the fun, and this list provides the means to do so with the added bonus of eating local, this is where people who live in London go to have a great night out, without breaking the bank.
This snapshot has some high vibe, affordable but chic restaurants to enjoy a fabulous night out.
BUBLA- Soho
A vibrant Middle Eastern inspired experience
Bubala, a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant, translates to ‘darling’ in Yiddish and showcases vibrant food and culture. With a lively, welcoming atmosphere, their passion for hospitality shines through in every dish—all at a budget-friendly price, with dishes starting at £8.
The menu of this Soho restaurant features an array of vegetarian and vegan sharing plates, including freshly cooked laffa flatbread, delicious dips, and delicately spiced Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
Bubala also boasts an impressive collection of natural wines and homemade sparkling gazoz. The artful presentation of each dish elevates the dining experience to a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
PASTAIO – Soho
High quality freshly made, affordable pasta
Who doesn’t appreciate indulging in a bowl of pasta without the hefty price tag? Pastaio, a vibrant pasta restaurant in Soho, offers just that. With sleek interiors, a bustling vibe, and an upbeat playlist, it provides more than just a memorable meal when in London.
Dedicated to offering affordable and nourishing pasta, Pastaio uses the finest seasonal produce from Italy and the UK to create a menu that has something for everyone. Whether delighting in the rich flavors of an 8 Hour Beef & Ukrainian Porcini Bolognese or indulging in a mouth-watering vegetarian Delica Squash, Walnut, Garlic, Butter Casarecce, pasta dishes start at £12, catering to every palate and wallet. The open kitchen adds an interactive element, letting diners watch as their meals are skillfully prepared.
FLAT IRON – Cambridge and 12 locations across London
An unmissable affordable restaurant in the steakhouse scene
Flat Iron, an unmissable destination for budget-friendly steak lovers, boasts 13 locations across London, making great steak accessible to all without compromising on quality. Since its establishment in 2012, founder Charlie Carroll has revolutionized the steak scene. Carroll spent nine months sampling cuts from 38 different suppliers, teaching himself to butcher in the process.
He discovered that lesser-known secondary cuts from the best beef could deliver the same flavor and quality that people love, minus the hefty price tag.
With a variety of cuts, sauces, and flavors to choose from, there’s something for everyone at this London steakhouse. The £14 signature flat iron steak is a fantastic starting point on this extensive menu. Flat Iron’s commitment to quality shines through in their practice of butchering all meat on-site, cementing its reputation as one of the nicest, most affordable restaurants in London.
KILN – Soho
Authentic and fiery Thai dishes
Kiln, a Thai restaurant nestled in the heart of Soho, offers an ambiance as vibrant as its flavors. Known for its authentic and fiery dishes, Kiln draws culinary inspiration from Laos, Myanmar, and Yunnan, creating an unmissable dining experience. Guests seated on the ground floor can watch the chefs in action, making each meal an engaging culinary performance.
With curries starting at £11 and lagers from £5.50, Kiln provides an array of enticing options. Whether it’s the jungle curry with smoked kippers, braised beef shin curry, or Issan-style pork offal laap that catches interest, this restaurant is a must-visit for Thai cuisine lovers.
The lively atmosphere and the rich, aromatic dishes create a dining experience that is both exciting and memorable. The rustic decor, combined with the friendly staff, adds to the restaurant’s charm and allure. The attention to detail in both the food and the service ensures a consistently exceptional dining experience that can’t be missed when in London.
PARSONS- Covent Garden
Innovative seafood creations that won’t break the bank
Seafood can be a delight for the taste buds but tends to be pricey. Luckily, Parsons, located in the heart of Covent Garden, is an affordable gem that won’t break the bank. Known for offering a delightful mix of classic British fish dishes and a range of innovative, contemporary creations, this dining experience is sure to excite the palate and is a must visit when in London.
With dishes starting at £14, standout options include potted shrimp croquettes, tuna tartare, and seared gem lettuce with prawns and smoked anchovies. The cozy ambiance and attentive service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers seeking quality and creativity at a reasonable price.
