London is famous not just for its history, culture, and iconic landmarks, but also for its vibrant food scene. From traditional British dishes to international cuisine, the city offers something for every taste. For travelers, eating out can quickly become expensive, especially near major attractions. However, London is also a treasure trove of budget-friendly options that are tasty, filling, and won’t break the bank. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between sightseeing or enjoying a leisurely meal, there are plenty of ways to eat well on a budget.
Street Food Markets
One of the best ways to enjoy affordable and authentic food in London is through its street food markets. These markets are vibrant, bustling with locals, and offer meals from around the world at reasonable prices.
- Borough Market – One of London’s oldest and most famous markets, Borough Market is a haven for food lovers. You can find fresh produce, gourmet sandwiches, pastries, and international dishes. A meal here can cost between £5–£10, and you can enjoy everything from artisanal cheeses to freshly baked bread. Arriving early or during lunch hours gives you the best deals and the most lively atmosphere.
- Kerb Market – With rotating locations across London, Kerb Market offers a wide variety of street food from all over the world. Think gourmet tacos, loaded fries, and fusion cuisine. Prices typically range from £6–£10, making it an affordable choice for travelers looking for variety.
- Camden Market – Camden is known for its alternative vibe, music, and eclectic food scene. Here, you can grab vegan wraps, gourmet hot dogs, artisan desserts, and international street food. Meals usually cost around £5–£8, making it a great stop while exploring North London.
Street food markets not only save you money but also allow you to taste authentic flavors and mingle with locals. Walking around with a bite in hand adds to the full London experience.
Grab-and-Go Meal Deals
If you’re exploring the city and need a quick, budget-friendly meal, London has plenty of options for grab-and-go deals. These are ideal for travelers who are hopping between attractions or arriving after a long journey.
- Pret a Manger – A popular chain offering sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Pret’s meal combos, including a sandwich, snack, and drink, cost around £6 and are fresh and filling.
- Marks & Spencer Simply Food – Known for quality and convenience, M&S Simply Food has fresh salads, wraps, and pre-packed meals for under £5. Perfect for a quick lunch in a park or on a Tube ride.
- Tesco Meal Deals – One of the cheapest options for a full meal on the go, Tesco offers a sandwich, snack, and drink combo for just £3–£4. Ideal for travelers on a tight budget.
Grab-and-go options are also convenient if you’re using cab transfer services from airports or train stations, allowing you to save both time and money while getting a quick meal on the way to your accommodation.
International Budget Eats
London’s diverse population has created an incredible international food scene, often at surprisingly affordable prices. Many authentic ethnic eateries offer meals for under £10:
- Brick Lane Curry Houses – Famous for Indian and Bangladeshi curries, Brick Lane is a go-to destination for flavorful meals that won’t empty your wallet. A plate of curry with rice or naan often costs £7–£10.
- Chinatown – Located near Leicester Square, Chinatown is packed with affordable Chinese restaurants and bakeries. You can enjoy dumplings, noodles, and dim sum for around £5–£8 per dish.
- Bang Bang Oriental Food Hall – This vibrant indoor food hall offers Thai, Japanese, and Korean street-style dishes, perfect for tasting different cuisines. Meals typically cost £6–£10, making it an excellent spot for adventurous eaters on a budget.
Exploring these international eateries allows you to enjoy global flavors without spending a fortune. Plus, these areas are often lively and fun to explore, giving you a taste of London’s multicultural energy.
Classic British Fast Food
No visit to London is complete without sampling traditional British comfort food. Luckily, you don’t need to splurge to enjoy classics:
- Fish and Chips – A quintessential London dish. Local “chippies” like Poppies in Spitalfields offer fresh fish with golden chips for £8–£10. Avoid tourist-heavy spots where prices can easily double.
- Pie & Mash Shops – Hearty pies with mash and gravy are a London favorite, often costing under £7. Look for traditional shops in East London for an authentic experience.
- Full English Breakfast – A filling meal of eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms, and toast. Many cafés outside main tourist areas serve it for £6–£8, perfect for starting a day of sightseeing on a budget.
Classic British fast food is not only affordable but also gives travelers a chance to taste London’s culinary heritage in a quick, satisfying way.
Affordable Cafés & Bakeries
Coffee, pastries, and light meals don’t have to cost a fortune. London offers plenty of cozy cafés and bakeries where you can relax without overspending:
- Gail’s Bakery – Known for its fresh bread, pastries, and coffee. A pastry typically costs £3–£5.
- The Breakfast Club – Famous for hearty breakfast plates, offering meals for £6–£10. Perfect for an early start before exploring the city.
- Coffee Chains (Costa, Pret, Starbucks) – These chains offer budget-friendly coffee and snack combos for £4–£5. Great for when you’re on the move and need a quick caffeine boost.
Cafés are also excellent for travelers using public transport or cab services to reach attractions, providing a convenient stop without a high cost.
Money-Saving Tips for Eating in London
To make the most of London’s budget food scene, keep these tips in mind:
- Eat where locals eat – Avoid restaurants right next to tourist hotspots; prices often drop dramatically just a few streets away.
- Use apps like Too Good To Go – This app allows you to purchase discounted meals from cafés, bakeries, and restaurants that would otherwise go to waste.
- Combine sightseeing with food trips – Visit street markets near landmarks to enjoy affordable bites while exploring.
- Plan day trips with food in mind – London’s location makes it easy to take day trips to nearby destinations like Brighton, where you can enjoy the famous seaside atmosphere, stroll along the piers, and sample fish and chips while relaxing on the beaches near brighton uk. Booking cab transfer services from your London accommodation ensures a smooth and stress-free journey, so you can focus on sightseeing and sampling local flavors.
Insider Tips for Budget Travelers
- Visit markets early – The best deals and freshest food are often available in the morning.
- Share large meals – Many street food portions are generous; sharing is a way to try more options and save money.
- Stay near public transport – You can reach markets, restaurants, and attractions quickly, reducing taxi costs.
- Look for daily specials – Many cafés and pubs offer “meal of the day” deals under £10.
- Bring a reusable water bottle – Tap water in London is free and safe to drink, saving money on bottled water.
✅ Conclusion
Eating well in London doesn’t have to cost a fortune. From bustling street food markets and international eateries to classic British fast food and cozy cafés, the city offers a wide range of budget-friendly options. With a little planning, smart use of transport, and insider tips, travelers can enjoy London’s diverse flavors without overspending. Day trips to nearby destinations like Brighton are also possible on a budget, especially when using cab transfer services for convenience.
Whether you’re grabbing a sandwich on the go, sampling curries on Brick Lane, or indulging in pastries at a local bakery, London’s food scene ensures that even budget-conscious travelers can eat like a local and enjoy every bite.
