Feast for Less: 13 of London’s Hidden Budget Gems
Looking for delicious, affordable food in London? This guide highlights 13 budget-friendly dining spots across the city, where you can enjoy meals under £25 without compromising on quality. From hearty Turkish barbecue to authentic Malaysian dishes, these hidden gems showcase a variety of cuisines perfect for any taste or craving.
Quick Highlights:
- Preeti Patty (Indian Fusion): Bold flavors like Naga Shawarma Rice Box (£10–£15).
- Pizzeria Pellone Battersea (Neapolitan Pizza): Classic Marinara Pizza for £9.50.
- Mangal 1 (Turkish BBQ): BYOB and charcoal-grilled meats starting at £10.
- Xi’an Impression (Chinese Noodles): Hand-pulled noodles for under £10.
- Normah’s (Malaysian): Roti Canai Beef Rendang at just £9.89.
- Bun House (Steamed Buns): Cantonese favorites like Custard Bao for £5.
Why These Spots Stand Out:
- Affordable prices, with dishes starting as low as £4.50.
- Diverse cuisines, including Italian, Chinese, Malaysian, and Turkish.
- Convenient locations across London’s neighborhoods like Shoreditch, Camden, and Dalston.
- Family-run eateries and small businesses offering authentic, high-quality meals.
For a quick comparison of these spots, check out the detailed breakdown in the full article.
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1. Preeti Patty
Tucked away in Fish Island, Preeti Patty has earned an impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 200 reviewers. This Indian fusion spot is all about bold street food flavors at a great price.
Highlights from the menu include the Naga Shawarma Rice Box, featuring spicy chicken shawarma served over aromatic rice, and the Butter Chicken Shawarma, which offers a modern twist on a classic dish. Other crowd-pleasers include masala fries, cheese spring rolls, onion bhajis, and daal puri.
Getting there is simple. From central London, hop on the Central or Jubilee line to Stratford station and take a short 7-minute walk. Alternatively, buses 276, 30, 339, 388, or 488 will drop you at the Monier Road stop, just a 3-minute walk away.
Known as a late-night favorite in Hackney Wick, dishes like the Loaded Rice Box and Honey Garlic Wings keep locals coming back for more. Ready to discover another budget-friendly gem in London? Let’s dive in!
2. Pizzeria Pellone Battersea
If you're looking for delicious Neapolitan pizza that won’t break the bank, Pizzeria Pellone in Battersea is a must-visit. Originally established in Naples in 1972, this family-run spot brings a slice of Italy to London.
What sets them apart? Their commitment to top-quality ingredients. They use staples like Caputo flour, Divella tomato sauce, and Ciro Amodio's fior di latte, all imported from Italy. Their meats - ham, sausage, lamb, and pancetta - are sourced from a local butcher, while fresh vegetables are delivered daily from nearby farms.
The menu offers great value for money. You can enjoy a classic Marinara pizza for just £9.50 or savor the crowd-favorite Margherita for £12.00. Want something a little different? Their Calzone Fritto (£16.50) is a deep-fried pizza pocket that’s become a hit among London’s pizza lovers.
The restaurant's decor is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, and hand-painted plates that give off a traditional Naples vibe. Plus, the open kitchen offers a front-row seat to watch their skilled pizzaiolos in action.
Here are some affordable menu highlights:
| Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Marinara Pizza (V) | £9.50 |
| Margherita Pizza (V) | £12.00 |
| Arancino | £5.00 |
| Crocchè (V) | £4.50 |
| Garlic Bread (V) | £6.50 |
Located at 42 Lavender Hill, Pizzeria Pellone boasts an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 6,000 reviews. It’s a favorite among pizza fans - and for good reason! Up next, let’s explore Mangal 1’s budget-friendly options.
3. Mangal 1
Nestled on Arcola Street in Dalston, Mangal 1 has been serving Turkish barbecue since 1990. This laid-back spot has become a local favorite, known for its consistent quality and great prices.
What sets Mangal 1 apart is its dedication to maintaining high standards for over 25 years. Specializing in charcoal-grilled meats and kebabs, the restaurant also allows diners to bring their own wine with no corkage fee - a rare perk. It's a go-to destination for delicious Turkish barbecue that won't break the bank.
Some standout dishes include the meze platter (featuring hummus, cacik, baba ganoush, and tomato salsa), the flavorful Adana kebab, grilled Tavuk Kanat, traditional Lahmacun, and Yogurtlu Kuzu Beyti. First-timers should consider the meat platter, perfectly complemented by the spicy ezme salata.
Conveniently located a short walk from Dalston Kingsland Overground station and accessible via bus routes 67, 76, 149, and 243, Mangal 1 offers a relaxed, rustic atmosphere with friendly service that keeps people coming back.
"A stalwart of old-school, unpretentious, authentic Turkish charcoal grill food that has been consistently outperforming every other restaurant in the category since '91", says Bouha Kazmi, filmmaker and Dalston resident.
"We keep it simple... Twenty-five years we've kept up the same quality", notes owner Ercan Cuce.
Next, dive into the bold flavors at Singapulah London.
4. Singapulah London
Singapulah, located on Shaftesbury Avenue in London's West End, brings Singaporean hawker-style dishes to the heart of the city. Situated across from Les Misérables and just a short walk from Piccadilly Circus tube station, it’s a great choice for a pre-theater meal or a relaxed dining experience.
Opened by Ellen Chew in February 2024, the restaurant offers a carefully crafted menu with prices ranging from £35 to £55 per person. It strikes a balance between lively service and high-quality food.
Some standout dishes include Singapore Laksa, Nasi Lemak, Fried Chilli Crab Bao, Kueh Pie Tee, and Bak Chor Mee. For dessert, try the Kueh Salat or indulge in their signature Coconut Shake.
| Dish Category | Rating | Value Score |
|---|---|---|
| Food Quality | 4.4/5 | ★★★★☆ |
| Service | 4.3/5 | ★★★★☆ |
| Ambience | 4.3/5 | ★★★★☆ |
| Value for Money | 4.1/5 | ★★★★☆ |
"Singapulah isn't perfect: the service is like an off-the-lead spaniel, friendly but chaotic, and some dishes are misses. But if you know what to order, this Singaporean spot is a solid bet for a central London meet-up and pre-show meals." - Sinéad Cranna, Staff Writer, The Infatuation
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during pre-theater hours, as demand tends to be high. With an impressive 4.4-star rating from OpenTable diners, Singapulah delivers an authentic taste of Singapore at a reasonable price.
Next up, check out the hand-pulled noodles at Xi'an Impression London.
5. Xi'an Impression London
Nestled across from Arsenal's stadium at 117 Benwell Road in North London, Xi'an Impression offers a taste of China's Xi'an region. This small, welcoming spot is celebrated for its hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and wheat-based dishes that highlight the bold, hearty flavors of northwestern China.
"In the past, people here tended to see Chinese food as cheap and unhealthy, but there's actually a real craftsmanship to Chinese cuisine. And I think Shaanxi food deserves more attention in Britain."
Main dishes are priced between £6.50 and £10, and a full meal, including a soft drink, typically costs around £19 per person.
| Signature Dishes | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Xi'an Beef Bun with Special Sauce | £6.50 |
| Hand-Pulled Noodles with Pork Mince | £10.15 |
| Biangbiang Noodles with Chili Sauce | £10.15 |
| Fried Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings | £7.60 |
| Beef Slices in Chef's Special Sauce | £8.85 |
Favorites like the Xi'an Liangpi Cold Noodles and Biangbiang Hand-Pulled Noodles have earned glowing reviews. Jake Missing from The Infatuation raves:
"There are few better things than having your thoughts dominated by a bowl of chewy noodles and gluggable chilli oil, and much of the Xi'anese menu is full of dishes like this."
Ashleigh Arnott of Time Out agrees, saying:
"But those noodles are the star here. You'd be missing something special if you skipped 'Xi'an cold rice noodle in traditional sauce' – fat, slippery strips in a quietly sharp dressing."
Another perk? The restaurant allows BYOB, with a corkage fee of about £5.85.
Xi'an Impression's strong ratings speak for themselves: 8.7/10 for food quality, 9/10 for value, and 8/10 for the overall experience. With its cozy atmosphere, it's best to visit during quieter times to savor the food without the crowds. Ready for more bold flavors? Check out Rogue Sarnies next.
6. Rogue Sarnies
You’ll find Rogue Sarnies at 460b Hackney Rd, serving up hearty sandwiches starting around £10.15. Open Wednesday through Sunday, from 12 PM to 4 PM, this East London gem has quickly become a go-to spot for sandwich lovers.
What makes Rogue Sarnies special? They focus on top-notch ingredients and make everything in-house. Their bread is baked fresh daily in a wood-fired oven, and they source seasonal produce from New Covent Garden Market. The menu changes often, offering a rotating lineup of bold sandwich creations. Pre-ordering is highly recommended to snag your favorite.
One standout is the OG Marmite and Cheese sandwich - perfect for those who want a flavorful, satisfying bite. Located right next to Rogues restaurant, it’s a great pit stop while exploring East London’s buzzing food scene. Just be ready - these sandwiches are big enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
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7. Yun Gui Chuan Rice Noodle Bricklane
Located at 76 Brick Lane, Yun Gui Chuan Rice Noodle serves up Hong Kong-style rice noodles without breaking the bank. Nestled in the heart of Brick Lane's lively scene, this spot has earned a 4.4-star rating from over 900 reviews. Here's what you can expect from their menu:
Their signature rice noodle soups start at £12.90 for the Pork Clear Broth, with premium options reaching up to £24.70. You’ll also find a variety of toppings and classic Hong Kong-style drinks priced between £5.50 and £6.20. The milk tea, in particular, is a standout with its authentic taste.
Popular Broths
| Broth Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Clear | Traditional base | £12.90 |
| Sour & Spicy | Tangy kick | £13.80 |
| Tomato | Comfort classic | £14.60 |
| Hot & Numbing | Szechuan-style | £13.80 |
"Very authentic HK style rice noodles that brings me a lot of comfort whenever I miss HK. The quality is consistent, soup base is great, the topping selection is wide, and even the HK style drinks are done well. So glad they open here in London!!" - Janice T.
For added value, try one of their meal deals. The Pork Clear Broth Meal Deal, priced at around £23.10, includes a generous bowl of noodles, sides, and a drink - a great way to sample their offerings. A quick tip: if you’re not a fan of spicy food, start with the mild option, as even the medium spice level packs a punch.
Yun Gui Chuan is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Brick Lane.
8. E Pellicci
E Pellicci is a family-owned café that’s been serving up British and Italian comfort food since 1900. Found at 332 Bethnal Green Road, this Grade II‑listed spot features stunning art deco interiors, complete with walnut paneling crafted by Achille Capocci in 1946.
With seating for 33 indoors and 10 outdoors, the café offers a cozy East End dining experience where locals and visitors alike come together.
Signature Dishes and Pricing
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pellicci's Full English | Cumberland sausage, egg, bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms with bread or toast | £10.50 |
| Veggie Breakfast | Veggie sausage, egg, bubble 'n' squeak, tomatoes, beans, bread or toast | £10.00 |
| Lasagne | Traditional Italian recipe | £11.75 |
| Pasta Dishes | Bolognese, Napoli, or Pesto with penne or spaghetti | £11.25–£11.75 |
Maria has been running the kitchen since 1961, ensuring the café maintains its reputation for quality and flavor. All pasta dishes and sauces are made in-house, delivering true Italian taste at affordable prices. This mix of rich history and hearty portions keeps E Pellicci a beloved part of London’s dining culture.
"Cities are becoming so socially and emotionally detached from people. But when you come in here, you're forced to talk to people. People from every corner of the globe come in and so many friendships have been made." - Anna Pellicci
E Pellicci isn’t just a café - it’s a neighborhood hub where connections are built and stories are shared.
Good to Know:
- Closed on Mondays
- Portions are famously generous, with staff often adding a little extra to your plate
9. Japes Camden
Next on our list of affordable London dining spots is a standout pizza joint in Camden.
Japes Camden, located at 25 Parkway near Camden Station, is known for its unique take on pizza. They specialize in Chicago-style deep dish and a London-inspired pie that blends elements of Chicago, Detroit, and Sicilian styles. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 686 Google reviews, it’s clear this spot has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many.
One of their standout options is the "Wicked Chicken" pizza, which has received glowing feedback. Matteo Frigeri, managing director at Seeds Consulting, shared his thoughts:
"Japes' Chicago- and London-style deep-dish pizzas have generated a tremendous following, the franchise is proving equally popular".
But Japes isn’t just about pizza. Their menu also includes tacos, salads, and other dishes, all made with fresh ingredients and house-made sauces. The restaurant offers a cozy and stylish atmosphere, complemented by a friendly team. Its convenient location near Camden Station and dedication to high-quality food have made it a local favorite.
10. Normah's
Tucked away in Queensway Market, Normah's is a cozy spot serving Malaysian home-style dishes that have earned it a glowing 5-star rating from Time Out. Founded by Normah Abd Hamid, a former investment banker, this unassuming eatery delivers some of the best Malaysian food in town.
With its simple wooden tables and mismatched chairs, the restaurant feels like a family gathering. It's a welcoming space where the focus is firmly on the food.
"Imagine an indoor market in Queensway swarming with tourists snagging cheap luggage and velour cushions flaunting King Charles's face. Survive this neon-lit maze, and you're rewarded with Malaysian food that slaps you around the face, then has you yelping for more. Welcome to Normah's."
The menu offers a range of must-try dishes that won’t break the bank:
| Signature Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Roti Canai Beef Rendang | £9.89 |
| Curry Laksa (Prawn) | £13.90 |
| Crispy Chicken Wings | £7.99 |
| Assam Pedas Seabass | £15.90 |
Chef Normah's passion for cooking is evident in her philosophy:
"Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with complete devotion or not at all."
- Normah Abd Hamid
The dedication shines in every dish, especially highlights like the roti canai, assam pedas, and crispy chicken wings. While the restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol, you can enjoy traditional Malaysian drinks like Bandung or Teh Tarik for £3.99 each.
Despite being a busy spot, the service - led by Normah's nephew Rezi - remains warm and unhurried, giving the place a family-style charm. It's no wonder Normah's is considered one of London's best value dining options.
For a quieter experience, visit during off-peak hours and try the Curry Laksa (chicken for £13.50 or prawn for £13.90). Make sure to reserve ahead to secure your spot at this hidden gem.
11. Phat Phuc Noodle Bar
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Hidden in a cozy Chelsea courtyard at 151 Sydney Street, Phat Phuc Noodle Bar serves up affordable Vietnamese street food in one of London’s most upscale areas. The casual, no-frills vibe mirrors the charm of Southeast Asian street food stalls, making it a spot worth visiting.
Popular menu items include the chicken Pho and prawn Laksa, known for their bold flavors and hearty portions. Most main dishes are priced around £10, offering great value for the area.
Located just off King’s Road, it’s about a 10-minute walk from Sloane Square tube station. Bus stops on Markham Street and Sydney Street are just a minute away. Even during busy times, service is quick, but if you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting during off-peak hours.
12. Jupiter Burger
Tucked away in Netil Market, Jupiter Burger brings a slice of California to Hackney with its smashburgers. Inspired by mid-century Californian burger stands and the iconic In-N-Out Burger, it's quickly become a go-to spot for quality burgers that won’t break the bank.
Jupiter Burger prides itself on sourcing beef locally from Butcher Hill & Szrok. The menu is straightforward: burgers paired with fries - a combo that’s surprisingly rare in London.
"This is a fast food burger as it should be, and for £10 including fries, decent value too." - Dominic Preston
Here’s what you’ll find on the menu:
| Burger | Price (with fries) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cheeseburger | £10 | Single patty served on a Martin's potato roll |
| Jupiter Burger | £12 | Double beef patties with shaved onions, pickles, mustard, cheese, and house burger sauce |
| Veggie Patty | £12 | Plant-based option with classic toppings |
The Classic Cheeseburger shines for its simplicity and bold flavors, while the Jupiter Burger offers a hefty, satisfying option for those who don’t mind a little mess. With an 8.1 rating from The Infatuation, it’s clear Jupiter Burger holds its own among London’s smashburger scene.
You can find Jupiter Burger at 13-23 Westgate St in London Fields. It’s an ideal spot for an early dinner before exploring Hackney. A January 2025 review from Hot Dinners highlighted the consistent quality and great value of their double-patty burger.
Up next: Bun House, the final stop on our list of budget-friendly eats.
13. Bun House
Bun House is a go-to spot for budget-friendly eats in London's Chinatown, located at 26-27 Lisle Street, London WC2H 7BA. Known for its steamed buns, this fast-casual eatery offers a mix of tradition and creativity without breaking the bank.
The restaurant features a colonial-style interior and outdoor seating, which is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
"Perfect creamy‐white closed Cantonese steamed buns prettily stamped with a Chinese character" - Time Out London
Their menu includes a variety of steamed buns, from classic choices to inventive takes:
| Signature Buns | Description | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pig Bun | Char siu pork belly | Classic Cantonese flavor |
| Custard Bao | Sweet, gooey filling | A standout favorite |
| Pineapple Bun | Sweet and savory combo | A modern twist |
Beyond buns, you’ll find Chinese street food staples like curried fish balls and Cheung Fun. Bun House has two locations - Chinatown and Bun House Disco in Bethnal Green - with a third set to open in Wembley soon.
For a treat that balances indulgence and affordability, the Custard Bao is a must-try. Time Out London rates Bun House 3 out of 5 stars.
Conclusion
London shows that great food doesn't have to break the bank. These 13 spots highlight how quality and affordability go hand in hand across the city's vibrant neighborhoods.
A closer look at these eateries reveals a common thread: many are family-run places offering genuine flavors without the hefty price tag. Whether it's the classic charm of E Pellicci or the trendy vibe of Jupiter Burger, each venue delivers top-notch dishes for under £15.
Here's a quick breakdown of what you can expect:
| Price Range | What You Can Get | Example Venues |
|---|---|---|
| Under £10 | Steamed buns, sandwiches, tacos | Bun House, Rogue Sarnies |
| £10–£15 | Main dishes, lunch specials | Mangal 1, Xi'an Impression |
| £15–£30 | Set menus, banquet deals | Singapulah, Normah's |
These places combine bold flavors with smart deals - think set menus, BYOB options, and seasonal offers. Many are local favorites where fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes shine.
From Malaysian street eats at Normah's to freshly made pasta at Pizzeria Pellone, these restaurants represent some of the best affordable dining in London. Dive into the city's budget-friendly food scene and savor authentic dishes without overspending.