Best Affordable Restaurants in London

Best Affordable Restaurants in London Discover Flavor Without Breaking the Bank

London, one of the world’s most dynamic culinary capitals, offers food from virtually every corner of the globe. But if you’re not careful, dining out can quickly drain your wallet. Fortunately, London is also home to countless hidden gems and affordable eateries where quality, authenticity, and taste come without the premium price tag.

In this guide, we’re exploring the best affordable restaurants in London that deliver exceptional meals for modest prices. From flavorful Persian food in London to sizzling street food and fresh pasta, we’ve curated a list that suits every craving and budget.

1. Beluga Notting Hill – Authentic Persian Food London Locals Love ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 Address: 98 Notting Hill Gate, London W11
💷 Average price per person: £12–£20

Let’s start with a true hidden gem—Beluga Notting Hill, one of the top spots for Persian food in London. This cozy and elegant restaurant offers a rich journey through the traditional flavors of Iran, from juicy koobideh kebabs and fragrant saffron rice to mouthwatering stews like ghormeh sabzi and fesenjan.

What makes Beluga Notting Hill stand out isn’t just the food—it’s the warm ambiance, reasonable pricing, and attention to detail that transports you to a classic Persian dining experience. Despite its high-end presentation, the prices are refreshingly down-to-earth. You can enjoy a full meal with starters, mains, and tea for less than £20—a rarity in West London.

⭐ Why it’s worth a visit: Affordable pricing, authentic Persian cuisine, and a beautifully designed interior

2. Roti King – Malaysian Comfort Food Near Euston ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 40 Doric Way, NW1 1LH
💷 Average price per person: £10–£15

You might have to queue, but Roti King is worth the wait. Tucked away near Euston Station, this small but mighty Malaysian spot is famed for its roti canai—flaky flatbreads served with rich curries. Their beef rendang and laksa noodles are also top-notch and come in generous portions.

If you want bold, spicy, and comforting food at student-friendly prices, Roti King is unbeatable.

3. Dishoom – Bombay Cafe Vibes with a London Twist ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 Multiple locations: Covent Garden, Shoreditch, Kensington, etc.
💷 Average price per person: £15–£25

Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Mumbai, Dishoom has grown into one of London’s most popular Indian chains. Don’t be put off by its popularity—Dishoom consistently delivers on taste, service, and value.

Order a bacon naan roll for breakfast or the house black daal with garlic naan for dinner. Even with drinks and sides, your total bill stays impressively affordable. Their £11 lunch thali is one of the best value meals in central London.

4. Franco Manca – Sourdough Pizza Perfection ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 Various locations across London
💷 Average price per person: £8–£14

Pizza fans rejoice—Franco Manca offers handcrafted sourdough pizza using organic ingredients at prices you’d expect in Italy, not London. Their margherita starts at just £6.95, and every pizza is made to order in a wood-fired oven.

Perfect for casual lunch or dinner with friends, this chain doesn’t compromise on quality despite its low prices.

5. Padella – Fresh Pasta That’s Worth the Queue ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 6 Southwark St, SE1 1TQ
💷 Average price per person: £10–£18

If fresh handmade pasta for under £10 sounds too good to be true, Padella is here to prove you wrong. Their menu changes seasonally, but favorites like pici cacio e pepe or tagliarini with nduja have become modern classics in London’s budget food scene.

Go early to avoid the dinner queue or take advantage of weekday lunch hours. The quality of food you’d expect from a high-end Italian restaurant—but at a third of the price.

6. Flat Iron – Affordable Steak in Soho ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 Multiple locations: Soho, Covent Garden, Shoreditch, etc.
💷 Average price per person: £12–£20

Steak on a budget? It’s possible at Flat Iron, where their signature flat iron steak is just £14, served with free popcorn while you wait. Add crispy beef dripping chips and creamed spinach, and you’ve got a hearty meal without spending a fortune.

It’s stylish, efficient, and consistently delivers value.

7. Tayyabs – Punjabi Feast in Whitechapel ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 83-89 Fieldgate St, London E1 1JU
💷 Average price per person: £15–£20

For lovers of grilled meats, Tayyabs is a must. This East London institution has been serving up fiery lamb chops, chicken tikka, and fluffy naan bread since 1972. It’s always buzzing with locals, which is the best sign of quality and value.

Bring your own drinks and prepare to eat like royalty for under £20.

8. Falafel King – Budget Middle Eastern Street Food (Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 177 Portobello Rd, London W11 2DY
💷 Average price per person: £5–£8

Located near Beluga Notting Hill, Falafel King is a great quick bite option when you’re out exploring Portobello Market. Their wraps are stuffed with crispy falafel, fresh veg, and tahini sauce—all for under £7.

While not a full dine-in experience, it’s perfect for a tasty on-the-go snack.

9. Bancone – Upscale Pasta Without Upscale Prices ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 39 William IV St, WC2N 4DD
💷 Average price per person: £12–£20

Bancone has quickly become a favorite among pasta enthusiasts. The interiors are stylish, and the open kitchen creates an engaging dining experience. Their signature “silk handkerchief” pasta with walnut butter and egg yolk is famous—and well under £10.

Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome if you’re lucky.

10. Hoppers – Flavors of Sri Lanka at Wallet-Friendly Rates ( Best Affordable Restaurants in London )

📍 49 Frith St, Soho, London W1D 4SG
💷 Average price per person: £15–£22

Bringing the taste of Sri Lankan street food to Soho, Hoppers offers bold flavors and vibrant spices in cozy surroundings. Order the signature hopper (a fermented rice pancake) with black pork curry and you’ll understand why food critics love this place.

Not only is it delicious—it’s one of the best-value meals in central London.

What Makes a Restaurant Truly “Affordable” in London?

Affordability is subjective, especially in a city like London. For this list, we defined affordable as:

• Mains under £15
• Full meal (starter, main, drink) under £25
• No compromise on quality or ambiance

These restaurants offer more than just low prices—they provide excellent food, atmosphere, and consistent service. They’re the kinds of places where locals return, time and again.

Honorable Mentions

Here are a few more honorable mentions for budget-conscious foodies:

• Brick Lane Beigel Bake – 24/7 salt beef bagels for under £6
• Kati Roll Company – Indian street food rolls starting at £5
• Eat Tokyo – Affordable and fresh Japanese cuisine

Why Beluga Notting Hill Deserves Special Mention

In a city bursting with culinary choice, Beluga Notting Hill stands out for its dedication to authentic Persian food in London. Most Persian restaurants either cater to a luxury crowd or compromise on flavor to lower costs. Beluga does neither.

It offers:

• A cozy, upscale ambiance without inflated prices
• Traditional dishes made fresh daily
• Glowing local reviews and a loyal customer base
• A true cultural experience with every visit

Whether you’re exploring Persian cuisine for the first time or you grew up with it, Beluga offers a taste of home—and at prices that won’t scare your wallet.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a Michelin-star budget to enjoy great food in London. Whether you’re after Persian, Italian, Sri Lankan, or Middle Eastern, this city has you covered. And if you’re in the mood for something unforgettable and affordable, start with Beluga Notting Hill—your gateway to the best Persian food London has to offer.