Central London is often seen as a haven for fine dining and high-end restaurants, but it’s also home to some fantastic budget-friendly gems. Whether you're in search of international street food or delicious plates of hearty comfort, you can enjoy great meals without breaking the bank. Here are the Top 10 Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Central London, where you can feast on flavor without splurging.
1. Flat Iron, Covent Garden
Who says steak has to be expensive? At Flat Iron, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked steak for just £13. The simple menu focuses on one thing—delicious, tender beef served with crispy fries and a side of house salad. The rustic, no-frills vibe and great value for money make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. For those looking for a bit more, the creamed spinach or truffle mac & cheese are excellent sides.
Location: 17-18 Henrietta St, Covent Garden
Best for: Affordable steak in a casual, lively setting.
Don’t miss: The steak with béarnaise sauce—a juicy, flavour-packed bargain.
2. Bao, Soho
For a taste of Taiwan on a budget, Bao offers delectable bao buns at wallet-friendly prices. This trendy spot in Soho serves pillowy buns stuffed with options like braised pork, fried chicken, and shiitake mushrooms for under £7 each. The minimalist decor and small plates make it perfect for a quick, affordable meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s ideal for casual dining or grabbing a quick bite.
Location: 53 Lexington St, Soho
Best for: Taiwanese street food with a modern twist.
Don’t miss: The classic pork bao—a tender, juicy bite of pork belly perfection.
3. Pizza Pilgrims, Carnaby
For authentic Neapolitan pizza that’s easy on the wallet, Pizza Pilgrims offers fantastic value. Their Margherita pizza comes in at just under £10, with a light, chewy base and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Located near the bustling Carnaby Street, this pizzeria provides a great atmosphere for both quick bites and leisurely meals. With its friendly vibe and delicious food, it’s a must-visit for pizza lovers on a budget.
Location: 11 Kingly St, Carnaby
Best for: Classic Neapolitan pizza at a bargain price.
Don’t miss: The Margherita pizza—simple, delicious, and under £10.
4. Roti King, Euston
For those craving Southeast Asian flavors, Roti King serves up some of the best Malaysian food in London at unbeatable prices. Famous for its soft, flaky roti canai paired with flavorful curry, this hole-in-the-wall spot offers hearty dishes like nasi lemak and laksa for under £10. With a casual, no-frills atmosphere and lines out the door, Roti King is a must for anyone seeking comfort food with a Southeast Asian twist.
Location: 40 Doric Way, Euston
Best for: Delicious Malaysian comfort food at unbeatable prices.
Don’t miss: The roti canai with curry—fluffy, crispy bread paired with rich, fragrant curry.
5. Eat Tokyo, Soho
If you're looking for affordable sushi and Japanese comfort food, Eat Tokyo is a go-to spot in Soho. Known for its generous portions and value for money, the menu features sushi, bento boxes, and noodle dishes, with meals starting at just £10. The fresh, authentic flavors and casual setting make it a great option for a budget-friendly Japanese feast in the heart of London.
Location: 16 Old Compton St, Soho
Best for: Affordable sushi and bento boxes in a casual setting.
Don’t miss: The bento box—a complete meal with rice, sashimi, tempura, and miso soup for a great price.
6. Koshari Street, Covent Garden
For something a little different, Koshari Street specializes in the Egyptian dish koshari—a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with crispy onions and rich tomato sauce. This filling and flavorful vegetarian meal is available for around £6, making it one of the most budget-friendly spots in Covent Garden. It’s ideal for a quick, nutritious, and delicious lunch.
Location: 56 St Martin’s Ln, Covent Garden
Best for: Hearty, healthy Egyptian street food on a budget.
Don’t miss: The classic koshari—a comforting bowl of vegetarian goodness.
7. Banh Mi Bay, Fitzrovia
If you’re craving fresh Vietnamese flavors, Banh Mi Bay offers excellent value. Known for its banh mi sandwiches, which cost around £6, this casual eatery serves a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, summer rolls, and bun noodle bowls. The combination of affordable prices and fresh, vibrant flavors makes it a standout for anyone looking for a healthy, budget-friendly meal in Central London.
Location: 4-6 Theobalds Rd, Fitzrovia
Best for: Fresh, affordable Vietnamese sandwiches and pho.
Don’t miss: The classic banh mi—packed with pork, pate, pickled veg, and fresh herbs for under £7.
8. Honest Burgers, Soho
For a reliably great burger that won’t break the bank, Honest Burgers is a solid option in Soho. Their Honest burger, featuring beef, bacon, cheddar, and red onion relish, comes with their famous rosemary-salted chips for around £13. Known for its consistent quality, Honest Burgers is a great spot for an affordable meal, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere.
Location: 4A Meard St, Soho
Best for: Delicious, budget-friendly burgers with a side of rosemary fries.
Don’t miss: The classic Honest burger—perfectly cooked and packed with flavour.
9. Tandoor Chop House, Covent Garden
For an affordable yet modern take on Indian cuisine, Tandoor Chop House offers a delightful fusion of British chop house traditions and North Indian tandoor cooking. The menu is filled with juicy tandoori meats, hearty naan breads, and flavorful curries, with most dishes priced under £12. The stylish interiors and cozy atmosphere make it perfect for a casual meal that’s both tasty and affordable.
Location: 8 Adelaide St, Covent Garden
Best for: Affordable Indian dishes with a contemporary twist.
Don’t miss: The house tandoor chicken—perfectly spiced, juicy, and tender.
10. Pizza Union, King’s Cross
When it comes to speed, affordability, and flavor, Pizza Union hits the mark. Known for its superfast service and ultra-thin Roman-style pizzas, this King’s Cross spot offers pizzas starting at just £5.50. The casual, buzzing vibe and the excellent value make it perfect for a quick, satisfying bite on a budget. Pair your pizza with one of their Nutella-filled dough rings for dessert, and you’ll leave both full and happy.
Location: 246-250 Pentonville Rd, King’s Cross
Best for: Fast, affordable pizza with a great range of toppings.
Don’t miss: The Margherita pizza—a classic for under £6.