As far as eating out goes, London is one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world, but it can seriously drain your wallet. Whether you’re craving a quick bite of Asian street food or have the cash to splurge on a Michelin-starred meal (hey, we can dream) you’ll find it in the capital. But as an international student, figuring out how to eat well – and without breaking the bank – can be anything but easy. To help you out, we’ve rounded up some student-approved food spots to ensure you can enjoy amazing meals on a budget. After all, great food shouldn’t come with a side helping of stress.
Crispy Sushi Roll
Offering some of the best and most affordable Sushi rolls within walking distance from Embankment tube station, Crispy Sushi Roll is a must-visit spot. Its chicken sushi roll with sweet chilli is, at the time of writing, only £4.89 and offers a good-sized portion that’s big enough to share.
Bun House at China Town
London’s ‘China Town’ is located opposite Leicester Square Station on the Piccadilly line – and Bun House, which can be found within this popular district, offers delicious meat-filled steamed buns for around £3. If you’re looking for authentic Chinese food that won’t cost a fortune, you’ll definitely want to head here.
China Town Bakery
After feasting on as much savoury food as you can manage, you might want to tackle your cravings for something sweet. If so, head to China Town Bakery, which isn’t far at all from Bun House. Offering four fish-shaped Custard Taiyaki for little over £2, you’ll be glad you stumbled across this absolute bargain.
Sud Italia
Located in London’s Spitalfields (one of the oldest markets in the city) and next to Liverpool Street Tube station, Sud Italia is just one of many food stalls here. Go on, grab a Pizza Portafoglio (folded pizza) for only £5.
Beigel Bake, Brick Lane Bakery
Head to Beigel Bake – one of the oldest shops in London, situated in the heart of Shoreditch. It came to be back in 1974 and if the queues are anything to go by, the food is certainly worth trying. Beigel Bake’s smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel will blow your mind for just over £3, with its generous portion of smoked salmon being the cherry on the cake.
Sweet Spot at South Bank
Find Sweet Spot just outside South Bank and right by Waterloo station and treat yourself to a selection of mini donuts for under a fiver.
Finding Cheap Eats in London: Our Top Tips
- Keep your eyes peeled for street foods and markets, which often offer the best value for money
- Head to supermarkets for affordable ‘meal deals’, which usually include a sandwich, snack and a drink for under £5
- Avoid tourist-heavy areas. Instead, eat in areas a little further out of the centre, for better prices.
- Use apps like Deliveroo or Just Eat, which often feature discounts and promotions
- Head to Wetherspoons – with a huge UK presence, Wetherspoons offers cheap drinks and meals, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Finding cheap food in London doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavour or quality. With a little planning and some insider knowledge, you can look forward to tucking into food that’s both delicious and affordable.
