Top 10 Best Cheap Eats in London

Located within the iconic Borough Market, this nose-to-tail specialist serves up some of London's best pulled pork rolls and crispy pork belly sandwiches from their market stall. The slow-cooked heritage breed pork is unbelievably tender, piled high with crackling, apple sauce, and stuffing in a soft white roll that barely contains the carnivorous goodness. The market location means prime people-watching opportunities and a buzzing atmosphere, especially on weekends when food lovers descend from across the city. Perfect for a casual lunch while market browsing, though finding a perch to eat can be competitive during peak hours.

Don't let the tiny review count fool you—this hole-in-the-wall near Covent Garden serves some of the best falafel in central London, with golden-brown chickpea fritters that are crispy outside and fluffy within. The generous wrap comes loaded with fresh salad, tahini, and hot sauce that you can customize to your heat preference, all for under a fiver. The prime location makes it perfect for a quick pre-theatre bite or post-shopping refuel, though the limited seating means most people eat standing or take away. It's the kind of local gem that tourists walk past but savvy Londoners swear by.

This Scandinavian-inspired sandwich shop near King's Cross serves up some of London's most creative and Instagram-worthy toasties with proper artisan bread and premium fillings. The truffle mushroom toastie with melted cheese and crispy onions is a game-changer, elevating the humble grilled cheese into something genuinely special. The minimalist Nordic design and grab-and-go setup make it perfect for commuters or workers looking for a quick but quality lunch that doesn't feel like a compromise. Popular with the tech crowd from the nearby Google offices, it gets absolutely rammed between 12-2pm, so time your visit accordingly.

With a near-perfect rating from over 11,000 reviews, this South London cafe has achieved legendary status for its full English breakfasts that could power you through an entire day. The portions are absolutely massive—two eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, mushrooms, tomatoes, beans, and toast—all cooked to perfection and served by staff who treat regulars like family. The old-school greasy spoon atmosphere complete with formica tables and sports on the telly attracts everyone from builders to hipsters seeking authenticity. Get there early on weekends or be prepared to wait; this is breakfast done the proper British way at prices that haven't changed in a decade.

This British comfort food institution specializes in one glorious thing: mountains of creamy mashed potato topped with classic sausages, stews, and gravies that taste like your nan's Sunday dinner. The Desperado—bangers with spicy bean chili and cheese—is the bestseller, offering pure indulgent satisfaction that hits the spot after Carnaby Street shopping. The cheerful yellow decor and friendly staff create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere that appeals to families and tourists seeking quintessentially British fare without the gastropub prices. It's uncomplicated, hearty, and exactly what you want when London weather turns grey.

This Jewish deli on Wardour Street is a carnivore's dream, slinging enormous salt beef and pastrami sandwiches that could easily feed two people. The Reuben here is a towering masterpiece of melt-in-your-mouth beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on perfectly toasted rye—it's messy, indulgent, and utterly satisfying. The casual counter-service setup and retro deli vibes attract a mix of Soho creatives and hungry shoppers looking for proper sustenance. Best for lunch or early dinner; come hungry and maybe share unless you're particularly ambitious.

Wedged under the railway arches near Euston Station, this Malaysian canteen has achieved cult status for its roti canai that rivals anything you'd find in Kuala Lumpur. The flaky, buttery flatbread arrives at your table piping hot, perfect for dunking into rich, aromatic curry sauces that change daily—the beef rendang is particularly exceptional. Expect communal seating, minimal decor, and queues that can stretch 30-40 minutes during peak lunch hours, but the authentic flavors and rock-bottom prices make it a pilgrimage site for curry lovers. Solo diners are common here, and the efficient turnover means you won't be hovering over someone's shoulder for too long.

This Hong Kong-style bakery and bar hybrid brings proper Cantonese comfort food to the heart of Chinatown at unbeatable prices. The char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) are fluffy clouds of sweetness, but insiders know to order the bo lo bao—a sweet bun with a crispy, crumbly topping that's dangerously addictive with Hong Kong milk tea. The space gets packed after theater hours when dim sum cravings hit, with a lively atmosphere that feels authentically chaotic in the best way. Perfect for groups looking to share multiple dishes or late-night snackers who want more substance than your typical Chinatown tourist trap.

Tucked away near Goodge Street, this Lebanese street food joint serves up some of the most generous portions in central London at prices that seem frozen in time. Their chicken shawarma wrap is legendary among UCL students and local office workers—packed with perfectly spiced meat, pickles, and garlic sauce that drips down your arms in the best possible way. The no-frills setup with a few stools means this is grab-and-go territory, though the friendly family-run atmosphere makes you want to linger. Solo diners and budget-conscious foodies flock here for authentic Middle Eastern flavors without the Edgware Road markup.

This Taiwanese sensation has queues snaking down Lexington Street for good reason—their pillowy soft steamed buns are stuffed with innovative fillings that change with the seasons. The classic braised pork bao remains the signature, featuring melt-in-your-mouth pork belly with fermented greens and peanut powder that's worth every minute of wait time. The intimate space feels more like a Tokyo izakaya than a London restaurant, with counter seating where you can watch chefs work their magic. Best for couples or small groups who don't mind getting cozy; arrive early or prepare to queue, especially on weekends.