Cheap Meals London: Eat Well Without Spending Much

When you’re looking for cheap meals London, affordable food options that don’t skimp on taste or portion size. Also known as budget eating in London, it’s not about skipping meals—it’s about knowing where to find real value in a city that often feels expensive. You don’t need to dine in a Michelin-starred spot to eat well. Many of London’s best meals come from market stalls, corner bakeries, and hidden vegetarian counters that locals swear by.

The city is full of places where you can grab a hearty, satisfying meal for under £5. vegan food London, plant-based meals that are flavorful, filling, and surprisingly cheap. Also known as affordable vegan dining, it’s one of the biggest surprises for newcomers. You’ll find spicy lentil wraps, crispy tofu bao, and fluffy vegan donuts that cost less than a coffee elsewhere. Then there’s London street food, mobile vendors serving global flavors from behind counters and food trucks. Also known as on-the-go eats, it’s where culture meets convenience. From Nigerian jollof rice in Peckham to Vietnamese pho near Oxford Circus, you’re never far from something delicious and under £7.

What makes cheap meals in London different is how deeply they’re tied to community. These aren’t gimmicks or tourist traps—they’re everyday spots where students, workers, and families rely on them. You’ll find the same people lining up every lunchtime, whether it’s for a £3 falafel wrap at a Southbank stall or a £4.50 vegan pie from a bakery in Brixton. The secret? They’re not trying to impress you with fancy plating—they’re just trying to feed you well.

If you’re trying to stretch your budget, the best strategy isn’t to avoid eating out—it’s to eat smarter. Skip the chains. Look for places where the menu is short, the ingredients are fresh, and the line is long. Many of the most affordable spots don’t even have websites. You’ll find them by walking down side streets, checking out market days, or asking someone who’s been living here for more than a year.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve lived this life. They’ve tracked down the cheapest vegan meals, the best late-night bites, and the hidden markets where you can eat like a local without spending like a tourist. No fluff. No overpriced gimmicks. Just honest, practical spots where you can eat well, every day, without breaking the bank.