Michelin-Starred Chefs Share Their Favorite Cheap Eats in London

In 2024, we embarked on a culinary journey across the UK, asking Michelin-starred chefs to share their favorite affordable dining spots. The challenge was simple: find a meal for two that costs less than £40. The results are in, and we’ve compiled a list of where London’s top chefs indulge when they’re off duty. From cozy eateries to vibrant street food stalls, here’s where to find the best cheap eats in the capital.

Central London

Notto, Piccadilly Circus

Recommended by: Alex Dilling, two Michelin-starred chef at Alex Dilling at Hotel Cafe Royal
Notto is a hidden gem for pasta lovers, offering well-cooked dishes at great value. With main courses priced under £20, it’s a steal for quality Italian fare. Dilling praises the influence of Michelin-star chef Phil Howard, whose cooking techniques shine through even in these casual dishes. He also recommends Bancone for its delightful pasta offerings.

Kati Roll Company, Soho

Recommended by: Sameer Taneja, executive chef at one-starred Benares
For a taste of Kolkata, Taneja swears by Kati Roll Company. Known for its delicious meat and vegetable wraps, this spot has been a favorite of his and his wife for years. Enjoying spicy wraps with a cold beer while listening to Bollywood tunes makes for a perfect night out.

Bar Italia, Soho

Recommended by: Benjamin Ferra Y Castell, one-starred chef at Pavyllon
Bar Italia is a must-visit for authentic Italian coffee and sandwiches. Ferra Y Castell highlights their excellent burrata and the quality of their coffee, which is made the traditional way.

Yauatcha, Soho

Recommended by: Rob Chambers, executive chef at one-starred LUCA
While a typical meal at Yauatcha might exceed the £40 budget, they currently offer a £20 menu to celebrate their 20th anniversary. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience one of London’s beloved dim sum restaurants.

BAO, Soho (and elsewhere)

Recommended by: Sofian Msetfi, executive chef at Ormer
BAO is renowned for its Taiwanese street food, particularly its bao buns starting at just £6. With locations across London, Msetfi appreciates the high-quality ingredients and affordable small plates that allow for a diverse tasting experience.

Berenjak, Soho (and Borough)

Recommended by: Sofian Msetfi
For a traditional Persian dining experience, Msetfi recommends Berenjak. Sharing a charcoal-grilled kebab and a selection of mezeh-style plates is a great way to enjoy a meal within the £40 budget.

Tongue and Brisket, Goodge Street

Recommended by: David Moore, owner of Pied à Terre
Moore suggests bringing an appetite to Tongue and Brisket, where generous portions await. The salt beef on rye is a standout, and the latkes and fish balls are not to be missed.

Shoop, Tottenham Street

Recommended by: David Moore
This tiny spot serves some of the best soups around, with falafel and shakshuka also on the menu. Everything is made fresh, ensuring a delightful meal.

Palms of Goa, Charlotte Street

Recommended by: David Moore
With nearly 30 years in business, Palms of Goa is a staple for good reason. Moore recommends the king prawn masala and lamb biryani, both delicious and filling.

Paul Rothe & Son, Marylebone

Recommended by: Judy Joo, restaurateur at Seoul Bird
This historic deli is known for its pastrami and cheese sandwiches. Joo loves the quintessentially British offerings, including jacket potatoes and coronation chicken.

Liu Xiaomian, Marylebone

Recommended by: Judy Joo
Tucked away in a quaint mews, Liu Xiaomian serves delicious hand-pulled noodles and wontons in a spicy broth, making it a hidden treasure.

Master Wei, Holborn

Recommended by: Gary Foulkes, executive chef at Cornus
Foulkes raves about the hand-pulled Xian noodles and the beef pao mo soup, which are both comforting and flavorful.

Pastaio, Soho

Recommended by: Henrique Sa Pessoa, two Michelin-starred chef
Pastaio is known for its creative pasta dishes. Sa Pessoa recommends the eight-hour beef and porcini bolognese with hand-cut pappardelle.

Koya (Soho and Bloomberg Arcade)

Recommended by: Henrique Sa Pessoa
Koya is a traditional udon bar where the noodles and dashi are made fresh daily. It’s the perfect spot for a comforting bowl of noodles.

CDMX Tacos, Soho

Recommended by: Miller Prada, executive chef at one-starred HUMO
For authentic Mexican street tacos, Prada recommends CDMX Tacos. With tacos priced at £4.25 each, it’s an affordable and delicious option.

Tommi’s Burger Joint, Soho

Recommended by: Miller Prada
Tommi’s is a go-to for burgers, fries, and soda, all for under £13.

Chinatown Picks

Orient London

Recommended by: Jeff Tan, former Michelin-starred chef
Tan recommends enjoying dim sum with Chinese tea at Orient London, where you can enjoy a meal for around £40.

Bun House

Recommended by: Jeff Tan
Bun House offers a delightful selection of buns and is budget-friendly.

Golden Dragon

Recommended by: Jeff Tan
Another great spot for dim sum, Golden Dragon is known for its authentic offerings.

New Loon Fung Restaurant

Recommended by: James Knappett, chef-patron of two Michelin-starred Kitchen Table
For dim sum, Knappett recommends New Loon Fung for its steamed ribs and prawn dumplings.

North London

Hala, Haringey

Recommended by: James Knappett
Hala is a family-friendly Turkish restaurant where sharing a mixed grill platter is a great value option.

Max’s Sandwich Shop, Crouch Hill

Recommended by: Tom Brown, from Pearly Queen
Known for its ‘Ham, Egg ‘n’ Chips’ sandwich, Max’s is a local favorite for football fans.

Lemonia, Regent’s Park Road

Recommended by: Theo Randall
Lemonia is a family-run Greek restaurant with a fantastic set lunch menu.

Yipin China, Highbury and Islington

Recommended by: Meedu Saad, head chef of Kiln
Yipin China specializes in Hunanese dishes, offering a unique culinary experience.

Durak Tantuni, Haringey

Recommended by: Meedu Saad
This spot specializes in tantuni, a delicious meat wrap from Turkey.

Haringey Corbacisi

Recommended by: Meedu Saad
A no-menu restaurant offering daily soups and stews, perfect for a hearty meal.

East London

House of Momo, Dalston (and Brixton)

Recommended by: Tom Brown
House of Momo serves fried dumplings and Nepalese curries, providing excellent value for money.

Umut 2000, Dalston

Recommended by: Andy Beynon
For kebabs, Beynon recommends Umut 2000 for its chargrilled lamb mince.

Lahore Kebab House, Whitechapel

Recommended by: Andy Beynon
A nostalgic spot for Beynon, where he enjoys lamb chops and fresh naan.

Dom’s Subs, Hackney

Recommended by: Andy Beynon
Dom’s Subs is known for its massive sandwiches, perfect for a satisfying lunch.

Oi Vita Pizzeria, Stoke Newington

Recommended by: Jun Tanaka
Tanaka loves Oi Vita for its friendly service and high-quality pizzas.

Viet Grill, Kingsland Road

Recommended by: Jun Tanaka
For Vietnamese takeout, Tanaka recommends Viet Grill for its flavorful pho.

South London

Shuk, Borough Market

Recommended by: Jun Tanaka
Shuk is a vibrant spot for pitas and delicious lamb meatballs, especially enjoyable in the warmer months.

Padella, Borough Market

Recommended by: Miller Prada
Padella is a favorite for its fresh pasta dishes, all reasonably priced.

Everest Curry King, Lewisham

Recommended by: Vivek Singh
Singh loves the homemade Sri Lankan dishes at Everest Curry King, especially the dosa.

Babur, Forest Hill

Recommended by: Vivek Singh
Babur is a southeast London institution, perfect for a filling lunch.

West London

The Royal Albion, Hounslow

Recommended by: Atul Kocchar
This pub serves excellent Indian food, with tandoori dishes that are a must-try.

The DJ’s Kitchen, Isleworth

Recommended by: Atul Kocchar
A unique takeaway offering contemporary chicken dishes with an American twist.

The Lass O’Richmond Hill, Richmond

Recommended by: Atul Kocchar
A cozy pub with exceptional British food, perfect for a relaxing meal.

Mishky in Hux, Kensington

Recommended by: Kerth Gumbs
Mishky offers fresh ceviches and sharing plates, ideal for a light dinner.

Secret Sandwich Shop, Notting Hill

Recommended by: Sofian Msetfi
This hidden gem serves oversized Japanese sandwiches, perfect for a filling meal.

Trejo’s Tacos, Notting Hill

Recommended by: Judy Joo
Founded by actor Danny Trejo, this taco spot is a favorite for its flavorful offerings.

Maroush, Edgware Road (and elsewhere)

Recommended by: Judy Joo
A London institution known for its shawarma and comforting stews.

Saint George Cafe, Chelsea (and Charing Cross)

Recommended by: Benjamin Ferra Y Castell
This French bakery offers delicious sandwiches and pastries, making it a great stop for a quick bite.

Tachbrook Street Market, Pimlico

Recommended by: Benjamin Ferra Y Castell
A market offering authentic Thai food at affordable prices, perfect for a casual meal.

With this guide, you can explore the culinary landscape of London through the eyes of its top chefs. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, tacos, or dim sum, these recommendations ensure you can enjoy a fantastic meal without breaking the bank. Happy eating!