London is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and the city’s street food scene is a testament to its diversity. For those of you on a budget, there are plenty of options to indulge in delicious yet affordable eats. This guide will take you through some of the best places to find cheap but mouth-watering street food in London. Whether you’re craving fried chicken, spicy roti, or succulent pork belly, there’s something for everyone.
Borough Market: A Slice of Culinary Heaven
Borough Market, located just a stone’s throw from London Bridge, is a food lover’s paradise. This historic market has been serving up diverse and delectable dishes since the 13th century. Here, you can find an array of stalls offering everything from artisanal cheeses to exotic street eats.
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When you visit Borough Market, don’t miss out on the fried chicken from Butchies. Known for their crispy, juicy chicken, this stall is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Pair it with a side of their special coleslaw for a complete meal that won’t break the bank.
For those of you who prefer something heartier, the roti and lamb dishes from Koshari Street are a must-try. This Egyptian street food stall serves a delicious mix of lentils, rice, and pasta topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions. It’s a perfect, filling option for anyone on a budget.
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Another gem in Borough Market is Scotchtails, where you can try their famous scotch eggs made with pork belly. These are not your average scotch eggs; they are packed with flavor and are incredibly satisfying.
Don’t forget to follow these vendors on social media. Often, an instagram post or post shared by fans will give you the latest updates on their menus and any special offers.
Roti King: Authentic Malaysian Street Food
Located in Euston, Roti King has garnered a cult following for its authentic Malaysian street food. This small, unassuming restaurant serves some of the best roti canai in London. The flaky, buttery roti is served with a generous portion of delicious curry, making it a satisfying meal for less than £10.
Roti King is open Monday through Saturday, making it a convenient spot for a quick, affordable bite during your London visit. The menu also features other Malaysian favorites like nasi lemak and mee goreng, so there’s plenty to choose from.
One of the highlights of Roti King is their chicken dishes. The curry chicken roti is particularly popular, with tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich, spicy curry. It’s a dish that will leave you craving more.
For those of you who are fans of lamb, the lamb murtabak is a must-try. This stuffed roti is filled with minced lamb, onions, and spices, making for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Roti King is often busy, especially during peak hours, so plan accordingly. The wait is worth it, though, as the food is consistently delicious and offers great value for money.
Cafe TPT: A Hidden Gem in Chinatown
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, Cafe TPT is a hidden gem that offers some of the best and most affordable eats in London. This unpretentious cafe serves a variety of Hong Kong-style dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
One of the standout dishes at Cafe TPT is their fried rice. Each plate is loaded with flavor and comes with generous portions of meat and vegetables. The roast pork fried rice is particularly popular, with tender pieces of pork belly adding a delightful richness to the dish.
Another must-try is their chicken curry, which is both spicy and comforting. Served with a side of steamed rice, this dish is perfect for those of you looking for a filling meal that won’t empty your wallet.
For seafood lovers, the salt and pepper squid is a highlight. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with any of the rice or noodle dishes on the menu.
Cafe TPT is open Monday to Sunday, making it a convenient option no matter when you’re exploring London’s bustling Chinatown. Be sure to check out their Instagram page for the latest updates and view post from satisfied customers.
Brick Lane: A Melting Pot of Flavors
Brick Lane is synonymous with vibrant street life and a kaleidoscope of flavors. This historic street in East London is home to some of the best street food vendors in the city, offering a plethora of options that cater to all tastes and budgets.
One of the standout stalls on Brick Lane is Mother Clucker, known for their mouth-watering fried chicken. Their signature chicken strips are marinated in buttermilk, double-fried to perfection, and served with a side of Cajun fries. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves good fried food.
For those of you who enjoy a bit of spice, Beigel Bake is a must-visit. Open 24 hours a day, this legendary bakery serves some of the best salt beef bagels in London. The bagels are soft and chewy, filled with succulent slices of salt beef, mustard, and pickles. It’s an inexpensive yet incredibly satisfying meal.
Another gem on Brick Lane is the Indian street food at Aladin. Known for their flavorful curries and freshly made naan, this restaurant offers a wide range of dishes that are both affordable and delicious. The lamb bhuna is particularly popular, with tender pieces of lamb cooked in a rich, spicy sauce.
As you explore Brick Lane, keep an eye out for pop-up stalls and vendors. You never know when you might stumble upon a new favorite dish. Follow the vendors on social media for the latest updates and to see instagram post and post shared by other food enthusiasts.
Camden Market: A Foodie’s Paradise
Camden Market is another hotspot for cheap eats in London. This eclectic market is home to a wide variety of food stalls offering dishes from all over the world. Whether you’re in the mood for Korean BBQ or Venezuelan arepas, Camden Market has something to satisfy every craving.
One of the must-try stalls in Camden Market is Oli Baba’s, known for their fried halloumi fries. These crispy, cheesy delights are served with a choice of delicious dips, making them a perfect snack for those of you on the go.
For a taste of the Caribbean, check out Maize Blaze. This stall offers some of the best Colombian street food in London. The grilled meat arepas are particularly popular, featuring tender pieces of marinated meat sandwiched between crispy corn cakes. It’s a filling and flavorful meal that won’t break the bank.
Another standout at Camden Market is The Cheese Bar. This stall specializes in all things cheesy, from gooey grilled cheese sandwiches to decadent mac and cheese. The truffle mac and cheese is a must-try, with its rich, creamy sauce and generous truffle flavor.
Camden Market is open every day, making it a convenient spot for a quick and affordable meal during your London adventures. Be sure to check out their social media pages for the latest updates and to see what other foodies are raving about.
Finding cheap but delicious street food in London is easier than you might think. From the bustling stalls of Borough Market to the hidden gems of Chinatown and the eclectic offerings of Camden Market, the city is brimming with affordable culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for fried chicken, spicy roti, or succulent pork belly, there’s something for everyone.
For a truly authentic experience, be sure to visit Roti King for some of the best Malaysian street food in the city. And don’t forget to explore Brick Lane, where you can find everything from salt beef bagels to flavorful Indian curries.
With so many options to choose from, your London visit is sure to be a gastronomic adventure. So grab your friends, hit the streets, and discover the best cheap eats that London has to offer. Bon appétit!
