London – a city that thrums with life, bursts with culture, and, well, let’s not shy away from it, can leave your wallet feeling a tad lighter. But fear not, intrepid budget traveller! Fear not, famished foodie! Because nestled amongst the Michelin-starred marvels and celebrity chef joints, exists a whole other world of deliciousness – affordable eats that won’t break the bank.
This guide from CJ Digital is your passport to a London adventure where taste buds triumph over tightened purse strings. We’re talking steaming bowls of ramen, mountains of fluffy bao buns, and enough jerk chicken to fuel a reggae marathon. So grab your reusable tote bag (because sustainability is sexy, people!), and let’s embark on a journey through London’s most delightful and delightfully affordable eats.
Table of Contents
Classics with a Twist:
- Mr. Steak, Hammersmith: Sometimes, you just crave a good old-fashioned steak. Mr. Steak in Hammersmith delivers on that promise, offering up juicy cuts of meat cooked to perfection at prices that won’t make you wince. Their lunchtime specials are a steal, making it a great option for a midweek treat.
Spice Up Your Life:
- Roti King, Euston: Dive into the heart of Malaysian cuisine at this Euston institution. Don’t be fooled by the unassuming exterior – Roti King is a haven for fragrant curries, fiery sambals, and of course, the namesake roti canai – a flaky flatbread perfect for mopping up every last drop of flavour. Their lunch sets are a steal, with mains like char kuey teow (stir-fried noodles) and nasi lemak (coconut rice) clocking in under a tenner.
- Smoking Goat Shoreditch: London’s love affair with all things Thai reaches new heights (literally, their fiery curries will have you reaching for a cooling beverage) at Smoking Goat. This Shoreditch hotspot boasts an open kitchen where you can watch the culinary magic unfold, with dishes like jungle curry and fiery nahm prik king (shrimp paste with chilli and lime) sure to set your taste buds alight. Pro tip: their lunchtime set menus are a revelation.
- Kiln, Soho: Calling all carb fiends! Kiln’s dedication to all things noodle is a glorious thing. This Soho gem specialises in dishes cooked over wood-fired ovens and grills, resulting in fragrant curries, perfectly charred vegetables, and, of course, noodles that are a revelation – springy, smoky, and begging to be slurped with gusto. Their lunch sets offer a taste of their magic at a very friendly price.
Bun Appetit:
- BAO, Soho or Borough: Calling all bao bun enthusiasts! BAO’s fluffy steamed buns are a revelation, filled with everything from melt-in-your-mouth pork belly to fragrant mushroom and water chestnut. With locations in both Soho and Borough Market, a quick pit stop for a steaming basket of these beauties is a must.
- Bun House, Covent Garden: For a playful take on traditional Cantonese buns, Bun House in Covent Garden is your port of call. Think juicy BBQ pork belly buns, delicate veg options packed with seasonal delights, and even squid ink congee for the truly adventurous.
- Beigel Bake, Brick Lane: No London budget eats guide is complete without mentioning the legendary Beigel Bake on Brick Lane. This historic bakery has been churning out their iconic salt beef bagels since 1860, and for good reason. These hefty beasts are piled high with tender meat, mustard, and pickles, the perfect fuel for a day of exploring the East End’s delights.
Global Grub:
- Supa Ya Ramen, Kingsland Road: Ramen fans, rejoice! Supa Ya on Kingsland Road serves up steaming bowls of this Japanese noodle soup that are as comforting as they are delicious. Choose from a variety of broths (miso, shoyu, the list goes on) and customize your bowl with an array of toppings. Be warned, a portion here is enough to leave you happily satiated.
- Del 74, Dalston: Calling all taco aficionados! Del 74 in Dalston is a casual taqueria serving up fresh, flavour-packed tacos that won’t break the bank. Their legendary Taco Tuesdays offer tacos for a mere £3, making it the perfect excuse for a midweek fiesta.
- Wolkite Ethiopian Restaurant, Holloway: For a taste of Ethiopia, look no further than Wolkite in Holloway. This friendly restaurant serves up authentic dishes like injera (a spongy sourdough flatbread) accompanied by fragrant stews and colourful vegetables. Their set menus are a great way to sample a variety of Ethiopian delights.
- Aroma Buffet, Shepherd’s Bush: All-You-Can-Eat Adventure in Shepherd’s Bush: For those days when only a vast and delicious smorgasbord will satisfy, Aroma Buffet in Shepherd’s Bush beckons. Located within the West 12 Shopping Centre, this airy restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat experience that’s perfect for groups or indecisive eaters.
A Feast for the Senses:
Step into Aroma Buffet and be greeted by the enticing aroma of sizzling teppanyaki, fragrant curries, and freshly prepared sushi. The buffet boasts a dazzling array of dishes, with something to tantalize every taste bud. Think classic Chinese stir-fries with your choice of protein and vegetables, steaming dim sum platters, and a dedicated sushi counter where fresh maki rolls and glistening nigiri await.
More Than Just Your Average Buffet:
Aroma Buffet goes beyond the usual suspects. Alongside the expected favourites, you’ll find a selection of Indian curries, fragrant Thai stir-fries, and even a tempting array of desserts. Their commitment to fresh ingredients shines through in every bite, and the friendly staff are always on hand to answer any questions and help navigate the culinary bounty.
Value for Money:
Let’s talk about the real star of the show – the price. Aroma Buffet offers exceptional value for money. With a single fixed price, you can indulge in as much food as your heart desires (though responsible feasting is always encouraged!). This makes it a great option for families, large groups, or anyone with a serious appetite.
Top Tips:
- Go hungry! This might seem obvious, but with so much deliciousness on offer, you’ll want to come with an empty stomach.
- Pace yourself: There’s no rush, so take your time, savour the flavours, and try a little bit of everything.
- Leave room for dessert! From fresh fruit and cakes to creamy puddings, Aroma Buffet’s sweet selection is the perfect way to end your all-you-can-eat adventure.
The Verdict:
Aroma Buffet offers a delicious and affordable way to explore a world of flavours. With its vast selection of fresh dishes, friendly service, and unbeatable value for money, it’s a Shepherd’s Bush gem that won’t disappoint. So gather your friends, unleash your inner gourmand, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure at Aroma Buffet.
Beyond the Budget Bites:
This guide has hopefully whetted your appetite for London’s affordable eats scene. But remember, this is just a starting point! With a little exploration, you’re sure to discover hidden gems tucked away on every corner. So, put on your walking shoes, embrace your inner foodie, and get ready to experience London on a delicious and budget-friendly plate.
