It doesn't have to be expensive to dine out in London -- you just need to know where to go. These restaurants are all in central London and are all tried and tested favorites of Londoners and visitors alike.
1. Kulu Kulu Sushi Restaurant
© Laura Porter
Kulu Kulu is a kiaten zushi Japanese restaurant in Soho, near Piccadilly Circus. Kulu Kulu was one of the first sushi conveyor belts in London. The decor is nothing to write home about but you go for the food which is cheap and delicious. It's easy to budget as the dishes are on color-coded plates. Kulu Kulu is well-established and serves sushi, sashimi, noodles, etc. There’s a 45 minute maximum stay but that's enough time to enjoy your food. Kulu Kulu is great for sushi novices. Eat in or take-away.
2. Gaby's Deli
© Laura Porter
Gaby's Deli is popular as a (delete as applicable) budget / vegetarian / Jewish / Kosher / Mediterranean / Greek hummous and kebab cafe / diner / restaurant. It is all of those things and more. You decide on the best label but just be sure to stop by.
3. Stockpot
The Stockpot is a no frills chain of cheap eateries. Expect hearty and wholesome dishes with generous portions yet at budget prices.There are daily specials and a hand-written menu with a large choice of appetizers, salads, main dishes, and desserts. Look out for the English warming 'stodge' of rhubarb crumble and custard, or roast beef stew.
4. Soba Noodle Bar
Soba is just off London's busy shopping mecca, Oxford Street and an excellent choice for a quick meal while shopping in town. Soba's oriental meals are freshly prepared and the portions are generous, yet the prices are kept low.5. Hummus Brothers
Hummus Bros features homemade hummus with a choice of toppings, served with warm pitta bread, salads and juices. The food is fresh and simple yet delicious. Hummus Bros are the only place in the UK to concentrate solely on hummus.6. Brasil by Kilo
Brasil by Kilo may not be pretty but you come here for the delicious food not the decor. You soon forget you are on Oxford Street, the busiest shopping street in London, and feel whisked away to a Brazilian haven.Brasil by Kilo uses the Brazilian pay-by-weight system. You load up your plate from a dozen hot dishes and cold salads, then your plate is weighed; you pay per 100g. Dishes are simple, and the fruit juices outstanding.
7. Square Pie
Square Pie started in 2001 with the plan to improve the profile of the humble pie. By using high quality fresh ingredients and proper chefs to make and cook the pies they have vastly improved the reputation of this simple dish.8. Wagamama
All the Wagamama restaurants are modeled on the popular ramen bars in Japan and there are over 15 branches in London alone. They have long bench seats and food is served quickly.9. Leon
© Laura Porter
Leon is a 'fast-food' café but aims to provide organic and fair-trade produce. They cater for special dietary requirements. Leon has a reputation for healthy, fresh, seasonal dishes and is popular for lunch take-outs.
