1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Mooli's
© Laura Porter
Mooli's on Frith Street in Soho serves Indian fast food but there's no curry to be seen. What's a mooli, you ask? The nearest equivalent might be to call it a slim burrito or a warm wrap but that doesn't really do it justice. Sam & Mathew, the owners of Mooli's, have made sure a mooli is something new. The lengths they have gone to bring us this simple meal, based in Indian street food, are extraordinary, including a trip to Texas for the perfect machine to make their fresh rotis every day.
4. 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.5. 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.6. 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.7. Leon
© Laura Porter
8. Italian Coffee Company
© Laura Porter, licensed to About.com, Inc.
9. 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.
