Affordable Eats In London – Part VIII

Cheap Eats is BACK! We are here monthly because we love how London is a city renowned for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from high-end Michelin-starred restaurants to eclectic street food markets. However, this rich array of cuisines and eateries comes at a price; London is famously expensive and dining out can be a costly affair. Nevertheless, there are some hidden gems in the city that offer delicious food at reasonable prices.

So, if you're on a budget but still want to experience London's vibrant food scene, be sure to check out these places:

Imagine getting three tacos for just £9.50 in Borough Market! You can at Tacos Padre, located in everyone's favourite street food market. Try some of the finest Mexican street food, with vibrant dishes brimming with bold flavours. A single taco is a cheap £3.50 and you can choose from beef, chicken, lamb and cauliflower. The dishes are inspired by the owner Nick’s extensive travels around the country.

Some days they also sell cupboard staples, fresh produce, and DIY taco kits, so keep an eye out. Visit in summer evenings for their full dinner service, too.

Courtesy of Tacos Padre

Marie’s Café is a Thai restaurant – though it also offers a great English – with a very affordable menu. It’s known in the neighbourhood for serving up inexpensive and generously-sized portions, making it one of the most popular cafes in Waterloo. The décor is simple but cosy, and the staff is always very welcoming.

Curries and stir fries are just £5.50- £7.50, while noodle dishes are £7.50 – which are some amazing prices for some incredible food. It's also BYOB and corkage is just £1!

A handy little lunch spot for the workers of Balham! Situated at the top of Weir Road, you will smell the smoky BBQ meat before you even see the bright yellow hut. It’s tucked away just a five-minute walk from the main high street, so be sure to venture down.

Sites like this are what real home-cooked food is all about, so be sure to grab some jerk chicken, curry goat, pepper steak, or some freshly-made dumplings from the lovely owner, Doreen. Grab a takeaway box and get stuck in, since a huge portion is just £7.50.

Marathon Restaurant on Caledonian Road near King’s Cross is a long-running Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurant known for traditional shared platters served on injera, the sour fermented flatbread that defines the cuisine. The menu includes slow-cooked stews, lentils, spiced meats, and strong vegetarian options, all designed for communal eating. The atmosphere is informal and old-school, with a loyal local following and a reputation for authenticity rather than polish. It feels more like a neighbourhood institution than a modern London restaurant, and that is exactly why many people go.