15 best budget-friendly restaurants in Covent Garden London
Covent Garden offers an impressive selection of affordable dining options that don’t compromise on quality. Whether you’re craving authentic Italian pasta or seeking European café culture, here are the best budget-friendly Italian and European restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal for under £20.
Top Italian & European restaurants under £20
Franco Manca
This beloved pizzeria has earned its reputation for serving exceptional Neapolitan-style pizzas at wallet-friendly prices. With most pizzas priced between £10-£15, Franco Manca offers outstanding value without compromising on quality. Their sourdough bases are perfectly charred and topped with fresh, premium ingredients that truly transport you to Naples.
Bancone
A pasta lover’s paradise, Bancone has become one of Covent Garden’s most talked-about affordable restaurants. Their hand-made pasta dishes, particularly the famous ’silk handkerchiefs’ with walnut butter and confit egg yolk, offer remarkable value at £15-£18 per plate. The open kitchen adds to the experience, allowing diners to watch their pasta being crafted fresh.
Café de Provence
This charming European café offers some of the best value breakfast and lunch options in the area. Known for their:
- Fresh croissants and pastries (£3-£5)
- Hearty full English breakfast (under £12)
- Gourmet sandwiches (£7-£10)
- Daily specials featuring classic European dishes
Ecco Pizza
A hidden gem for pizza enthusiasts, Ecco Pizza serves flame-baked pizzas with a perfectly crispy crust. Their menu features both classic and creative toppings, with most pizzas priced between £10-£15. The casual atmosphere and quick service make it perfect for both lunch breaks and casual dinners.
Franx Continental Cafe
This European-style café is renowned for its incredible value and high-quality breakfast offerings. Notable menu items include:
- Full English breakfast (under £12)
- Continental breakfast platters (£8-£10)
- Freshly baked pastries (£2-£4)
- Homemade soups and sandwiches (£6-£9)
These establishments demonstrate that quality European dining in Covent Garden doesn’t have to break the bank. Each venue offers its own unique atmosphere and specialties while maintaining affordable price points that make them accessible to budget-conscious diners.
Best Asian restaurants on a budget
Covent Garden offers an impressive selection of affordable Asian dining spots that deliver authentic flavours without breaking the bank. From world-renowned dim sum to creative fusion cuisine, here are the top budget-friendly Asian restaurants in the area.
Din Tai Fung
Located on Henrietta Street, Din Tai Fung has earned a global reputation for its exceptional xiao long bao (steamed soup dumplings). With meals ranging from £15-25 per person, it offers an accessible entry point into high-quality Taiwanese cuisine. The pork and crab dumplings are a must-try signature dish, featuring delicate wrappers filled with rich, flavorful soup.
Sticks ’n’ Sushi
This innovative restaurant combines traditional sushi with yakitori skewers, making it an excellent choice for groups with varied tastes. Meals typically cost £15-30 per person, and the menu features both classic Japanese dishes and contemporary interpretations. The restaurant’s modern atmosphere and progressive approach to Asian cuisine have made it a local favourite.
- Fresh sushi rolls starting from £8
- Yakitori chicken skewers from £6
- Bento boxes perfect for lunch around £15
- Vegetarian and vegan options available
Koshari Street
For those seeking quick, healthy Asian-fusion meals, Koshari Street offers excellent value with most dishes priced between £5-10. Their signature koshari bowls blend Middle Eastern and Asian influences, creating filling meals that won’t strain your budget. The restaurant is particularly popular during lunch hours, offering speedy service for time-pressed diners.
RedFarm
As the first London outpost of this acclaimed New York establishment, RedFarm brings playful contemporary Chinese cuisine to Covent Garden. While slightly pricier than some options, their lunch specials and dim sum offerings provide excellent value around £15-20 per person. The restaurant is known for its creative presentations and modern interpretations of classic Chinese dishes.
Each of these establishments maintains high standards of quality while keeping prices reasonable, making them perfect choices for anyone seeking authentic Asian flavours on a budget in Covent Garden.
Affordable British dining spots
Covent Garden offers several excellent British restaurants that deliver quality dining experiences without breaking the bank. From traditional pub fare to modern British cuisine, here are some standout options for experiencing British culinary traditions on a budget.
Blacklock Covent Garden
A standout choice for sustainable and affordable meat dishes, Blacklock has earned a reputation for its exceptional value. The restaurant’s signature ’All In’ sharing platter features a combination of quality cuts, including slow-roasted mutton shoulder and perfectly grilled chops. For the budget-conscious, their lunch menu offers particularly good value, with high-quality meat dishes at reasonable prices.
Cora Pearl
Located on Henrietta Street, Cora Pearl offers sophisticated modern British cuisine with Parisian influences. While some main courses might stretch the budget, their small plates menu provides an accessible way to experience their acclaimed cooking. Standout dishes include their creamy goat’s curd and seasonal vegetable preparations, which showcase British ingredients at their finest.
The Ivy Market Grill
This British institution makes fine dining accessible with their set menu options. Their £19.17 all-day set menu represents excellent value, offering classic British dishes in an elegant setting. The restaurant’s terrace overlooking Covent Garden Piazza adds to the experience, making it perfect for special occasions without excessive costs.
26 Grains
Nestled in Neal’s Yard, 26 Grains represents modern British casual dining at its best. Their menu changes with the seasons, focusing on simple, well-executed dishes using local ingredients. The restaurant is particularly known for its innovative breakfast and lunch options, with most dishes priced reasonably between £8-15.
Ben’s Fish & Chips
For traditional British fare at its most authentic, this family-run establishment serves properly made fish and chips at reasonable prices. Everything is cooked to order, ensuring fresh, crispy batter and perfectly cooked fish. Their portions are generous, making it an excellent value for those seeking classic British takeaway.
- Most main courses range from £10-15
- Daily specials often provide additional value
- Traditional sides available at budget-friendly prices
- Fresh fish delivered daily
The restaurant’s commitment to maintaining traditional British cooking methods while keeping prices accessible has made it a local favorite for both tourists and residents seeking authentic fish and chips.
Budget-friendly international cuisine
Covent Garden offers an exciting array of international restaurants that won’t break the bank. From Middle Eastern delights to Caribbean flavors, here are some of the most affordable global dining spots in the area.
Middle Eastern & Mediterranean
Koshari Street stands out for its authentic Egyptian street food, offering their signature koshari dish that perfectly captures the flavors of Cairo. With meals averaging £5-£10, it’s an excellent spot for a quick and healthy lunch. The menu features vegetarian-friendly options, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.
Caribbean cuisine
Jamaica Patty Co brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to Covent Garden at reasonable prices. Their menu features classic Jamaican dishes like curry goat and jerk chicken, with most meals priced between £10-£15. The restaurant has gained popularity for its authentic taste and generous portions.
Asian fusion
Buns and Buns offers an innovative Asian-inspired menu that won’t strain your wallet. Located at 5 Covent Garden Piazza, this establishment has earned recognition for its signature Fried Chicken Buns and Chili Beef dishes. With budget-friendly options like sharing plates and Miso soup, you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around £20-£30 per person.
Global street food
Seven Dials Market has emerged as a hub for international street food enthusiasts, offering an eclectic mix of global cuisines under one roof. The market houses various vendors serving everything from Asian dumplings to Mexican tacos, with most dishes priced affordably between £8-£15. According to Covent Garden’s official guide, it’s become a popular destination for those seeking diverse international flavors without the hefty price tag.
For those craving Taiwanese cuisine, Din Tai Fung on Henrietta Street offers world-renowned dumplings at reasonable prices. Their xiao long bao (steamed soup dumplings) have earned a cult following, with meals typically ranging from £15-£25 per person. As noted by Olive Magazine, the pork and crab dumplings are particularly recommended for first-time visitors.
These international establishments demonstrate that experiencing global cuisines in Covent Garden doesn’t require a significant investment, with most venues offering authentic dishes at accessible price points.
Cheap eats & street food options
For those seeking delicious food on a tight budget, Covent Garden offers numerous affordable street food spots and casual eateries that don’t compromise on taste or quality.
Food markets and stalls
Seven Dials Market stands out as a vibrant food destination offering diverse affordable options. This bustling market features multiple food traders serving everything from fresh pasta to Asian fusion dishes, with most meals costing between £8-15. The market’s communal seating and casual atmosphere make it perfect for quick, budget-friendly meals.
Quick bites and takeaway spots
Koshari Street delivers authentic Egyptian street food at wallet-friendly prices, with their signature koshari dish starting from just £5. The hearty portions and healthy ingredients make it an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious diners.
Jamaica Patty Co brings Caribbean flavors to Covent Garden with their selection of authentic patties and jerk chicken. Most items are priced under £10, offering an affordable taste of Jamaica in central London. Their curries and traditional sides provide filling meals at reasonable prices.
Budget-friendly cafes
Cafe de Provence offers excellent value with their selection of freshly made sandwiches, croissants, and full English breakfasts. Most items are priced between £5-10, making it a popular spot for affordable daytime dining. The cafe’s convenient location and quick service make it ideal for busy shoppers and tourists.
Franx Continental Cafe stands out for its incredible value, particularly their hearty English breakfast options. With generous portions and prices ranging from £8-12, it’s become a hidden gem for those seeking substantial meals without breaking the bank.
Sweet treats and snacks
Ben’s Cookies provides freshly baked treats perfect for a sweet pick-me-up. While individual cookies might seem slightly expensive at around £2-3 each, their size and quality make them a satisfying snack option. The warm, gooey cookies have become a Covent Garden institution despite their modest premises.
- Most street food options range from £5-15 per meal
- Food markets offer the best variety for budget dining
- Many cafes provide breakfast deals under £10
- Quick-service establishments often have meal deals and combo options
For the best value, consider visiting these establishments during off-peak hours when many offer special deals or discounted prices. Budget-conscious travelers can easily find satisfying meals without compromising on quality or taste in this vibrant London district.