London may be one of the world’s most expensive cities, but eating out doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Hidden among Michelin-starred giants and luxury restaurants are incredible set menu deals that serve up bold flavors and quality ingredients at a fraction of the usual cost. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch or an affordable evening out, here are some of the best budget set menus in London that promise great taste without the premium price tag.
The Devonshire (Central London)
- Set Menu: 2 courses for £25 / 3 courses for £29 (weekday lunch)
- Why Go: One of the most talked-about openings of the past year, The Devonshire blends classic British pub vibes with elevated cooking. Think proper smoked salmon, pies with bone marrow gravy, and sticky toffee pudding done right. It’s traditional, but done with flair.
- Perfect For: A proper British lunch with polish and pub charm
Brasserie Zédel (Central London)
- Set Menu: 2 courses for £17.50 / 3 courses for £21.50 (available daily)
- Why Go: Possibly the best value in central London, this art deco French brasserie feels grand but is surprisingly affordable. The “Formule” menu offers classics like carrot salad, steak haché, and chocolate torte in a setting that evokes 1930s Paris.
- Perfect For: A budget-friendly Parisian escape in the West End.
Kolamba East (East)
- Set Menu: 2 courses for £25 / 3 courses for £30 including a glass of wine or mocktail (weekday lunch)
- Why Go: The younger sibling of Soho’s beloved Kolamba, this Sri Lankan spot offers a bold, modern take on homestyle dishes. Their lunch thalis—complete with sambols, rice, curries, and pickles—are deeply satisfying and beautifully spiced.
- Perfect For: A soulful, flavor-packed lunch that’s far from ordinary.
BAO (multiple locations)
- Set Menu: From £15 (weekdays only)
- Why Go: BAO’s cult-status steamed buns are a must-try, and their weekday lunch deals make them even more tempting. Choose from a bao, side, and drink bundle featuring signature flavors like confit pork or fried chicken with hot sauce.
- Perfect For: A quick, trend-forward bite with serious taste.
Akara (South)
- Set Menu: 3 courses for £25 (weekday Tuesday to Thursday lunch)
- Why Go: From the team behind Akoko, Akara offers West African small plates in a more casual setting. The lunch menu includes street food-inspired bites like akara (black-eyed pea fritters), grilled meats, and rich peanut or tomato-based sauces.
- Perfect For: A vibrant, inventive lunch full of West African spice.
Noble Rot (Central)
- Set Menu: 2 courses for £24 / 3 courses for £28 (weekday lunch)
- Why Go: Part wine bar, part bistro, Noble Rot is a haven for food and wine lovers alike. The set menu often features British and French classics like pork rillettes, hake with brown butter, or impeccable roast chicken—all paired with a killer wine list.
- Perfect For: A refined but relaxed lunch with top-notch ingredients.
The Palomar (Central)
- Set Menu: 3 courses for £25
- Why Go: This lively, open-kitchen spot offers modern Jerusalem cuisine with a twist. Think harissa-drenched meats, house-baked kubaneh bread, and vibrant vegetable dishes. The lunch set lets you taste a little of everything without the full dinner splurge.
- Perfect For: A buzzy, flavorful midday feast in central London.
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