Well, hello Spring Term! Student Journalist Evie Allen-Jones tracks down trendy, budget-friendly eateries across Soho, showcasing hidden gems that won’t break the bank. From cosy cafés filled with character to lively restaurants serving up delicious dishes, there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re a student juggling tight finances or simply someone holding onto the purse strings, you don’t need to sacrifice on vibe just because you want to dine in Soho…
London is the most exciting and vibrant city, full of fun opportunities and experiences, however as a student it can sometimes be tricky to navigate the fast paced city. During a cost of living crisis, students can find it hard to balance London on a budget.
I spoke with university students to see what their average spend is for takeaways and meals out. Overall, from a group of students aged 17-20, the most they spend on dinners and meals out is £35 and for takeaway food and drink £15. According to Save The Student, the average spend for students across the UK for going out/takeaways is £48 per month, which aligns with my research.
As a student myself, I have sought out the best places to eat and drink in Soho whilst on a budget and fitting in with the student average. I have compiled a diverse list of healthy and affordable cool spots in central London if you are looking to keep costs low and get the best value for money.
- Nuttea Cafe
I was kindly invited to visit the Nuttea Cafe in Soho as I researched for this article. The location is ideal, as it is central to other spots on this list. I know many students and young people can’t resist a flavoured coffee or drink, especially as fuel for studying. Nuttea has a large variety of nut-infused coffees and drinks, including: Ruby Black Tea with Nut Cream, Chocolate Hazelnut Nut Mylk and my favourite and best seller, Matcha with Nut Cream. The menu is full of different flavoured cream drinks and refreshing teas, made hot or cold. Another amazing plus to this cozy cafe is that it is completely plant based and vegan!
Definitely check out Nuttea if you are looking to try a new cafe spot in Soho and pick up a drink to go, as you wander around the neighbourhood.
Prices start at £5 for drinks and £3 for waffles.
5 Noel St, London W1F 8GD
2. It’s Bagels
A recent addition to the streets of Soho is It’s Bagels! This iconic spot known for the New York style bagels and coffee served in Notting Hill and Primrose Hill, has a new location in Soho. I loved trying their flavourful bagels and matcha coffee, perfect to pick up when you’re on the go or to eat in. They have a large menu with different bagel flavours and fillings you can add. If you want to keep costs low, you can opt for a plain bagel and less filling.
The interior transports you to a New York city deli, decked out with memorabilia and merchandise. This is a great spot to grab lunch in Soho, without having to spend too much!
Prices start at £5 for plain bagels.
8 D’Arblay St, London W1F 8DP
3. Bibi’s Kitchen
A spot I have not stopped recommending to friends and family since visiting, is Bibi’s Kitchen. As a student, it can be really easy to grab takeaway food that isn’t always the healthiest – Bibi’s is a great solution for that! This healthy food spot is the perfect place for students, especially those trying to be more mindful of eating healthy this New Year. Bibi’s has a few locations around London, including one in Golden Square in Soho. I also visited their branch in Bankside, only a stone’s throw away from the Tate Modern and some student accommodations.
Bibi’s is an affordable, homemade and healthy restaurant, perfect for breakfast and lunches. Their menu includes Bibi’s family recipes and signature salads, which are my favourite! I recommend trying their Family Recipe Hot Dishes alongside the Turmeric and Chickpeas Signature Salad.
Prices start at £8.85 for a small salad box and £9.85 for a large salad box.
18 Smith’s Ct, London W1D 7DW
4. The Breakfast Club
A staple around Soho and a favourite spot of all my friends is The Breakfast Club. The iconic English caf has a large menu, perfect for a Saturday or Sunday brunch in Soho. I love having catch-ups with friends about nights out in London over their hash browns and sometimes even a cheeky mimosa. The Breakfast Club is amazing value for money and is great for a weekend treat. They offer both British and American breakfasts, plus comfort foods, perfect for a recovering hangover.
The best part about this spot is there are three locations in Soho!
Prices start at £12.95 for Sandwiches, £9 for Club Classics, £13 for pancakes and £13.50 for a Full English.
11 Berwick St, London W1F 0PL
18 Old Compton St, London W1D 4T
33 D’Arblay St, London W1F 8EU
5. Scarlett Green
Another fabulous brunch spot in Soho is Scarlett Green. It is right next to Nuttea, so you can go-between easily. Scarlett Green is proud title holder of Number One Brunch Spot in the World on Trip Advisor!
I can attest to this as a brunch conesear myself, the avocado and eggs at Scarlett are the absolute best. This spot is perfect for a special brunch treat or a weekend night out. The menu transitions from Brunch to ‘Scarlett Nights’ where they offer their world-famous Pornstar Martini’s. There is also live music every Friday night, so it is a unique spot to start your night out with friends.
Prices start at £9.80 for Yogurt Bowls, £11.20 for Breakfast/Brunch meals and £49.90 for Bottomless Brunch.
4 Noel Street, Soho, W1F 8GB
6. Ping Pong
If you’re looking for a place for a special night out, maybe a birthday celebration, Ping Pong in Soho is perfect for you. The restaurant is in the hub of the West End, close to Oxford Circus and Regents Street. Its large menu consists of traditional Chinese dimsum, fruity cocktails and flowering teas.
They offer a variety of fun promotions including, Saturday Bottomless Brunch with a live DJ, dim sum set menu and free flowing wine, beer, bubbly or bottomless cocktails ranging from £37.50-£42.50 per person.
The restaurant has a stunning interior and a large menu to choose from. Currently they have the ‘Chinese New Year’ limited edition menu which launched this week. Celebrating the year of the snake in every bite or sip, this offer promises a sumptuous feat filled with bold flavours and delightful surprises.
Prices start at £16.45 per person for the Original Ping Pong Selection set menu.
45 Great Marlborough St, Carnaby, London W1F 7JL
Soho offers a wide range of dining options that cater to any student’s taste and budget. From coffee shops to dining spots, the iconic neighbourhood is full with affordable cafes, trendy eateries, and international food spots that provide a welcome escape from the sometimes gloomy London and long library days!
Written by Evie Allen-Jones @evieajones.media
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