4 Smart Ways to Save on London Food Costs (2026)

Dining out in London can be surprisingly expensive, and if you're not careful, your food budget can quickly add up.

Eating three meals a day at restaurants throughout your trip can really dent your wallet.

But don't worry, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy delicious food in London!

When I was in London, I often grabbed a quick and easy breakfast with a Sainsbury's Meal Deal.

I've put together four practical strategies I used and recommend to help you save money on food during your London adventure.

1. How to Save on London Food Costs?

Since dining out in London can be expensive, it's a great idea to balance quick, affordable meals with occasional restaurant experiences.

On days you want to eat cheaply, grab a Meal Deal. When you're craving a proper sit-down meal, use a discount reservation service.

2. Supermarket Meal Deals

My top recommendation for saving money on food in London is the supermarket Meal Deal.

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A Meal Deal is a set package that includes a main item (like a sandwich or wrap), a snack, and a drink, all offered at a discounted price.

You can easily find these at major supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury's.

During my London trip, I often picked up a sandwich and juice from Sainsbury's for breakfast.

It was so convenient to grab a quick bite without having to search for a restaurant first thing in the morning.

Especially on days packed with sightseeing, it was a fantastic way to save time.

To get the discount, you need to purchase a specific combination of items for the Meal Deal.

It's usually a main + snack + drink, but not all items are eligible for the discount. I recommend checking the 'Meal Deal' signs on the shelves before you head to the checkout.

3. Wasabi & Itsu Sushi Boxes

If you're looking for a quick and easy meal in London, consider stopping by sushi and roll specialists like Wasabi or Itsu.

Sushi or roll boxes vary by menu, but you can generally budget around ~$13-19 for a meal.

The main advantage is that you can grab a meal quickly without waiting long in a traditional restaurant.

This is perfect for when you're short on time during sightseeing or want a simple meal back at your accommodation.

4. First Table App

If you prefer a proper restaurant meal but want to keep costs down, the First Table app is definitely worth checking out.

First Table is a service that allows you to book specific dining times at restaurants and receive a 50% discount on your food bill.

① How to Use

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Simply select London as your region and choose a restaurant from the official service. Then, book your desired date and time.

You'll pay a separate booking fee when you reserve, and then the 50% discount will be applied to your food bill when you dine.

② Key Conditions to Know

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For instance, if your food bill comes to ~$75, after the 50% discount, your food cost will be ~$38.

However, remember that the booking fee and drinks are separate, so you'll need to factor those into your final payment.

This can be incredibly useful if you have flexibility with your dining times, but if your sightseeing schedule is packed, it might be challenging to adhere to specific reservation slots.

5. Korean Guesthouses with Meals

If you haven't booked your London accommodation yet, it's worth comparing options that include meals, such as Korean guesthouses.

Some Korean guesthouses offer breakfast or dinner, and some even provide instant noodles or toast for guests to enjoy.

Being able to have breakfast or dinner at your accommodation can significantly reduce the number of times you need to eat out.

However, not all Korean guesthouses provide meals, and the accommodation cost itself might be higher.

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Before booking, it's a good idea to compare both the meal offerings and the total accommodation price.

Try having one meal a day with a Meal Deal or a bento box, and then enjoy a proper meal at a restaurant you love for another.

This way, you can cut down on your food expenses without missing out on the culinary delights of your London trip!