How to Experience London Fine Dining on a Budget

Without a doubt, visitors to London expect to be blown away by the incredible landmarks and rich heritage that make the city so special. And indeed, there’s plenty of that to go around. But after all that sight-seeing, you may find you’ve worked up quite the appetite. Not to worry, away from the crowds and world-renowned tourist attractions, there are thousands of restaurants to satisfy your taste buds. The crème de crème of those will be offering superbly presented, delicious food for all who visit. However, they’re not all affordable, especially when you’re working with a budget.

So, if you want to sample the very best of what London has to offer but your budget doesn’t quite stretch that far, you’re in luck. Here’s a guide on how to experience London fine dining on a budget:

Indulge in the Set Menu

There’s no shame in a set menu. Even at some of London’s most exclusive restaurants, you’ll find a set menu that’ll save you from the heart attack at the end of the night when you receive the bill. The Gilbert Scott restaurant in particular offers a fantastic set menu. It’s located in the luxurious St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, serving up some of the best seasonal quintessentially British produce. The set menu here is three courses for a very affordable £30! There’s few other places in London where you can enjoy a Michelin-starred meal for that price.

The Gilbert Scott Bar – Wikimedia Commons by Mwr14

Head Out of Town

It may come as no surprise that in the centre of the city prices can be higher. Therefore, making your way a little out into the less populated areas could save you money. The central places like Leicester Square, Chelsea and Kensington are home to plenty of glamourous, fine dining establishments. However, because of their location, customers are often charged more. Areas like Battersea and Maida Vale are still fairly central, but restaurants here tend to be cheaper than those bang in the middle of the city.

Take Advantage of Seasonal Deals

Yes, there are lots of deals to be had – even when it comes to higher class restaurants. After all, they still want guests to come inside and sample their menu. When the city isn’t so packed (outside of summertime and Christmas holidays) you’re more likely to pick up a few restaurant deals.

Browse the web or even ask some locals on where they recommend for fine dining at a fraction of the cost. You can even book ahead and save money for your trip in the coming weeks. In some restaurants, you can even expect to receive up to 25% off the check.

Split the Bill and Bring Friends

Fine dining for two is inevitably going to be more expensive than splitting the bill between a group of friends, especially when you want to sample various dishes from the menu. So, why not get a group of friends together and book a table? You may even receive a group discount if you’re dining with 10 or more guests. Check the restaurant’s website for extra guidance.

Pick High Tea Over Evening Supper

When you’re dining out for an evening meal, you’ll undoubtedly spend more money than if you’re choosing from a lunch-time menu. If you’re desperate for a taste of the high life but your budget simply doesn’t stretch that far, high-tea can be a fantastic option. You’ll be treated to a variety of delicious cakes and treats, all beautifully presented so you can take a quick snap!

High-tea is generally a lot cheaper than a three course meal, but you’re still being treated to a wonderful day out. Among the many restaurants offering high-tea, the Beaufort House in Chelsea or The Lanesborough in Belgravia are favourites with tourists in the city.

Dine Inside a Hotel

Many hotels have their own restaurants, sometimes even more than one. On the whole, they’re usually open to the public, especially those that also offer fine dining experiences. Hotels tend to have better prices and cheaper deals than premium restaurants as they want to entice people inside. Steer away from the incredibly elite hotels like The Savoy or The Ritz, and instead, opt for less pricey Langham or The Metropolitan.

Where Will You Be Headed?

You’ll never be short of exuberant, classy establishments to visit in London, the only pull is the price tag. However, now you’re equipped with all the tips and tricks of the trade, you can enjoy a glamorous stay in London by fine dining at a budget price. So, where will you be headed on your next trip to the city? Will you tuck into cakes at Beaufort House or will you take a trip outside of the city centre to sample impeccable cuisine for less? Either way, one thing is certain – you’ll be coming back for more on your next visit!

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About The Author:  Alice Porter is an avid foodie, who likes to share her knowledge and tips with like-minded professionals.
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