Boujee vs Budget – 5 Places to Eat in London for All Occasions

This Greek restaurant was once rated #1 in the whole of London. Based in North London, it’s unassuming, crowded and not somewhere you’d expect would take the crowning position. But boy is it worth the top spot! Every single dish here is made from scratch in the authentic way, from the flatbreads to the grills - and the portions are HUGE. I really didn’t think I’d get such a wide variety of food at such a good price. There’s platters of meze alongside an extensive wine list and this place just has such a nice buzz about it that you really feel you could be on a cobbled street in a Greek village (minus the weather!).

We’ve probably all heard of this one. Amazonico has made a name for itself as of late. Located in the glamorous Berkeley Square in Mayfair, and sandwiched between numerous Michelin star restaurants and the likes of Sexy Fish, Amazonico serves up a fusion between Japanese and Brazilian food in a gorgeous setting with Damien Hirst artwork hanging over the bar. Very pricey, but this place is perfect for date night or for a birthday or special occasion. Every corner of this restaurant makes you want to take a photo, plus there is live music most evenings which creates a real buzz and really makes you feel like you’re in the Amazonian jungle.

Technically this one is on the outskirts of London. Poor Boys in Kingston upon Thames has been around for a few years and was always the “hidden gem” of West London, but has now blown up thanks to the unstoppable forces that are TiKTok and foodie insta. Why? Simple, because they do the best New Orleans food, possibly in the whole city. I’m talking crispy, juicy “Po Boys” (Louisiana’s version of a brioche roll), insatiable loaded fries and delicious cocktails - all for super reasonable prices. This place is casual and has such a great vibe being just on the river in Kingston upon Thames - perfect for a day out exploring.

The idyllic village of Petersham in Richmond is most famous for one thing: Petersham Nurseries. However, a new Michelin star restaurant has opened opposite Richmond Park. This is such a gorgeous spot for British modern cuisine at a very reasonable set lunch price. The food is fresh, seasonal and well thought out and is complimented perfectly by the wooden beams, large open fireplaces and marble flooring of the Tudor manor in which The Dysart is set. Finish your meal with a walk through Richmond park where you might be lucky enough to spot some deer.

If you like street food, you probably are already aware of the outstanding selection in Borough Market, London Bridge. From artisan coffees to filthy burgers and everything in between, Borough Market has some of the best street food and international cuisine that London has to offer. One of my personal favourites here is Bread Ahead, an artisan bakery and pastry shop which specialises in fluffy doughnuts with the most incredible fillings. There are so many flavours here to choose from - however I would recommend the pistachio cream - it’s just to die for. Whilst these are a little on the pricey side, they are so worth it for an indulgent treat. Perfect for a Sunday morning walk through the embankment in the sunshine.

I could go on and on about all of the great food places that London has to offer, but I hope this sums up well what my top choices are.

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Lucy xx