In the bleak financial landscape of Januarywhen wallets are as empty as holiday bank accounts, London’s set menus become a lifeline for the broke and budget-conscious foodie. These culinary sanctuaries offer a reprieve from instant noodles and sad sandwiches, providing multi-course meals at prices that won’t trigger a panic attack when checking your bank balance.
Set menus become a strategic survival tactic for those wanting to eat like they have money without actually spending it, typically ranging from £25-£40 for two or three courses. They’re the perfect solution for those who want to feel slightly fancy while nursing post-Christmas financial wounds, offering a chance to enjoy sophisticated dining without selling a kidney or living on toast for the rest of the month.
These menus are essentially a financial hack for the perpetually skint, allowing cash-strapped Londoners to experience high-end cuisine at rock-bottom prices during the most financially challenging month of the year. A bit dramatic we know, but who doesn’t love a well-priced set menu?
1. Noble Rot
A charming spot known for its outstanding wine selection and seasonal British-European dishes. The cozy, old-world atmosphere compliments dishes like salted hake salad and sausages with lentils and mustard. The menu frequently changes to reflect the finest seasonal ingredients.
Set menu: The lunch menu changes seasonally, with a choice of three courses – two for £24 and three for £28.
Address: 51 Lamb’s Conduit St, London, WC1N 3NB.
2. The Devonshire
This stylish pub is celebrated for its excellent Guinness and hearty, wood-ember grilled dishes. The set menu includes comforting classics like prawn and langoustine cocktail, skirt steak with chips and béarnaise, and sticky toffee pudding.
Set menu: £29 for three or two courses for £25.
Address: 17 Denham St, Soho, London, W1D 7HW
3. Langan’s Brasserie
Once a celebrity hotspot, this brasserie blends British and French culinary traditions. The prix fixe menu features signature dishes like chicken liver parfait, Langan’s bangers & mash, and a delicious baked cherry and vanilla cheesecake.
Set menu: Two courses for £30 and three for £35.
Address: Stratton St, London, W1J 8LB
4. Soho Tidbit
This chic Italian restaurant offers authentic dishes, including creamy burrata with baby plum tomatoes, tagliolini with prawns, and Roman-style pizzas. The elegant ambiance makes it a great choice for a leisurely lunch.
Set menu: Two courses for £30 and three for £35.
Address: 59 Great Marlborough St, London, W1F 7JY
5. Hutong
Located on the 33rd floor of The ShardHutong offers stunning city views and a sophisticated take on Northern Chinese cuisine. The set menu includes dishes like salted egg yolk prawns and Sichuan shredded beef, blending bold flavors with fine dining.
Set menu: Three courses for £39.
Address: 31 St. Thomas St (33rd Floor, The Shard), London, SE1 9RY
6. The Lanesborough Grill
Housed in one of London’s most elegant dining rooms, this grill specializes in British classics with a modern twist. The Sunday lunch menu features dishes like buttermilk fried quail, beef Wellington, and lemon tart.
Set menu: Three-course Sunday lunch, £65.
Address: Hyde Park Corner, London, SW1X 7TA
7. Smith’s Bar & Grill
A stylish Paddington venue offering a modern European set lunch menu. Signature dishes include beef carpaccio, pumpkin risotto, and chocolate fondant. Perfect for a relaxed meal in a chic setting.
Set menu: £29 for 2 courses or £34 for 3 courses.
Address: 25 Sheldon Square, London, W2 6EY
8. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
A two Michelin-starred restaurant inspired by historic British cuisine. The ‘Luncheon Menu’ includes innovative dishes like ragoo of pig’s ear on toast and pineapple and cardamom tart, served in an elegant space within the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.
Set menu: Three courses at £65.
Address: 66 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7LA
9. Spring
Located in the stunning Somerset HouseSpring offers the ‘Scratch Menu,’ a sustainable concept using surplus ingredients. The dishes are vibrant and inventive, served in a bright, airy dining room.
Set menu: Three courses for £40.
Address: Lancaster Place, London, WC2R 1LA
10. The Palomar
This Soho gem specializes in contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine. The lively atmosphere complements dishes like labneh with tahini butter and Persian oxtail stew. Perfect for a casual yet refined meal.
Set menu: Three courses for £25.
Address: 34 Rupert St, London, W1D 6DN.
11. Fallow
A modern restaurant focused on sustainability and innovative dishes. The set menu often includes items like mushroom parfait and dairy cow rump, served in a sleek, contemporary setting.
Set menu: Three courses for £42.
Address: 2 St James’ Market, London, SW1Y 4RP
12. Brasserie Zédel
A grand Parisian-style brasserie offering a remarkable value prix fixe menu. Dishes like French onion soup and steak haché are served in a bustling, elegant dining hall reminiscent of early 20th-century Paris.
Set menu: £16.95 for 2-courses and £19.75 for 3-courses.
Address: 20 Sherwood St, London, W1F 7ED.
13. Persepolis
A quirky, vegetarian Persian café and grocery store in Peckham. The meze platter is a highlight, featuring tabbouleh, hummus, falafel, and other Middle Eastern delights, all in a relaxed and colourful setting.
Set menu: The Persepolis Full Feast is £30, minus drinks & dessert £25.
Address: 28-30 Peckham High St, London, SE15 5DT
14. Hawksmoor Seven Dials
Known for its exceptional steaks, this Covent Garden branch offers a pre-theatre menu with dishes like steak frites and sticky toffee pudding. The dimly lit interior exudes classic steakhouse charm.
Set menu: Three courses for £35, two for £30.
Address: 11 Langley St, London, WC2H 9JG
15.Joe Allen
An American-style brasserie in Covent Garden with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The set menu features comfort food classics like Caesar salad, baby back ribs, and chocolate brownie.
Set menu: Two courses for £23.5 or three COURSES 27.5
Address: 2 Burleigh St, London, WC2E 7PX
