From global flavors to classic British comfort food, there's something for everyone – and crucially, for every student budget.
Welcome, Ivy Halls residents! One of the best parts of living in London is the incredible food scene. From global flavors to classic British comfort food, there’s something for everyone – and crucially, for every student budget. As your home away from home in Cricklewood, we know you’ll be eager to explore, so we’ve put together this ultimate guide to the best restaurants in London, with a special focus on places that won’t break the bank and are easily accessible from your student accommodation.
Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive in!
Why Food is a Huge Part of Your London Student Experience
Beyond lectures and late-night study sessions, discovering London’s culinary delights is a huge part of your student adventure. It’s about:
Socializing: Sharing a meal with new friends is a fantastic way to bond and create lasting memories.
Exploring Culture: Food is a window into different cultures. London’s diverse restaurant scene reflects its multicultural identity.
Budgeting Wisely: Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive! We’ll show you how to find delicious and affordable options.
A Taste of Home (or Something New!): Whether you’re craving familiar flavors or eager to try something completely different, London has it all.
Student-Friendly Eats Across London: Our Top Picks
While Cricklewood has its own local gems (we’ll get to those!), a short bus or tube ride opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Here are some of London’s best student-friendly spots:
1. Pizza Union (Various Locations)
Why we love it: Fast, cheap, and delicious sourdough pizzas starting from around £6. Perfect for a quick bite with friends before a night out or a casual dinner.
Student Perk: Keep an eye out for student deals, they often have them!
Nearest to Ivy Halls: You’ll find locations in Holborn, Kings Cross, and more, all easily accessible via public transport.
2. Camden Market (Camden Town)
Why we love it: A foodie paradise with an endless array of street food stalls offering cuisines from around the world. You can find everything from Colombian street food to Vurger and Magic Falafel. It’s a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a group outing where everyone can choose their own adventure.
Student Perk: Highly affordable options, and it’s a great spot for a relaxed and budget-friendly lunch.
Nearest to Ivy Halls: Easily reachable by tube or bus from Cricklewood.
3. Al Dente (Various Locations, including Goodge Street & Monument)
Why we love it: Fresh, handmade pasta dishes that feel gourmet without the hefty price tag. Prices typically range from £9-£13 for a generous bowl.
Student Perk: Excellent value for money for authentic Italian food.
Nearest to Ivy Halls: Accessible via the Northern Line from Golders Green or Hendon Central, both a short journey from Cricklewood.
4. Regency Cafe (Westminster)
Why we love it: A quintessential British “greasy spoon” cafe offering classic fry-ups at unbeatable prices. A truly authentic London experience.
Student Perk: One of the best cheap eats in central London for a hearty breakfast or lunch.
Nearest to Ivy Halls: Head towards Westminster via public transport.
5. Govinda’s (Soho)
Why we love it: If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, this unique eatery within the Radha-Krishna Temple offers delicious and affordable traditional Indian vegetarian and vegan dishes. They also have an extensive salad bar!
Student Perk: Great value for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Nearest to Ivy Halls: Located in vibrant Soho, easily accessible from Cricklewood.
6. Rosa’s Thai (Various Locations)
Why we love it: Authentic Thai cuisine with a fantastic student discount! Enjoy flavorful curries, noodles, and stir-fries.
Student Perk: A generous 15% student discount makes this a fantastic option for a quality meal.
Nearest to Ivy Halls: Check their website for the nearest location, with many around central London.
7. Patty & Bun (Various Locations)
Why we love it: For burger lovers, Patty & Bun offers seriously good American-style burgers with creative names.
Student Perk: Students can often get a burger and chips deal for a discounted price, making it a solid choice for a treat.
Nearest to Ivy Halls: Multiple locations across London.
Local Gems: Restaurants Near Ivy Halls Cricklewood
You don’t always have to venture far for a great meal! Cricklewood and its immediate surroundings offer a variety of fantastic local eateries:
Sama Persian Restaurant (Cricklewood Broadway): Known for its top-notch Persian cuisine at incredibly modest prices. A local favorite for delicious kebabs and stews.
Elementree Restaurant (Cricklewood Broadway): A lively bar and restaurant serving Italian-inspired food with a personal touch. Great for a relaxed evening meal.
84 West Brasserie & Grill (Cricklewood Broadway): A contemporary Nigerian brasserie and grill, offering exciting flavors right on your doorstep.
Belle Lounge (Cricklewood Broadway): For healthy, fast, and delicious Ethiopian or Eritrean Middle Eastern food in a friendly atmosphere.
Kadiri’s Indian Cuisine (Willesden): A long-standing Indian restaurant known for its quality and authentic dishes, a short journey from Cricklewood.
Tips for Student Dining in London:
Student Discounts: Always ask if a restaurant offers a student discount! Many do, and every little bit helps. Apps like UNiDAYS and StudentBeans are your best friends.
“Too Good To Go” App: Download this app to rescue delicious surplus food from restaurants and cafes at a fraction of the price at the end of the day.
Happy Hour & Lunch Deals: Keep an eye out for special lunch menus or early bird deals which can offer significant savings.
Market Food: London’s numerous food markets (like Borough Market, but also smaller local ones) are excellent for affordable and diverse street food.
Cook at Ivy Halls: Don’t forget your fully equipped kitchens at Ivy Halls! Cooking with friends is a fun and budget-friendly way to eat well. Explore local supermarkets for fresh ingredients.
Your London Food Adventure Starts Now!
Living at Ivy Halls Cricklewood puts you in a fantastic position to explore London’s incredible food scene. From quick and cheap bites to more adventurous culinary journeys, there’s truly something for every taste and budget. So grab your friends, get out there, and start discovering your new favourite London restaurant!
What are your go-to cheap eats in London? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
