All through the final 12 months the Cash weblog has been asking Michelin cooks to select their favorite low cost eats – a meal for 2 for lower than £40 – of their a part of the UK.
We have heard about hidden gems in each a part of the nation, from Northern Eire to Norfolk, with the cooks revealing the place they go for a price range meal once they have an evening off – whether or not it is a prime burger chain (see Merseyside), kebab store, or extra established restaurant with an amazing lunchtime deal. Learn the complete listing under.
Buckinghamshire
The Cedar Marlow
Really helpful by Tom De Keyser, head chef at Tom Kerridge’s two-starred The Hand and Flowers: “It’s a fantastic coffee shop and spot for a lovely lunch. I always have the pastrami bagel which is brilliant, my wife loves the chicken shawarma salad, and my young daughter has a fluffy bowl of scrambled eggs. You can happily feed the three of us with a couple of delicious coffees for less than £40.”
The Butcher’s Faucet and Grill, Marlow
Really helpful by Sarah Hayward from the one Michelin-starred The Coach, in Marlow: “A great spot to pop in for some pub snacks or a fantastic burger, or for something a little bit special you can choose a cut from the butcher’s counter like a pork tomahawk or T-bone steak. The chefs will cook it exactly how you like it!”
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Sarah Hayward, chef at Tom Kerridge’s The Coach
Cambridgeshire
The Fish Home, Ely
Really helpful by James Knappett, chef-patron of two Michelin-starred Kitchen Desk in London: “I make sure to visit whenever I head home to Cambridgeshire. I’m from Soham, so Ely is the closest city and The Fish House has consistently served up great food over the years. My order is a small cod and chips, plus a battered sausage, mushy peas and curry sauce.”
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James Knappett, chef-patron of two Michelin-starred Kitchen Desk, in Fitzrovia
The Pantry in Newmarket
Really helpful by Daniel Clifford, chef patron at two Michelin-starred Midsummer Home in Cambridge: “They cook everything fresh with local ingredients and the menu selection is interesting. There’s always something you fancy on the menu. Best for breakfast.”
Steak and Honour
Daniel Clifford says: “Run by a lovely couple, this is the best burger restaurant in Cambridge.”
Yippee Noodle Bar
“Quick, easy and extremely tasty,” Daniel Clifford says. “This is my go-to with the kids for a quick dinner fix.”
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Daniel Clifford
Cornwall
Fats Pepper, Wadebridge
Really helpful by Jack Stein, from The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow: “A brilliant sandwich shop. They make their own bread and take sandwiches to another level with amazing fillings and the best cold cuts, plus they have XXL breakfast burritos and special guest takeovers. You can easily get two sandwiches and a selection of soft drinks or beer for £40 for two people.”
The Gurnard’s Head, St Ives
Jack Stein says: “The pub has a quintessential Cornish feel, located on the Atlantic coast between St Ives and St Just in a beautiful setting, and menus change depending on the season, with local ingredients.”
Barnecutt Pasties, a number of areas
“This has been in business in Cornwall for over 90 years and they’re pretty legendary,” Jack Stein says. “£40 will get you a very generous selection of their handmade Cornish pasties using their secret recipe – think steak and stilton, cheese and onion and mixed vegetables. Plus, grab some of their famous doughnuts and cakes.”
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Chef Jack Stein. Pic: James Ram
Roundhouse in Penzance
Really helpful by Bradley Monk from the award-winning One Fish Avenue in St Ives: “Joel makes the most incredible focaccia sandwiches at this little spot in Penzance. The lightest focaccia you will try, with just the right level of saltiness.”
Blas in St Ives
Bradley Monk says: “While being well known for their burgers – which are also delicious – it’s the rotisserie chicken I’m recommending.”
Little Palais in St Ives
Bradley Monk says that is “stretching the budget slightly, but it’s totally worth it as it’s utterly delicious”. “The cocktails are sublime, the cheeseboard is by far the best in the area, and the ever-changing selection of small plates are always divine. The view from the window table doesn’t hurt, either.”
Cumbria
Homeground, Windermere
Really helpful by Ollie Bridgwater, govt chef on the one-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Lodge: “This is my go-to brunch place of choice. Brunch is served until close and the menu has a variety of sweet and savoury options. My personal favourite is the Homeground Sarnie which includes both smoked back bacon and streaky bacon, a fried egg, smashed avocado, hash browns, caramelised red onion and leaves and is served in a sourdough ciabatta.”
Toast, Windermere
“Their whole concept is around serving toasted sandwiches in Shokupan bread,” says Ollie Bridgwater. “Shokupan is a Japanese milk loaf, which when toasted is the perfect bread for toasties – they bake the Shokupan on site daily so it’s the freshest it can be. They have a range of fillings, including plant-based options, and their teriyaki pulled mushrooms toastie with pulled mushrooms, teriyaki marinade, cheese, spring onion and sweet mayo is delicious.”
The Brown Horse Inn, Winster
Ollie Bridgwater says: “Quite simply, a really good pub. It’s family-owned, has a varied food and drink offering that celebrates local produce and always guarantees a warm welcome for all – families and dogs included. It was even Cumbria’s best pub and bar in last year’s National Pub and Bar Awards.”
Barua/Lake Highway Brunch, Keswick
Really helpful by Jack Bond, chef-owner of Michelin-starred The Cottage within the Wooden in Cumbria: “A brunch spot by day, and Indian street food by night in Keswick. The menu is made up of delicious sharing plates, predominantly veggie, with loads of flavour and different textures. The dosa is a standout dish and the tower of onion bhajis!”
The George & Dragon at Clifton, close to Penrith
Jack Bond says: “Does a great Sunday roast. You can have two or three courses, but make sure you leave room for their tiramisu.”
The Kirkstile Inn at Loweswater
“This is my go-to pub on a day off,” says Jack Bond. “The location is perfect for an afternoon swim, followed by their own ale – Loweswater Gold.”
The Spherical, Keswick
Jack Bond says: “A great burger restaurant in the heart of Keswick. They have great cocktails too. You always have to queue as it’s so popular with locals and tourists.”
Devon
Block Cafe, in Barnstaple and Taunton
Really helpful by Jamie Coleman, head chef on the Boathouse in Instow: “A great little brunch/lunch spot for when my wife and I manage to get a sneaky child-free meal. This is our go-to spot – the coffee is excellent, and my favourite dish there is the bao buns. At £4.50 each, there is a selection of pulled pork, fried chicken or togarashi tofu, and we end up just ordering a mix of these and some dirty fries.”
Jun Jaow Thai, Torquay
Really helpful by Simon Hulstone, from Michelin-starred The Elephant in Torquay: “We can be fed well for £40 with authentic Thai food in a family-run restaurant. I am partial to the Thai flavours from many trips and slowly building up my chilli tolerance. Jun Jaow is as close as I can get to some local Thai cuisine.”
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Simon Hulstone, one of many nation’s longest-established Michelin-starred cooks
East Yorkshire
Drewton’s Farm Store and Kitchen, Yorkshire Wolds
Really helpful by James Mackenzie, from Michelin-starred the Pipe and Glass in South Dalton: “Nestled in the beautiful Yorkshire Wolds, they serve a fantastic all-day breakfast using local ingredients, including their own craft sausages and Doreen’s black pudding. It certainly sets you up for a busy day.”
Laveracks, Holme on Spalding Moor and Pocklington
James Mackenzie says: “A butcher/deli that makes great sausage rolls that hit the spot if I’m out and about – they’re a generous size wrapped in delicious home-made pastry. The pies are chunky too, they don’t scrimp on the filling and the flavours are fab. They also offer a top-quality selection of meats – everything that a great butcher should be.”
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Chef James Mackenzie. Photograph by Tony Bartholomew
Gloucestershire
The Grape Escape, Cheltenham
Really helpful by Jon Howe, from Michelin-starred and 4AA Rosette Lumiere in Cheltenham: “This cosy wine bar is our favourite place to go. There is a selection of fabulous cheeses and delicious charcuterie plus a couple of glasses of wine from their weekly changing list.”
Sam’s Montpellier, Cheltenham
Jon Howe says: “Run by Sam himself, who is a fabulous chef, Sam’s is a great place situated in Montpellier Courtyard and is perfect for lunch while browsing the shops. They offer a fantastic small plates menu and great service – try the braised pig cheeks with cannellini beans and crackling bits!”
Nagomi, Cheltenham
“Nagomi offers a delicious mix of authentic Korean and Japanese dishes,” says Jon Howe. “With Yakiniku table grills, Nagomi always makes for an entertaining evening with friends and family plus they have the most fabulous value £10 lunch offer. My favourite is definitely the spicy tteokbokki and you just have to try the Seoul fried chicken.”
Humberside
The Hope and Anchor, South Ferriby
Really helpful by Gareth Bartram, chef-patron at Michelin Information-recommended Public sale Home in Louth, Lincolnshire: “A fantastic pub on the south bank of the river Humber. We always go for the home-cured charcuterie board and the burger made from the trim from their whole cow project is incredible.”
Fireplace in Hull
“If me and my wife manage to convince the grandparents to look after the kids, it has to be Hearth”, says Gareth Bartram.
“The restaurant and bakery is an amazing addition to the Hull dining scene with Ryan Telford cooking the majority of the menu over hot coals.”
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Gareth Bartram, who’s organising his personal restaurant after leaving Michelin-starred Winteringham Fields
Kent
The Refectory in St Dunstan’s, Canterbury
Really helpful by Stephen Harris, chef-patron at one-starred gastropub The Sportsman in Whitstable: “The food is brunch/breakfast but done in that Aussie style whereby it has restaurant standards. I often have eggs benedict or just scrambled eggs on toast. The coffee is also top drawer. It is very busy and a queue often builds up, but it is worth the wait.”
Harbour Avenue Tapas in Whitstable
“I always have the Iberico ham,” says Stephen Harris. “We have been taking my son since he was about three and he has learnt how to go to restaurants through this place. The staff are great and we are lucky to have it at the end of our road.”
Lancashire
Jungle, Clitheroe
Really helpful by Lisa Goodwin-Allen, govt chef of the Michelin-starred Northcote: “I love Jungle on the high street. I go there a lot for brunch with my husband and my son. It’s great value for money and just has a really cool, relaxed atmosphere, and they serve really tasty food. They have things like sweetcorn fritters with chilli jam and shakshuka with a falafel scotch egg on the menu. The dishes always have a twist to them. It also feels great to be able to give back to the brilliant independents on the local high street.”
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Lisa Goodwin-Allen, chef at Northcote
London
Dom’s Subs
Really helpful by Sally Abe, chef at The Pem: “That Spicy D has three types of meat, cheese and chilli, what’s not to love! Washed down with a fresh cucumber seltzer, a grade A lunch.”
Lanzhou Noodles
Sally Abe says: “This place is open until 3am, so is a perfect after service (or after the pub) spot in central London. I always order the dan dan noodles, which are freshly made to order, and one of the giant spring rolls.”
Putney Pier Fish and Chips
“Classic, cod chips and curry sauce (I’m from the Midlands, so that is the go-to),” Sally Abe says. “It’s a two-minute walk from the river, so lovely to go and sit on a bench and watch the world go by.”
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Sally Abe. Pic: Danny J Peace
Notto, Piccadilly Circus
Really helpful by two Michelin-starred Alex Dilling, of Alex Dilling at Lodge Cafe Royal on Regent Avenue: “Great value and well-cooked pasta. Main courses are all under £20. Michelin-star chef Phil Howard is behind it and his cooking technique comes through even in these casual dishes. I also love Bancone for pasta.”
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Two Michelin-starred Alex Dilling, of Alex Dilling at Lodge Cafe Royal on Regent Avenue
New Loon Fung Restaurant, Chinatown
Really helpful by James Knappett, from two-starred Kitchen Desk: “For dim sum – their steamed ribs, chicken feet, prawn dumplings and chicken and sausage claypot rice.”
Hala, Haringey
James Knappett says: “A neighbourhood Turkish restaurant in Green Lanes that we often visit as a family of four – sharing a mixed grill platter between us. It’s great value for money and always open late, so I can usually get a grilled shish on the way back home after service too.”
Kati Roll Firm in Soho
Really helpful by Sameer Taneja, govt chef at one-starred Indian restaurant Benares, in Mayfair: “This is my go-to eatery for Kolkata-inspired meat and vegetable wraps that are absolutely delicious. It’s always a treat to enjoy their excellent spicy wraps, a bottle of beer, and good old Bollywood music.”
Max’s Sandwich Store, Finsbury Park
Really helpful by Tom Brown, from Michelin Information-recommended Pearly Queen in Shoreditch: “My all-time favourite cheap eat is Max’s Sandwich Shop, which has an amazing reputation – their classic Ham, Egg ‘n’ Chips sandwich is undoubtedly the best. I’m big on my football, and where it’s located in Finsbury Park, it’s a great spot to hit before Arsenal.”
Home of Momo, Dalston
For large parts and small costs, Tom Brown says: “They do a variety of fried dumplings served with delicious Nepalese curries – a personal favourite of mine is the cheese and vegetable momo. The food is divine. It’s big portions – the value for money is insane.”
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Tom Brown from Pearly Queen and the Michelin-starred Cornerstone
Tongue and Brisket, Goodge St
Really helpful by Pied a Terre proprietor David Moore: “Bring your appetite as portions are generous. I have a large salt beef on rye, pickles and mustard, £10 take away, a bit more to eat in. If dining in, try the Latka, fish balls and an excellent chopped liver, cucumber salad on side. No licence for booze… not a bad thing.”
Shoop, Tottenham Avenue
“This tiny, hole-in-the-wall spot serves up some of the tastiest soups you will find this side of Tel Aviv, but it doesn’t stop there,” David Moore says.
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David Moore, the legendary proprietor of Pied a Terre in central London
Lahore Kebab Home in Whitechapel
Really helpful by Andy Beynon, chef patron of Behind in Hackney: “I love Lahore Kebab House. I used to go with my dad – we’d get a couple of lagers from the shop next door, then tuck into lamb chops, tarka daal, the Peshwari naan, which is always cooked fresh on the tandoor, and all the dips on the menu.”
Umut 2000 in Dalston
Andy Beynon’s “go-to for a kebab fix”. “They also do this amazing chargrilled lamb mince on a bed of tomato sauce with yoghurt and clarified butter. So good.”
Durak Tantuni, in Haringey
Really helpful by Meedu Saad, head chef and co-owner of Kiln in Soho – which in addition to being within the Michelin Information, was topped the UK’s finest restaurant in 2018: “This place specialises in tantuni, a meat wrap that originates from Mersin in the south of Turkey. It’s finely diced lamb boiled and then lightly fried with spices, topped with fresh tomatoes and parsley before being wrapped in lavash and served with a monster plate of pickled chillies and lemon wedges.”
Haringey Corbacisi
Meedu Saad says: “A no-menu restaurant specialising in daily made soups and stews at very reasonable prices. My personal favourite is a soup by the name of kelle paca, which is a sheep’s head soup in a broth topped with garlic and ghee.”
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Meedu Saad of Kiln
Berenjak in Soho and London Bridge
Really helpful by Sofian Msetfi, govt chef at Mayfair’s one-starred Ormer restaurant: “Berenjak offers a traditional Persian dining experience – I’d recommend ordering a charcoal grilled kebab for that tables plus a selection of the mezze-style sharing plates to accommodate a budget of £40 for two.”
Secret Sandwich Store in Notting Hill
Sofian Msetfi says this place “elevates the humble sandwich to new heights – the sheer size of the Japanese Wanpaku sandwiches are incredible and so filling”.
Saint George Cafe (Chelsea and Charing Cross)
Really helpful by Benjamin Ferra Y Castell from one-starred Pavyllon in London: “This is a French bakery offering delicious sandwiches made with high-quality products. Their bread is made by a French baker with a specially selected flour. The pastries are also amazing – using high-quality butter and the chocolate used in the pain au chocolate makes it one of my best sweet treats in the city. On top of all of this, their coffee is some of the best in London.”
Tachbrook Avenue Market in Pimlico
“This market is really affordable and convenient and away from the hustle and bustle of Victoria Station,” Benjamin Ferra Y Castell says. “Authentic Thai food made with love, available for less than £10 for a substantial portion.”
Paul Rothe & Son in Marylebone
Really helpful by TV chef Judy Joo, who co-owns the favored Seoul Fowl in London: “Since 1900, they have been crafting some of the best sandwiches in London. My go-to is their famous pastrami and cheese, piled high with pickle, mayo, and mustard.”
Trejo’s Tacos, Notting Hill
Judy Joo says Trejo’s Tacos has crossed the pond, opening its first worldwide outpost in London. “Founded by actor Danny Trejo, this canteen boasts a cult following in Los Angeles (myself included) and has quickly become my favourite spot for tacos in London.”
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Judy Joo
Oi Vita Pizzeria, Stoke Newington
Really helpful by Jun Tanaka, head chef of the Michelin-starred The Ninth: “This is my go-to place when I feel like a pizza. The service is super friendly and they focus on sourcing the best ingredients, so their pizzas are very good. I usually order the Diavola – tomato, mozzarella, spicy salami and basil.”
Viet Grill, Kingsland Highway
Jun Tanaka says: “If I get a takeaway it’s usually Vietnamese and this is my favourite. I pretty much order the same dish every time which is their original pho. Their beef marrow broth is very tasty, although I do like to add dried chill and chilli vinegar for the extra kick.”
Shuk, Borough Market
“I love Shuk, especially during the warmer months when you can sit outside and enjoy the vibe of the market,” says Jun Tanaka. “You have to order their pitas. Everything’s delicious but if I had to choose a favourite it would be the spiced lamb meatballs with harissa, yoghurt, and herbs.”
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Jun Tanaka, head chef of the Michelin-starred The Ninth in Fitzrovia, central London
Manchester
Mr Hong
As really useful by Tom Barnes, who runs Michelin Information-recommended Skof: “My favourite place in Manchester bar none; it’s a Szechuan restaurant in Chinatown where every single dish is delicious. I go for garlic chilli ribs, cumin spiced lamb, kung pao chicken, dry fried green beans, fish fragrant aubergine and hot and sour potato.”
Merseyside
Swan fish and chip restaurant, Southport
Really helpful by Mark Birchall, chef-patron at two Michelin-starred Moor Corridor in West Lancashire: “It’s fresh fish, nice chips, lovely pies! A great one to visit on a family day out – kids all love it too.”
5 Guys
Mark Birchall says: “For a cheap burger, Five Guys is consistently great! Customise your own burger, simple but delicious. Cajun fries are excellent too.”
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Mark Birchall, chef-patron at Moor Corridor. Pic: Moor Corridor
Chop Chop
Really helpful by Andrew Sheridan of 8 By Andrew Sheridan in Liverpool: “Me and the guys in 8 head there for lunch most weeks. It’s some great Asian food, amazing katsu.”
Duke Avenue Market
Andrew Sheridan says: “The place to go when you don’t know what to eat as they have everything you could wish for under one roof. What I love about this place is the guys in the kitchen love what they do and the food is super tasty and consistent.”
Mowgli in Liverpool
Andrew Sheridan says it has “super tasty Indian food and is around the corner from 8 in Liverpool. Nisha Katona, the founder, is an amazing businesswoman and has created a brilliant brand.”
Renshaw Avenue Market, Liverpool
Really helpful by Dan McGeorge, latest Nice British Menu contestant and co-owner of Vetch in Liverpool: “We like to graze and share, so this is perfect as it’s a food market where you can go to multiple stalls and enjoy something different at each one. We usually start with some har gau with a good amount of crispy chilli oil then some takoyaki and finish with a big bowl of ramen.”
Pizzoteca, Liverpool
Dan McGeorge says: “It’s kind of a pop-up in Botanical Garden in Liverpool. It does some awesome pizza and other delicious treats. We recommend the cacio e pepe pizza and the margheritas. Their fried cheese, which is made with taleggio cheese, is amazing and then to finish: some soft serve gelato if it’s a hot day.”
Norfolk
Allium in Downham Market
Really helpful by Galton Blackiston of the Michelin-starred Morston Corridor: “A family-run restaurant which involves mum, dad, Joe in kitchen and James front of house. Open Wednesday through to Sunday, it has a great vibe on a Saturday evening and great food.”
Bure River Restaurant
“A tiny restaurant on the broads in Horning cooking lovely fish dishes,” Galton Blackiston says.
Parlour in Binham
Last low cost choose by Galton Blackiston is the Parlour.
“They have a great restaurant and you put money into an honesty box for their local cheese from the village and raw milk from their farm – a great place to visit in Norfolk.”
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Galton Blackiston. Pic: Morston Corridor
Crab Hut, Brancaster
Really helpful by Grant Cotton, head chef at Nest Farmhouse: “For a prawn roll – absolutely delicious and a wonderful spot to sit on a bench and watch the world go by.”
Eric’s Pizza or Eric’s Fish & Chips, Thornham
Grant Cotton says: “Great quality and great value. And you have the choice of both in same town.”
North East
Bouchon in Hexham
Really helpful by Cal Byerley, from one-starred Restaurant Pine in East Wallhouses, Northumberland: “My new favourite go-to. The a la carte menu is hard to choose from because you want it all but if I had to narrow it down: comté cheese soufflé, crispy duck confit with gratin dauphinoise and fine beans, and classic apple tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream will get you change from £40. Prix fixe you can get three courses for £26 and at the level of this cooking, I think it’s some of the best value you can find in the North East.”
Riley’s fish shack in Tynemouth
Cal Byerley says: “My biggest bit of advice is to go after 2pm and miss the rush. Make sure to book and enjoy the deck chairs and wind breakers – get a fire pit for those colder days on the North East coast. Grab yourself a turbot chop and order the side selection of caperberry salad, fennel salad, hot plate potatoes, sourdough and aioli. This will leave you enough change from £40 for a can of their oyster lager. I love Riley’s that much I had them cater part of my wedding so think of them for those big events as well.”
Cook dinner Home by Anna Hedworth, Newcastle
“This sits in the valley beneath Byker Bridge in Ouseburn and is one of the best spots to eat in Newcastle,” Cal Byerley says. “Get started with ‘northern rye’ sourdough and corn dairy butter and chicken liver pate on rye with pickled cherries. For mains, miso glazed aubergine with togarashi cashew sauce, umeboshi plum and crispy rice. For pudding, dark chocolate mousse with sour cherries and brandy snap – all this for £40 is a perfect afternoon spent. Keep an eye out for Anna’s yearly ‘Soaked’ wine festival where you can sample hundreds of wines and enjoy some food served up by Anna herself from her backyard BBQ area.”
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Chef Cal Byerley. Pic: Joe Taylor Photographer
Grasp Wang’s, Newcastle
Really helpful by Nick Grieves, former chef-owner of Michelin-recommended Ophelia in Gosforth, Newcastle: “Excellent, authentic and incredibly reasonable Chinese food just down from Haymarket in the centre of town. The pork dumplings in hot and sour soup, braised lamb noodles and their pork burger are all incredible and my go-to when ordering. I’d definitely recommend just ordering lots and sharing it between you.”
Omni, Whitley Bay
Really helpful by Greg Lambert, from SIX Rooftop at The Baltic, Newcastle: “This is a fantastic little restaurant that serves authentic Thai and Malay food at great prices. You can spend £10-£15 and choose a dish that is generous in size and flavour. At lunchtime, they do a pork shoulder bahn mi, served with chilli fries, and it’s amazing. If you’re visiting the Northumberland coast, particularly Whitley Bay, make sure to hunt down Omni.”
North Yorkshire
Blue Lion, East Witton
Really helpful by Shaun Rankin from Michelin-starred Shaun Rankin at Grantley Corridor: “A traditional country pub nestled within the picture-perfect village of East Witton in the Yorkshire Dales. Enjoy a scenic walk through the surrounding countryside before stopping off for lunch – their light lunch menu includes personal favourites such as croque madame with a rocket salad and Black Sheep-battered fish and chips.”
Oliver’s Pantry, Ripon
Shaun Rankin says: “If you’re heading in to explore the characterful charm of Ripon, a trip to Oliver’s Pantry is a must. They do great coffee alongside a delicious all-day brunch, an array of sweet treats and their seasonal lunch menu packed with fresh homemade dishes.”
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Chef Shaun Rankin
Ye Olde Bare Man in Settle
Really helpful by Michael Wignall, of the one-star The Angel at Hetton, in Skipton within the Yorkshire Dales: “It’s in a great location, opposite the market square and a traditional, old-school place that I love. The food is very reasonable, and the service is brilliant.”
Paradise Meals, at Daleside Nurseries
“The chef here is lovely, and we go back a long way,” says Michael Wignall. “It started as a pop-up at a garden centre, and is now a full-time restaurant. They’ve had a really colourful career, a great chef, which is reflected at Paradise. They’re hardworking and have core values that I really respect, and I just love coming here for a great meal. It is super popular.”
Rind, at Courtyard Dairy
Michael Wignall says: “This is just over the tops, out of Settle and towards the Lake District. They are very famous and do our cheese for us. The team is super passionate, and a few years ago extended the cheese shop and built a pizzeria (among other things, like a museum). It is so good here, very cool and the views are just stunning. Our restaurant manager is Italian, and even she raves about it! That’s when you know it’s good. The toppings are a bit different, and it’s only 15 minutes away so we do visit often.”
Northern Eire
Robert Stewart’s, Belfast
Really helpful by Stephen Toman, chef proprietor on the one Michelin-starred Ox restaurant in Belfast: “There’s a great little pub not too far from me in Belfast that does great pub grub and an even better Guinness. It’s called Robert Stewart’s (or Bob Stewart’s to the locals). I recommend the peppered steak and a pint of the black stuff to wash it down.”
Ora
Stephen Toman says: “For in the city centre I recommend Ora. The perfect spot for small plates and wines by the glass. Super cocktails also. The bang bang chicken or the pork fritters never fail.”
Nottinghamshire
Taquero
Picked by Sat Bains, from two Michelin-starred eatery Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham, who says: “A brilliant new Mexican from Dan Lindsay and Jaque Ferreira on Heathcoat Street in Nottingham. Amazing lunch deals and delicious food. Also a killer Margarita slushy.”
The Admiral Rodney
Sat Bains’s native – the place you may get a very good Guinness.
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Sat Bains
Laguna
This Indian restaurant is the place Sat Bains goes “for my twice-a-year curry takeaway. Tony has been running it for more than 30 years and the service is second to none.”
The Cheese Store
In line with Sat Bains, this store on Flying Horse Stroll “has the best selection of cheeses for a country mile. Webb and Squeak are two hilarious patrons and always let you have a cheeky taste.”
Oxfordshire
The Bull in Charlbury
Really helpful by Tom Aikens, from one-starred Muse in London: “I’ve known the head chef Ronny for years as he is someone who worked with me when I was consulting on Soho Farmhouse. He is a great consistent chef and always produces amazing food. He does a really great homemade pork pie with the best piccalilli.”
The Fox in Oddington
Tom Aikens says: “One of Carole Bamford’s great pubs with a menu using homegrown produce from their farm nearby, creating an elevated British gastropub menu that has something for everyone. I would highly recommend the Wooton organic fried chicken tenders which are super tasty, and the steaks are always great, especially the T-bone steak.”
Soho Farmhouse, Chipping Norton
“I typically go on a Sunday for a good roast,” says Tom Aikens. “The Barwell Barn is a favourite for my children who love their pizzas.”
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Tom Aikens, from one-starred Muse
Pompette in Summertown, Oxford
Really helpful by Theo Randall, Saturday Kitchen common and chef patron at Theo Randall on the Intercontinental: “One of my favourite places is Pompette. The Prix Fixe menu is £26 a head; I had to mention this as I don’t think you can find better food and service for this price anywhere else in the UK. Pascal and Laura Wiedemann run this brilliant restaurant and have a range of fantastic offers like Thursday steak nights where you can enjoy a beautifully cooked onglet steak with watercress, real (!) French fries and a glass of wine for £24. Amazing value!”
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Theo Randall
Scotland
The Fishmarket at Newhaven
Really helpful by Tom Kitchin, chef-owner at The Kitchin in Edinburgh: “I really enjoy The Fishmarket, down by the Newhaven harbour in Edinburgh. They offer classic fish and chips, done incredibly well, which you can either enjoy in the restaurant or to take away.”
The Seafood Shack, Ullapool
Really helpful by David Smith, head chef of Michelin-recommended The Dipping Lugger: “They serve fantastic local shellfish, and they do a fantastic haddock wrap.”
Xoko Bake Home and Espresso Bar, Inverness
That is “another fabulous place to grab something from, including a delicious-filled croissant or a tasty sweet treat”, David Smith of The Dipping Lugger says.
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Tom Kitchin. Pic: Marc Miller
Redwood Wines, Dunkeld
Really helpful by Tom Tsappis, chef-owner of Michelin-recommended Killiecrankie Home in Perthshire: “A family-run wine bar serving exactly the kind of food you want to eat with a glass of wine. The roast beef sandwich is beyond decadent and enough for two, with a range of salads and charcuterie to round out a perfect lunch.”
Home of Bruar Fish and Chips, Pitagowan
Tom Tsappis says: “The smell of dripping travels for miles around. Reasonably priced, despite its location, and the queues outside testify to its quality.”
The Manchurian, Dundee
“Above the Chinese supermarket in Dundee,” says Tom Tsappis. “Go on a Sunday or Monday lunchtime for a wide selection of authentic dim sum.”
Isle of Harris Brewery, Leverburgh
Really helpful by Stephen McLaughlin, head chef at two-starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie in Gleneagles: “The food is phenomenal. I believe that the best dishes are ‘simple things, brilliantly done’, and this is exactly what you get. The food includes the best local produce and Scottish pub classics.”
Eusebi Deli, Glasgow
Stephen McLaughlin says: “Giovanna is passionate about real, Italian food, and you can tell. She’s travelled extensively and along with her southern Italian heritage, she brings influences from every market she’s visited and every dish she’s sampled to the food in Eusebi.”
Crabshakk Botanics, Glasgow
“It’s fantastic for staples such as fish and chips,” says Stephen McLaughlin. “But my favourites are the clams cooked in olive oil and garlic, the whitebait and aioli, or the moules mariniere.”
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Stephen McLaughlin
Somerset
Choux Field Patisserie, Bathtub
Really helpful by Chris Cleghorn, from one Michelin-starred The Olive Tree in Bathtub: “Head to their Entry Hill Cafe for coffee and a choux bun on a Sunday morning. Classic lemon meringue pie or the savoury potato, bacon and maple buns are my favourites. And don’t miss out on their weekly special choux bun, which is generally showstopping.”
Landrace Bakery, Bathtub
Landrace Bakery, Chris Cleghorn says, “represents for me what artisan produces are all about. Their amazing skill stands out – breads and fresh-made patisserie using the best ingredients. My personal favourite is their cinnamon bun. But get there early to ensure they still have them – they are that good. You can also enjoy a light brunch eating a selection of small plates.”
Hartley Farm Store, Bradford-on-Avon
Chris Cleghorn says this farm store, with a play space for teenagers and an outdated tractor, is a big hit with households. And you may take pleasure in eat-in meals on the Barn. His choose for breakfast is “French toast brioche, apple compote, bacon and maple syrup. I recommend paying the extra £2 and adding the fried egg and jalapeño. And for lunch, they use their own beef to make their Herd to Beat Burger – Hartley beef patty, tomato, lettuce, burger sauce, brioche bun, fries and house slaw.”
South Yorkshire
Paesani
Really helpful by Dan Conlon, head chef at Michelin Information-recommended Rafters in Sheffield: “This is a family-run, traditional Italian restaurant serving classic wood-fired pizzas using authentic ingredients. My go-to’s are nocellara olives for, then the new contadina vegetarian or the San Daniele.”
Nottingham Home
Sheffield’s The Notty Home, Dan Conlon says, “is a down to earth pub serving pies, chips and mushy peas – a great selection of homemade pies at very reasonable prices, good student vibe”.
“The steak and stilton, and the chicken and sausage stuffing are my go-tos.”
City choola
Dan Conlon says: “A long-established curry house in Sheffield, going from strength to strength. It’s not your run-of-the-mill curry – they have a distinct and inventive style.”
Staffordshire
The Patty Freaks, Lichfield
Really helpful by Nice British Menu champ Tom Shepherd, from Michelin-starred Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in Lichfield, picks his favourites within the metropolis: “Great burgers, super tasty, filled with all the good stuff, a big selection of different toppings, cooked to order and they do some delicious sides too – from loaded fries to chicken wings and tenders.”
Bore Avenue Bakery, Lichfield
“Not only are the owners Nathan and Rosie a pair of absolute legends,” Tom Shepherd says, “but they can also bake!”
“The pastries, fancies and savoury breads here are absolutely delicious, people queue past the door of the restaurant every single morning, it’s heaving from 9am, their pastry ‘knots’ are incredible, and the coffee is good too.”
Poms, Lichfield
Tom Shepherd says: “A firm local favourite serving some delicious breakfast, brunch and lunch items – all their bread is sourced locally from Silvertree Bakery (I used to work with the owner, Kirk) and they make the most amazing sandwiches, eggs benedict and salads, a definite go-to if you’re in Lichfield.”
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Tom Shepherd owns advantageous eating restaurant Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in Lichfield
Suffolk
Honey + Harvey, varied areas
Really helpful by Dave Wall, head chef on the UK’s primary ranked gastropub, The Unruly Pig in Suffolk: “A cracking spot for breakfast, brunch or lunch. They have the most delicious coffee and a cracking full English, the vibe is super-chilled and laidback and I always feel so relaxed there.”
Lark, Bury St Edmunds
Dave Wall says: “A beautiful little independent restaurant with the most incredible selection of small plates and top-drawer cooking. Admittedly, I find myself spending a fair bit more than £40 at Lark because I love James Carn’s cooking so much that I end up going way over the top and ordering far too many dishes.”
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Dave Wall. Pic: Unruly Pig
Sussex
Patty & Bun, Brighton
Really helpful by Jean Delport from one-starred Interlude in Horsham: “When out and about in Brighton for the day, one of my favourite quick stops has to be Patty & Bun. Always guaranteed a great burger.”
Monte Forte, Horsham
Jean Delport says: “Great Neapolitan pizzas just down the road, I love great ingredients kept clean and cooked simply. A huge bonus is their lunchtime deal during the week, you can grab a pizza and a drink for under £11.”
The White Lion Inn, Thakeham
One other one from Jean Delport, who says: “After a peaceful country walk, this classic pub hits all the notes for me. Great little menu cooked really well for any time of the day. Plus, they have a great little beer garden to catch the last of the summer.”
Wales
Daphnes in Presteigne
Really helpful by Mark McHugo, head chef and proprietor of Michelin Inexperienced Star restaurant Chapters in Hay-on-Wye, Powys: “They serve great pizza, delicious wines and brilliant seasonal salads and starters.”
The cafe at Citadel in the course of Hay-on-Wye
Mark McHugo says: “Then, in the newly renovated Castle in the middle of Hay-on-Wye, the cafe there serves really great lunches – plus Sunday lunch in the winter months, and their breakfast is pretty good too. It is the perfect quick stop off with great service and tasty dishes.”
Tokyo Nights
Really helpful by Tommy Heaney of the restaurant Heaneys Cardiff: “I love what they are doing with the Cardiff Market, we’ve been crying out for a permanent street food market for years! My go-to is Tokyo Nights, fill your boots with homemade Gyoza and a banging tonkatsu sando.”
Bab Haus
Tommy Heaney says: “Another great spot that can be found in Newport, Barry and now Caerphilly. Leyli is one of the hardest working chefs I know, but more importantly she does a belting taco.”
Beales Fish and Chips in Porthcawl
“It’s about 20 minutes from my house,” says Tommy Heaney. “Head to the beach and just pig out in the back of the van.”
Warwickshire
The Straw Kitchen at Whichford Pottery
Really helpful by Richard Craven from one-starred The Royal Oak in Warwickshire: “For brunch or lunch it has to be The Straw Kitchen. The kitchen offers classic brunch dishes with homemade relishes and home-grown leaves and super interesting and healthy salads with a great range of meaty and vegetarian options. My go-to treat would be the bacon sandwich.”
The Copper Grill, Shipston-on-Stour
The second on Richard Craven’s listing is the Copper Grill “which recently opened within our local, The Black Horse”.
“The burgers are incredible. The bacon double-cheese burger is my favourite, but there are a great range that pair well with the selection of beers that the landlord, Gabe, keeps. They both support sustainable and regenerative farming and use the brilliant Tamworth pork from our neighbour Paddock Farm.”
West Midlands
Tiger Bites Pig, Birmingham
Really helpful by Aktar Islam, chef patron of Opheem – the primary Birmingham restaurant to be awarded two Michelin stars: “I’m a big fan of Tiger Bites Pig. Grab a counter seat and watch them smash out some of the best Taiwanese bao buns in the UK. My favourite is the chicken – it’s seasoned with Sichuan chilli oil and topped with chicken crackle. I could eat one every day.”
Bonehead, Birmingham
The perfect fried hen spot in Birmingham, says Aktar Islam. “Their Bonehead and Hothead seasonings are corkers. I usually get the burgers or the strips with a side of Nashville fries. If I’m feeling brave I’ll get a pickleback too, but they are punchy!”
Qavali, Birmingham
“An Indo-Persian restaurant which takes its inspiration from the Indian subcontinent and uses spices and techniques rooted everywhere from Turkey to India,” Aktar Islam says. “Marinated meat is grilled over charcoal, and often served in richly spiced sauces and broths. I’m a meat eater, so nothing makes me happier than a big plate of grilled meat and this is my go-to.”
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Aktar Islam
