Affordable Pizza Shops in London: A Slice of Happiness without Breaking the Bank
London is known for many things—its iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and diverse food scene. Among the variety of dishes London offers, pizza holds a special place in everyone’s heart. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city, nothing beats a delicious slice of pizza without spending a lot of money. Luckily, London is full of affordable pizza spots that prove you don’t need to empty your wallet to enjoy good food. In this article, we’ll explore some cheaper pizza joints in the city where quality and price go hand in hand.
Why Affordable Pizza Shops Matter
Who doesn’t love pizza? It’s a universal favorite—perfect for family dinners, grabbing a bite with friends, or even treating yourself on a lazy evening. But eating out in London can sometimes be pricey. Affordable pizza shops bring balance to the food scene, offering tasty options for everyone, especially students, tourists, and budget-conscious Londoners. These places focus on providing delicious flavors without charging a fortune, making them a popular choice.
Affordable Pizza Shops to Try
Here are some of the best wallet-friendly pizza joints in London where you can savor great food at a great price:
1. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims is well-loved for its casual vibe and authentic Neapolitan pizzas. With locations spread across London, this spot is perfect for anyone looking for high-quality pizza at reasonable prices. The dough is soft and fluffy, the toppings are fresh, and their prices are hard to beat for the quality they provide. A classic Margherita pizza starts at around £8-9, making it an affordable and tasty option.
2. Franco Manca
Any discussion of inexpensive pizza in London is incomplete without mentioning Franco Manca. Famous for its sourdough base, Franco Manca serves pizzas that are light, flavorful, and easy on the pocket. Their basic pizzas start from as low as £5, and you can add extras like cheese or meat without spending much more. With multiple locations across the city, this is a reliable choice for pizza lovers on a budget.
3. Homeslice
Homeslice is perfect for sharing. They offer enormous 20-inch pizzas that can easily feed two to three people. While a whole pizza costs around £22, if you split it with friends, each person pays roughly £7-8. Homeslice focuses on bold, creative toppings like goat shoulder or miso tofu, though they offer simpler options for traditionalists as well. You can also buy individual slices for under £5 if you’re dining solo.
4. Voodoo Ray’s
If you’re in East London, Voodoo Ray’s is the place to go for affordable pizza by the slice. Located in places like Shoreditch and Dalston, this colorful spot offers unique flavors like “The Dangerous Don” with pepperoni and sausage or vegetarian options loaded with fresh veggies. Prices for slices range from £4-5, making this a hot spot for quick, affordable pizza.
5. ICCO Pizza
ICCO Pizza, located in Fitzrovia, is a hidden gem for cheap and cheerful pizza. Their pizzas start at just £5, making them one of the most affordable options in the city. Despite the low prices, ICCO doesn’t skimp on flavor or quality. The shop itself has a laid-back vibe, making it a great option for students or anyone looking for a casual meal in the city center.
6. Pizza Union
Pizza Union specializes in Roman-style pizzas with a thin crust that cooks quickly in their blazing ovens. Their pizzas are affordable, starting at just £6, and they’re ready in minutes, perfect for those on the go. Locations like Spitalfields and King’s Cross make Pizza Union accessible across the city.
Tips for Finding Affordable Pizza
London has countless pizza shops, and it’s always worth exploring your neighborhood to find hidden gems. Here are some tips to find the best deals:
- Check Lunch Specials: Many pizza shops offer lunchtime deals or weekday discounts that can save you money.
- Look for Student Discounts: If you’re a student, some places may provide discounts when you show your student ID.
- Use Food Apps: Apps like Too Good To Go or Uber Eats often have offers, especially at less busy times.
- Order to Share: Large pizzas often work out cheaper per person when split with friends.
- BYOB Spots: Few places allow “bring your own drinks,” saving extra money on beverages.
Affordable Doesn’t Mean Less Tasty
People sometimes believe that lower prices mean lower quality, but London’s affordable pizza shops prove that theory wrong. The love for pizza runs deep, and these restaurants take pride in crafting meals that are both delicious and accessible. Whether it’s a sourdough base, fresh toppings, or creative flavors, these shops make sure you’re leaving with a happy stomach and a happy wallet.
Final Thoughts
In London, enjoying good food doesn’t have to be expensive, and pizza is the perfect example of that. From ICCO’s budget-friendly meals to Homeslice’s shareable pizzas, there’s something for everyone. So, the next time you’re in London, give one of these affordable pizza spots a try. You might just find your new favorite slice of happiness without spending a fortune.
Pizza doesn’t care how much money you have—it’s always there to bring comfort and joy. These affordable pizza shops in London prove that amazing flavors don’t have to come with high price tags. Ready to grab a slice?