Let's face it, we all love a bargain. And luckily, there are plenty of places to find them in this city, from quirky neighbourhood restaurants to friendly pubs. Cambridge is full to the brim with cheap eats, whether it's burgers on a budget, low-cost lunches or budget-savvy steaks. But if you're not sure where to find them? For all the best places to eat without breaking the bank, check out our guide to the best affordable Cambridge restaurants.
Last edited by Izzah Kazi
Last updated on 8th August 2024
How about sinking your teeth into some good ol' American-inspired grub at Byron Cambridge? From fancy burgers with all the fixings to sides and salads, they've got all your cravings covered. Take a big bite of the Dirty Byron, topped with beef-dripping mayo, relish, and pickled red onions, or try the BBQ Chicken, filled with buttermilk fried chicken, bacon, smoked Cheddar cheese, and ranch.
For pub grub at a decent price, make your way to The Waterman on Chesterton Road. You can dine in their cosy interiors, filled with comfy bench seating and a fireplace, or in their sun-soaked courtyard outside - with main courses coming in at £15 or less. Expect dishes like chicken schnitzel, sweetcorn and red onion pakora or steak and ale pie, or nab six chicken wings for just £7.50. Pair your meal with a wide range of craft beers, wines to top it all off - what's not to like?
An ode to Naples with its checkered tablecloths and hanging baskets of flowers, Pizza Pilgrims are dishing up some of the most delicious slices in the city. Their pizzas start from as little as £10.95, with tasty toppings like smoky aubergine, spicy nduja or mushroom and truffle to choose from. Even better? You can enjoy their feasting menu for just £29.50, which includes four mouthwatering courses that are designed to share.
Found just outside the city in Ely, The Hereward is a laidback pub and restaurant that's also one of the cheapest around. Expect a colourful tiled bar surrounded by quirky lampshades and cosy leather booths, with regular quizzes and live music for entertainment. As for the menu? Think three small plates for £11.99, as well as steaks for under £15 and a range of burgers for just £9.99 - including the vegan Bombay.
Looking for the best cheap eats in Cambridge city centre? Bar, restaurant and darts hotspot, Smokeworks on Station Road really has got it all. These guys are all about American-inspired barbecue fare, whether it's loaded pork fries, chilli con carne burgers or smoked cauliflower wings - with most dishes coming in at under £15. And if you're looking for lunch deals in Cambridge? Then check out their weekday offer of burgers and hot dogs for just £10. To finish up your trip, play a few rounds of darts with your pals in this trendy, neon-lit venue.
The Alex is a friendly pub on Gwydir Street that boasts an extensive and affordable menu. Interiors here are simple and traditional, with white tiles walls and wooden furnishings, and you'll also find a spacious beer garden out back. Everything on their menu is £15 or less, including falafel gyros or mac 'n' cheese, and if you visit between 12 and 2:30pm Monday to Friday then you can nab any burger for just £8 when you purchase a drink - from the chilli-topped Tex Mex to a French Canadian-inspired Celine Dion.
If you're after the best cheap restaurants in Cambridge city centre, Butch Annie's is always a winner. This casual, graffiti-covered spot is all about great burgers and beer, using 28-day dry aged beef and specialty Iberian black pigs for their patties, with several plant-based options available too. Their burgers range from £9.50 to £12, with highlights of the menu including the Truffle Hunter topped with caramelised onions and a crispy chicken pesto offering.
