When it comes to eating out in the city, sometimes we don't want to burn a hole in our pocket to have a good time. From Thai hotspots offering mouthwatering set menus to laid-back haunts boasting budget-friendly early bird deals, check out our guide to affordable restaurants in Leeds.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 4th February 2025
The New Conservatory has a rich history, sitting on the site of the old Stock Exchange. The boozer has come a long way since its youth in the 1980s, thanks to new ownership and renovations, but offers the same hearty and affordable grub chock-full of homemade goodness that'll make your taste buds sing. From delish 12'' stone-baked sourdough pizzas to their signature steak and ale pie, there's something for everyone.
When it comes to casual places to eat in Leeds without spending too much, The Library is a solid choice. They've got an enviable selection of small plates starting from just £6, and offer a great lunch deal where you can enjoy a dish and drink for just £7.
Happy Hour | Cocktails 2 for £15 Sunday - Thursday 4pm - 7pm
Running a £10 lunch offer from Tuesday through to Friday, The Canary bar is a winner for cheap places to eat in Leeds. Think dishes like steak and blue cheese sandwiches, loaded fries or butternut squash salad with a soft drink, or upgrade to a pint for £2 extra.
Step inside Sukhothai Chapel Allerton or South Parade, where you'll be met with tropical interiors, including a peaceful feature pond and water wall, alongside an affordable menu to boot. Dig into a range of sharing plates for around a tenner each, tasty noodle dishes, fragrant curries and more.
If you're in the mood for Italian grub, Gusto knows how to nail signature pasta plates. As for interiors? You'll certainly be impressed by the gorgeous dining room decked with greenery and fairy lights, alongside the chic outdoor terrace ideal for the warmer months.
Mowgli is one of the best cheap restaurants in Leeds for lunch, thanks to their lineup of Indian street food. For £20, nab yourself the handy multi-layered tiffin boxes for chef-chosen delights, or choose between mixing and matching a load of other dishes.
Looking for the best pizza in Leeds? Look no further than Pizza Pilgrims in the city centre, where every pizza is a slice of heaven. With a menu that celebrates the best of Neapolitan cuisine, you can enjoy the Smoky Aubergine with crispy onions, or try the Fiorentina for a creamy, spinach-based affair. Pair your meal with an Italian craft beer or a glass of wine, and don't forget to finish off with a tiramisu or Nutella pizza ring for that sweet, irresistible ending.
Looking for an ideal spot to chill out over great food? Reds True BBQ is the restaurant for you. Not only does this venue have rustic vibes alongside a cool range of neon signs dotted about the place, but it also whips up a mouthwatering ten-hour smoked beef brisket. Yum.
With venues on North Street and in Headingley, BrewDog has cemented itself as one of the best student restaurants in Leeds, offering a 25% discount on food and drink all day, every day. But don't worry if your uni days are behind you, this spot is still pretty affordable with bottomless wings on Wednesdays.
The Botanist Leeds is where beauty meets buzz! Known as one of the prettiest cocktail bars in the city, this spot is a floral dream wrapped in vintage charm and industrial cool.
Step inside and you'll find a chic mix of dining spaces, a lively bar, and an outdoor terrace that's perfect for sipping in style. Whether you're in the mood for a decadent brunch, a British gastro classic, or a Sunday roast, their menu has you covered. Add in creative cocktails and fresh, vibrant mixes, and you're all set for a fantastic time.
If you're after affordable restaurants in Leeds city centre, then YO! is a firm choice. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan or carnivore, this Japanese hotspot is bound to impress with an extensive range of thrifty maki rolls and hot plates that arrive on a signature conveyor belt.
Hyde Park Hotel is home to international eats at a reasonable price, alongside live sports showings. For food, think dirty dough ball dippers for £7, stone-baked pizzas starting from £10.50, and stacked burgers to cure those hunger pangs. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too.
Boasting an entirely gluten-free menu, CASA is an inclusive venue for a range of diets. Starting from £7.50 each, enjoy tucking into tapas plates made up of mouth-tingling Latin flavours, from Colombia to Mexico. As for drinks? Try out the range of international beers or hand-picked Argentinian wines.
With affordable meals making up the main menu (think burgers for £12.95), Fleur Restaurant And Bar is great for a cheap lunch in Leeds city centre. What's more, this venue concept is from award-winning MasterChef finalist and Great British Menu-famed chef Bobby Geetha.
On the hunt for a bargain breakfast in the city? Then make your way to The Lost & Found Leeds Club or Greek Street for their bottomless brunches, costing you just £39 per person for unlimited cocktails or prosecco and dishes including smashed avocado on toast or a pancake stack.
Fronting £9.95 lunch deals and a truly tasty main menu, Mommy Thai is a street-food inspired restaurant in the heart of the city. Their plates hover around the price point of a tenner and boast the likes of khao pad, tom yum soup and a huge choice of curry or noodle dishes.
Ranked the UK's best pizzeria, Rudy's specialises in Neapolitan-style slices using 24-hour double-fermented dough. All of the mains cost £13.90 or less, with toppings like smoked mozzarella, salami, mushrooms and even vegan cheese. What's more, there are delicious Italian cocktails like Aperol spritzes or negronis too.
When it comes to budget-friendly eats in the city centre, Cult Wing is a firm choice. This edgy joint has a cracking menu, including everything from chicken to nachos and churros. As for drinks? You can enjoy an IPA for under a fiver, and a glass of red wine starting from £4.80.
Bundobust is a great choice for cheap restaurants in Leeds city centre, as you can nab bhaji sandwiches for £7.95 and two dishes for £10.50 as part of its express lunch deal. And when you need affordable vegan and vegetarian food, there's no better place than this Indian eatery.
Boasting a seriously impressive selection of cocktails, Revolution Electric Press is a bar and restaurant serving up stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers and classic pub grub. It doesn't scrimp on desserts either, whipping up delicious tiramisu and chocolate brownies for just a fiver.
