Affordable Restaurants: Cheap Eats In Reading

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By Kiera Chapman Junior Editor Expert in food and drink, with 5 years in editorial, including bylines in Marie Claire.

Whether you're pinching the pennies or just love a bit of great value, our town is no stranger to affordable fare; it's home to bang-for-your-buck burger restaurants that don't scrimp on quality, purse-friendly pizza palaces championing the flavours of Naples and quirky hangouts boasting brunches that won't set you back an arm and a leg. Not sure where to find these affordable restaurants in Reading? Make sure to read on.




Veeno Reading

Though, unsurprisingly, Veeno is all about delicious Italian wine imported from the owners' own vineyard back in Sicily, it's also one of the best cheap restaurants in Reading town centre. Make your way over to enjoy a fine Italian wine tasting, while also digging into a few spuntini (cured meats, cheeseboards and bruschetta) or delve into the menu of affordable mains. Chow down on lasagna alla Bolognese (£11.95), ravioli 'nduja e pecorino (£11.95) and tiramisu classico della nonna (£5.50).

Zerodegrees Reading

Zerodegrees take pride in their pizzas, using a secret recipe to create their dough (although we do know that they use high-grade flour imported from Naples), which is then proved lovingly for over 24 hours. To complement the fluffy, chewy base? Homemade Neapolitan tomato sauce and top-quality ingredients. One of our favourites has to to be the Cinghiale, made with fior di latte mozzarella, wild boar salame, 'nduja, roquito peppers, parmesan, fresh chillis, basil and extra virgin olive oil. So, grab a seat on one of their balconies to soak up the sunshine with a slice in hand, not to mention a pint of their own-brewed craft beer.

Honest Burgers Reading

What started out life in South London as a small, humble restaurant has now turned into one of the UK's favourite spots for a delicious burgers. What makes these guys stand out? Their top-quality beef and sustainable ethos, of course. They source their grass-fed beef from small farms in Gloucestershire, using rib cap and chuck which results in a succulent, juicy patty. And though the classics are stars on their own (with chicken and plant-based patties available too), each city has their own special. Reading's is made with beef, bacon, Waterloo & Heckfield cheese, apple slaw, tomato and chilli chutney, and rocket. Just make sure to order a side of this joint's famous rosemary salted fries, too.

Slug and Lettuce Reading, Friar Street

Fun, quirky and right in the centre of town, Slug And Lettuce on Friar Street is ideal for a casual meal out. While surrounded by dangling foliage, indoor blossom trees and vibrant patterns, get to know the menu that really gives you bang for your buck. Kick-start your day with a cheap brunch, or take advantage of their sandwich and a soft drink for £10 offer. Fancy something for dinner? They've got you sorted on that front too, with Malaysian katsu curry, steak frites and burgers at affordable prices too. 

Slug and Lettuce Reading is the place to be for outdoor bottomless brunch vibes - sunny tables, pop tunes in the background, and two glorious hours of cocktails, prosecco, and great brunch dishes. Whether you're craving pancakes, plant-based bites, or a full-on Big Breakfast, your weekend just found its highlight.