Michelin-starred chefs pick favourite cheap restaurants across every part of UK – with famous burger chain making list
Throughout the last year the Money blog has been asking Michelin chefs to pick their favourite cheap eats – a meal for two for less than £40 – in their part of the UK.
We’ve heard about hidden gems in every part of the country, from Northern Ireland to Norfolk, with the chefs revealing where they go for a budget meal when they have a night off – whether it’s a top burger chain (see Merseyside), kebab shop, or more established restaurant with a great lunchtime deal. Read the full list below.
Buckinghamshire
Recommended 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 Tap and Grill, Marlow
Recommended 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!”
Sarah Hayward, chef at Tom Kerridge’s The Coach
Cambridgeshire
The Fish House, Ely
Recommended by James Knappett, chef-patron of two Michelin-starred Kitchen Table 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.”
James Knappett, chef-patron of two Michelin-starred Kitchen Table, in Fitzrovia
Recommended by Daniel Clifford, chef patron at two Michelin-starred Midsummer House 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.”
Daniel Clifford says: “Run by a lovely couple, this is the best burger restaurant in Cambridge.”
“Quick, easy and extremely tasty,” Daniel Clifford says. “This is my go-to with the kids for a quick dinner fix.”
Daniel Clifford
Cornwall
Fat Pepper, Wadebridge
Recommended 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.”
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, multiple locations
“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.”
Chef Jack Stein. Pic: James Ram
Recommended by Bradley Monk from the award-winning One Fish Street 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.”
Bradley Monk says: “While being well known for their burgers – which are also delicious – it’s the rotisserie chicken I’m recommending.”
Bradley Monk says this 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
Recommended by Ollie Bridgwater, executive chef at the one-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel: “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.”
“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.”
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 Road Brunch, Keswick
Recommended by Jack Bond, chef-owner of Michelin-starred The Cottage in the Wood 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, near 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.”
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
Recommended by Jamie Coleman, head chef at 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.”
Recommended 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.”
Simon Hulstone, one of the country’s longest-established Michelin-starred chefs
East Yorkshire
Drewton’s Farm Shop and Kitchen, Yorkshire Wolds
Recommended 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.”
Chef James Mackenzie. Photo by Tony Bartholomew
Gloucestershire
Recommended 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.”
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 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
Recommended by Gareth Bartram, chef-patron at Michelin Guide-recommended Auction House 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.”
“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.”
Gareth Bartram, who is setting up his own restaurant after leaving Michelin-starred Winteringham Fields
Kent
The Refectory in St Dunstan’s, Canterbury
Recommended 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 Street 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
Recommended by Lisa Goodwin-Allen, executive 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.”
Lisa Goodwin-Allen, chef at Northcote
London
Read more:
Full list of London recommendations here
Recommended 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.”
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.”
“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.”
Sally Abe. Pic: Danny J Peace
Recommended by two Michelin-starred Alex Dilling, of Alex Dilling at Hotel Cafe Royal on Regent Street: “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.”
Two Michelin-starred Alex Dilling, of Alex Dilling at Hotel Cafe Royal on Regent Street
New Loon Fung Restaurant, Chinatown
Recommended by James Knappett, from two-starred Kitchen Table: “For dim sum – their steamed ribs, chicken feet, prawn dumplings and chicken and sausage claypot rice.”
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.”
Recommended by Sameer Taneja, executive 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 Shop, Finsbury Park
Recommended by Tom Brown, from Michelin Guide-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.”
For big portions and small prices, 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.”
Tom Brown from Pearly Queen and the Michelin-starred Cornerstone
Recommended by Pied a Terre owner 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.”
“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.
David Moore, the legendary owner of Pied a Terre in central London
Lahore Kebab House in Whitechapel
Recommended 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.”
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.”
Recommended by Meedu Saad, head chef and co-owner of Kiln in Soho – which as well as being in the Michelin Guide, was crowned the UK’s best 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.”
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.”
Meedu Saad of Kiln
Berenjak in Soho and London Bridge
Recommended by Sofian Msetfi, executive 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 Shop 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)
Recommended 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 Street 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
Recommended by TV chef Judy Joo, who co-owns the popular Seoul Bird 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.”
Judy Joo says Trejo’s Tacos has crossed the pond, opening its first international 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.”
Judy Joo
Oi Vita Pizzeria, Stoke Newington
Recommended 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.”
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.”
“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.”
Jun Tanaka, head chef of the Michelin-starred The Ninth in Fitzrovia, central London
Manchester
As recommended by Tom Barnes, who runs Michelin Guide-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
Recommended by Mark Birchall, chef-patron at two Michelin-starred Moor Hall 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.”
Mark Birchall says: “For a cheap burger, Five Guys is consistently great! Customise your own burger, simple but delicious. Cajun fries are excellent too.”
Mark Birchall, chef-patron at Moor Hall. Pic: Moor Hall
Recommended 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.”
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.”
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 Street Market, Liverpool
Recommended by Dan McGeorge, recent Great 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.”
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
Recommended by Galton Blackiston of the Michelin-starred Morston Hall: “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.”
“A tiny restaurant on the broads in Horning cooking lovely fish dishes,” Galton Blackiston says.
Final cheap pick 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.”
Galton Blackiston. Pic: Morston Hall
Recommended 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
Recommended 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 House 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.”
Chef Cal Byerley. Pic: Joe Taylor Photographer
Recommended 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.”
Recommended 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
Recommended by Shaun Rankin from Michelin-starred Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall: “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.”
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.”
Chef Shaun Rankin
Recommended by Michael Wignall, of the one-star The Angel at Hetton, in Skipton in 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 Food, 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.”
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 Ireland
Recommended by Stephen Toman, chef owner at 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.”
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
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.”
Sat Bains’s local – where you’ll get a good Guinness.
Sat Bains
This Indian restaurant is where 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.”
According to Sat Bains, this shop on Flying Horse Walk “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
Recommended 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.”
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.”
Tom Aikens, from one-starred Muse
Pompette in Summertown, Oxford
Recommended by Theo Randall, Saturday Kitchen regular and chef patron at Theo Randall at 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!”
Theo Randall
Scotland
Recommended 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.”
Recommended 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 House and Coffee Bar, Inverness
This 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.
Tom Kitchin. Pic: Marc Miller
Recommended by Tom Tsappis, chef-owner of Michelin-recommended Killiecrankie House 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.”
House 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.”
“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
Recommended 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.”
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.”
“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.”
Stephen McLaughlin
Somerset
Recommended by Chris Cleghorn, from one Michelin-starred The Olive Tree in Bath: “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, 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 Shop, Bradford-on-Avon
Chris Cleghorn says this farm shop, with a play area for kids and an old tractor, is a huge hit with families. And you can enjoy eat-in food at the Barn. His pick 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
Recommended by Dan Conlon, head chef at Michelin Guide-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.”
Sheffield’s The Notty House, 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.”
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
Recommended by Great British Menu champ Tom Shepherd, from Michelin-starred Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in Lichfield, picks his favourites in the city: “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.”
“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.”
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.”
Tom Shepherd owns fine dining restaurant Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in Lichfield
Suffolk
Honey + Harvey, various locations
Recommended by Dave Wall, head chef at the UK’s number one 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.”
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.”
Dave Wall. Pic: Unruly Pig
Sussex
Recommended 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.”
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.”
Another 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
Recommended by Mark McHugo, head chef and owner of Michelin Green Star restaurant Chapters in Hay-on-Wye, Powys: “They serve great pizza, delicious wines and brilliant seasonal salads and starters.”
The cafe at Castle in the middle 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.”
Recommended 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.”
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
Recommended 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 list 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
Recommended by Aktar Islam, chef patron of Opheem – the first 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.”
The best fried chicken 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!”
“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.”
Aktar Islam
Rachel Reeves is a “gnat’s whisker” away from having to raise taxes in the autumn budget, a leading economist has warned – despite the chancellor insisting her plans are “fully funded”.
Paul Johnson, director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), said “any move in the wrong direction” for the economy before the next fiscal event would “almost certainly spark more tax rises”.
‘Sting in the tail’ in chancellor’s plans – politics latest
Speaking the morning after she delivered her spending review, which sets government budgets until 2029, Ms Reeves told Wilfred Frost hiking taxes wasn’t inevitable.
“Everything I set out yesterday was fully costed and fully funded,” she told Sky News Breakfast.
Her plans – which include £29bn for day-to-day NHS spending, £39bn for affordable and social housing, and boosts for defence and transport – are based on what she set out in October’s budget.
That budget, her first as chancellor, included controversial tax hikes on employers and increased borrowing to help public services.
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Spending review explained
Chancellor won’t rule out tax rises
The Labour government has long vowed not to raise taxes on “working people” – specifically income tax, national insurance for employees, and VAT.
Ms Reeves refused to completely rule out tax rises in her next budget, saying the world is “very uncertain”.
The Conservatives have claimed she will almost certainly have to put taxes up, with shadow chancellor Mel Stride accusing her of mismanaging the economy.
Taxes on businesses had “destroyed growth” and increased spending had been “inflationary”, he told Sky News.
New official figures showed the economy contracted in April by 0.3% – more than expected. It coincided with Donald Trump imposing tariffs across the world.
Ms Reeves admitted the figures were “disappointing” but pointed to more positive figures from previous months.
Read more:
Chancellor running out of levers to pull
Growth stats make for unpleasant reading
Your spending review questions answered
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Tories accuse Reeves over economy
‘Sting in the tail’
She is hoping Labour’s plans will provide more jobs and boost growth, with major infrastructure projects “spread” across the country – from the Sizewell C nuclear plant in Suffolk, to a rail line connecting Liverpool and Manchester.
But the IFS said further contractions in the economy, and poor forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility, would likely require the chancellor to increase the national tax take once again.
It said her spending review already accounted for a 5% rise in council tax to help local authorities, labelling it a “sting in the tail” after she told Sky’s Beth Rigby that it wouldn’t have to go up.
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