Food for Thought: Edinburgh's Best Cheap Eats

University life in Edinburgh can be amazing, but it can often be a little stressful on your wallet. Between books, rent, and the occasional drink, enjoying your food can feel like a luxury. Thankfully, this short guide to the best cheap eats in Edinburgh will help you discover the best spots to grab a bite that won’t bite you back financially.

Why Edinburgh is a Hidden Gem for Budget Food

The Scottish capital’s food scene is as culturally diverse as its student population. You’ll be able to find hearty dishes from Scotland, Asia, and beyond with ease. When you know where to look, Edinburgh opens its culinary doors to you.

Beyond affordability, our choices deliver on flavour, portions size, and inclusivity. We’ve got you covered whether you’re in need of a meaty feast or a vegetarian option. Edinburgh’s got it all in abundance.

1. Union of Genius: Soup Done Right

Located just off Forrest Road, Union of Genius serves hot, hearty soups that actually fill you up (so you can forget about the mug soups that leave you hungry ten minutes after eating them).

It’s the kind of community eating experience that takes you back to the days when eating out was less about the cost and all about the flavour. At Union of Genius you can enjoy a bowl of soup, chunk of bread, and a coffee for less than the price of a cocktail.

Tip: Go before 1pm for their best selection as the most popular soups often sell out.

2. Wings: Bold, Cheap, Legendary

If ever a restaurant did what it says on the tin, it’s Wings. Serving up nothing but chicken wings, this place will have you salivating over just what can be done with a humble piece of bird.

The big tables, sharing platters, and energetic playlists gives off a social vibe that encourages you to get together for a chicken fuelled trip out.

Prices start at as little as £6 for a small plate of wings, and the menu includes imaginative flavours such as ‘Sriracha Honey Lime’ (our personal favourite) and ‘Jack & Coke’.

Dietary Note: Vegan wings and cauliflower options are available, clearly marked on the menu.

3. The Mosque Kitchen: A Local Institution

Just behind the central mosque is the Mosque Kitchen, a no fuss canteen that’s a haven for those wanting simple food made well. Enjoying a meal here feels like you’ve stepped into someone’s own house.

Diners can enjoy a generous portion of curry with rice and salad for as little as £6.50, making it one of the cheapest curries you can find in the city.

It’s an informal setup that encourages multiculturalism, and is regularly filled with students making the most of the budget friendly dishes. It’s a true example of Scotland’s diverse food culture.

Put all these things together and you have one of the best student food deals in Edinburgh.

Top Choice: The lamb curry, end of.

4. Bentoya: Cheap Japanese Delights

On the hunt for fresh sushi that won’t wipe your overdraft? Bentoya near Tollcross offers maki boxes, ice bowls, and bento sets starting from as cheap as £6.80.

The menu is wide ranging, giving you the chance to try all sorts of Japanese specialties, but perhaps more important, the service is quick and friendly.

5. Snax Café: All Day Breakfasts on a Budget

A Scottish breakfast is the stuff of pure legend, especially when it’s available at a bargain price. Snax Café have two locations in Edinburgh. Found near to the University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Napier respectively.

For less than £5, students can get a full breakfast complete with the famous tattie scone. It’s a casual setup that’s perfect for anyone on a tight schedule.

Affordable, fast, and gets you fed whenever you need it.

Bonus Round: More Spots to Explore

• Loudons (Student discount on weekdays)

• Piemaker (Legendary sausage rolls for under £2)

• Ting Thai Caravan (Bustling, aromatic, under £9 for most mains)

• Bread Meats Bread (Great lunch deals and meaty portions)

Tips for Getting More for Less

• Use student discount cards: TOTUM, UNiDAYS, and ISIC work at many chains and independents.

• Follow local food trucks: Many update locations via Instagram and offer student discounts on-site.

• Lunchtime = best value: Many sit-down spots offer lunch specials that cost half their dinner menu.

• Group orders: Sharing = savings, especially at places like Wings or Ting Thai.

Explore More Tips for Student Life in Edinburgh

There’s more to Edinburgh than just food. If you’re looking for events, study spaces, or support, make sure to explore more of our blog posts about the Scottish Capital. 

Time for the Bill

Edinburgh proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well. Regardless of what you’re craving, this city delivers.

So next time your skint and starving, it’s time to skip the meal deal. There’s a whole world of affordable flavour out there just waiting for you to take your first bite.