28 Feb 2025
Finding a great meal on a student budget doesn’t have to be a challenge! Here are some spots in and around Republic where you can grab a tasty lunch for under £5.
On-campus lunch spots
1. Dora – authentic Greek flavours
Dora is a family-run restaurant offering delicious homemade Greek food. Enjoy hearty dishes like Pastitsio, fresh Greek Salad, and a choice of sweet and savoury treats. Mains start from £4.50, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Student perk at Dora: Show your student ID for 10% off food – a great way to save while enjoying authentic Greek flavours! Dora offers vegetarian and halal choices.
2. Westland Coffee – affordable & filling
Westland Coffee is a top pick for fresh coffee, hot chocolate, and tasty food. They serve £5 toasted sandwiches packed with flavour, including pastrami, mortadella & mozzarella, and chicken avocado. Their soup of the day is available from £3.50, paired with their popular meat and vegan sausage rolls from £2.80. Westland offers vegetarian, vegan and halal choices.
3. Gelato a Casa – sweet treats & chill vibes
Take a trip through the Mediterranean with Gelato a Casa’s authentic Greek gelato and pastries. Whether you’re in the mood for classic vanilla, exotic sorbets, or a rich coffee, this cosy café is perfect for relaxing with friends while enjoying a sweet treat. Pastries start from £2.50, and small gelato cups are available from £3.00.
4. Taste at Republic – Quick & hearty bites
For those who need a quick, filling meal, Taste has you covered. They offer fresh sandwiches, baps, and hot meals like pasta, perfect for breakfast or lunch. Sandwiches start at £3.50, and pasta dishes are available from £4.50, making it a solid choice for students looking for a budget-friendly meal.
5. Salento – authentic Italian pizzas
Salento brings authentic Italian flavours to Republic with its delicious pizzas and traditional dishes. Their 2-for-1 Margherita pizza deal (available for pick-up Monday to Wednesday from 5 pm) is perfect for students looking to enjoy a tasty and affordable meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a freshly baked pizza or a classic Italian favourite, Salento offers great value without compromising on quality. They also have outdoor seating, ideal in hot weather for a post-study drink in the sun!
Off-campus spots (5-10 minutes’ walk)
6. Dock Coffee – Vietnamese classics & fresh bites
Just a short walk from campus, Dock Coffee is a cosy café offering Vietnamese classics alongside coffee, pastries, baguettes, and salads. Croissants and pastries start at just £1.80, while sandwiches and baguettes are available at £4.20. If you’re after something savoury, they also have steak slices starting from £2.90 – perfect for a quick, affordable bite!
7. Nest – Deli, coffee & more
Nest is a hidden gem offering coffee, deli items, and wine, making it a great place for students looking for a fresh and affordable meal. Their deli counter serves sandwiches, salads, and snacks starting from £3.00, and they often have rotating specials featuring quality ingredients. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or looking for something unique, Nest has a great mix of options.
8. Poplar Café – big breakfasts & more
For those craving a hearty meal, Poplar Café is a classic greasy spoon offering huge English breakfasts alongside affordable lunch options. Their all-day breakfast is a must-try, but they also serve sandwiches starting from £3.50. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a filling meal that won’t break the bank, with a friendly, old-school café atmosphere.
9. Almari Cafe
A cosy café offering fresh, homemade meals at student-friendly prices, Almari Café serves delicious sandwiches, salads, and hot meals, with options starting from £4.00. Their warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to sit down for a relaxing lunch.
10. Nisa – meal deal options
Nisa is a convenience store that offers a selection of grab-and-go meal deals, snacks, and drinks. With meal deals starting at £3.50, students can pick up sandwiches, crisps, and a drink for an easy, budget-friendly lunch. They also stock fresh bakery items and hot snacks for those who need something warm on the go.
Follow Republic’s socials for more updates
Eating well on a budget is easy when you know where to go. Stay tuned for more money-saving food tips! Follow our WhatsApp Group, Facebook and Instagram pages to get up-to-date information on student offers, discounts, job opportunities, fun events and activities.
Message
