The Best Set Menus in London Under £30

1. Seabird

Perched atop The Hoxton, Southwark, Seabird is where seafood meets skyline. This rooftop oasis brings Mediterranean-inspired dining to the heart of London, serving up the city’s longest oyster list, freshly grilled seafood, and bold coastal flavours. With lush interiors, an open terrace, and unbeatable Thames views, it’s the perfect spot for long lunches, sunset drinks, or indulgent dinners.

The set menu

While Seabird doesn’t offer a traditional set menu, you can curate your own multi-course experience for under £30 with their selection of fresh, seasonal dishes.

Oyster Happy Hour: Monday to Friday, 15:00–18:00

• £3 per oyster (Jersey | Channel Isles, Cumbrae | Ayrshire)
• £7 Classic Martini (Bombay Sapphire or Grey Goose)

Suggested 3-course experience for under £30:

• Starter: Padron Peppers (£8): Citrus Maldon salt
• Main: Cod Prego Sandwich (£17):  Caramelised onion, olive, potato crisps, chili aioli
• Side: Triple Cooked Chips (£7): Paprika, rosemary salt

Or swap set lunch menu fresh seafood with options like Fried Calamari (£14) or Dressed Crab on Toast (£18).

2. Kolamba East & Kolamba Carnaby Street

Looking for restaurants for pre-theatre in London that serve bold flavours without the big bill? Kolamba Carnaby Street is the perfect spot for a quick yet satisfying Sri Lankan meal before heading to the West End. If you're after a laid-back lunch, Kolamba East offers a midday feast packed with spice, warmth, and heritage.

The set menu

• Kolamba Carnaby Street offers a Pre-Theatre Menu (£29.50 per person) Monday to Friday, 16:30–19:00. Start with Nalini’s Fish Cutlets or Banana Blossom Patties, then choose from dishes like Ceylon Chicken Curry, Jaggery Beef, or a plant-based curry, all served with string hoppers, kiri hodi, pol sambol, and an egg hopper.

Kolamba East offers a Lunch Set Menu (£19.50 per person) Monday to Friday, 12:00–16:00. A filling Rice & Curry Bowl, served with dhal, okra, sambols, and mango chutney, plus a choice of chicken, beef, lamb (£2 extra), pumpkin, or beetroot curry. Comes with a starter of Fish Cutlet or Banana Blossom Pattie for a complete meal.

3. Manzi’s

For seafood lovers on a budget, Manzi’s is one of the best Soho restaurants. This laid-back yet stylish spot serves up classic seafood dishes with a Mediterranean touch. Whether you're looking for a quick pre-theatre meal, a long lunch, or a Friday fish feast, Manzi’s has an option for you.

The set menu

• The Soho Set – 2 Courses from £15.25: Tuesday to Saturday, available all day. Choose between a 2-course (£15.25) or 3-course (£19.50) option, with a rotating selection of seasonal dishes served quickly to fit any schedule.
• The All In 3 Courses for £29.50 (including a drink): Tuesday to Saturday, midday – closing. The menu includes a glass of house wine, beer, or soft drink, making it great value for a quality meal in Soho.

Fish & Fizz Friday for £19.50: every Friday, midday – closing. Enjoy a classic fish & chips, featuring beer-battered haddock and crispy fries, served with a complimentary glass of Crémant to kickstart the weekend.

4. Arros QD

Known for its wood-fired paellas and Michelin-starred flair, Arros QD brings a slice of Valencia to Fitzrovia. While the restaurant’s à la carte menu leans toward premium dining, their weekday set lunch is a great way to enjoy top-quality Spanish cuisine for under £30.

The set menu

2 Courses for £29 or 3 Courses for £34: Monday to Friday, 12:00–15:00. Start with a light and flavourful dish like Valencian Kale Salad or Brown Crab Salad, then move on to a main of Presa Ibérica, Atlantic Squid, or a signature wood-fired paella. There’s even a vegetarian paella option for those skipping seafood.

5. Daffodil Mulligan

For those seeking a relaxed neighbourhood restaurant with bold flavours and a touch of Irish charm, Daffodil Mulligan on Old Street delivers with its affordable set menu. This lively spot, known for its wood-fired dishes and creative small plates, offers a great option for a weekday lunch without breaking the bank.

The set menu

2 Courses for £28 or 3 Courses for £30: Monday to Friday, 12:00–16:00. Only available for tables of four or fewer. Start with a flavour-packed starter like Cauliflower Bhaji with smoked pineapple or Duck Liver Parfait with Irish soda bread, then move on to mains like Flat Iron Steak with smoked onion and chips or Sugar Pit Pork with cabbage and caraway.

6. Hawksmoor

Hawksmoor is one of London’s most renowned steakhouse groups, known for its high-quality British beef, sustainable seafood, and timeless interiors that blend elegance with warmth. With multiple locations across the city (and beyond!), each Hawksmoor restaurant offers its own distinct charm while maintaining the brand’s commitment to top-tier food and relaxed, welcoming service.

The set menu

The Express Menu – 2 Courses for £30 or 3 Courses for £35 is available at Borough Market (London Bridge) and Air Street (Piccadilly Circus). You can expect dishes like:

• Starter: Potted beef & bacon or smoked salmon
• Main: Rump steak (200g) or grilled fish of the day
• Dessert (for 3-course option): Sticky toffee pudding

Bonus perk:Monday Wine Club lets you bring your own wine with just a £5 corkage fee, making this even better value.

7. NIJŪ

NIJŪ is a contemporary Japanese restaurant in London that blends tradition with modern creativity. Helmed by Culinary Director Endo Kazutoshi and Executive Chef Chris Golding, NIJŪ offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on sushi, sashimi, and expertly grilled dishes. The minimalist yet refined interior, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, provides a tranquil setting for enjoying carefully curated flavours.

The set menu

Lunch Menu: 2 Courses for £32 or 3 Courses for £38 available from Monday to Saturday, 12:00 to 14:30

• Starter: Grilled aubergine with white sesame dressing, Vegetable crudités with tofu dressing, or Tuna tataki with kizami wasabi & Parmesan.
• Main: Chef’s sashimi selection with steamed rice, Chalkstream trout & avocado chirashi, Bara chirashi with avocado & radish, Vegetable tempura donburi, or Wagyu beef gyūdon with onsen egg & pickled ginger.
• Dessert (for three-course option): Milk chocolate delice with miso caramel ice cream, Chef’s ice cream selection, or Seasonal fruits.

Although slightly over our £30 budget, NIJŪ is well worth that little bit extra.