Best Places to Eat in Bristol for Students (Without Breaking the Bank)

Let’s be real—student life can be expensive. But finding good food in Bristol doesn’t have to cost a fortune. New to the city or just on the hunt for your next go-to lunch spot? There are loads of cheap eats in Bristol that don’t skimp out on flavour. So, to help you answer the age-old question, “What should we have for tea?” we’ve rounded up our favourite affordable food spots that are big on taste, low on cost, and student-approved. From independent cafés and global street food to late-night bites, perfect for post-library cravings, here are the best places to eat in Bristol: 

1. Biblos

First up is Biblos on Stokes Croft—your go-to for Lebanese and Caribbean wraps and meze. Complete with rustic picnic tables, this snug cafe is the perfect place to meet up with your friends. And the atmosphere isn’t the only reason why uni-goers love this place! Most of its flavour-packed wraps are under £7, including their jerk chicken and halloumi dishes. With vegetarian options available, they serve some of the top affordable food in Bristol that everyone can enjoy.

2. Three Brothers Burgers

In the mood for a burger with a view? The Three Brothers Burgers, located on Welsh Back by the Harbourside, offers a lunch deal—burger and fries, all for £6 if you order before 5 pm. Whether you choose the classic or vegan patty, you can be sure that the quality of the food is not compromised, even if it is budget-friendly, making it one of the best student restaurants in Bristol.

3. Cafe Kino

For the plant-based foodies, Cafe Kino is the place to be. From hearty breakfasts to burgers and beers, everything is vegan and easy on the bank balance. Costing just £4.50 for a vegan sausage sandwich, students love this spot for its affordability and inviting atmosphere. With its community feel, this worker-owned café is a gem for you to both study and hang out.

4. Pizza on the Park

Just off Park Street on Berkeley Square is Pizza on the Park. Serving up Neapolitan-style pizzas with a range of flavoursome toppings, this is one of the best places to eat in Bristol for uni-goers because of the generous 20% discount. Rated number 1 on TripAdvisor, their pizzas start at just £9, so it’s definitely worth the visit.

5. Yakinori

Japanese comfort food with a 10% student discount—what more could you ask for? Yakinori, based on Park Street, offers donburi bowls, bento boxes, and so much more. It’s not all meat-based either. The vegetarian cauliflower katsu noodles are actually a student favourite, so any time you're desperate for something warm and comforting, head over to Yakinori.

6. Koocha Mezze Bar

Looking for inspiration on where to eat in Bristol for students that’s Instagram-worthy, price-savvy and vegan? You’ll want to try Koocha Mezze Bar on Zetland Road in Redland. And don’t worry, carnivores. Koocha might be vegan, but you won’t miss the meat. You can try 4 delicious dishes for just £12, making it perfect for a low-cost night out.

7. Rice & Things

For a taste of Jamaica, Rice & Things serves up authentic dishes for you to indulge in. From curry goat to jerk chicken, you can expect to spend between £10 and £20 on these generous, hearty portions. With dining in and take-away options available, you can decide exactly where to enjoy your delicious scran. 

8. The Canteen

Focussing on sustainability, The Canteen’s menu is fully vegetarian. Serving up dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including stews, salads and globally-inspired plates that change with the seasons, you can grab a lunch deal from as little as £8. Accompanied by live music in the evening, this isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect, chill, and soak up the Bristol atmosphere.

9. Geppetto’s Pizza

With small and medium-sized pizzas under £10, Geppetto’s hand-crafted pizzas are popular with the students of Bristol. Whether you’re hosting a movie night in or need some food to soak up the pint (or seven) you’ve had at the pub, their menu boasts a variety of options to suit all tastes. Located just a short walk away from the city centre, their authentic, wood-fired pizzas are perfect for vegetarians, vegans and meat-lovers alike.

10. Tuk Tuck

Craving Korean, Japanese or Thai street food all at once? Tuk Tuck serves up a fusion of it all. Located both on Stokes Croft and in the city centre, the Asian street food is perfect for fuelling a long day of lectures or recovering from a late night out. With its flavour-packed food that won’t flatten your finances, this really is one of the best places to eat in Bristol.

Conclusion

So, who says uni life means instant noodles and toasties every night? Bristol’s food scene is packed with personality, flavour, and plenty of spots that won’t drain your bank account. Whether you’re after a quick bite between lectures, a chilled dinner with mates, or a new go-to for comfort food, there’s something here to suit every craving and budget.

Want to be close to all the best spots to eat, study, and socialise? Explore our student accommodation in Bristol and enjoy student life with everything on your doorstep.