Welcome to Mayfair, a district brimming with luxurious shops, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene. While Mayfair is often associated with high-end dining, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank. Let’s explore some of the best spots for a delicious and affordable meal.
From Food Halls to Fish and Chips: A Delicious Start
Start your culinary adventure at Mercato Mayfair, a sustainable food hall housed in a beautifully restored Grade-I listed building. This vibrant space offers a diverse selection of affordable dishes from 10 different vendors, with options ranging from Malaysian street food to bao, dumplings, ramen, and even Italian gelato.
Just next door, you’ll find the Mayfair Chippy, a classic fish and chip shop with a smartly classic interior. This bustling eatery offers delicious, high-quality fish and chips served with homemade tartare sauce, mushy peas, and a selection of sauces.
Farm-to-Table Delights and Upmarket Pubs
Venture a short distance to South Audley Street and discover Farm Shop, a farm-to-table haven from the Artfarm team. This charming space features a deli and butchery on the ground floor, along with a wine bar in the cellar.
For a more casual experience, head to the Audley Public House, another Artfarm venture. While the upscale Mount Street Restaurant might be a bit pricier, the pub bar offers budget-friendly fare, such as shepherd’s pie, without compromising on flavor.
Shepherd Market and Beyond: More Budget-Friendly Bites
Shepherd Market, a charming Georgian precinct, is a haven for pub-goers, cafe enthusiasts, and foodies alike. Noble Rot Mayfair, a fine dining destination, offers a budget-friendly three-course lunch menu for £26, making it a great option for a special occasion.
Head to Heddon Street and escape the hustle and bustle of Regent Street. Here, Sabor, a Spanish tapas restaurant, provides a fantastic opportunity to indulge in delicious tapas at reasonable prices.
For vegan diners, Tendril (A Mostly Vegan Kitchen & Bar) on Princess Street is a must-visit. This plant-based haven features delicious dishes created by renowned chef Rishim Sachdeva, using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Coffee Culture and Mayfair’s Hidden History
Mayfair is home to a wealth of independent coffee shops and cafes, offering high-quality coffee and delicious food. Some of the must-try spots include Popina, Everbean Cafe, and District Coffee, which also serves cocktails at an unbeatable price.
Beyond the food, Mayfair is rich in history. 17 Bruton Street was the birthplace of the late queen, while 25 Brook Street housed the legendary composer Handel. Next door, at number 23, guitarist Jimmi Hendrix resided. 67 Brook Street also boasts a plaque commemorating the Bee Gees. Finally, 3 Saville Row holds the distinction of being the location of the Beatles’ last live performance.
This tour of Mayfair showcases the area’s diverse culinary scene, offering something for everyone – from affordable food halls to upscale pubs and vegan havens. Don’t forget to explore the historic side of Mayfair and discover the hidden gems that make this district so special.
