The latest Michelin guide for the UK has been released, sparking excitement among food enthusiasts. While no new restaurants earned the coveted three-star rating this year, numerous establishments received one or two stars. However, for many, dining at these acclaimed venues can seem prohibitively expensive, with bills often soaring into the hundreds of pounds. Fortunately, our investigation reveals that several Michelin-starred restaurants offer accessible set menus for £50 or less, making gourmet experiences more attainable.
Affordable Michelin Dining Across the UK
Our team meticulously researched every Michelin restaurant on the new UK list, uncovering a variety of budget-friendly options. From lunch specials to early evening deals, these menus provide an opportunity to savor high-quality cuisine without overspending. It is important to note that some restaurants have challenging websites or do not display menus online, so a few offers might have been missed. Below, we detail the standout deals we found, organized by region.
Buckinghamshire Highlights
In Buckinghamshire, The Coach in Marlow stands out with its incredibly affordable set lunch: two courses for £20 or three courses for £25. Nearby, The Hand and Flowers offers a two-course lunch for £25 or three courses for £32.50, available until 31 March. Artichoke in Amersham provides a three-course lunch menu for £49, excluding Saturdays.
London's Culinary Gems
London boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants with deals under £50. For instance, 64 Goodge Street offers an early evening menu of three courses for £49 per person, with bookings required between 5:30 PM and 6 PM. Benares features a lunch and early dinner menu from Monday to Saturday, priced at £43 for two courses or £49 for three courses. Other notable options include Chez Bruce with a two-course set lunch for £39.50, and The Ninth offering a two-course set lunch and early dinner menu for £38.
Regional Restaurant Deals
Beyond London, affordable Michelin dining can be found across the UK. In Bristol, Bulrush offers a set lunch menu for £48, while Wilsons provides a set lunch for £39 on Wednesdays through Fridays. In Cumbria, Heft in Newton in Cartmel has a set lunch for £49, and Rogan & Co in Cartmel offers a three-course set lunch from Wednesday to Saturday for £49. Devon features Elephant in Torquay with a two-course set lunch for £35.95, and Lympstone Manor with a three-course winter lunch menu for £48 until 27 March.
Additional Notable Offers
Other regions present enticing deals as well. In Kent, The Sportsman in Seasalter offers a midweek two-course menu for £40, and Fordwich Arms in Fordwich has a set menu on Wednesdays and Thursdays for £45. In Lancashire, The Barn in Aughton provides a set lunch menu from Thursday to Saturday for £48. In Ireland, Campagne in Kilkenny offers a three-course lunch or early bird menu for €50, showcasing international options within the UK guide.
Tips for Dining on a Budget
To maximize savings, consider booking during lunch hours or early evening slots, as these times often feature discounted set menus. Always check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm availability and pricing, as menus may change seasonally. Remember that while these deals make fine dining more accessible, additional costs like drinks and service charges might apply, so budget accordingly.
In summary, the Michelin guide does not have to be synonymous with exorbitant prices. With careful planning, food lovers can enjoy exceptional culinary experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants across the UK without exceeding £50 per person. Whether in bustling cities or picturesque countryside locales, affordable gourmet meals await discovery.
