Cheap Eats
Hungry but don't want to pay the earth for a good meal? We've rounded up ten of the best places to grab some food on the cheap, cheap, cheap!
No one wants to splash the cash on pricey restaurants this month so we’ve pulled together a selection of our favourite cheap but chic eats across Hants and IoW. Aren’t we helpful?
Outside-In, Portsmouth
If you’re in the mood for something cheap and cheerful, but can’t quite decide what to pick then a trip to Portsmouth’s famed Inside-Out food court will see you right. From the epic burgers from trendy London-outfit One Tonne Burger Co. to delicious Venezuelan treats from Arepa2Go, you’ll be able to try a bit from each spot without rinsing the coffers. AND, there’s free parking outside as well.
The Art House, Southampton
The cafe at the Art House is a mecca of tasty treats – for a fraction of the usual vegan pricetag. With a full Middle Eastern Mezze platter a snip at £10.95 and the renowned Chipotle Chilli Enchilada for the same price, you’ll get a lot of bean for your buck on a visit here. Plus, with a calendar full of spoken word and other quirky entertainment, you’ll be hard-pressed for a cheaper evening out.

Salix Cafe, Shanklin
With a super simple menu featuring baguettes, baps and jackets, the Salix Cafe may not be the fanciest spot on the Island, but the reviews don’t lie. People love this little spot on Small Hope Beach for its good vibes, cozy log burner and brilliant view of the beach.
River Cottage Canteen, Winchester
The River Cottage is famed for it’s back to basics food offerings and love of British produce. And, Winchester’s very own River Cottage Canteen brings that right to the city’s doorstep. With a menu featuring spiced tomato & yellow split pea dhal and pan-fried hake fillet for a pocket pleasing £12.95 for 2-courses, you’ll be getting plenty of value for money with a visit here.
The Rockstone, Southampton
Tipped as a country pub in the city, The Rockstone has garnered quite the reputation for its hench burger offerings. They are HUGE, weighing in at whopping 10oz a patty. Featuring locally sourced beef with a huge range of toppings, the menu also has some other crackingly named food on its menu (honestly, I can’t stop giggling at the Squid-Life Crisis and the Smother Theresa). With the majority of mains coming in at under £15, you’ll be coming away with a smile on your face and plenty of coin in your purse afterwards.
Forte Kitchen, Winchester
Another Winchester entry is the Forte Kitchen on Parchment Street. With an eclectic breakfast and lunch menu on offer, choose from pocket-friendly options such as hot smoked mackerel, topped with poached eggs, spinach, slow roast plum tomato, dished up on sourdough toast and confit duck Scotch egg – all £13 or less.


