As a budget-conscious student, it can be difficult to find a restaurant that offers good value, is conveniently located, and, most importantly, serves delicious food. Below is my curated list of restaurants that I frequently revisit that I believe follow this standard!

Close to campus

French Village Cafe and Bistro

4.3 Stars Google

A restaurant and bakery that is only 5 minutes away from the Lanyon Building is one of my ideal spots to go to for a quick brunch before a lecture or even a daytime date with a friend! My absolute favourite dish from there is the £9.50 Avo On Toast (Sourdough with Poached Eggs and Avocado) and the £11 Goujons (Southern Fried Chicken, Onions and Fries)! All their mains are priced in the £9 to £11.50 range with vegetable options so you are sure to find something you will like.

Avo on toast

Bunsen

4.7 Stars Google

Located in Botanic Avenue and Cathedral Quarter, you can find the best burgers and milkshakes in, what I would like to think, the whole of NI! With a friendly atmosphere inside and menus printed on cute cards, it's a great place to go for those late-night meals or for really any time of the day. Their burgers range from £7.25 to £11.35 depending on preference, with their milkshakes for £5.15 and their crispy shoestring fries for £3.40! The ideal place for a good classic burger meal.

Town Square

4.3 Stars Google

8 minutes away from the Lanyon Building sits a bar with a cosy interior and heated outdoor seating, making it the perfect place for eating and having the craic! As a pretty regular customer, my favourite meal to order is the Ya Basic (Panko Fried Chicken burger with fries) with a Strawberry Laq cocktail (0% alcohol) which adds up to £16.95. The Cali Fish Tacos (Cod tempura taco with fries) is also another delicious option for £13. They do have a range of breakfast dishes (Baps £10 and Sweet Toast £10) and sweet treats (S’mores £10 and Chocolate Fondue £13)!

S'mores and chocolate fondue!

Oishi Sushi Boutique

4.6 Stars Google

For high-quality, freshly made sushi, this is the place to try. A small cafe on the opposite road of the Ulster Museum makes it so convenient to quickly buy a small box to take with you. With so many food options: vegetarian, chicken, fish, spicy; you are bound to find something you will enjoy. Their maki rolls start at £3.50, and platters start at £53, so feel free to get a small snack or have a whole sushi party. Lastly, their loyalty programme means you can redeem free rewards by spending at least 30 points (£30).

Plus, all Singapore Society and International Society members get an extra 10% off student discount - an amazing bargain!

City Centre

Edo

4.6 Stars Google

Found 5 minutes from Belfast City Hall, is a delicious Spanish Restaurant. This modern venue holds tapas style plates, making it great for groups that like to share dishes or for people looking for some nibbles! A range of exotic foods are offered, as well as the typical seafood, red meats and lots of vegetarian options. Each dish ranges from £4 to £16, which is perfect when sharing 3 to 4 items. I can confidently say that I have not been disappointed with any of my experiences with them and each time I go back, I always make sure to try the other items on their menu!

Mussels from Edo

Neighbourhood Cafe

4.7 Stars Google

Looking for more aesthetic coffee pics? Well look no further with this cafe. Not only do they have well made coffees and drinks, their dishes are just as amazing! With their constantly updating menu, they offer a range of classic breakfasts that are each unique. Ever heard of a £5 Iced Tiramisu (Iced Mocha with cream) or a £12 Tiramisu French Toast (Brioche with Espresso Mascarpone Cream and Brownie Crumb)?

Established Coffee

4.6 Stars Google

One of the most aesthetically pleasing coffee shops in Belfast located in Cathedral Quarter. This café offers a variety of breakfast dishes and treats, including creative and affordable seasonal items. During my first visit, I ordered a £10 sunny side up with hash browns and asparagus. It was incredibly tasty and exceeded my expectations. Additionally, the café sells their barista tools and coffees both online and in-store, allowing you to recreate their drinks at home!

Enjoy seasonal brunch at Established

Six by Nico

4.6 Stars Google

For a more student-friendly priced fine dining experience in Cathedral Quarter, Six by Nico offers 4 to 6 course meals starting from £25 to £42 per person. Every few months, a new menu is released so you can never get bored eating there! I went for the New York Experience through one of their promotional offers on Instagram! It was around £37 for 6 courses + a free drink and it ended up being a wonderful date night for me and my other!

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Student life in Belfast

Study Architecture at Queen's

Philippa Koh Architecture | Undergraduate Student | London, England Hi! My name is Philippa. I am a 20-year-old British Asian born in Singapore. I am currently in my final year of Architecture and the past two years of my time in Belfast has been nothing short of amazing.   During my time, I have tried to create an enriching student experience. I have volunteered at Oxfam, been a Student Representative and now I am the Secretary of the Chess Club. I try to get out of my comfort zone and in the process, I have met so many great people and created lots of memories!