Affordable Valentine’s Day restaurants near you – the best local spots in the UK

Valentine’s Day isn’t all about pricey tasting menus or booking the last table in a crowded chain restaurant. Some of the best date nights happen in the small, family‑run places right on your doorstep; the ones cooking with love all year round, not just on 14 February.

Our thinkmoney eating out guide brings together the best budget restaurants across six cities in the UK, from cosy neighbourhood spots to long-standing local favourites. They’re all highly rated, offer great value, and most of them are independent and family owned.

So, whether you’re in Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Sheffield, or Birmingham, take a look to see if there’s a hidden gem right around the corner.

Manchester

In Manchester, we strongly recommend Yum Cha, Bill’s Spinningfields, Zouk Tea Bar & Grill, The Allotment, and Trof Northern Quarter. Here’s a little more about these spots.

Yum Cha

Tripadvisor score: 4.5 out of 5.0

Budget: £ / ££

Location: 24 Minshull St, Manchester M1 3EF

Yum Cha is a casual, vibrant dim‑sum restaurant known for steamed dumplings, small plates and dishes made for sharing. It’s fun, colourful and a great option if you prefer an easy-going date instead of a formal Valentine’s dinner.

There’s no special Valentine’s set menu, but the regular menu is perfect for couples who like tasting lots of things together. It might not work if you prefer something quiet and intimate as Yum Cha is lively and buzzing at peak times. Also, if you’re not a fan of sharing small plates and prefer your own big, hearty meal, you might want to look elsewhere.

Trof Northern Quarter

Tripadvisor score: 4.4 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 8 Thomas Street, M4 1EU

Trof is a character‑filled bar‑restaurant with good cocktails, mocktails and a comforting British menu. They don’t offer a formal Valentine’s menu, but will run a one‑off Valentine’s special which is currently a surprise. It feels relaxed, warm and very Northern Quarter.

Trof is a great choice if you’re single too; they’ll be offering a free shot after 9pm to anyone who gives in a phone number to pass on to someone else in the room. Perhaps one way to be struck by Cupid this Valentine’s Day?

Bill’s Spinningfields

Tripadvisor score: 4.3 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 3 Hardman Square, M3 3EB

Bill’s is a warm, dependable favourite offering seasonal British dishes in a bright, cosy setting. Their Valentine’s menu includes two courses and a cocktail priced at £32.95 with the option to add dessert for an extra fiver.

It’s simple, friendly and great if you want something easy with no surprises. It might not be right for couples wanting something quirky or ultra‑independent; Bill’s feels relaxed and familiar rather than unique or edgy.

The Allotment Vegan & Vegetarian Eatery

Tripadvisor score: 4.1 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 1–3 Cathedral Gates, M3 1SW

The Allotment is a cosy, plant‑based restaurant serving seasonal vegan and vegetarian dishes with creative, colourful flavours. Their Valentine’s menu offers two courses for £29.95 or three courses for £35.95.

This is a great choice for couples who enjoy seasonal vegan and vegetarian dishes. However, a few of the one-star reviews do mention slow service during busy times, and you may need to sit at the bar for a bit even if you’ve booked as tables aren’t always ready on time.

Zouk Tea Bar & Grill

Tripadvisor score: 3.5 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Chester St, M1 5QS

Zouk is bold, bustling and packed with Indian and Pakistani‑inspired dishes, from curries to grills. Their Valentine’s set menu is priced at £39.95 and includes a cocktail and entertainment, making it feel more like an event than a quiet dinner.

It's perfect for couples who want energy, flavour and a bit of spectacle. However, some reviewers complain service can be slow, especially during peak times, so worth keeping in mind if you're after a quick meal.

Birmingham

In Birmingham, we love the look of The Indian Streatery, Three Church Road, Slug & Lettuce Harborne, Pasture Birmingham, The Victoria Barnt Green, and The Lost & Found. Here’s a little more info about these local spots.

Pasture Birmingham

Tripadvisor score: 4.8 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 15 Colmore Row, B3 2BH

Pasture is a modern steakhouse known for bold flavours, excellent cuts of meat and polished service. Their Valentine’s set menu is £69 per person for four courses with bubbles on arrival; indulgent but still reasonable for a special night.

It’s a great choice if you want a stylish experience without going into fine‑dining territory. It might not suit vegetarian couples, or anyone after a very cheap night out as the focus is quality over low cost.

The Victoria Barnt Green

Tripadvisor score: 4.4 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 113 Hewell Road, Barnt Green, B45 8NW

The Victoria is not technically in Birmingham, but it’s a strong local pick offering a proper Valentine’s menu (three courses for around £39.95 per person). Expect classic British favourites in a cosy, welcoming space.

It’s well‑liked for good value and hearty dishes, ideal for couples wanting traditional comfort food. However, it’s a little out of the way, so best suited to those local; otherwise, it’s a 26-minute train ride or 40-minute car ride from the centre of Birmingham.

The Indian Streatery

Tripadvisor score: 4.6 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 21A Bennetts Hill, B2 5QP

The Indian Streatery is a much‑loved Indian restaurant serving creative street‑food dishes, chaat, curries and small plates. It’s lively, colourful and known for bold flavours without being pricey. There isn’t a specific Valentine’s menu listed, but the regular menu is already ideal for sharing.

This is great for couples who want something tasty, informal and full of flavour. But, some reviewers complain about portions being on the small side and service being slow at busy side. It might be a good option for those with smaller appetites though.

The Lost & Found

Tripadvisor score: 4.2 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 8 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RS

The Lost & Found is a stylish, botanical‑themed restaurant known for cocktails, inventive British dishes and a whimsical interior. Their 3‑course Valentine’s menu is priced around £34.95 and feels special without being expensive.

It's perfect for couples who want a romantic setting with great drinks and a bit of atmosphere, Some reviewers complained about the music being too loud; good if you’re after a lively vibe, not so great if you’re looking for a quiet night with your partner.

Slug & Lettuce Harborne

Tripadvisor score: 4.2 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 186–196 High Street, Harborne, B17 9PP

Slug & Lettuce offers British mains, cocktails and fun desserts in a bright, modern space. It’s reliable, upbeat and a good mid‑range option for Valentine’s. They don’t advertise a Valentine’s menu but often run seasonal specials.

Great for couples who want something a little more upmarket and social. It might not be ideal for those looking for something more quirky and independent though, as it is a chain. On busy evenings, there are bouncers in place and some reviews mention a dress code, so worth double checking before you book.

Three Church Road

Tripadvisor score: 3.9 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 3 Church Rd, Birmingham B15 3SH

Three Church Road is a stylish, relaxed bistro set inside a beautiful Georgian building. Expect classic British and European dishes in an elegant but still approachable setting. They don’t showcase a Valentine’s set menu, but they do offer a good‑value winter menu and afternoon tea.

It's perfect if you want something refined but not overly formal. It might not suit those looking for the cheapest option as it leans more “treat night” than “budget dinner”.

Cardiff

In Cardiff, we love the look of On the River, Mum’s Daily, Madhav, Chilli Basil, and Vegetarian Food Studio. Here’s a little more about these spots.

On the River

Tripadvisor score: 4.8 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 59 Despenser Street, CF11 6AG

On the River is a relaxed riverside bar‑restaurant serving wood‑fired pizzas, street‑food‑style dishes and drinks made with local flavours. The welcoming, lively atmosphere makes it feel both special and informal.

On Valentine’s Day, expect their usual food and drinks, a scenic riverside setting, and a buzzy atmosphere just steps from the Millenium Stadium.

It’s perfect for couples who want somewhere fun, central and different from the usual city‑centre chains. That said, it might not be the right place if you’re after something calm and intimate; it gets lively and busy here with more of a social vibe.

Mum’s Daily (Indian & Kerala Café)

Tripadvisor score: 4.7 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 149 Cowbridge Road East, CF11 9AH

Mum’s Daily serves homely, flavourful Indian and Kerala dishes, all cooked fresh with care. Portions are generous, service is warm, and the menu has plenty of vegetarian, vegan and meat options. There’s no Valentine’s menu listed, but the regular dishes make it ideal for a cosy date night.

It’s perfect for couples who like relaxed, home‑cooked flavours and great value. It's not ideal for anyone wanting speedy dining; dishes are cooked fresh to order, so things may come out at different times.

Madhav

Tripadvisor score: 4.6 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 59 Lower Cathedral Road, CF11 6LW

Madhav is a long‑loved Indian vegetarian spot attached to a grocery shop, serving thalis, dosa, snacks and comforting Indian street‑food dishes. It’s simple, authentic and very affordable.

Expect no‑frills décor, fresh home‑style food, and generous portions. It’s a hidden gem for those who want tasty food without the fuss. Those looking for a full restaurant “experience” should look elsewhere; Madhav is for couples who value flavour over ambience and want something hearty and low-cost.

Chilli Basil

Tripadvisor score: 4.6 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 232 City Road, CF24 3JH

Chilli Basil is a cosy Thai restaurant serving fresh, flavourful dishes cooked to order. It’s known for great value, friendly service and proper Thai flavours in a laid‑back space.

It’s perfect for couples who want tasty, no‑frills Thai food in a relaxed, friendly setting, but might not be right for those wanting a polished dining room. Chilli Basil is functional, busy, canteen-style and very casual.

Vegetarian Food Studio

Tripadvisor score: 4.3 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 115–117 Penarth Road, CF11 6JU

Vegetarian Food Studio is a long‑standing Cardiff favourite serving vegetarian and vegan Indian dishes, including thalis, street‑food snacks and generous mains. People love the portion sizes, variety and great prices. On Valentine’s Day, expect their usual menu plus unlimited thalis and a free glass of wine with your meal.

It’s perfect for couples who love Indian veg dishes and want something filling, fun and great value. If there are meat eaters among you who can’t get on with veg, maybe look elsewhere.

Edinburgh

In Edinburgh, we like the look of Locanda de Gusti, Blonde Restaurant, Dine Edinburgh, Society Bar & Kitchen, and Monteiths. Here’s a little more about these local favourites.

Locanda de Gusti

Tripadvisor score: 4.8 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 102 Dalry Road, EH11 2DW

Locanda de Gusti is an authentic Italian restaurant serving seafood, handmade pasta and classic southern Italian dishes. It’s cosy, warm and known for excellent cooking without being formal.

It’s ideal for couples who want proper Italian food cooked from scratch, but it’s definitely on the pricier end. Also, because of how busy it gets, there is a cancellation fee of £30 per head when you reserve and often a time limit on the tables, so bear that in mind if you’re after a little more flexibility.

Blonde Restaurant

Tripadvisor score: 4.7 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 75 St Leonard’s Street, EH8 9QR

Blonde is a stylish but welcoming modern European restaurant with thoughtful dishes and a relaxed vibe. It feels special without ever being stuffy.

It's a great pick for couples who want something elegant but not over‑the‑top. While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some reviewers were unhappy with the service they received. That said, these reviews are few and far in between, and the overwhelming majority rave about the food and service alike.

Dine Edinburgh

Tripadvisor score: 4.8 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 10 Cambridge Street, EH1 2ED

Dine offers seasonal European dishes in a polished but relaxed brasserie setting. It's popular for date nights, thanks to fair pricing and high‑quality cooking.

It's perfect if you want something modern and well put‑together without fine‑dining prices. This is definitely not the spot for couples who want casual and quirky; Dine is polished and grown-up.

Society Bar & Kitchen

Tripadvisor score: 4.5 out of 5.0

Budget: £ / ££

Location: 1–3 Waterloo Place, EH1 3BG

Society Bar & Kitchen is a friendly all‑day bistro serving Scottish and European dishes in a bright, modern space. It’s central, unfussy and ideal for a relaxed Valentine’s dinner.

Great for couples who want good food without ceremony, but not the spot for those looking for a romantic “old Edinburgh” feel; the vibe here is more modern and casual.

Monteiths

Tripadvisor score: 4.3 out of 5.0

Budget: ££

Location: 61 High Street, EH1 1SR

Monteiths is a classic Edinburgh date spot, tucked away just off the Royal Mile. Expect a cosy underground setting, Scottish dishes and plenty of wine options.

This is perfect if you’re after a central location, but it is smack in the middle of the Old Town and gets popular, so might not be the best fit for those wanting to avoid busy tourist areas.

Liverpool

In Liverpool, we absolute loved the look of Bao & Bap, Carlisi, The Edge at Joey Orr’s, Bakchich, and Shiraz BBQ. Here’s a little more about these independent eateries.

Bao & Bap

Tripadvisor score: 4.9 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 14 Rodney Street, L1 2TE

Bao & Bap is a tiny East Asian comfort‑food spot offering warming bowls, dumplings and homemade flavours. People love the food here, but they also rave about the generous portion sizes and great prices.

You can expect their usual menu on Valentine’s Day, plus a free dessert for every table. They’ll also decorate the place and dim the lights for a little more ambience. Just a 10-minute walk from Liverpool Central, it’s easy to get to from the city centre as well.

Carlisi

Tripadvisor score: 4.8 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location:

• Dale Street: 92–94 Dale Street, L2 5TF

• Allerton Road: 57 Allerton Road, L18 2DA

Carlisi is a lively Italian‑fusion bar serving Sicilian‑inspired small plates, fresh pasta and cocktails. There’s two branches – one on Allerton Road and one on Dale Street. Both locations have a warm, buzzy feel but the Dale Street branch is especially handy for the city centre.

On Valentine’s Day, the Allerton Road site offers a special menu to choose from, while Dale Street sticks to its regular dishes.

Dale Street is just an 8–10 minute walk or a quick bus ride from Liverpool Central; Allerton Road is further out but still manageable by public transport; we’re talking a 30 minute trip. It’s perfect for an Italian-inspired chic night out with cocktails and delicious food but might not suit a couple looking for a more intimate ambience.

The Edge at Joey Orr’s

Tripadvisor score: 4.8 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 499 Rice Lane, L9 8AP

A warm, family‑run gastropub serving homemade British classics in a cosy, welcoming space. Guests praise the value, the quality of the food and the genuinely friendly staff.

It’s about 20 minutes from central Liverpool by public transport, making it a calmer pick if you want to escape the busier areas.

Great for a heartwarming, relaxed meal where the atmosphere feels local and genuine, but might not suit those looking for something sleek and central. Some reviewers say service can be slow when it gets busy, but if you ask us, that’s a plus on Valentine’s Day; more time to enjoy your date’s company over drinks.

Shiraz Middle Eastern & Mediterranean BBQ Grill

Tripadvisor score: 4.7 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 19 North John Street, L2 5QU

Shiraz BBQ is a relaxed Middle Eastern and Mediterranean grill famous for big charcoal‑cooked plates and hearty comfort food. The atmosphere is lively, warm and great value for the portion sizes.

It’s only about a 10‑minute walk from Liverpool Central, so very convenient for a low‑key, tasty date night.

It's fantastic for couples who want filling, flavourful food without any formality. However, it can get busy at peak times, and some reviewers say vegan options are limited.

Bakchich

Tripadvisor score: 4.5 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 54 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4EA

Bakchich serves bright, flavour‑packed Lebanese and Moroccan dishes, from mezze and wraps to grills and shawarma. It’s known for generous portions, good value and a lively, colourful atmosphere.

Right on Bold Street, it’s only a few minutes from Liverpool Central, making it one of the easiest date‑night stops.

It's perfect for couples who want bold flavours and lots of choice. It's not ideal if you’re after wining and dining your date; they don’t do alcohol. But, you’re so close to the hustle and bustle of Liverpool’s night scene that you can easily go for a post-dinner Valentine’s drink after.

Sheffield

In Sheffield, our favourite spots included Paesani, Napoli Centro, Nings Thai Street Food, Năm Song, and The Nags Head. Here’s a little more about these small independents where you can have a brilliant Valentine’s Day on a budget.

Paesani

Tripadvisor score: 4.9 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 257-259 Crookes, S10 1TF

Paesani is a cosy Italian pizzeria known for proper wood‑fired pizza made with slow‑proved dough and top‑quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes. It has a warm neighbourhood feel and excellent value for money.

This one’s a little out of the way, you’ll have to make your way to Crookes if you want to eat here, so might not be ideal for those wanting a City Centre location.

Napoli Centro

Tripadvisor score: 4.9 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 343 Glossop Road, S10 2HP

Napoli Centro serves classic Neapolitan pizza cooked hot and fast, with soft dough, great ingredients and a fiery oven. They offer a great‑value Valentine’s set menu too; you get a starter, pizza, and dessert for £25 per person.

It’s ideal for couples wanting brilliant pizza in a small, lively setting. The vibe is upbeat and busy, so not well suited to those looking for a long, lingering meal in a quiet atmosphere.

Nings Thai Street Food

Tripadvisor score: 4.7 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 35 High Street, S1 2GA

Nings offers fresh Thai street‑food dishes made to order, with generous portions, low prices and a very central location. It’s quick, tasty and perfect before heading out for drinks after.

It's great for couples who want something flavourful, casual and affordable, but it is informal. Think “fast, fresh, and friendly” rather than candlelit and formal.

The Nags Head

Tripadvisor score: 4.5 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: Loxley Rd, Stacey Bank, Sheffield S6 6SJ

The Nags Head is a rustic pub serving hearty British dishes, local Bradfield Brewery ales and great‑value Valentine’s specials; they're doing a £45 per couple menu where you get steak, prosecco or a paint, and a side of your choice. We reckon £45 isn't too bad for a full meal and a drink for two people these days.

It's absolutely perfect for a countryside‑style date that’s still close to the city. You may have to give it a miss if you don’t drive though; it’s around a 20-minute drive from Sheffield City Centre and not ideal if you want something city-based.

Năm Song

Tripadvisor score: 4.4 out of 5.0

Budget: £

Location: 215-219 Fulwood Rd, S10 3BA

Năm Song is a vibrant Vietnamese café serving pho, Vietnamese coffee and colourful comfort dishes. The space has a laid‑back feel and makes for a relaxed, cosy date spot. It’s a little out of the way though; around 20 mins by public transport from the city centre, or a good 30 minute walk if you’re so inclined. The cosy atmosphere and nearby bars make it easy to stretch your Valentine’s evening out a little further.

A quick final word

Wherever you are this Valentine’s Day, you don’t need a £90 tasting menu at an overpriced, busy chain to have a good night. Across the UK, the local eateries on your high street, the family‑run pizzerias, the neighbourhood curry houses, the cosy pubs serving proper homemade food, are ready to give you a warm welcome without emptying your wallet.