The food scene in Southampton is solid, but it's not usually the main tourist attraction. However, there are some charming eateries in the port city that you should check out. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Southampton is around $82 (£64) per person, with previous travelers spending from $36 to $154. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Southampton are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $25
- Lunch: $12 to $33
- Dinner: $25 to $58
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $12
If you're looking for a good place to eat, your best options are to head to either Oxford Street, High Street or Bedford Place. Oxford Street tends to have the more expensive restaurants that are absolutely delicious, but may cost more than you're looking to spend. The area has a very European atmosphere and there is plenty of outdoor seating. This is a great area to dine on a nice day when you can enjoy the sunshine.
High Street has a good mix of both restaurants and pubs. There are some good, but somewhat expensive international restaurants. These include Thai, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, and Indian options.
Bedford Place has a diverse selection of options with many different ethnic restaurants and some affordable fish and chips options as well. They are a good value if you're on a budget. There are international options that include Chinese and Mexican at the south end of the road. As you move further down the road you'll find many curry houses and late night kebab and chip shops that cater to the student crowd.
You'll also find plenty of fast food restaurants spread out all around town. If you're desperate for a McDonalds or any other chain, then you're likely to find it somewhere in Southampton. There are also plenty of pubs and bars, many of which cater to the young student crowd, which keeps them lively and cheaply priced.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Fill a water bottle rather than purchasing drinks constantly. It's a smart and eco-friendly choice.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Southampton, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Luxury Sailing Experience Day with Champagne and Lunch or Dinner for $193 details
Below are some standard food costs in Southampton, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.