How much does a persian restaurant cost in the UK 2026
**TL;DR:** Persian restaurants in the UK typically charge £12-25 for mains, £3-8 for starters, and £2-4 for drinks. Prices vary by location, with London venues costing more than regional restaurants. Budget £40-60 per person for a full meal with drinks.
## Introduction
Planning a meal at a Persian restaurant but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. Understanding what you’ll actually spend helps you choose the right venue. Persian restaurants in the UK offer brilliant value compared to many other cuisines. You’ll find authentic flavours without breaking the bank. Whether you’re in London, Manchester, or Birmingham, knowing typical prices helps you plan ahead. This guide breaks down what you’ll realistically pay at Persian restaurants across the UK in 2026.
## What’s the average cost of mains at a Persian restaurant?
Main courses typically range from £12 to £25 depending on location and restaurant type. In smaller regional restaurants, you’ll pay £12-18. London venues and upmarket spots charge £18-25.
Most Persian restaurants offer generous portions. You’re getting rice, bread, and protein included with your meal. A kebab dish is usually filling enough that you don’t need additional sides. Popular mains like Chicken Tahdig or Lamb Koobideh sit comfortably at £14-20 in most UK locations.
## How much should you budget for a full meal?
Budget £40-60 per person for a complete dining experience with drinks. This breaks down roughly as: starter (£4-8), main (£14-20), soft drink or tea (£2-3), and optional dessert (£5-7).
If you’re sharing starters, you’ll spend closer to £40-45 each. Choose water and skip dessert, and you’re looking at £30-35. Add alcoholic drinks, and you’ll push towards £50-65 per person.
## Is London more expensive than other UK cities?
Yes, significantly. London Persian restaurants charge roughly 30-40% more than regional alternatives. A main course costing £16 in Birmingham might be £22-25 in London’s West End.
In regional cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham, you’ll find better value. Mains typically hover around £14-18. Even in popular university cities, prices remain reasonable. Your money stretches further outside London without sacrificing quality.
## What affects Persian restaurant prices?
Several factors influence what you’ll pay. Restaurant location is the biggest factor. West End venues charge premium prices. Neighbourhood restaurants offer better value.
The restaurant’s rating and reviews matter too. Michelin-listed or award-winning spots cost more. Casual family-run restaurants are genuinely cheaper. Whether you’re eating lunch or dinner affects pricing. Lunch sets often offer good value. Evening meals generally cost more. The specific dish matters as well. Vegetarian options are typically cheaper than meat dishes.
## Can you find budget-friendly Persian restaurants?
Absolutely. Search for independent family-run restaurants rather than chains. Many offer lunch menus with mains at £9-14. Street food style venues and takeaways are cheapest. You’re looking at £8-15 for quality kebabs.
Check online reviews before booking. Look for restaurants offering set menus or lunch specials. These often provide exceptional value. Friday and Saturday evenings are pricier. Weekday lunches and early evening slots cost less.
## Conclusion
Persian restaurants offer brilliant value for money across the UK. You’ll spend between £40-60 per person for a full meal with drinks, though you can find cheaper options if you’re flexible about timing and location. Regional restaurants outside London provide the best value without compromising quality. Don’t assume Persian food means expensive dining. Many independent restaurants charge fair prices for generous, authentic meals. Ready to find a great local spot? Find a Persian restaurant near you by searching our free UK directory. Compare menus, prices, and reviews to discover your next favourite meal.
## FAQ
**Q: Are Persian restaurants cheaper than Indian restaurants in the UK?**
A: Prices are similar. Both cuisines average £14-20 for mains. Regional variations matter more than cuisine type.
**Q: Do Persian restaurants charge service charges?**
A: Many add 12.5% automatically to larger bills. Always check your receipt. Some venues give you the choice.
**Q: Can you get Persian food for under £10 per person?**
A: Yes, at lunch or takeaway only. Sit-down evening meals rarely go below £20-25 per person including drinks.
**Q: Are set menus good value at Persian restaurants?**
A: Usually yes. Set menus typically cost £15-25 and include multiple courses. Better value than ordering individually.
**Q: Do prices vary by season in Persian restaurants?**
A: Not significantly. Prices stay fairly consistent. Special events or Valentine’s Day might see temporary increases.