Swansea's top 10 budget eats

Bangkok Cafe

Discover the vibrant and trendy Bangkok Cafe in Swansea, a unique dining experience inspired by the renowned Thai House restaurant in Cardiff. The sleek, charcoal-grey interior is punctuated by vibrant banquettes, creating an inviting atmosphere. As my mouth-watering dish was presented on a square pink plastic plate, I knew I was in for a delightful surprise.

Indulge in the flavorsome beef Panang, where every element shines with its distinctive taste profile. From the savory peanut base note to the subtly caramelized sweetness of the sauce, not to mention the creamy coconut essence intertwined with hints of lemongrass, lime leaves, and fish sauce. The slight spiciness leaves a tantalizing tingle on your lips, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience for just £5.50 on the lunch menu.

The staff at Bangkok Cafe are both amiable and efficient, adding a touch of warmth to your visit. Be sure to explore their dinner menu as well, featuring noodle soup dishes and complete meals with rice and a side, starting from £7.50.

Experience the culinary wonders of Bangkok Cafe at 46 The Kingsway, Swansea. Contact them at 01792 463220 or visit their website bangkokcafe.co.uk to discover more about their offerings.

Brunswick

If you're a football fan looking for a place to enjoy a pre-match drink that offers both a calm atmosphere and great beer selection, look no further than Brunswick. Located just outside the hustle and bustle of Swansea town center, this pub serves up several real ales, with one even being dispensed straight from the barrel behind the bar. While some may be hesitant about beer served this way, a sample of Otley's Colombo 04 (£2.90) proves that it's worth a try, delivering rich and vibrant hop flavors.

When it comes to food, Brunswick is all about honest and delicious pub grub. Although their menu offers tempting options like fajitas and sweet 'n' sour chicken, sticking to the simple dishes is highly recommended. Whether it's the weekly pie or curry, the chili or bolognese, you can expect flavors that hit the spot. For example, their goulash (£4.99) impresses with fruity paprika and tomato notes, tender beef, and a generous side portion of perfect rice. To add a touch of creaminess, there's a small pot of sour cream on the side, ready to be stirred in.

Unlike many gastropubs that often disappoint, The Brunswick knows how to deliver unfussy and tasty food without breaking the bank. With sandwiches and snacks starting from £1.99 and mains priced between £3.95 and £5.99, this spot proves that a satisfying meal doesn't need to cost a fortune.

Sandwiches and snacks from £1.99, mains £3.95-£5.99.Visit their website for more information.

One Shoe Cafe

If you're craving a strong and flavorful cup of coffee, you may want to give Holbrook's in Swansea town centre a try. While they may be known for their coffee, I found their espresso to be a bit on the thin side. However, if you're looking for a quick brew and a sweet treat, their Gower Cottage Brownie is a must-try.

If you're in the mood for a more substantial breakfast or a tasty lunchtime sandwich, I suggest making a 10-minute walk to the charming One Shoe Cafe. Housed in a former cobblers and located on a residential street, this little gem offers a cozy atmosphere and serves up quality coffee, delicious bacon butties, and scrumptious homemade cakes. Don't miss out on their limited-edition brownies, which are known to fly off the shelves.

The One Shoe Cafe is located at 1 King Edward Road and can be reached at 07543 439595.

For more information about Holbrook's, visit their website at holbrooksonline.co.uk.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Swansea - The Swansea Pie

Contrary to popular belief, Swansea has its very own signature pie, boasting a tantalizing combination of minced beef, onions, and a rich, beefy gravy. The perfect treat to warm you up before watching a thrilling match at the Liberty Stadium during the chilly November months. Among the local bakers, Saunders, located conveniently near the stadium on 85 Pentre Treharne Road, is known for their excellent rendition of the Swansea Pie, although I unfortunately did not get a chance to try it myself.

In my quest to find the ultimate Swansea Pie, I sampled two other contenders. Reed's, situated on 231 Oxford Street and priced affordably at £1.10, boasted a meatier and chunkier filling, bursting with a delectable blend of salty, beefy flavors. However, the pastry was slightly greasy, which may be a turn-off for some. On the other hand, the Gower Pasty Company, located on Bryn-y-mor Road in Uplands and accessible at gowerpasty.com, showcased a more refined flavor and an exquisite, crispy pastry. Sadly, the filling was a bit on the thin side. For those who enjoy pasties, the Pasty Co is a must-visit spot, as they proudly offer a range of upmarket pasties from renowned producers nationwide. Among their selection, their signature lamb pasty, made according to their own recipe in Newquay, was a tasty treat priced at £2.50. Although the pieces of lamb were a bit scraggly, they failed to assert their flavor amidst a medley of potatoes, vegetables, and the aromatic seasoning of rosemary and pepper. Excitingly, the Pasty Co recently acquired a local flock of sheep, destined to be the stars of their pasties, promising an even more flavorful experience in the near future.

Swansea Market

When it comes to indoor markets, Swansea's is a standout. Unlike many others, this bustling market is full of vibrant stalls offering a variety of delectable treats. From plump Gower cockles to fresh laverbread, there's something for every palate. Despite its iron-rich and vegetal flavor, laverbread didn't quite win me over, but the Welsh cakes from Karen Evans' stall were a delightful alternative. These half-scone, half-biscuit treats are warm, moist, and dusted with sugar, making them incredibly appetizing. And if you're craving something more savory, Punjabi Tiffin's curries are highly recommended. Their crisp and light potato and pea samosas have the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making them absolutely fantastic.

For more information about Swansea's indoor market, visit their official website at swanseaindoormarket.co.uk.

Rose Indienne: A Hidden Gem for Budget Eats in Swansea

If you're looking for a satisfying and affordable meal in Swansea, look no further than Rose Indienne. While their website no longer offers the £5.95 business lunch, this smart and modern curry house still delivers an impressive dining experience at a wallet-friendly price.

Despite being the only patron during my visit at 1pm on a Friday, the quality of the food at Rose Indienne was undeniable. With options like chicken and vegetarian dishes, you can easily enjoy a hearty meal for under £10 per person. I had the pleasure of trying their sample rogan josh, which boasted tender and succulent lamb cooked in a rich, tomato-sweetened sauce complemented by vibrant herbs and aromatic spices. Every bite was a harmonious explosion of flavors.

While the restaurant may have been quiet during my lunchtime visit, I noticed that it was bustling with diners when I passed by on a Friday night - a testament to its well-deserved popularity.

If you're looking to experience Rose Indienne's delicious offerings, their mains start from just £5.50, with rice and naan bread available from £1.70. Located at 73-74 St Helens Road, you can reach them at 01792 467000 or visit their website at roseindienne.co.uk.

So why not treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at Rose Indienne, where affordable prices meet exceptional taste.

Govinda's

If you're looking for a taste of spiritual awakening in Swansea, the vegetarian/vegan Hare Krishna-run cafe, Govinda's, is a must-visit. While their veggie burger may not convert dedicated meat eaters, the eggless mayo and house tomato chutney are surprisingly delicious. The lentil and nut burger offers a delightful mushroom flavor, adding to the diverse menu which includes daily hot vegetarian dishes, kofta and hummus wraps, dahls, and pizza.

Although the canteen space may be a bit dated, the tranquil atmosphere is in line with the spiritual ethos of the cafe. Prices at Govinda's are budget-friendly, ranging from snacks (£1.50-£2.99) to mains (£3.75-£5.99). To explore their menu further or plan your visit, you can visit their website at govindasswansea.co.uk or contact them at 01792 468469. Enjoy a mindful and fulfilling dining experience at Govinda's.

Verdi's

In Swansea, there's a long-standing rivalry between two gelato establishments: Joe's ice-cream and Verdi's. While Joe's has been a local favorite for years, Verdi's is making quite an impression with its fresh and flavorful creations. Located in Mumbles, Verdi's boasts a beachfront cafe-complex where you can enjoy their delicious ice-creams and sorbets made using locally sourced milk and cream. If you're a fan of unique flavors, their apple crumble ice-cream is highly recommended - it's lustrously thick, creamy, and bursting with true and clean flavors.

If you're in Swansea, why not do a taste-test yourself? You can find both Joe's and Verdi's parlors just a couple of hundred meters from each other. Joe's ice-cream is a long-standing institution, known for its traditional Italian gelato (joes-icecream.co.uk). On the other hand, Verdi's gelato is gaining popularity with its fresh and locally sourced ingredients, located at Knab Rock in Mumbles (verdis-cafe.co.uk). So take your pick and treat yourself to a delicious gelato experience in Swansea.

The Kitchen Table

Discover a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Swansea's Mumbles. The Kitchen Table, owned by Anna and Adam Robertson, is housed in a charming former pottery shop adorned with unique artsy-crafty bric-a-brac. Immerse yourself in a modern foodie experience that champions local and Welsh ingredients.

The menu at The Kitchen Table showcases the best produce Wales has to offer, from the renowned Halen Môn sea salt to the flavorful brews of Tomos Watkin's brewery. While the café-restaurant is renowned for its vegetarian options, the carnivores among us need not worry - their meat dishes are equally enticing.

Sink your teeth into the Welsh beef steak burger. The quality of the beef is excellent, but it truly shines when accompanied by the zingy red onion and tomato salsa. A captivating side-salad, adorned with a luscious dollop of homemade coleslaw, elevates the dish further. Priced at £7.80, it may seem slightly steep, but the use of premium ingredients justifies the cost. Plus, you'll also be treated to a generous serving of skin-on sautéed potatoes, making it a truly satisfying and complete meal.

If you're in the mood for an evening affair, The Kitchen Table extends its culinary delights into the night. Indulge in a two-course meal for £14.50, where every bite promises to captivate your taste buds.

For those seeking a budget-friendly option, fear not. The Kitchen Table offers breakfast items ranging from £1.50 to £7.50, and its daytime menu features sandwiches, salads, and mains with prices ranging from £3.50 to £6.80, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Located at 626 Mumbles Road, The Kitchen Table welcomes both locals and tourists alike to explore their delectable creations. To learn more and whet your appetite, visit their website: thekitchentablecafe.co.uk.

Indulge in Decadence at So Cocoa

Step into a world of chocolatey delights at So Cocoa, a hidden gem tucked away on a charming side street in Mumbles. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option on our list, the exquisite taste experience is worth every penny. So Cocoa is not just a gourmet chocolatier, but also a purveyor of scrumptious homemade cakes crafted by local artisans.

Prepare to have your taste buds transported as you indulge in their heavenly citron tart, where the delicate pastry mysteriously dissolves in your mouth. And if you're in the mood for something indulgent, try their delightful whoopie pies and delectable brownies. While their carrot cake might not be as awe-inspiring, it still hits the spot. Our advice? Grab some of their mouthwatering cakes, pair it with a takeaway coffee from a nearby spot, and find a cozy bench by the seafront to savor every delightful bite. And even if you're not hungry now, you won't regret buying a cake or two for a sweet treat later. For just £2, this could be the best culinary investment you make in Swansea.

Ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure at So Cocoa? Discover their delectable treats and learn more on their official website: sococoa.co.uk

For those traveling from Manchester to Swansea, Arriva Trains Wales offers a convenient way to reach your destination. Plan your journey and find tickets at arrivatrainswales.co.uk.

Looking for accommodation in Swansea? Look no further than Morgan's Hotel & Town House. With comfortable doubles starting from just £65 a night, including a delicious breakfast, it's the perfect base for your Welsh adventure. Explore their offerings and book your stay.

If you're looking for a different option, the Ibis Swansea Hotel is another excellent choice. Offering affordable rooms and a convenient location, it provides a comfortable stay for those visiting Swansea.

For more information about Swansea and Mumbles, visit visitswanseabay.com. If you're eager to explore further into the scenic wonders of Wales, check out visitwales.co.uk for a comprehensive guide to the country's attractions.

If you're specifically interested in hotels near Brynmill Park, consider the Swansea hotels near Brynmill Park. These hotels offer convenience and proximity to the park, allowing you to easily enjoy its beautiful surroundings.

Looking for a luxurious stay? Luxury Hotel on tophotels.com offers a breathtaking experience with its spa facilities and stunning views. Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation during your visit to Swansea.