Student Blog: Places to eat on a Student Budget in Bournemouth

Charley Bennett
Year 2 - Master of Chiropractic

One of the biggest perks of living in Bournemouth is that you can find any kind of food you could possibly think of. From classic Italian cuisines to Jamaican flavour bombs, you’ll be spoilt of choice. And the best thing is, most local restaurants offer student discounts and daily deals, so you can definitely awaken your taste buds while still keeping on track with your budget. So, I’ve listed six of my favourite places that provide amazing food which won’t break the bank.

1. The Lounges
This is a chain of restaurants in and around the Bournemouth area. A personal favourite of mine is the Ludo Lounge in Southbourne. They are best known for their burgers and the fact that they cater to anyone with a dietary requirement which makes it a great place to go with a group of friends. They offer a ‘Cheeky Monday’ deal which gets you a free drink or pudding when you order a burger. You can also find them in Westbourne, Christchurch and Winton so you’re never too far from one!

2. Pizza Express
This is one of those old reliable places that we’ve all been to for a bite to eat. The best thing about Pizza Express is that they always have a deal on. They offer up to 30% student discount on weekdays and other various offers at weekends. What’s even better is that they deliver now as well!

3. Little Pickle Deli Café
If you’re after a nice lunch out or a quick cup of tea and a slice of cake, the Little Pickle Deli café has you sorted. They are a 2-minute walk away from AECC University Colleges’ campus and offer students a discount! They strive themselves on their 100+ dishes and the café is run by a local couple so it is nice to support our local, family-run businesses.

4. Reef Encounters
This restaurant is just up from Boscombe sea front. You can sit inside and listen to the live band that they have every Friday evening or sit outside and feel the sea breeze. Either way you can enjoy food at breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner time as they are open all day. I find it a nice place to sit with some tasty food, before going for a walk along the promenade.

5. Boscanova
Boscanova is a hidden gem within Boscombe high street. Situated at the top of the high street, just a few minutes away from AECC University College, it offers luxurious blends of fresh coffee and homemade food. Most of the menu is vegan but they also offer gluten free and allergen friendly food too

6. The Spine & Dine Refectory
On-site we have our own refectory that serves a range of snacks and freshly-made daily meals. You can create your own baguette for lunch or grab a quick coffee between lectures. Conveniently placed downstairs just by our on-campus bar Toggler’s Arms and the student lounge, you can sit down, enjoy a hot meal and relax in-between your busy schedule.

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