Top Restaurants in Aberdeen for Students — Budget & Value (2025)

TL;DR 

• Aberdeen has a lively student-friendly food scene with budget favourites (J.W.’s Sushi, Foodstory), solid mid-range picks (8848 Restaurant, Maggie’s Grill, Chaophraya) and special-occasion restaurants (Moonfish Café, Café Bohème, The Silver Darling).
• Budget bracket: under £10 per person — J.W.’s Sushi, Foodstory, So…NYC and Parx Café are repeatedly recommended for cheap, filling meals.
• Mid-range (£10–£20): 8848, Maggie’s Grill, Chaophraya and Tango Turtle offer group-friendly and flavourful options with generous portions.
• Special occasions (£20+): Moonfish Café (Merchant Quarter), Café Bohème and The Silver Darling serve higher-end menus and great ambience/harbour views.
• Practical tips from the article: ask for student discounts (not always advertised), share dishes to save money, use Deliveroo/UberEats/Just Eat when you’re staying in, and plan visits around lunch/early-evening deals.

Being a student in Aberdeen doesn't mean you have to survive on beans on toast and instant noodles for three years. This city's got a proper food scene that cares about student wallets. Aberdeen offers incredible student dining, top budget picks include J.W.'s Sushi and Foodstory. Mid-range gems like 8848 Restaurant and Maggie's Grill offer exceptional value. Many places provide student discounts, and most are within walking distance of student accommodations in Aberdeen. 

Why Aberdeen's Restaurant Scene Works for Students

Aberdeen's restaurant landscape will surprise you more than you expected. Unlike cities where student areas get stuck with overpriced chain restaurants and dodgy takeaways, Aberdeen's food scene genuinely embraces its student population.

The city hosts over 30,000 students across the top universities of Aberdeen. It just takes 10 minutes to walk, and students can enjoy their short breaks by exploring delicious meals.  Since it is a coastal area, students can delight in fresh seafood on a budget. 

Apart from the best eateries, students can also explore other aspects of city life that make studying in Aberdeen mesmerising.

Also read:

Everything You Need To Know About Aberdeen As a Student

Student Budget Breakdown:

It is crucial to plan your cost of living in Aberdeen and track your expenses, as this helps students decide which restaurants to visit based on their budget. The guide below can be used as a reference to help plan a day out. 

Best Budget Restaurants (Under £10 Per Person)

J.W.'s Sushi - 51 Huntly Street

Sushi in Aberdeen for under £10? Turns out J.W.'s serves genuinely massive portion sizes. Two people can easily share one serving and still feel satisfied.

There is no compromise on the quality of food; students get access to fresh ingredients and genuine recipes that make even pricey London sushi restaurants feel overrated.

It is among the favourite spots for students since it offers healthy food at a reasonable rate. Additionally, with Aberdeen’s excellent transportation system, students can find it easy to commute after the lectures or in the evening. 

Website: https://www.jwsushi.co.uk/

Foodstory - Multiple Locations

Foodstory is a go-to for healthy, filling meals that won't destroy your budget. Their vegetarian focus means lower prices, but even dedicated carnivores find options they love.

The sourdough toasties are genuinely brilliant - proper ingredients, generous portions, and usually under £8. Their brunch bowls work perfectly for those lazy weekend mornings when you can't face cooking.

What sets Foodstory apart is the atmosphere. Students genuinely study here, the WiFi works properly, and the staff don't make you feel unwelcome for lingering over coffee. The outdoor seating at their beach location is perfect for sunny days. Since it is located in prime areas, there are countless Aberdeen’s best properties around. Students can choose one and reside conveniently throughout their academic year. 

Website: https://foodstorycafe.co.uk/

So...NYC - Union Street

American-style bagels are done properly in Aberdeen. Every bagel is made to order, which means fresh ingredients and customisation for dietary requirements.

Their cream cheese bagels are two meals' worth of food for around £6. Perfect for sharing or saving half for later.

The F.R.I.E.N.D.S-themed menu names add charm without being cringe. Staff understand student schedules and don't rush you during busy periods. The central location makes it perfect for meeting friends between lectures.  

Website: https://www.soaberdeen.co.uk/

Parx Café - Rubislaw Terrace

The chicken poke bowl at Parx offers incredible value, it offers proper portions and is under £8.

The outdoor seating works brilliantly on Aberdeen's surprisingly frequent sunny days. The location feels slightly away from tourist areas, so you get a more authentic local atmosphere. Students can explore fun facts about Aberdeen while enjoying their meal, making it a great spot to relax and soak in the city’s charm without the usual tourist buzz.

Staff remember regular customers, which matters when you're far from home. The coffee is good, making it suitable for study sessions when your accommodation's WiFi is playing up. 

Website: https://parxcafe.co.uk/

Middle-Range Winners (£10-20 Per Person)

8848 Restaurant - Union Street

Hands down the best Indian and Nepali food in Aberdeen. The multi-award-winning status isn't just marketing - the food genuinely justifies higher prices.

Their signature Lamb Shank Rogan Josh represents incredible value at around £15. The portion size satisfies two people, and the quality rivals London restaurants charging double. 

For vegetarians, the Bikaneri Paneer Tikka showcases traditional techniques with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Student groups often share multiple dishes, which keeps individual costs reasonable while trying diverse flavours.

The location on Union Street makes it accessible from most student accommodations. Staff understand student budgets and never pressure you into expensive additions.

Website: https://8848restaurant.co.uk/

Maggie's Grill - Multiple Locations 

New Orleans-inspired soul food that delivers on flavour. The atmosphere feels properly welcoming rather than trying too hard to be authentic.

Their jerk chicken dishes offer proper spice levels and generous portions, around £12-15. The sharing platters work brilliantly for student groups wanting to try multiple items.

Maggie understands timing - quick service during lunch hours for students between lectures, but a relaxed atmosphere for evening meals with friends. Both the city centre and Marischal Square locations stay busy with students. Getting hungry just thinking about it? Aberdeen is ready to serve you. Take a look at the packaging guide of Aberdeen and get ready to treat yourself.

Website: https://maggiesgrill.co.uk/

Chaophraya - Union Terrace

Thai cuisine that manages to be both authentic and student-budget friendly. The sharing platters work perfectly for groups wanting to experience multiple dishes.

Their Sweet & Sour Crispy Chicken balances traditional techniques with accessible flavours. Portion sizes ensure nobody leaves hungry, and prices remain reasonable for city centre dining.

The Deliveroo option means you can enjoy restaurant-quality Thai food from your student accommodation. Perfect for study nights when cooking feels impossible but you want something better than pizza. Thai cuisine that manages to be both authentic and student-budget friendly. The sharing platters work perfectly for groups wanting to 

When you’re ready to take a break from studying, Aberdeen’s buzzing nightlife is just around the corner. With plenty of student clubs and live music venues, it’s easy to turn a relaxed dinner into a fun night out with friends, all within walking distance.

Website: https://chaophraya.co.uk/

Tango Turtle - Caribbean Inspired

Caribbean-inspired food that brings proper excitement to Aberdeen's dining scene. Their jerk chicken and plantain dishes offer flavours you won't find elsewhere in the city.

The atmosphere feels energetic without being overwhelming. Perfect for student celebrations or when you want something different from typical pub food.

Uber Eats delivery works reliably, making it perfect for accommodation dinner parties. The value proposition works well for special occasions when you want restaurant quality at reasonable prices.

Website: https://tango-turtle-caribbean-inspired-restaurant.restaurants-world.com/

Special Occasion Restaurants (£20+ Per Person)

Moonfish Café - Merchant Quarter

Michelin Guide recognition might suggest unaffordable prices, but Moonfish offers lunch options that work for student budgets during special occasions.

MasterChef finalist Brain McLeish makes dishes that feel special, not just expensive. Students can visit this place to celebrate special occasions or have a great family time. If you love the vibe and are willing to reside nearby, Merchant Quarter is one of the best areas to live in Aberdeen. With delicious food and quick access to everything, it is easy to settle. 

Website: https://www.moonfishcafe.co.uk/

Café Bohème - Windmill Brae

A French-Scottish fusion that delivers sophistication without pretension. The tasting menu feels genuinely special for milestone celebrations.

Their approach to local produce creates unique dishes unavailable elsewhere. While pricier than everyday options, the experience justifies costs for graduations, birthdays, or when relatives visit and want to treat you properly.

Spots like this contribute to what makes Aberdeen an ideal student destination, where great food, culture, and student life come together seamlessly.

Website: https://www.cafebohemerestaurant.co.uk/

The Silver Darling - Aberdeen Harbour

Stunning harbour views combined with exceptional Scottish seafood. The location in the old customs house adds historical character to the dining experience.

The quality of local seafood justifies higher prices. When you want to show Aberdeen at its best, few restaurants match the combination of food quality and scenic beauty.

Perfect for special occasions when you want to demonstrate Aberdeen's unique character. The panoramic harbour views create memories beyond just the meal.

Website: https://www.thesilverdarling.co.uk/

Cuisine-Specific Recommendations for International Students

Asian Cuisine Excellence

Seoul Restaurant offers authentic Korean and Japanese dishes that satisfy homesick international students. Their dolsot bibimbap provides comfort food that comforts.

Yorokobi by CJ delivers exceptional sushi and Korean dishes. Authenticity matters enormously for students missing home flavours.

European Comfort Food

Da Vinci Restaurant brings Tuscan traditions to Aberdeen with authentic Italian preparations. Perfect for students craving proper European flavours.

Nargile Restaurant provides the only authentic Turkish cuisine in Aberdeen. The meze platters create social dining experiences that feel like home. If students find dining out a bit expensive, exploring part-time jobs in Aberdeen can help manage expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

Traditional Scottish Experience

The Bobbin Aberdeen offers traditional Scottish cuisine in a student-friendly pub atmosphere. Perfect for experiencing local culture without tourist-trap pricing.

Multiple locations serve proper fish and chips that satisfy both authenticity cravings and budget requirements.

Practical Information Students Need

Best Areas for Student Dining

Find the best student accommodation in the most desired locations of Aberdeen and delight in its peaceful surroundings. 

Old Aberdeen: Close to the University of Aberdeen, cobblestone charm, quieter atmosphere, perfect for study dates.

City Centre: Maximum variety, late-night options, walking distance from most student accommodations. 

Union Street Corridor: Easy transport links and competitive pricing due to high student traffic.  

Student Discount Reality Check

Many restaurants offer student discounts, but they're not always advertised clearly. Always ask, especially at:

• Chain restaurants (usually 10-20% off)
• Local independents (varies, but often flexible)
• Coffee shops (loyalty programs often work better than one-off discounts)

Delivery and Takeaway Options

Aberdeen's delivery scene works well for students:

• Deliveroo: Best coverage, reliable timing
• Uber Eats: Good variety, frequent promotions
• Just Eat: Local restaurants, often with cheaper delivery fees

Group Dining Strategies

Sharing dishes reduces individual costs significantly:

• Asian restaurants usually encourage sharing
• Mediterranean places offer excellent mezze options
• Pub food works well for larger student groups

Late-Night and Study-Friendly Options

24-Hour and Late Night

Aberdeen's late-night food scene is limited but functional:

• Several city centre takeaways stay open until 2 am
• Some pubs serve food until midnight
• McDonald's and other chains provide reliable late-night options

Study-Friendly Cafés

Places that welcome students studying:

• Foodstory: Excellent WiFi, relaxed atmosphere
• Corner Tree Café: West End location, proper study environment
• Various hotel lobbies: Often have good WiFi and comfortable seating

Seasonal Eating in Aberdeen

Winter Comfort Food

Aberdeen winters demand hearty, warming food:

• Soup and sandwich combinations at local cafés
• Indian and Thai restaurants for spicy warmth
• Traditional Scottish pubs for atmosphere and warmth

Summer Fresh Options

Make the most of Aberdeen's surprisingly pleasant summers:

• Outdoor seating at Foodstory Beach
• Fresh seafood takes advantage of the coastal location
• Picnic food from local delis for park dining

Money-Saving Strategies That Work

Happy Hour Intelligence

Many places offer genuine value during off-peak times:

• Lunch specials often provide dinner-sized portions
• Early evening deals beat traditional dinner pricing
• Sunday through Wednesday often have better promotions

Student Loan Timing

Plan restaurant visits around student loan payments:

• Treat restaurants for loan payment celebrations
• Budget cafés during end-of-term financial stress
• Stock up on grocery store alternatives for lean periods

Group Coordination

Organise with friends for better value:

• Share dishes to try a wider variety
• Split delivery costs across multiple people
• Coordinate special occasion visits for group discounts

Cultural Dining Experiences

Scottish Specialities for International Students

Experience authentic Scottish culture through food:

• Fresh seafood showcases Aberdeen's coastal heritage
• Traditional pub meals provide cultural immersion
• Local specialities unavailable in other countries

International Community Building

Aberdeen's restaurants create international student communities:

• Authentic cuisine helps maintain cultural connections
• Sharing meals from home countries builds friendships
• Cultural exchange through food experiences

Avoiding Tourist Traps and Overpriced Options

Red Flags to Avoid

Certain warning signs indicate poor value:

• Restaurants exclusively targeting tourists
• Places with no local customers
• Excessive marketing without substance
• Poor online reviews from locals

Genuine Local Recommendations

Trust recommendations from:

• Long-term Aberdeen residents
• Other students who've lived here for multiple years
• Restaurant staff who eat at competitors
• Local food bloggers with Aberdeen history

Final Words

Aberdeen proves that student life doesn’t mean compromising on food, culture, or experience. Whether you're grabbing sushi between lectures or dining out to celebrate a milestone, the city offers something for every student's budget and taste. As you plan your move, remember that where you live impacts everything, from your access to great food to your social life.