Cheap Breakfast in York: A Student’s Guide to the Top Spots

If you’re tired of breakfast bars, and instant coffee, grabbing a tasty breakfast in the city can be a welcome treat. Whether you’re rushing to your lectures or meeting friends before a morning study session, a quality breakfast in York doesn’t have to cost the earth.

We’ve compiled our picks for the best, cheap breakfast spots that are student friendly and close to student accommodation in the city. These places cater to all your breakfast desires, from a hearty full English to modern vegan bites.

Let’s start your day the right way!

Why Breakfast Matters for Students

Life as a student can get chaotic, but this isn’t an excuse to skip the most important meal of the day. Between the early starts and late finishes, you need to make sure you have a breakfast routine you can rely on.

A solid morning meal helps: 

• Boost focus and memory.
• Stabilise your energy levels after a late night.
• Prevent you from snacking too much later in the day.

Plus, it’s worth remembering that starting your day with a warm cup of freshly brewed espresso wakes you up more than an energy drink at 10am.

The Best Cheap Breakfast in York

1. The Brew & Brownie

If you’ve some free time on a weekday morning and want to enjoy something photogenic and filling, Brew & Brownie offers great pancakes, breakfast rolls, and good coffee.

A dish will set you back less than £10, which is a great deal for the quality of meal you receive. If you’re really strapped for cash, share a stack and grab a filter coffee for less than a fiver.

Best for: Treat days, chilled first year brunches.

2. The Van of Life

A well known spot among students at The University of York, The Van of Life is heralded as the best affordable breakfast option in the city. This legendary food van serves up classic bacon butties, sausage rolls and veggie treats for less than the price of a coffee in other places.

The grab and go style dining makes it perfect for anyone running late, or wanting to enjoy their breakfast while hiding at the back of the lecture theatre.

Best for: Quick eats and a no fuss approach to breakfast.

3. Spark: York

As York’s most prominent independent food market, Spark is renowned for its evening attraction. However, it’s open from 9am for breakfast too! Some vendors serve up limited breakfast menus that include fruit juices, porridge, and breakfast wraps. Price can vary depending on where you go, but it’ll never break the bank.

Best for: Mini breakfast time adventures and casual meet ups.

4. York Student Union

Sometimes, nothing beats the original and most simple choice. When it comes to cheap meals for students, nothing comes close to the Student Union’s Café. Expect to find all of you usual favourites at a discounted price. After all who says no to cooked breakfast’s for less than £3?

Best for: All students that want a bargain on campus.

5. Robinsons Café

Found in a quiet spot on Bishopthorpe Road, Robinsons mainly appeals to mature students that want a homely feel that serves well made breakfasts on a budget. If you want to enjoy a slice of the traditional breakfast café culture that used to be prominent across the UK, this is where you should be heading.

Best for: Weekend brunches without the chaos.

How to Create Your Own Cheap Breakfast

Not everyone wants to step far from their bed first thing in the morning, which is why we’ve got some tips for those wanting to DIY it from their student kitchen.

• Source the yellow sticker items from supermarkets.
• Use what you have in the cupboard already. Scrambled eggs on toast anyone?
• Cook meals that can double as breakfast leftovers.
• Search Uber Eats or Deliveroo for breakfast specials.

Whatever you choose to do, the most important thing is to ensure you’re fuelled for the day ahead.

More Tips for Eating Well as a Student

• Meal prep a few basics each week: Boil some eggs, make overnight oats, or freeze bread that’s going past it’s best.
• Look for loyalty schemes such as free drinks after a certain number of purchases.
• If you have Monzo Perks, you can enjoy a free Greggs item each week.
• Use apps such as Too Good To Go.

Explore More Student Lifestyle Advice

Want to discover more foodie finds, budgeting tips, or events happening across the city?

Read on for more of what you can experience as a student in York.

Let’s Start Your Day

You shouldn’t have to survive on instant noodles or skip breakfast to save money. There’s so many places to enjoy a cheap breakfast in York, without compromising on flavour.

So, whether you’re on a tight budget, or are sick of eating plain toast by yourself, get out there and start your morning properly.

Got a go to place for breakfast in York? Share it with your friends or even your property manager! Good food is better when it’s shared after all.