Flat Iron

Flat Iron did more than anyone to democratise the London steak dinner, and the formula still holds: one signature flat iron steak for an indicative £15, plus daily special cuts usually £15–£25 and sides such as dripping chips at £3.50–£5, so most people eat well for around £25–£30pp. It runs 16-plus London branches (Soho, Covent Garden, Shoreditch, King's Cross, Spitalfields and more); the rooms are casual and busy, with free extras such as popcorn and soft-serve. It ranks fifth here on beef quality and experience rather than value — the flat iron is a single, less prestigious cut, and the walk-in-only model means queues at peak times. Versus Blacklock, you spend even less and skip the wait for a booking; you give up Blacklock's variety, group-feast format and the ability to reserve.