Best UK meal deals 2025 – where to grab a bargain lunch without feeling ripped off

Let’s be honest — lunch on the high street can get pricey fast. One minute you’re popping in for a quick sandwich, the next you’ve spent £7 on something that barely fills a corner. That’s why I’m still a big fan of the meal deal. When done right, it’s the perfect combo of convenience, value, and choice.

Here’s my no-fuss guide to the best UK meal deals this year — where to go, what to get, and how to make sure you’re actually getting your money’s worth.

Tesco meal deal – £3.60 with Clubcard / £4 without

Tesco still leads the way with its mix-and-match meal deal. With a Clubcard, it’s £3.60 for a main, snack and drink — and there’s loads of choice.

My son’s go-to is the Southern Fried Chicken Wrap, a Monster Energy drink and a Fridge Raiders snack pot. On their own, those would cost over £5, so you’re definitely saving.

Tesco premium meal deal – £5 with Clubcard

When I fancy something a bit posher, I go for the premium option. For a fiver, you can pick from their Finest range or YO! Sushi selection.

My favourite combo is the YO! Sushi Salmon Poke Bowl, sparkling water and a Raisin & Biscuit Yorkie. If I’m trying to be good, I swap the chocolate for a pot of pineapple. Either way, it’s a treat without the guilt of paying café prices.

Co-op meal deal – £3.50 for members / £4 for everyone else

Co-op’s a bit underrated when it comes to lunch deals, but their meal deal is solid — especially if you’re a member. You’ll find wraps, pasta pots and even bakery bits like croissants. It’s good value and the shops tend to be quieter too.

Sainsbury’s meal deal – £3.75 or £5 for premium range

Sainsbury’s keeps it simple — no loyalty card needed, just pick your three items. It’s £3.75 for standard options, or £5 if you want something from their Taste the Difference or sushi range. Ideal if you don’t want the hassle of signing up for another points card.

Morrisons meal deal – £3.50

A decent everyday option. You’ll find pasta pots, wraps, gyozas and a decent drinks selection. Some branches even offer hot food as part of the deal, which is handy in colder months. It’s simple, reliable and good value.

Asda meal deal – buy 3, cheapest is free

Asda doesn’t offer a fixed-price deal — instead, you pick three items and the cheapest one is free. It can work out well if you go for pricier options, but be careful — it’s easy to think you’re saving when you’re not. Check the prices before you hit the checkout.

Greggs student meal deal – from £3.75

Greggs doesn’t advertise a formal meal deal everywhere, but they do offer baguette or sandwich + drink combos from £3.75. If you’re a student, you’re in luck: show a valid student ID (or the Student Beans app) and you’ll get a free sausage roll, vegan roll, cheese & onion bake or sweet treat with your lunch.

But yes — you do have to show ID. No student card, no freebie. Worth it though if you qualify.

Boots meal deal – £3.99 or £3.60 with Advantage Card

Boots is the unsung hero of meal deals. Over 400 items to choose from — including rice boxes, falafel, sushi, and healthier snacks. It’s ideal if you’re bored of sandwiches. It’s £3.99 normally, or £3.60 if you have an Advantage Card.

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So, which is best?

If you’re just after value, Tesco with a Clubcard is hard to beat. Fancy something a bit nicer? Go premium at Tesco or Sainsbury’s for a fiver. Students — head to Greggs for a freebie. And if you’re on the go, Boots is your best bet for variety and healthier options.

Here’s a quick summary to help you choose:

Shop	Price	Best for
Tesco	£3.60 / £5.00	Big selection, good savings
Co-op	£3.50 / £4.00	Bakery snacks, quieter shops
Sainsbury’s	£3.75 / £5.00	Simple, no card needed
Morrisons	£3.50	Wraps, pasta, basic value
Asda	Varies	Pick your own, watch the maths
Greggs	From £3.75	Freebies for students
Boots	£3.99 / £3.60	Best variety, healthy options

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Final tips from Mrs Bargain Hunter on Meal Deals

• Always check if a loyalty card saves you money — with Tesco and Co-op, it often does.
• Be picky at Asda — choose high-value items or it’s not worth it.
• Students, don’t forget your ID for Greggs.
• If you’re going premium, Tesco’s Finest range is hard to beat.

Meal deals might seem basic, but when money’s tight and time is short, they’re a lifesaver. Pick smart, save money, and enjoy your lunch without the stress.

Image from Tesco: https://www.tescoplc.com/tesco-s-lunchtime-meal-deal-gets-makeover-with-launch-of-baguettes/