The 10 best restaurant student discounts across the UK

Student life can be expensive. Between rent, travel, and textbooks, the budget for eating out is almost non-existent. Luckily, plenty of restaurant chains across the UK understand the struggle and offer brilliant student discounts to help keep both your stomach and your wallet full. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick takeaway or a sit-down meal with friends, there’s something for everyone. Here is your ultimate guide to the best student restaurant discounts across the UK.  

1. Pizza Express

Pizza Express is a student favourite, and for good reason. Known for its thin crispy pizzas, indulgent dough balls, and relaxed restaurant atmosphere, it is the perfect spot for a midweek treat or a society social. With 30% off food and drink, Sunday to Thursday, through UNiDAYS or Student Beans, it is also one of the most generous student discounts out there. Whether you are sticking to a classic Margherita or going for something more adventurous like the Sloppy Giuseppe, you will get great value. Just remember that the discount does not usually apply on Fridays and Saturdays, so plan your pizza night accordingly!

2. ASK Italian

If you are after hearty Italian comfort food, ASK Italian is a fantastic option. With a menu full of pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and indulgent desserts, it is a great choice for a group meal. Students can get 30% off their total bill Sunday to Thursday when booking through UNiDAYS or Student Beans. The discount makes dishes like their classic Carbonara or signature stone-baked pizzas surprisingly affordable. Plus, ASK Italian restaurants are dotted around student cities across the UK, making it a convenient option no matter where you study.

3. Burger King

Sometimes only a flame-grilled burger will do, and Burger King delivers on that front. Famous for the Whopper and a wide range of chicken burgers, wraps, and plant-based alternatives, it is a go-to option for quick and filling food. Students can claim 20% off their order with Student Beans, making it much easier to grab a meal on the move without overspending. With regular value meal deals and sides that can easily be shared, Burger King is a reliable choice for both solo lunches and late-night bites with friends.

4. Tortilla

For quick, filling Mexican food, Tortilla is a go-to. Their burritos, tacos, and quesadillas can all be customised with your choice of protein, salsa, and extras. Students get 10% off in-store by showing a valid student ID, making it a reliable option for lunch on the move or a casual dinner. Tortilla has branches across most major student cities, so you’ll rarely be far from one.

5. Zizzi

Zizzi is another solid choice for Italian food, with a wide menu ranging from creamy pasta to hand-stretched pizzas. The restaurants have a relaxed, student-friendly atmosphere, and their menu includes lots of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. With 30% off food Sunday – Thursday through UNiDAYS, it is easy to enjoy a proper sit-down dinner with friends without blowing your weekly budget.

6. KFC

KFC remains the ultimate comfort food chain, famous for its fried chicken seasoned with a secret blend of herbs and spices. Through Student Beans, students can claim a free side with any purchase. It is not the biggest saving, but when paired with their meal deals and box combos, it can stretch your money further.

7. LEON

LEON is perfect for students looking for healthier fast food. The menu includes rice boxes, wraps, and salads alongside plant-based and gluten-free options. Everything is designed to be fresh and filling while still quick and affordable. Students can get 15% off their order with Student Beans, making it easier to eat well without spending too much.

8. Domino’s

Domino’s is the ultimate student takeaway. Whether it is a post-night-out order or a flat movie night, it is a staple of university life. With exclusive discounts of up to 35% off through UNiDAYS and Student Beans, it is easy to feed a group on a budget. Many branches also run their own student deals, so it is worth asking in-store for local offers.

9. itsu

Itsu is ideal for students craving lighter, Asian-inspired meals. With sushi, rice bowls, and noodle soups on the menu, it is a healthier alternative to most fast food chains. Students can get 15% off with Student Beans, making it easier to enjoy sushi and fresh meals without overspending.

10. Krispy Kreme

For a sweet treat, Krispy Kreme is a student favourite. From the classic Original Glazed to limited-edition flavours, their doughnuts are perfect for sharing with housemates or as an essay-writing pick-me-up. With 20% off via Student Beans, treating yourself becomes that little bit more affordable.

The best way to stretch your student discount is to be proactive. Always check apps like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and TOTUM before you order, since deals change often and can be time-limited. Carry your student ID as well, because some chains will honour discounts in-store without an app. It is also worth signing up for loyalty schemes like LEON’s or Krispy Kreme’s, which offer points and freebies on top of your student discount. And finally, if you are eating with friends, splitting pizzas, buckets, or sharing platters is the easiest way to make your money go further while still enjoying a meal together.