Tired of tussling with tourists and dismayed at how expensive some of Borough Market’s food stalls have become? The good news is that a brand new online guide to four of London’s best alternative food hotspots has just been released.

Experts from the specialist accommodation finder UniversityRooms.com have been chewing over their favourite areas of London to select the tastiest food markets beyond Borough.

University Rooms’ travel expert Lily Smith says: ‘Our new online guide reveals our Fab Four most mouthwatering areas of London for everyone in search of great grub on a budget.’

Camden Market: ‘A cornerstone of counterculture since the ‘70s, Camden Market is still the go-to hub for street food enthusiasts, where noodles are served with oodles of atmosphere.

‘At the dedicated food stands in the heart of The West Yard there are plenty of plant-based delights to be discovered, along with Persian food, Portuguese pastries, pitta breads and Venezuelan hot pockets, while the gooey Cheese Wheel and sugary treats at Churros London are firm favourites on Instagram.

‘Our insider tip is to head down to the food hawkers about an hour before closing when you’ll be offered vast portions at knockdown prices as they compete for last sales before bringing down the shutters for the night.’

Stay near the snacks: ‘Set in landscaped grounds in a leafy, residential part of Camden Town, Ifor Evans Hall offers comfortable and affordable self-catering accommodation in the heart of Zone 2, within easy walking distance of the Market. Rooms are available from June from just £52 a night.’

Market Halls, Victoria: ‘Victoria was once a no man’s land for London’s foodies but it’s now home to Market Halls. Since opening in 2018 in a former Edwardian arcade, Market Halls has been bringing together some of London’s best independent street food traders under one roof (and one roof terrace) with a mix of exciting global cuisine enjoyed in a lively atmosphere on communal tables. Right opposite the bus station, try Gopal’s Malaysian Street Food, but the bao buns and Mexican tacos aren’t too shabby either.’

Stay near the snacks: ‘A short walk from Victoria Station, Goldsmid House is perfectly placed for iconic landmarks and casual dining at Market Halls. Available from late June to early September, this is great budget-friendly summer accommodation with ensuite rooms from £84 a night.’

Mercato Mayfair: ‘Fancy combining grand architecture with gourmet fare? Mercato Mayfair in the Dover Street area offers a refined take on street food. This luxurious street food haven is set inside the beautifully restored Grade I-listed St. Mark’s Church. More than just your typical street food market, this is a one-stop shop culinary mecca, offering some of the best artisanal food and drinks in the city.

‘Throw in live music events, sustainability workshops and tastings, and you’ve got an evolving space where food, culture and content curation intersect.’

Stay near the snacks: ‘For an affordable, comfortable stay within walking distance of all central London’s foodie highlights, Astor College is an ideal choice. Accommodation is room-only, which is perfect for exploring the restaurant, café and street food scene on your doorstep. Rooms are available from £94 a night from early June.’

Hoxton: ‘If you’re looking to dive into London’s street food culture, there’s no better place to be than Hoxton. This lively neighbourhood is encircled by some of the city’s most exciting markets, artisan eats and food tours, with plenty of vintage shopping on the side. Spitalfields Market, which dates back to 1638, is an essential stop. This market has transformed into a hotspot for independent traders and fab food stalls and the market’s covered setting makes it perfect for a visit come rain or shine.

‘For a full-blown street food adventure, head over to Brick Lane and the Truman Brewery markets. Our insider tip: the Salt Beef Beigel at Beigel Bake (open 24 hours) is a late-night rite of passage for every Londoner. What’s more, there’s now a branch of Crosstown doughnuts right next door on Brick Lane, so you can tick off two London food legends in one.’

Stay near the snacks: ‘Alexander Fleming House offers affordable, safe and well-located accommodation with comfortable single bedrooms designed exclusively for individual guests. Rooms are available from £72 a night from the beginning of June.’

‘The tempting aromas of Borough Market aside, London’s street food scene remains one of the best in the world, with each neighbourhood offering its unique take on delicious takeaways. If you want to stay close to the action, see: https://www.universityrooms.com/city/london/home/