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Carl’s Jr’s first UK outlet at St David’s Centre in Cardiff delivers the classic American burger experience, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how to enjoy tasty meals without overspending, based on the UK menu.
While the St David’s Centre outlet is the first in the country, it won’t be the last. There will likely be more outlets opening soon so watch this space. For those who are fortunate enough to get to their first outlet, here are your smart picks on a budget.
Value 1: Smart Picks for Two on a Budget – stick to classics or breaded chicken menu
Classic Combos with Shared Sides
1. Famous Star Meal (£9.20) + Western Bacon Cheeseburger (£6.95 individual)
The Famous Star is their most affordable burger with mayo, special sauce, cheese, lettuce, tomato & onion (£5.95 solo)
Western Bacon Cheeseburger adds bacon and onion rings with BBQ sauce, ordering it as individual keeps things cheap.
With fries and bottomless drinks via the Meal, you can share sides to save.
2. One Big Carl Meal (£11.20) + Individual Famous Star (£5.95)
Big Carl is hearty with two beef patties and classic sauce, making it filling enough to share some fries
Add a single Famous Star for variety. Split fries, drinks, and still under £20 total.
Shareable Sides to Add
- Regular fries (£3.75) or upgrade to Large (£4.50) for £1 extra per meal
- Jalapeño Cheese Poppers (£4.50)
- Onion Rings (£3.75)
These shareables help you experience more flavours with minimal extra cost.
Value 2: Budget Options for a Small Family (2 Adults + 1–2 Kids)
Main Meals & Kids’ Deals
Two adult meals (e.g., two Famous Star Meals, £9.20 each) plus a Kids Cheeseburger Meal (£6.50) gives full plates and drinks for around £25–£30 total. Kids Meal options include Hamburger, Cheeseburger, or Chicken Tenders—all priced at £6.50 with fries & drink included.
Sharing Strategy
If adults opt for a Big Carl Meal (£11.20) and Famous Star Meal (£9.20), kids can share sides or have a single Kids Tender Meal and share fries/drinks—comfortably feeding three for under £30.
Add one Jalapeño Poppers or Onion Rings if budget allows.
More Budget Tips & Smart Strategies
- Buy one Meal and order an extra individual burger—this lets you share fries and drinks, saving on repeat meal costs. You can also apply this strategy to the Big Angus Burger Menu (with a little more money) or the Breaded Chicken Menu (for the same prices).
- Share sides like fries, rings or poppers instead of separate side orders for each person.
- Skip premium burgers — Big Angus or Guacamole Angus variants cost up to £13.75 individual and are worth it occasionally, but avoid them if your aim is budget-friendly eats carlsjr.co.uk.
- Kids meals offer best value for small diners (£6.50 including drink and fries) versus individual portions.
- Limit dessert or shakes— they’re £4.50–£5.50 each. Share one or leave them out if budget is tight
- Remember, you can always switch beef patties for crispy breaded chicken by picking from their Breaded Chicken Menu. The prices are the same.
Order Summary
| Group Size | Order Suggestion | Approx Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Two People | One Big Carl Meal + one Famous Star individual + share large fries and drinks | ~£17–£18 |
| Couple Pair | Two Famous Star Meals | ~£18–£19 |
| Family of Three | Two adult Meals (Famous Star or Big Carl) + one Kids Meal + shared side | ~£25–£30 |
| One Adult, One Child | One adult Meal + Kids Meal + shared fries or poppers | ~£16 |
Final Thoughts
Even at a chain known for bold flavours and generous portions, Carl’s Jr offers ways to dine smart. Classic burgers like the Famous Star or Western Bacon Cheeseburger provide hearty satisfaction without premium price tags. Sharing meals, splitting sides, and using kids’ deals make for full plates and smiling faces—without overstretching your wallet.
Keep things simple, avoid up‑sized Big Angus options unless treating yourself, and you’ll walk away full, happy, and still under budget. Hanging out as a couple or grabbing a bite with the kids, Carl’s Jr Cardiff can absolutely fit your budget—with burgers done right.
