When it comes to grabbing a quick and satisfying breakfast on the go, two names dominate UK high streets: Greggs and Pret a Manger. But which one truly offers better value, more protein-packed options, and the tastiest start to your morning? Here’s a complete comparison across the most important breakfast metrics.
1. Price Comparison
Greggs is known for its budget-friendly pricing, making it the go-to for students, workers, and everyday commuters. Most breakfast items at Greggs, like bacon rolls, sausage baps, or breakfast wraps, range between £1.80 and £2.80. A regular coffee is typically around £1.50.
In contrast, Pret a Manger tends to be pricier. Their breakfast sandwiches and baguettes usually cost between £3.25 and £4.25, with organic coffee starting at around £2.00. Pret often includes premium ingredients, which contributes to the higher cost.
2. Protein Content
For those looking for a protein-rich breakfast, both chains offer solid choices. Greggs’ breakfast options like the Omelette Breakfast Roll or the Bacon & Sausage Bap provide around 20g of protein per portion. The new vegan and high-protein breakfast wraps also aim to meet fitness-conscious customers’ needs.
Pret a Manger focuses on health-oriented menus, often using cage-free eggs and lean meats. Their Egg & Spinach Pot delivers around 15g of protein, while the Bacon & Egg Roll can contain 18-22g of protein depending on size and add-ons. However, some of Pret’s protein-packed items are portion-controlled, meaning you might need two to feel full.
3. Taste and Variety
Taste is subjective, but Greggs tends to favour classic British flavours with hearty portions. The Sausage Breakfast Baguette and Hash Brown Breakfast Wraps are consistently popular. Flavours are indulgent, sometimes greasy, but very comforting.
Pret takes a more refined approach with artisan bread, organic ingredients, and international flavours like avocado, sriracha, or egg pots with spinach and beans. For those seeking freshness and less grease, Pret wins. For those who want hearty and filling, Greggs takes the crown.
4. Coffee Quality
Greggs coffee is affordable, hot, and consistently decent. Their partnership with Fairtrade suppliers and modern self-serve machines ensures reliability.
Pret, however, is famous for its organic coffee and barista-made drinks. Many customers praise Pret’s lattes and cappuccinos for being smoother and more premium-tasting than Greggs. If coffee quality matters most, Pret edges ahead.
Final Verdict
- Budget-friendly winner: Greggs
- Protein punch (per price): Greggs
- Taste & health variety: Pret
- Coffee quality: Pret
Whether you’re craving a filling sausage roll or a cleaner egg pot, both Greggs and Pret have their morning strengths. It ultimately comes down to whether you prioritise price, protein, or palate.