The Best Sandwiches in London
How do we define a sandwich? Must it consist of two slices of bread with filling and be eaten as a light meal? Does it have to be cold or can it be hot? In actuality, it’s easier to define what’s not a sandwich – hot dog? Wouldn’t consider it. Bagel? Debatable. Burrito? Absolutely not. However, in acceptance of all shapes, styles and sizes, we’ve rounded up the best sandwiches in London – from an American-style sub to a much-loved fish-finger sandwich and Vietnamese banh mi.
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The Black Pig, Borough Market BEST FOR: Ciabatta stuffed with Borough Market’s freshest ingredients
THE ORDER: Smoked Scamorza
The Black Pig’s staple ingredient is juicy free-range pork from Suffolk, which is slow-roasted for 10 hours on-site at the buzzy stall in Borough Market. Made-to-order fluffy ciabatta bread is loaded with freshly sourced ingredients. The Smoked Scamorza, the team’s signature sandwich, is a crowd favorite made up of pork shoulder, aioli, fennel and apple slaw, basil passata, and smoked scamorza. The Honey Truffle Parmesan, stuffed with pork shoulder, honey truffle mayo, and 30-month aged Parmesan is also recommended.
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Bodega Rita’s, Clerkenwell BEST FOR: Stuffed subs
THE ORDER: The Second City
At Bodega Rita’s, six sub sandwiches packed with meat and marinated vegetables are on the menu. The Second City is a popular order, stuffed with slow-roasted rubbed beef, provolone piccante, and more. The vegetarian option, The Sophia Loren, features aubergine-polenta parmigiana.
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The Dusty Knuckle, Dalston BEST FOR: Giant focaccia sandwiches
THE ORDER: Daily specials
The Dusty Knuckle is a champion of London’s bakery scene. They create epic sandwiches using their delicious focaccia. Past sandwiches included roasted porchetta with house-made quince aioli and more. Each offering is a meal fit for kings.
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Norman’s Cafe, Tufnell Park BEST FOR: British staples
THE ORDER: The breakfast sandwich
Norman’s Cafe offers a modern twist on traditional British dishes. Standouts include a breakfast combo with sausage, egg, and a lunchtime pick of chicken escalope.
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St John Bread and Wine, Spitalfields BEST FOR: Traditional favorites
THE ORDER: The bacon sarnie
This London staple features slabs of flame-grilled bacon squished between thick-cut slices of white bread, unrivaled in its flavor and presentation.
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Sons and Daughters, King’s Cross BEST FOR: The ultimate picnic sandwich
THE ORDER: Egg salad sandwich
Made with Burford Browns and a miso mayo, this egg salad is divine and is accompanied by crispy truffle crisps, a highlight of the menu.
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Trullo, Islington BEST FOR: Italian-inspired flavors
THE ORDER: Spicy meatball sub
This renowned restaurant recently started offering takeaway options, including a spicy meatball sub made from Tamworth pork. It’s a must-try for any sandwich lover.
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Secret Sandwich Shop, Notting Hill BEST FOR: Fresh fillings with a twist
THE ORDER: The 7th avenue
The Secret Sandwich Shop offers creative combinations with seasonal ingredients, perfect for anyone looking for something unique.
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Tou by Tata Eatery, Covent Garden BEST FOR: A katsu sando
THE ORDER: Iberian pork katsu sando
This sando is meticulously crafted with juicy Iberian pork and a delightful raspberry jam, providing a distinct taste.
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Beigel Bake, Shoreditch BEST FOR: Bagels
THE ORDER: Salt-beef beigel with mustard and pickle
Open 24/7, this spot serves one of the best bagels outside of New York, featuring flaky salt beef and sharp pickle.
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Quo Vadis, Soho BEST FOR: A post-cocktail pick-me-up
THE ORDER: Smoked-eel sandwich
This classic recipe has stood the test of time, featuring rich flavors in every bite that leave a lasting impression.
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Snackbar, Dalston BEST FOR: Asian- and American-influenced snacks
THE ORDER: Kimchi and Stichelton toastie
Known for its unique flavor combinations, this cafe serves delicious Asian-inspired sandwiches.