London's sandwich scene is a mouth-watering adventure waiting to be explored. From traditional British classics to innovative global creations, the capital's eateries have perfected the art of stuffing deliciousness between bread.
After months of dedicated tasting (tough job, but someone had to do it!), we've compiled our definitive list of London's most spectacular sandwiches that are worth every penny and calorie.
1. Salt Beef Bagel At Brick Lane Beigel Bake
Queue up with locals at 2am or lunchtime crowds at this East London institution – the 24/7 bakery has been serving their legendary salt beef since 1974. The warm, chewy bagel comes piled high with hand-carved, melt-in-your-mouth salt beef that's been simmering for hours.
A smear of hot English mustard cuts through the richness perfectly. At under £6, it's possibly the best value iconic food in London.
The no-frills shop hasn't changed its decor in decades, which only adds to its charm. Cash only, so come prepared – though you won't need much for this affordable feast.
2. Bacon Sandwich At St. JOHN Bread And Wine
Simplicity elevated to art form – that's the St. JOHN bacon sarnie. This Spitalfields gem serves what might be the most perfect bacon sandwich in existence, made with their house-baked sourdough bread and middle bacon from their own rare-breed pigs.
The bread is grilled then laden with thick-cut, perfectly cooked bacon that's crispy yet tender. A dab of their homemade ketchup adds just the right amount of tangy sweetness.
While £7.50 might seem steep for a bacon sandwich, one bite explains why food critics and chefs make pilgrimages for this humble British classic done extraordinarily well.
3. Egg Mayo At Pret A Manger
Sometimes the classics just hit right, and Pret's egg mayo sandwich has achieved cult status among Londoners for good reason. The humble combination of free-range eggs, mayo, mustard cress, and seasoning on malted bread creates a reliable comfort food moment in a hectic city.
Unlike many chain sandwiches, Pret's egg mayo actually tastes homemade – chunky egg pieces rather than an unidentifiable paste. The mustard cress adds a gentle peppery note that lifts the whole sandwich.
At just £3.25, it's a proper bargain that proves sometimes the simplest things are the most satisfying. No wonder it's their bestseller!
4. The V.F.B. At The Coven Of Witches
The V.F.B. (Vish Finger Butty) at The Coven of Wiches is a standout vegan sandwich that reimagines the classic fish finger butty.
This indulgent creation features three crispy, battered "vishie fingers" nestled in a buttered roll, complemented by tangy pickled radishes, curly leaf lettuce, and a generous drizzle of cocktail sauce.
Topped with salted shoestring fries and a dash of cayenne pepper, it offers a delightful crunch and a spicy kick.
Known for its bold flavors and hearty portion, the V.F.B. has become a favorite among patrons seeking a satisfying plant-based meal.
5. Cheese Toastie At Kappacasein
Borough Market's legendary cheese toastie has tourists and locals alike queueing in the rain. What makes it special? The incredible combination of Montgomery's cheddar, Ogleshield and Comte cheeses mixed with leeks, onions and garlic, all melted between sourdough from Poilâne bakery.
The griddle creates the perfect crisp exterior while the interior becomes a molten cheese paradise with flavour complexity that'll ruin ordinary cheese toasties for you forever. The sharp tang of the aged cheddar balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cooked onions.
At £7, it's a proper market lunch that showcases British cheese at its finest. Just be prepared for cheese dreams later!
6. Lamb Shawarma At Berber & Q
Smoke and fire are the secret ingredients in Berber & Q's extraordinary lamb shawarma. This Haggerston railway arch restaurant combines Middle Eastern traditions with modern London sensibilities in a sandwich that's worth crossing town for.
Slow-roasted lamb shoulder, impossibly tender and infused with spices, is carved and stuffed into a warm flatbread with tahini, harissa, pickled chillies, herbs and sumac onions. The contrast between the rich meat, creamy tahini, spicy harissa and zingy pickles creates perfect balance.
At £12, it's a substantial meal that showcases how London's sandwich scene embraces global flavours while maintaining respect for tradition. Grab extra napkins – this is gloriously messy eating!
7. Reuben At Monty's Deli
Monty's Deli brings a proper taste of New York to East London with their magnificent Reuben sandwich. Every component is made in-house – from the pastrami that's cured, smoked and steamed for days to the tangy Russian dressing and sauerkraut.
The towering creation comes with your choice of salt beef or pastrami (or both if you order the 'Meshuggener'), topped with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut, grilled between light rye bread. The meat literally melts in your mouth while the cheese pulls in satisfying strings.
At £13.50 it's a serious investment, but the portion is enormous – easily enough for two meals. Jewish deli food doesn't get better this side of the Atlantic.
8. The Spicy D At Dom's Subs
The Spicy D at Dom’s Subs is a flavor-packed masterpiece that combines the perfect balance of heat and savory goodness.
Featuring a mix of Schiacciata piccante, Salami Napoli, and Dom’s signature ham, it’s layered with provolone cheese, nduja mayo, and Calabrian chilies, then topped with crunchy chopped onions, arugula, and a drizzle of chili oil.
This sandwich delivers a satisfying kick with every bite, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors in their subs.
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