The Reuben sandwich may have started in America, but it has earned a loyal following here in the UK. With its layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and toasted rye, it’s a combination that’s hard to resist.
Today, several UK restaurant chains have put their own spin on this classic, serving versions that balance authenticity with a touch of British flair.
This article is for general information only. Availability of Reuben sandwiches may differ between chains and locations, and photos are for illustrative purposes.
1. Reubens Deli & Restaurant London
Picture walking into a New York deli from the 1950s, complete with checkered floors and the aroma of freshly sliced pastrami. That's exactly what greets you at this legendary Fitzrovia establishment.
Their signature Reuben towers with house-cured salt beef, proper Swiss cheese, and tangy Russian dressing on authentic marble rye. The secret lies in their traditional curing process, which takes fourteen days to achieve that perfect tender texture that melts in your mouth.
2. Reubens Cafe & Bakery London
Bakeries know bread better than anyone, and this principle shines through every bite of their exceptional Reuben creation. Fresh rye loaves emerge from their ovens daily, providing the perfect foundation for this classic sandwich.
What sets them apart is their homemade sauerkraut, fermented in-house for that perfect balance of tartness and crunch. Combined with premium corned beef and their signature thousand island dressing, each sandwich delivers an authentic taste that transport you straight to Manhattan's finest delis.
3. Pickle & Rye London
Sometimes a restaurant's name tells you everything you need to know about their speciality. These pickle enthusiasts have elevated the humble Reuben into something truly spectacular with their house-made fermented vegetables.
Their version features thick-cut salt beef, aged Gruyère instead of traditional Swiss, and their famous pickled cabbage that's been fermenting for weeks. The sourdough rye bread is baked fresh each morning, creating a sandwich that's both familiar and refreshingly different from the American original.
4. Tongue & Brisket London
Bold flavours deserve bold names, and this East London gem doesn't shy away from either. Their approach to the classic Reuben involves slow-cooking their brisket for twelve hours until it practically falls apart.
What makes their version special is the addition of pickled red cabbage alongside traditional sauerkraut, creating layers of flavour and colour. The marble rye is toasted to perfection, while their homemade Russian dressing includes a secret ingredient: a touch of English mustard that adds a distinctly British kick.
5. Gooey Manchester
Manchester's food scene thrives on innovation, and this Northern Quarter favourite brings a modern twist to the traditional Reuben formula. Their version features house-smoked brisket that's been rubbed with a blend of spices inspired by British pub fare.
Instead of standard Swiss cheese, they use a mature Lancashire variety that melts beautifully and adds a sharp, nutty flavour. The sauerkraut is lightly pickled rather than heavily fermented, while their signature sauce combines traditional Russian dressing with a hint of Henderson's Relish for that unmistakable Northern touch.
