Best Sandwiches In London: A Gourmet Guide to the Capital’s Finest Fills
London’s culinary landscape is among the most diverse in the world, and when it comes to the humble sandwich, the city offers no shortage of options—from artisan sourdough stacks to grab-and-go baguettes. Whether you’re seeking a classic bacon bap, a plant-based delight, or something gourmet with truffle mayo and aged cheese, the capital’s sandwich scene has it all.
This guide to the best sandwiches in London takes you across boroughs, budgets, and tastes to uncover the city’s most flavourful bread-based bites.
Why London Loves Its Sandwiches
The sandwich is an iconic British invention, with origins tracing back to John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich. Fast forward to modern-day London, and this staple has evolved into a canvas for creativity. The city’s multicultural makeup has given rise to a dynamic range of sandwich types—British classics, American-style deli melts, Vietnamese bánh mì, Middle Eastern shawarma wraps, and more.
In a city where time is short and appetite is high, sandwiches strike the perfect balance between convenience and indulgence.
Top Places to Get the Best Sandwiches in London
Here are some of the most acclaimed and loved sandwich spots across the capital.
1. Max’s Sandwich Shop – Crouch Hill
Max’s is a North London institution known for large, gourmet sandwiches filled with unexpected ingredients and humour. Try their iconic “Ham, Egg ‘n’ Chips” sandwich: a soft hoagie roll packed with ham hock, piccalilli mayo, shoestring fries, and a runny egg.
Why visit? Innovative flavours, generous portions, and an ever-changing menu.
2. Monta – Soho & Shoreditch
This Japanese-inspired sandwich bar is famous for its katsu sando—crispy pork or chicken cutlet with shredded cabbage and tangy sauce between milk bread slices. Their wagyu beef sando is also a top-tier treat.
Why visit? Elegant presentation and rich umami flavour in every bite.
3. Bodega Rita’s – King’s Cross
Specialising in American-style deli sandwiches, Bodega Rita’s combines New York inspiration with London ingredients. The “Dirty Rueben” with pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing is a local favourite.
Why visit? A haven for pastrami and salt beef lovers.
4. Crosstown Collective – Marylebone
Known primarily for doughnuts, Crosstown’s Marylebone location serves some of the best vegan sandwiches in London. Their roasted aubergine and miso sandwich is particularly popular among plant-based eaters.
Why visit? High-quality vegan options and sustainability-focused sourcing.
5. Tongue & Brisket – Soho & Holborn
Traditional Jewish deli-style salt beef sandwiches served on rye bread with English mustard and pickles. This is where heritage meets flavour.
Why visit? A taste of East End tradition in the heart of Central London.
Vegan and Halal Sandwich Options
London’s food scene caters exceptionally well to dietary requirements.
Vegan Options
- Temple of Seitan (Camden, Hackney): Known for their plant-based fried “chicken” sandwich.
- Club Mexicana (Shoreditch): Offers vegan tacos and loaded sandwiches.
- Planet Organic (Multiple locations): Offers a wide selection of vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly sandwiches.
Halal-Friendly Choices
Many sandwich shops now carry halal meat or vegan alternatives. Shops like Khai Khai, Wrap It Up, and select Pret A Manger branches offer halal-certified products—always check the certification when ordering.
Local Favourites by Area
Central London
In the heart of the city, sandwich lovers will find everything from Pret A Manger staples to elevated options at Le Deli Robuchon. For an indulgent luxury treat, try the truffle grilled cheese at Kerridge’s Bar & Grill inside the Corinthia Hotel.
East London
Shoreditch and Hackney are teeming with sandwich innovation. Pop into Dom’s Subs for meatball subs or a mortadella-packed “Italian Deli” masterpiece. The area also leads in vegan-friendly spots.
South London
Brixton and Peckham offer Afro-Caribbean-inspired wraps, jerk chicken baguettes, and fusion sandwiches that reflect the community’s diverse heritage.
West London
Fulham and Notting Hill boast artisan bakeries and sandwich shops like Gail’s Bakery, where the fillings are seasonal and the bread is freshly baked.
Price Guide: Sandwiches for Every Budget
- Under £5: Grab-and-go sandwiches at Greggs, Pret, and supermarkets.
- £5–£10: Mid-range artisanal shops like Dom’s Subs or Tongue & Brisket.
- £10–£15: Gourmet sandwiches at Max’s Sandwich Shop or Coqfighter.
- £15+: High-end options with specialty ingredients like truffle oil, wagyu, or imported cheeses.
Sandwich Types You’ll Find in London
London’s best sandwich shops reflect a global palate:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Baguette | Popular with French and Vietnamese flavours |
| Ciabatta | Italian-inspired, often used for chicken pesto melts |
| Brioche Bun | Sweet and fluffy, used for BBQ meats and burgers |
| Katsu Sando | Japanese fried cutlet on milk bread |
| Salt Beef/Rueben | Classic Jewish deli sandwiches |
| Toasted Sourdough | Used in gourmet grilled cheese or avocado toasties |
Hygiene Ratings and Quality Control
Food hygiene is critical to London’s food lovers. Most sandwich shops are subject to inspection by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). You can check any establishment’s hygiene rating via the official FSA website or app.
Top-rated establishments usually display a rating of 4 or 5 (Good to Very Good). Premium sandwich shops and major chains often maintain consistent quality and cleanliness standards.
Delivery and Online Ordering
Thanks to platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat, many of the best sandwich shops in London now deliver directly to homes and offices. Local independent shops have also begun offering delivery or click-and-collect services through their own websites or third-party apps.
Tip: Order directly from the shop’s own website when possible—it often includes exclusive discounts or loyalty points.
The Rise of Sandwich Pop-Ups and Street Markets
One of the most exciting developments in London’s sandwich scene is the rise of pop-up shops and street food markets. Venues such as Seven Dials Market, Borough Market, and Boxpark Shoreditch regularly host emerging vendors offering sandwiches that fuse street flavours with global culinary trends.
Street markets are ideal for trying something new—like a jerk chicken sarnie with scotch bonnet mayo or a halloumi wrap with za’atar and pickled onion.
Conclusion
From artisanal katsu sandos to budget-friendly chicken mayo baguettes, the best sandwiches in London cater to every taste, budget, and dietary need. Whether you prefer a hot melt, a vegan delight, or a salt beef classic, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering options across the capital.
London’s sandwich scene isn’t just about convenience—it’s a celebration of cultural variety, culinary innovation, and quality ingredients. Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go or sitting down for a casual meal, a great sandwich is never far away in this incredible city.
