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Tongue & BrisketB-Worth Trying

Name: Tongue & Brisket
Address: 24-26 Leather Ln, London EC1N 7SU, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.5

24-26 Leather Ln, London EC1N 7SU · Sandwich shop, Breakfast restaurant, Fast food restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (221 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Classic Jewish-style deli sandwiches with fast, friendly service and great value—perfect for a hearty lunch, but limited seating and occasional quality dips.

Why it gets a B- for overall quality

Tongue & Brisket delivers solid neighborhood sandwich shop quality with excellent food quality and exceptional service speed and attentiveness that make it a reliable lunch destination. However, occasional consistency issues with meat quality and cramped seating prevent a higher grade. For those seeking authentic Jewish deli sandwiches with generous portions and great value, it's a worthwhile visit—just expect casual, no-frills execution rather than destination-level dining.

Restaurant Summary

Tongue & Brisket is a beloved Leather Lane lunch spot serving up classic Jewish deli sandwiches with a side of fast, friendly service. The vibe is bustling and casual, with most customers popping in for a quick bite or grabbing takeaway to enjoy in the lively market atmosphere. Expect generous portions—the sandwiches are packed with tender brisket, ox tongue, or schnitzel, and the sides like latka and chips are hearty enough to fuel the rest of your day. The culinary approach here is all about tradition over trend, making it a haven for those craving comfort food done right. The menu sticks to the classics: salt beef, Reuben, roast beef, and a handful of other deli staples, all sliced to order. If you love a no-nonsense, meat-forward sandwich with authentic flavors, you'll feel right at home. Adventurous eaters looking for fusion or modern twists may find the menu a bit predictable, but for most, that's exactly the point. For families and kids, Tongue & Brisket offers simple, approachable options—think plain sandwiches, chips, and bagels—that should satisfy most young diners who enjoy meat. However, vegetarian choices are limited (Vegetarian Bagel, Cheese Baguette), so picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions may want to check the menu first. Seating is limited and can be cramped during peak hours, so families may prefer takeaway or off-peak visits.

At a Glance

Classic salt beef and Reuben sandwiches are consistently praised for flavor and portion size.
Fast, friendly service even during busy lunch rush.
Excellent value for money—full meal under £16.
Limited seating and can be crowded at peak times.
Menu is heavily meat-focused; vegetarian options are few.

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

The melt-in-your-mouth salt beef and Reuben sandwiches
Friendly, efficient staff who remember regulars
Portions that leave you full and satisfied
The authentic, old-school deli vibe
Great value compared to other London lunch spots

Points of Concern

Occasional reports of dry or tough meat, though most visits are positive
Limited seating—expect to queue or take away during peak hours
Menu is not ideal for vegetarians or picky eaters
Not suited for large parties due to space constraints

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£13-16 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Try the Reuben or Salt Beef for the signature experience.
Vegetarians should opt for the Vegetarian Bagel or Cheese Baguette.
Add a latka or chips for a filling meal.

Perfect For

A quick, hearty lunch during a busy workday
Meat lovers craving authentic deli sandwiches
Solo diners or small groups looking for fast service
Anyone exploring Leather Lane Market

Location Insights

Area: Bustling weekday market street with a lively, casual vibe; caters to office workers, locals, and foodies seeking quick, hearty lunches.

Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic during lunch hours, well-maintained and well-lit; quiets down after business hours.

Nearby: Surrounded by Leather Lane Market, coffee shops, and other lunch spots; close to Farringdon offices and residential blocks.

HolbornA sophisticated urban neighborhood with a mix of historic charm and contemporary dining scenes, featuring numerous gastropubs, boutique cafes, and professional lunch venues.

Leather LaneA vibrant street known for its bustling lunch market and diverse street food options, attracting a dynamic professional crowd during weekday lunch hours.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday07:00–16:00 Tuesday07:00–16:00 Wednesday07:00–16:00 Thursday07:00–16:00 Friday07:00–16:00 Saturday10:00–15:00 Sunday

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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