The Secret Sandwich Shop
Notting Hill's 'secret' spot serving outrageously large, Japanese-inspired sandwiches above a vibrant nightclub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
The Secret Sandwich Shop
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Notting Hill's 'secret' spot serving outrageously large, Japanese-inspired sandwiches above a vibrant nightclub.
"These sandwiches are living in my head, rent free. I cannot stop thinking about them."
⏰ Beat the Lunch Rush
Arrive before 11 am for breakfast or after 2 pm for lunch to avoid long queues.
💰 Pricey but Filling
Sandwiches are substantial, but some find them expensive for the flavor. Consider sharing!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Hench' Sandwiches
Main counter
Incredibly thick, visually stunning sandwiches packed with creative fillings. A true feast for the eyes and stomach.
Japanese-Inspired 'Wanpaku' Style
All sandwiches
Modern twist on classic Japanese sando, featuring generous fillings and often served on thick, soft bread.
The Full English Sando
Breakfast menu
A hearty breakfast option featuring sausage patty, egg, beans, black pudding, and more. A unique way to start your day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Sandwich Size & Price
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Beat the Lunch Rush
Arrive before 11 am for breakfast or after 2 pm for lunch to avoid long queues.
💰 Pricey but Filling
Sandwiches are substantial, but some find them expensive for the flavor. Consider sharing!
🍞 Bread Quality Varies
While some praise the soft shokupan-style bread, others found it dry.
📱 App Order Hiccups
The app can be glitchy; orders might not go through. Be prepared to order in person.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Beat the Lunch Rush
Arrive before 11 am for breakfast or after 2 pm for lunch to avoid long queues.
💰 Pricey but Filling
Sandwiches are substantial, but some find them expensive for the flavor. Consider sharing!
🍞 Bread Quality Varies
While some praise the soft shokupan-style bread, others found it dry.
📱 App Order Hiccups
The app can be glitchy; orders might not go through. Be prepared to order in person.
📍 Notting Hill Gem
Located above the Globe nightclub, it's a unique spot with a cool vibe. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Secret Sandwich Shop is praised for its visually impressive, generously filled sandwiches with unique Japanese-inspired 'Wanpaku' style. However, some diners find the flavor underwhelming for the price, and the bread quality can be inconsistent. The shop's dual identity as a nightclub by night adds to its unique appeal.
"Overall not a bad experience at the Secret Sandwich Shop but I hoped for a bit more. All the ingredients were fresh and good quality but the bread was a little dry towards the crusts.
We went for the honey mustard chicken and the egg mayo. Both could have done with a bit more seasoning."
Archie Vass
"It’s not a terrible sandwich, I appreciate the presentation but it was just so boring and didn’t really taste of anything. For £11 it’s a joke considering the amount of delicious food you can get for the same cost or less in the area. Also just weird, sandwich supposedly said £10, drink was £2.50. So why did the till say £14? Idc about £1.50 but it’s the principle lol"
Jess Hardy
"Not a great place by any stretch. I had on my want to go list for aaaages, but hadn't noticed the reviews recently. The bread was so dry and I doubt it was fresh. Wasn't exactly packed with flavour either. I had the Hungry Dane and I can categorically say if I paid ⅓ of the price, I still probably wouldn't buy it again. Staff all looked miserable and hardly greeted me with a welcome at all. Don't go."
Lee Churm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Secret Sandwich Shop is located in Notting Hill, London. The nearest tube stations are Notting Hill Gate and Ladbroke Grove. Many visitors arrive via these stations and then take a short walk. It's situated above the Globe nightclub, making it a unique find! +1
Street parking in Notting Hill can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach the shop. The nearest tube stations are well-connected.
Look for the Globe nightclub entrance. The sandwich shop is located upstairs. It's intentionally unassuming, adding to its 'secret' charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you don't need to book tickets. It operates as a walk-in establishment. However, be prepared for potential queues during busy periods.
Opening hours can vary, especially between breakfast and lunch menus. It's best to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date information. Breakfast is typically served until 11 am.
There is no entry fee to access The Secret Sandwich Shop. You only pay for the sandwiches and any drinks you order.
While they have an app for ordering, some users have reported issues with orders not going through. It's advisable to be prepared to order in person, especially if you're on a tight schedule.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They specialize in large, generously filled sandwiches, often inspired by Japanese 'Wanpaku' style. Popular options include the Full English, TLT (Turkey, Lettuce, Tomato), and various meat and vegetarian fillings. +2
This is subjective. Many find the size and quality justify the £10-£12 price tag, while others feel the flavor doesn't match the cost, calling it a 'tourist trap' for some.
Yes, they offer a variety of sandwiches, including vegetarian and vegan options, catering to different dietary needs.
The bread is often described as soft and shokupan-style, similar to what you'd find in Japan. However, some reviews mention it can be a bit dry towards the crusts.
Yes, they typically offer a selection of drinks to accompany your sandwich order.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The sandwiches are known for their vibrant colors and generous fillings, making them very photogenic. The 'Wanpaku' style is inherently visually appealing. +1
Try overhead shots to capture the full sandwich, or close-ups to highlight the layers of ingredients. The thick bread and abundant fillings make for dramatic shots.
During peak times, it can be challenging to get a clear shot without other patrons in the background. Visiting during off-peak hours or being patient can help.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful of potential queues, which can be challenging with young children. Visiting during off-peak hours on a weekday is highly recommended. While the menu has variety, ensure your children are adventurous eaters, as the flavor combinations can be quite unique. The bread's texture has received mixed reviews, which might be a factor for picky eaters.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make it more budget-friendly, consider sharing a sandwich with a travel companion, as they are quite large. Visiting during off-peak hours might also mean less waiting time, allowing you to get your food and move on to other attractions. If you're looking for a truly budget meal, exploring other food options in Notting Hill or London might be more suitable.
📸 Foodie Influencers & Content Creators
Be prepared for potential queues, which can be a challenge for capturing clean shots. Visiting during off-peak hours or strategically framing your shots can help. While the sandwiches are visually impressive, be sure to also capture the overall vibe of the place and the unique setting above the Globe nightclub to create a well-rounded piece of content.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Secret' Identity: More Than Just Sandwiches
This concept plays into the 'secret' theme, offering a surprising twist. It's a place that caters to different moods and times of day, from a lively night out to a satisfying lunch. The unassuming exterior belies the vibrant atmosphere it holds, both in its culinary offerings and its nightlife persona.
While the 'secret' aspect might be a bit of a marketing ploy now that it's popular, the novelty of a sandwich shop operating above a club is certainly memorable. It's a testament to creative repurposing and offers a unique London experience that stands out from typical eateries.
Sandwich Philosophy: Size, Style, and Substance
Inspired by Japanese 'Wanpaku' sandwiches, these creations emphasize abundance and flavor combinations. The bread, often a thick, soft shokupan style, is designed to hold these substantial fillings. While some reviewers rave about the bread's texture, others have found it a bit dry, suggesting consistency can be an issue.
The pricing, typically around £10-£12, reflects the size and perceived quality of ingredients. However, this has led to some debate, with a portion of customers feeling the flavor doesn't always match the price point, especially when compared to other dining options in the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit