Where to go in Edinburgh for a sandwich

This one’s for the real meat-eaters amongst us. Oink (as the name would suggest) base their menu around the eye-catching, mouth-watering hog roast. As working farmers, the guys at Oink had the simple idea of bringing quality, natural product from the farm to the city. Passionate about good “honest” food, they wanted to introduce a very different food concept to Edinburgh, with their fresh and delicious Scottish Hog Roast Rolls. All of the meat is very high quality and it never fails to please in terms of taste. The formula is simple: choose from white or brown bread, choose a stuffing (sage and onion or their own handmade haggis), add a sauce (apple, mustard mayo, BBQ, or chilli cheese) and – of course – add your pulled pork. Prices are reasonable and serving sizes are generous. If you’re in the mood to indulge, look no further.

Boasting some of Edinburgh’s finest ‘Big Hot Sandwiches’, Alby’s is well-known in the Leith area for serving up some seriously delicious grub. The produce is always seasonal and expertly cooked. From sumptuous meaty options, like their Coronation Chicken Katsu, to fish-based sandwiches (we like the Scandi Prawn and Pickled Fennel) and yummy meat-free options (Mapo Tofu; Jalapeño Popper Toastie), there’s truly something to suit all tastes. Prices are high; each sandwich comes in at around £9, but we promise it’s well-worth the pennies and portions are large. In the mood for a little extra? Why not help yourself to one of their delectable sides? Think Fried Polenta & Taleggio, Heirloom Tomato Panzanella and Salted Padron Peppers, you won’t regret it!

Distinctively no-nonsense, Relish is a bit of a hidden gem in Edinburgh’s trendy Leith. With an extensive menu and extremely low prices, we can see why locals flock to this small café each lunchtime. Choose from a range of different bready bases – rolls, baguette, wraps or sliced artisan bread – and add your choice of filling, from fresh salami or chicken pesto, to goats cheese and Taleggio, the options are endless. The coffee here is top-notch too, and if you’re really peckish, why not add-on a side of their delicious and seasonal homemade soup?

Okay, okay, it’s not technically a sandwich shop. But Bross offers up the perfect lunchtime solution. They are all about seriously sumptuous fillings, perfectly chewy bagels and a fast and friendly service. Alongside seasonal specials, expect to find classics like their ‘Montreal’ bagel (only £5.50) filled with cream cheese, Lox, pickled red onion, capers, dill and lemon or their McBross bagel (with vegan haggis, smoked applewood cheese, caramelised onion chutney and rock sauce). The atmosphere is relaxed and hip; if you’re for a tasty and laid-back lunch, Bross has you covered.

Right, you’ve got us again, City Restaurant is not a sandwich shop either! However, they do have some sandwiches you should NOT miss out on. Especially if you’re really seeking some decent comfort food. The family-run place in Edinburgh’s Old Town (next to Capital Theatre) underwent a refurbishment in early 2020 to a fish setting, which is now enjoyed by families, friends and couples. If you’re stopping by for a quick bite on the go, try the Chip Roll. If you’re sitting in for lunch, we’d recommend the Fish Butty – battered haddock mini fillets in a toasted brioche bun with tartare sauce and lettuce. Yum.