Working lunch in the City: Street Kitchen, Broadgate Circle
Our guide to the best places to eat during office hours in the City and Canary Wharf
WHAT? After a run of successful pop-ups, it was only a matter of time before the Street Kitchen guys set up shop permanently. Serving gourmet sandwiches by the inch, the experienced chefs are looking to revolutionise fast and affordable City lunches.
WHO? Chef Mark Jankel and his buddy Jun Tanaka, formerly executive chef at Michelin-starred Pearl Restaurant and Bar, but better known for his appearances on TV cooking shows. Their aim is to roll out the concept across the country and eventually challenge Pret’s status as king of lunchtime eating.
A 24 inch sandwich
WHERE? One of a handful of new eateries in Broadgate Circle, the recently redeveloped pedestrianised area near Liverpool Street station. Most of the competition comes from more formal sit down restaurants so Jankel and Tanaka could be onto a winner with their street concept.
ORDER THIS… All the sandwiches were stellar. The rare beef, horseradish and watercress on focaccia was every bit as delicious as it looked. The roasted broccoli, free-range egg and smokey mustard mayo was an unexpected veggie delight.
Broccoli and free range egg
BUSINESS OR PLEASURE? The standard of ingredients is restaurant quality but Street Kitchen is all about delicious food served quickly and informally. Sandwiches are tasty but messy. Not one for serious business meetings.
NEED TO BOOK? No. Even when it’s heaving you never have to wait more than a couple of minutes for your lunch. If there’s no space inside, there’s pleny of room on the steps of Broadgate Circle.
Hot smoked salmon
THE VERDICT… Several gastronomic rungs above Pret but barely more expensive, Street Kitchen has raised the bar for lunchtime quick eats in the City. The “by the inch” conceit is also a winner, ensuring you eat – and pay – the precise amount you want according to your appetite or bank balance.
ONE MORE THING… It’s not just a great lunchtime option, the breakfast brioche buns – bacon, sausage, egg, or all of the above – are great too.
THE DETAILS: Street Kitchen is open Monday – Friday from 7am-9pm.