Randolfi L

514 Roman Rd, Old Ford, London E3 5ES, United Kingdom
+44 20 8980 2804
$$$ Cafe , Takeout restaurant , Sandwich shop
(40 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Randolfi L is a no-frills sandwich shop and takeaway tucked away on Roman Road in Old Ford, carrying the kind of old-school East London character that locals appreciate. It’s the sort of spot where the buzz isn’t about flashy presentation but rather the simple satisfaction of a properly made sandwich and a familiar, welcoming atmosphere.

The place hums quietly with regulars chatting comfortably with the staff—often friendly older gentlemen who greet newcomers as “young man,” adding to the unmistakable neighborhood charm. You’ll find a broad selection of sandwiches and rolls, from classic cheese and bacon to more distinct offerings like liver sausage topped with fresh watercress or “Brot Mit Ei Und Speck,” reflecting an international nod amid the British staples.

This is a handy stop for a quick breakfast or lunch, especially if you appreciate straightforward, hearty food without fuss. The menu covers everything from sausage and bacon sandwiches to salmon, crab mayo, and egg mayo options — perfect for a bite before heading back to work or to enjoy a stroll along Roman Road market. The milk tea is another quietly praised item, offering a comforting alternative to the usual takeaway drip coffee.

With reasonable prices and an unpretentious layout, Randolfi L suits those who value genuine service and a sense of community more than polished Instagram aesthetics. Days here tend to feel like a snapshot of old East London life, where people come to catch up, watch neighborhood life unfold, and grab something reliably good to eat.

Best times to visit are weekday mornings and early afternoons when local regulars drop by to start their day or take a break. It’s not a place for lingering over long meals but rather a spot that blends into the rhythm of everyday life—quick, friendly, and familiar.

If you’re passing through Old Ford or Roman Road, and want a taste of unvarnished London local culture, Randolfi L delivers a straightforward, honest sandwich experience with a warm, lived-in feel that deeply contrasts with newer, trendier eateries nearby.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
What they serve
Coffee
Quick bite
Best for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

07:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

40 Reviews
Hasan Yildiz

04 Jan 2026

Last bit of true east london, the vibe and energy is great, good to catch up with the locals, friendly and well respected outlet.

Candice Chiew

09 Nov 2025

Only recently discovered this place. Had a liver sausage sandwich which was delicious, and the watercress on top was a super lovely touch. Service was very homely and top notch! The owner (?) saw that I had used up my napkin already and brought me fresh ones - it was very thoughtful. Prices are extremely reasonable as well.

TOMHS FILMS

20 Oct 2025

Really lovely, old-school, no-frills sandwich shop. Great service, with very polite old boys that call you “young man” make your food! Great place to people watch. An institution!

Harmoniumwerkstatt Reedorgan restore seid 1986 (Reedorgan concerts)

20 Oct 2025

Here we feel like at home...Very friendly persons coming here to eat and very friendly persons work over there... We went several days for very individual prizes...good prizes! Here you feel a real British feeling. You arrive and you are not only a client..you can have small talk with persons who come there. The 3 Randolfis are very very experienced in that, what they are doing. Thank you for receiving us!

Michelle Harvey

06 Oct 2025

This shop is a family favourite for me and three generations of my family. My sister Tracy worked for the lovely and very caring brothers. You always receive a very warm welcome when you enter the shop and nothing seems to much trouble. I have always been satisfied with my lovely fresh sandwiches and cold drinks. Thank you so much guys.

peter burke

29 Sep 2025

Absolutely loved this East End cafe with such an old school welcome and service. The mugs are a genius idea to keep the respect of the famous Roman Road alive. So please I found it. Enjoyed the beans on toast.

Rhoda Leader

27 Sep 2025

I've been using this Café since I was a small child. It doesn't matter if you are a regular visitor or if it's your first time you are always welcome with a smile and a decent cup of tea/coffee. Gino, Michael and the other staff are very friendly and knowledgeable about the local area. Open from 7am - 2:30pm Monday - Friday Well worth a visit and the sandwiches are always done fresh as you order so no stale or soggy bread, just good food at reasonable prices.

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