+44 20 8558 7850
Nestled in the heart of Leyton, London, Lion and Key Pub offers much more than your typical neighborhood eatery. This inviting restaurant masterfully blends traditional English pub fare with a modern twist, curating a menu that caters to a variety of palates with finesse and care.
The cuisine at Lion and Key is rooted deeply in comforting, hearty British classics, but with inspired touches that elevate every dish. Guests rave about the perfectly executed English Breakfast, a symphony of crispy bacon, succulent sausages, golden eggs, and savory beans – all cooked to a beautifully balanced texture and flavor. The Turkish Breakfast stands out as an adventurous yet approachable offering, bursting with lively Mediterranean notes, fresh cheeses, olives, and warm flatbreads that invite slow, satisfying bites.
For those who appreciate a light, wholesome start to the day, the Omelette and Avocado dish is a creamy, silky pleasure, combining fluffy eggs with the buttery smoothness of ripe avocado. Meanwhile, the Chicken Escalope with White Rice delivers a tender, juicy experience that comforts without heaviness, ideal for a midday or evening treat.
The beverage selection is equally impressive. Coffee enthusiasts indulge in rich, aromatic brews like Cappuccino and Cold Brew, perfect companions to any meal or a relaxed chat. For those looking to elevate the dining affair with a touch of celebration, the Champagne menu dazzles with premium choices such as Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot (including Rose variants), and the exquisite Dom Perignon 2006. The well-crafted shots—ranging from energetic B52 to bold Tequila Slammer—and the cozy liqueur coffees like Baileys Coffee and French Coffee bring a warm, convivial spirit to the pub experience.
Stepping into Lion and Key, one immediately senses the warmth and attentiveness that define the staff. As noted by regulars such as Raymond Kennedy and Kelly Thomas, the service is consistently friendly, timely, and remarkably accommodating—even crafting special dishes on request, such as a vegan option that isn’t standard on the menu. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance: lively enough to feel vibrant on a busy match day, yet relaxed and welcoming for a quiet Sunday afternoon, a sentiment echoed by multiple visitors.
The pub’s interior and outdoor seating area provide a clean, well-kept environment that encourages lingering conversations and cheerful gatherings. While some guests mention the slight inconvenience of the walking distance to the tube station, the presence of a small car park offers a helpful alternative for those arriving by car.
In essence, Lion and Key Pub is not just a place to eat; it’s a place to enjoy truly thoughtful food and drink in a setting where quality and care are palpable. Whether you’re drawn by the rich taste of a traditional breakfast, the sparkle of fine Champagne, or the promise of attentive, accommodating service, this Leyton gem leaves a lasting impression that beckons return visits.
Friendly and attentive staff, the food is very high quality and reasonably priced. Pictured is the Turk Breakfast and Full English breakfast w/ Royal salmon Benedict in the background.
The Lion and Key Pub in Leyton. Better described as a hotel with a bar serving a small collection of keg beers. Friendly, attentive staff and a clean well kept premises. Not the place for real ale drinkers as nothing on cask.
Went for a birthday with a large group of nearly 20 people . Very accommodating and even made a special vegan dish for one of the guests which wasn't on their menu. Even though it was Leyton orient match day and busy, the service was great and the food came out at in great time to the whole table. The food was delicious and would definitely recommend.
Great room and staff were excellent. My only issue was the walking distance to the tube station but they do have a small car park.
Lovely spot for a Sunday afternoon. Staff fabulous, food excellent quality and great value. Shame about the man who parked outside and left his engine running for 20 mins chatting to his mates who sat in the pubs outdoor space, while his exhaust fumes stank up the place.