Get ready to embark on a savory journey across America, where we uncover the best sandwiches and where to get them. It’s a coast-to-coast flavor fest you won’t want to miss!
NYC Deli Classics
New York City delis are cultural institutions, offering a slice of the Big Apple’s rich history with every bite. They’re known for classics like the towering pastrami on rye.
The best sandwich places in NYC are often tucked away on bustling street corners. The aroma of freshly baked bread and seasoned meats create an irresistible pull.
NYC offers a labyrinth of options, each with its own signature dish. Whether it’s Katz’s or 2nd Ave Deli, they’re a testament to New York’s melting pot.
Philly’s Cheesesteaks
Who knew a simple combo of thinly sliced steak and melty cheese could conquer hearts and minds? In Philadelphia, cheesesteaks are a way of life.
Imagine biting into a perfectly toasted roll, brimming with juicy steak and gooey cheese. It’s a flavor fiesta that makes Philly’s cheesesteaks a must-try.
That’s where the adventure begins. From bustling South Philly to the hidden gems in the city’s nooks, exploring the best sandwich places is a delicious journey through Philly.
Cali Banh Mi
California has taken the Vietnamese Banh Mi and elevated it to something locals and visitors alike clamor for. It’s an epic culinary fusion experience.
It blends crisp, fresh Californian ingredients with the traditional, vibrant flavors of Vietnam. This twist has quickly made it onto the list of the best sandwiches around.
Each shop adds its own unique spin, whether it’s through locally sourced vegetables, artisanal bread, or a secret sauce. These innovative takes make Californian Banh Mi a must-try.
Chi-Town Italian Beef
Dipped, dunked, or drenched in au jus, every bite of Chi-Town’s Italian Beef tells a story of culinary craftsmanship. It’s no wonder they’re often called the best sandwiches.
The roll is perfectly constructed, holding thinly sliced beef, vibrant giardiniera, and a generous ladle of au jus. That’s the hallmark of a great Italian Beef sandwich.
Finding the best Italian Beef in Chicago is like searching for treasure. Each spot has its own secret blend of spices, making the quest tasty and thrilling.
Miami’s Cubanos
At the heart of Miami’s culinary scene lies the Cubano, a cultural icon. If you’re on the hunt for the best sandwiches, you need the Cubano.
The bread’s crispness, paired with roast pork, ham, mustard, Swiss cheese, and pickles, is unforgettable. It’s no wonder that the quest for the best sandwiches leads to Miami’s doorstep.
The secret to an exceptional Cubano lies in its ingredients’ quality. Miami’s best sandwich places know this all too well, turning each Cubano into a masterpiece.
Maine Lobster Rolls
In Maine, the lobster roll is a celebration of the sea’s bounty, tucked neatly into a soft, buttery bun. Places that serve up this crustacean delight are revered.
It’s the perfect blend of fresh lobster meat, lightly dressed. Maine lobster rolls are a staple in local cuisine and a must-try for visiting food enthusiasts.
For those on a quest to find the best sandwich places, a stop in Maine is non-negotiable. With each bite, you’re savoring the essence of Maine’s maritime history.
NOLA Po’boys
New Orleans’ Po’boys burst with flavors that tell stories of culinary fusion. Among the best sandwiches, Po’boys stand out for their soft, pillowy baguettes.
They’re filled with either crispy fried seafood or tender roast meats. And let’s not forget the remoulade, a sauce that wraps each bite in a tangy hug.
From fresh seafood to perfectly baked baguettes, these sandwiches show the city’s love for good food. Finding the city’s best sandwiches will always lead to a Po’boy shop.
Texas BBQ Brisket
When scouring for the best sandwiches, nothing hits like a Texas BBQ brisket sandwich. This Lone Star specialty transforms the humble sandwich into a mouthwatering marvel.
In Texas, BBQ brisket is a craft, perfected over slow, smoldering fires and generations of pitmasters. They’re really dedicated to the art of barbecue.
Every bite of this smoky delight is a new discovery. The rich meat and tangy sauce are to-die-for. Wherever you go in Texas, order this sandwich.
Portland’s Vegan Delight
Portland, a city celebrated for its culinary diversity, is home to some of the best sandwiches catering to vegans. Plant-based meals can also be indulgent and satisfying!
From tempeh BLTs to jackfruit tuna sandwiches, Portland’s sandwich spots push the boundaries of what a sandwich can be. Each bite is a testament to its innovative spirit.
These vegan sandwiches are especially appealing to those looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Portland’s commitment to sustainability shines through its growing culinary scene.
Seattle’s Salmon Bagels
In the heart of Seattle lies a sublime creation: salmon bagels. This fuses fresh Seattle salmon with creamy cheese on a perfectly toasted bagel.
Seattle’s salmon bagels are iconic. It’s where local flavors and the art of sandwich-making meet, offering a taste that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor.
The magic of Seattle’s salmon bagels is in the experience. Enjoying one at a cafe, with a view of the serene waterfront, adds an extra layer of delight.
Pittsburgh’s Primanti
This is less about a specific sandwich than it is a place. When hunting for the best sandwich places, it’s impossible to overlook Pittsburgh’s Primanti.
Each sandwich they make is a towering homage to the city’s culinary creativity. They combine savory meat, melty cheese, crisp fries, and tangy slaw between hearty Italian bread.
A visit to Pittsburgh isn’t complete without experiencing the legendary Primanti sandwich. This meal-in-one has captured the hearts and appetites of locals and visitors alike.
Denver’s Mile High
Denver’s not just about the mountain views — it’s a city that takes its sandwiches seriously. The Mile High piles meats, cheeses, and veggies high on a baguette.
Meat lovers will adore this one. It combines not one, not two, but three different kinds of meat — roast beef, ham, and salami.
As far as cheeses go, it sticks to Swiss. It sounds simple, but it’s a masterpiece that showcases the best of what local delis have to offer.
Boston’s Clam Roll
These clams are fried to a golden crisp and tucked warmly inside a soft, buttery roll. It’s a taste of Boston, bringing the sea right to your palate.
Clam rolls are a serious affair. From the choice of clams to the way they’re fried and the type of roll used, each element is carefully considered.
A stop in Boston for a clam roll is a must. It’s important to savor a local delicacy that’s been perfected over the years.
Nashville Hot Chicken
If you’re hunting for the best sandwiches, Nashville’s Hot Chicken should top your list. This fiery delight packs a punch, marrying juicy chicken with a spice blend.
Between the crispy texture and spice, it’s a masterpiece sandwiched between soft bread. The best sandwich places in town know the secret to the perfect balance of flavors.
For those brave enough to take on the heat, Nashville’s Hot Chicken sandwiches are a must-try. Each bite shows the city’s love for bold flavors.
St. Louis’ Gerber
When in St. Louis, you can’t miss the local favorite — the Gerber. This open-faced delight combines ham, garlic butter, and Provel cheese, broiled until golden.
The Gerber is a St. Louis tradition. Born in a cozy corner of the city, it represents the fusion of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors.
What sets the Gerber apart from other sandwiches? It’s the Provel — a creamy, dreamy blend unique to the area, melting perfectly over ham and garlic butter.
Louisville’s Hot Brown
If you’re a fan of open-faced sandwiches and ever find yourself in Kentucky, you should try a Hot Brown. It’s made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.
If you’re unfamiliar with Mornay, it’s a thick, white, and cheesy sauce made with grated cheese. The specific kind of cheese varies depending on the restaurant.
So, where should you order a Hot Brown? We suggest going to the Brown Hotel, where one of the best sandwiches in America was invented.
Midwestern Fried Bologna Sandwich
This one’s for those who prefer a simpler sandwich. No shame in that! Sometimes bologna gets the job done. Plus, it’s fried, and everything tastes better when fried.
Of course, you can always add cheeses or condiments. We won’t judge you if you don’t, but we strongly suggest that you do.
The kind that you’d get at a restaurant will be a lot better than whatever you whip up at home. It’s a delicacy and is treated as such.
Massachussetts’ Fluffernutter
Depending on where you’re from, you’re either baffled or nostalgic. Fluffernutters are easily one of the most delicious lunch sandwiches of all time.
If you’ve never eaten one, let us explain. They require two simple ingredients: peanut butter and Cool Whip. You could also add bacon, because why not?
The two different textures are what really make this sandwich shine. To make your fluffernutter unique, spread on some Nutella. Now that makes everything better.
Southern Fried Catfish Sandwich
Fried catfish is a Southern delicacy. It can be put on any kind of sandwich, really (including a Po’ Boy!). This is what makes them so versatile.
If you value versatility in your food and want room for experimentation, then look no further. Fried catfish sandwiches only require two things — catfish and bread.
The rest is all up to you. You can add tartar sauce, pickles, dill, pickles, whatever. You name it, you can put it on there.
Southern California’s Monte Cristo
French people might recognize this sandwich. That’s because the Monte Cristo is an American version of the “croque monsieur,” a ham and cheese sandwich.
Of course, this isn’t just any ham and cheese sandwich. It wouldn’t have the fancy name if it was. The bread actually resembles French toast.
This is because it’s prepared similarly. Before the sandwich is finished, the bread is dipped in egg and cooked. Dijon mustard is usually a feature.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a coast-to-coast tour of America’s best sandwiches that are sure to satisfy your cravings and then some. From the classic deli heroes in New York to the innovative banh mi shops in California, each place we’ve listed offers something uniquely delicious. Next time you’re on the road and your stomach starts to rumble, remember this guide and treat yourself to some of the finest sandwiches the U.S. has to offer. Happy eating!