Is anything more simply delicious than a classic sandwich? From cold cuts piled high, to a toasted club, even to a classic cuban or more inventive creations like a crab cake sandwich. From lunch to dinner, the sandwich is a staple. While you might be tempted to go with your usual order or usual spot, these 12 sandwiches are an absolute must-try.
1. The Havana from Old Havana Sandwich Shop, Durham
The Havana could possibly be the best Cuban sandwich in the state. This classic comes with slow roasted pork, house-cured ham, pickle, cheese, mustard, and the special 'mojo sauce' to add even more flavor.
2. #6 Pork Bahn Mi from Le's Sandwich Shop, Charlotte
The harder the hike the better the reward - right? So is the case with Le's. Located in somewhat of a questionable setting and inside an Asian mall is a no-nonsense sandwich shop making the best bahn mis in Charlotte. The #6 is a classic, piled high with pickled carrots, cilantro, cucumber and daikon, slice jalapeños, and all served on delicious bahn mi bread.
3. Pork chop sandwich, Snappy Lunch, Mount Airy
For just four bucks and some change you can try one of the most famous sandwiches in North Carolina. A pancake battered pork chop is served topped with slaw, sweet chili, and mustard. If Andy Griffith loved Snappy Lunch you know it's amazing!
4. Fried turkey sandwich, Fried Turkey Sandwich Shop, Fayetteville
It's Thanksgiving year-round at the Fried Turkey Sandwich Shop and while here, you must get the sandwich that is the shops namesake. Fried turkey, cranberry sauce, gravy, toasted and with a side of fried okra. It's delicious!
5. The single BLT, Merrit's, Chapel Hill
Who doesn't appreciate a good BLT - Merrit's does it best by adding their own twist, avocado. Of course you can keep it simple, but avocado as well as pimento mayo make for a delicious twist on a classic sandwich.
6. The Tony Baloney, Pinky's Westside Grill, Charlotte
While Pink's has a multitude of delicious options (get the pimento cheese fries, get the hushpuppies!) one classic you can't really find elsewhere is the Tony Baloney. You'll get a thick slice of grilled bologna - order it Westside style and it'll come with slaw, chili, onions and mustard. For the bologna fan this is a real winner!
7. The ABC, The Rockford, Raleigh
While many of these sandwiches are ornate and piled high with all kinds of goodness, sometimes simplicity is best. That's what you get with the ABC - one of Rockford's most notable menu items. It comes with green apples, bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and you can add meat if you prefer. You also can choose your bread, for brunch it comes with french toast (pictured above) YUM!
8. The pork belly, Asheville Sandwich Company, Asheville
Fries on a sandwich? Yes, you read that right. A very 'Only In Asheville' concept, pretty much anything from here is amazingly delicious. One favorite is the pork belly which is somewhat simple in concept but the best french fry/sandwich pairing you'll try.
9. Charlie's Cranky Crab Sandwich, Beaufort Grocery Company, Beaufort
While everywhere on the coast is seeking the title of 'best crab cake sandwich,' no one does it quite like Beaufort Grocery. Two sautéed crab cakes come topped with lettuce, tomato, provolone, spicy remoulade sauce and served on a croissant.
10. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich, Buxton Hall BBQ
You haven't truly had a fried chicken sandwich until you take a bit of this one. The one sandwich to rule them all, it was named 'Best Fried Chicken Sandwich of the Year' by Bon Apetit Magazine. A generous portion of fried chicken is served with smoky pimento and American cheese, a couple pickles, and white BBQ sauce. It's truly one of the best sandwiches I've had in North Carolina.
Safe to say I'm absolutely starving now. Which sandwich is now on your must-try list? Any you want to add?
If a sandwich wasn't enough, why not celebrate the places that make these delicious sandwiches, here are the 12 best sandwich shops in North Carolina.
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