The 50 Best Sandwich Shops Across the U.S.

A go-to for big flavors and even bigger portions, Full Bellie Deli in Alabama, is all about comfort sandwiches done right. The menu leans hearty, with stacked meats, melty cheese, and bread that can actually hold its own. It’s the kind of place where nothing feels overthought—just well-built sandwiches that hit the spot every single time and keep locals coming back for lunch after lunch.

Mo’s Deli in Anchorage has the feel of a classic neighborhood sandwich shop, where regulars are greeted by name and orders come out fast and generous. Known for well-balanced subs and deli staples, the shop focuses on fresh ingredients and straightforward combinations that don’t need embellishment. It’s dependable, unfussy, and exactly the kind of place you want nearby when a serious sandwich craving hits. Pro tip: Try the Sloppy Mo Sandwich your first time around.

Frank’s Deli in Arizona is old-school in the best possible way, delivering traditional deli sandwiches with no shortcuts and no nonsense. Expect thinly sliced meats, fresh rolls, and portions that border on heroic. It doesn't matter if you’re ordering an Italian-style grinder or a simple turkey and cheese; everything tastes familiar, comforting, and built with care—proof that classic delis still do it best.

Arkansas' Hammontree’s Grilled Cheese turns a childhood favorite into a full-blown destination. This shop is famous for creative, over-the-top grilled cheese sandwiches that go far beyond bread and American cheese. Think multiple cheeses, bold add-ins, and perfectly crisped bread. It’s indulgent, fun, and unapologetically cheesy, making it a must-stop for anyone who believes grilled cheese deserves center stage.

Maciel’s Plant Butcher in California proves that plant-based sandwiches can be just as crave-worthy as their meat-filled counterparts. Using house-made vegan meats and thoughtful flavor pairings, the sandwiches here are bold, satisfying, and anything but an afterthought. Even non-vegans are won over by the creativity and depth of flavor, making this shop a standout for modern, forward-thinking sandwich lovers.

Leven Deli blends traditional Jewish deli roots with a modern sensibility, resulting in sandwiches that feel both familiar and fresh. House-baked bread, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, and carefully layered flavors set these sandwiches apart. From reimagined classics to inventive seasonal options, Leven delivers depth and balance in every bite, earning its reputation as a must-visit deli for serious sandwich fans.

Nardelli’s Grinder Shoppe is all about big, bold grinders loaded with premium meats and cheeses. Known for hot, pressed sandwiches and generous cold subs, this Connecticut favorite doesn’t hold back on flavor or portion size. The bread is sturdy, the fillings are plentiful, and every sandwich feels like a meal. It’s a classic grinder joint that knows exactly what it’s doing.

A Delaware institution, Casapulla’s Subs has been serving towering sandwiches for decades. The Rehoboth Beach location keeps the tradition alive with freshly sliced meats, soft rolls, and subs stacked impossibly high. The Italian sub is a standout, layered with flavor and nostalgia. It’s the kind of sandwich that requires two hands, plenty of napkins, and zero regrets.

Laspada’s Original Hoagies is legendary for its dramatic, meat-raining assembly and massive portions. Watching a hoagie get built here is half the experience, with thin-sliced meats piled high before your eyes. The result is a perfectly balanced, outrageously generous sandwich that lives up to its hype. If you want a true East Coast hoagie experience, this is it.

Zunzi's in Savannah, Georgia, is a beloved, award-winning sandwich destination with roots as a small take-out spot serving college students that has grown into a downtown staple since opening in 2005. Known for its internationally inspired menu blending South African, Swiss, and Italian influences, it’s earned national acclaim and a passionate following for fresh, bold flavors and creative combinations.

Sprout Sandwich Shop focuses on fresh, vibrant sandwiches that feel lighter but never boring. Known for creative veggie-forward options alongside meatier builds, the shop emphasizes texture, crunch, and bold sauces. Each sandwich feels carefully composed, making it a favorite for anyone who wants something flavorful and satisfying without feeling weighed down. It’s proof that fresh can still be filling.

Cobby’s Sandwich Shop is beloved for its consistent, well-executed sandwiches and laid-back vibe. The menu covers all the classics, done with quality ingredients and generous portions. Nothing feels rushed or skimpy, and every sandwich delivers exactly what you expect—in the best way. It’s a reliable local favorite that earns its spot through craftsmanship and repeat-worthy flavor.

Johnnie’s Beef is an iconic Chicago stop, best known for its legendary Italian beef sandwich. Thinly sliced beef is soaked in rich jus, piled onto a sturdy roll, and finished with sweet or hot peppers. It’s messy, bold, and completely unforgettable. This is the kind of sandwich you plan a trip around—and one that defines Chicago sandwich culture.

Shapiro’s Delicatessen is a cornerstone of classic Jewish deli tradition, serving some of the best piled-high sandwiches in the Midwest. Pastrami and corned beef are sliced thick and stacked generously on fresh bread. The flavors are rich, comforting, and timeless. Walking into Shapiro’s feels like stepping into deli history, and the sandwiches absolutely live up to the legacy.

In Ottumwa, Canteen Lunch in the Alley is famous for its no-frills, old-school sandwiches. The star is the classic cheese sandwich—simple, grilled, and surprisingly perfect. There’s nothing flashy here, just decades of consistency and local love. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most memorable sandwiches are the simplest ones.

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que may be best known for smoked meats, but its sandwiches are just as legendary. The Z-Man, piled with brisket, smoked provolone, onion rings, and sauce, is an icon. Every bite balances smoke, richness, and texture. It’s barbecue between bread at its finest and a must-order for first-time visitors.

JP’s Hot Chicken brings Nashville-style heat to the sandwich world, delivering crispy, spice-forward chicken sandwiches that don’t mess around. The chicken is juicy, the coating packs serious flavor, and the heat level is fully customizable. Balanced with slaw and soft bread, each sandwich hits hard without losing control. According to Yelp, it's been touted as the best sandwich shop in the entire Bluegrass State.

A favorite among Only In Your State readers, The Whistle Stop is a must in Denham Spring's Antique District. New owners, Courtney Richoux and her husband, recently bought the shop in 2025. She says it has always been special to them and they wanted to keep the shop nearly the same as its original owners, just with a few updates. Customer favorites include the Chicken Crunch, Razz'd Turkey, and Muffaletta.

Another well-loved location by Only In Your State readers is this locally-owned Maine market in Old Orchard Beach. It's most well-known for the Godfather, a take on the famous Italian sandwich with claims of New England origin. Another favorite is the steak and cheese, which is named after the owners's father (his favorite sandwich).

RegionAle has two Maryland locations (Ellicott City and Annapolis), so of course its MD Crabcake sandwich with Old Bay remoulade is a crowd favorite. The menu also highlights other favorites from other states like the FL Cubano and LA Shrimp Po Boy to more unique takes like the OR Tuna Steak sandwich—chilled yellowfin tuna steak, arugala, onion, tomato, balsamic Dijonaise on a multigrain bun.

Located in the heart of Boston's North End you can't go wrong ordering an Italian sub at Monica's. What started as a market selling imported Italian products 30 years ago has turned into the "best Italian sub in Boston." A current employee tells us that the market used to sell pizza but the sub became so popular, that they had to stop because of the demand for sandwiches.

Monica's is part of the Mendoza family's culinary businesses including a trattoria and vinoteca, all located in the North End.

This deli and wine shop is a local Only In Your State writer's favorite. Located in Corktown Detroit, it's been serving Michiganites since 2008. The food is all made from scratch with meats roasted or smoked in house. Patrons love the Barrett, a corn beef classic, and the Jerk. Also don't skip the weekly specials for something you can get only once.

The Eastern European deli comes recommended by an Only In Your State editor who knows a good sandwich when he sees one—this sandwich shop has a James Beard Foundation award. The Minneapolis establishment has been serving grinders, pierogis, sausages, stews, and more for over 60 years. Try the Krakowska with signature garlic ham sausage, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and garlic mayo on caraway rye.

Minneapolis new-comer Paper Boy Deli also receives an honorable mention—you'll just have to wait in line!

As the oldest drugstore in the state of Mississippi (and oldest drugstore in the U.S. operated by the same family), Borroum's is an icon. For 150 years its served locals and visitors, and since the late 1930's there's been a soda fountain counter. Today's menu consists of a variety of sandwiches, but it's best known for the Depression-era slugburger, a mixture of ground pork, soy flour, and spices.

With two Missouri locations (plus a food truck), this small, family-owned restaurant has become a local staple. Customers love the unique creations like the Vooodo Jamwich (turkey, jalapeno bacon jam pepper jack, garlic pepper aioli, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle), Boozie Bird (smoked chicken, bourbon teriyaki, bell pepper, pineapple, pepper jack, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle), and daily specials.

We're also giving St. Louis staple, Mom's Deli an honorable mention for Missouri.

This local Missoula deli names its sandwiches after rock bands, with the Beach Boy as the top seller and Megadeth as the most famous. The name of the game is local; bread comes fresh daily from a nearby bakery, and the sauces are made in-house.

This farm-to-table sandwich shop is located in central Omaha and comes with high accolades. Customers rave about the Bacon & Brie a la Emily with thick-cut bacon, duck confit, apple butter, toasted rosemary, and arugula. It's also known for unique French fry dishes—like dragon fries, funky fungi fries, and duck, duck, goose fries—which make the perfect companion to any sandwich on the menu.

This small, family-owned shop in Henderson is known for its fresh egg, tuna, and chicken salad sandwiches. Owned by a single mom, Woods' pride comes from its quality ingredients where everything is done in-house. Sometimes you just can't go wrong with a solid classic—but the Bomber does offer a unique twist (peep the menu to find out what's on it).

You can't go wrong at Joe's—a classic deli located inside a market in the seaside town of North Hampton. Patrons rave about the Special Italian and Turkey Gobbler as go-tos. New Englanders will also love that peanut butter and Fluff (fluffernutter) is on the menu, too!

Known as the birthplace of the Sloppy Joe, Town Hall is a clearcut winner in a state full of fantastic delis. While copied by many, this o.g. version is the perfect combo of meat, Russian dressing, and coleslaw.

What started as a cheese and coffee shop has since evolved into Albuquerque's favorite sandwich shop. With two locations (one in Uptown and one in Downtown), you won't be far from either location whether you're a local or visitor. Scratch soups and speciality sandwiches feature local bread and produce, including the state's famous green chile.

In a city known for its famous delicatessen scene, Edith's comes recommended by a decade's long NYC resident. With a Williamsburg and West Village location, locals and visitors can get their fix in multiple boroughs. While this list isn't honoring breakfast sandwiches specifically, the BEC&L (Bacon, Egg, Latke & Cheese) Sandwich was named ‘One Of The Sandwiches That Defines New York City' by The New York Times. Deli classics include the Babe (reuben), the Edith (pastrami), and the Perfect Tuna Melt (self-explanatory).

In a state known for its Southern comfort food, La Lima stands out in the Queen City for its unique offerings, served on "crystal bread." We recommend checking out the entire menu for some lunch-time inspiration, but the Sakura (tuna tartar, spicy acevichado, crispy onion, daikon, and cilantro), Verde Fiore (eggplant Milanesa, stracciatella, mint, pesto, tomatoes, and arugula), and Chicarron (crisp pork belly, sweet potato, carretillero sauce, sarza criolla, and cilantro) are particularly tasty.

Magic City Hoagies has a certain charm that's undeniable—it could be the ice cream (swoon), or the arcade (classic!), but we think it's the sandwiches, which are unabashedly above and beyond. Only In Your State readers raved about Magic City's top-selling sandwich: the Best Italian. Built with the shop's signature meat-wrapped™ style on an authentic hoagie roll, it's a satisfying, crave-worthy, wow factor kinda sandwich!" says owner Christine Staley. Readers were quick to call out Magic City's food-forward approach: the shop cuts all their meat fresh, uses North Dakota wheat, offers huge portions and tons of tasty options.

Deli Ohio is more than just a fabulous sandwich shop...it’s a true cornerstone of the Canton community. Along with a delicious daily menu and rotating seasonal offerings, it also offers incredible desserts and pastries that are worth the visit alone. The team proudly supports local farms and shops, sourcing ingredients locally and uplifting fellow small businesses both within the Fourth Street Collective (like Mike’s Pizza and Woodshop Canton) and throughout downtown Canton.

This family-run spot has immaculate vibes, and a menu packed with can’t-miss sandwiches, salads, soups, sides, and desserts. The Ham, Apple, and Brie (or the Spinach, Apple, and Brie if you prefer vegetarian offerings) is always bright and delightful—but no matter your preference or dietary restriction, Deli Ohio truly has something for everyone.

You might not expect to snag a stellar pastrami sandwich outside of NYC, but that's only because you haven't tried Trenchers Delicatessen in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Pastrami Reuben is a must-try for fans of this classic sandwich on rye, as is the shop's signature sando: the Dutch Crunch. Turkey, bacon, Swiss, tomato, arugula, and avocado mayo on delightfully "crispy" Dutch Crunch bread—add a side of house made chips and lunch is served.

Portland is a big food town, showcasing the best of the Pacific Northwest with signature PDX flair. So it's no surprise to discover the best sandwich in Oregon in Portland: Sammich. Loaded, stacked, and stuffed beyond bread, Sammich's sandwiches are the kind of over-the-top creations of Dagwood dreams. The Pastrami Zombie is a delightful twist on a NYC classic with oodles of delicious house-made pastrami while the Albacore with pickles is anything but your average tunafish sandwich.

Pennsylvania's most iconic sandwich—the Philly cheesesteak—can be found all over the state (and beyond!) but Only In Your State readers tell us Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies is the best of the best. For a simple sandwich like the cheesesteak, every detail matters, and Dalessandro's takes great care in everything from the chop of the meat to the quality of the roll.

A little local hub in Cranston, Rhode Island, Pawtuxet Village Market proves that when it comes to sandwiches, details matter. We're talking the crispest greens and juiciest tomatoes, the most succulent, shaved deli meats and finely sliced cheeses, all served between two thick (but not too thick) slices of grilled bread and held together by a snazzy sandwich toothpick. Don't skimp on sides, either; this market is known far and wide for their superior salads: pasta, slaw, potato. Hungry yet?

Far from Philly, in Conway, South Carolina, Cheesesteak U is dishing up delicious cheesesteaks with Southern flair. The restaurant boldly claims cheesesteak mastery, and Reader Jeff C. called out the Chanticleer Cheese Steak for this very reason: "A great local twist on a traditional Philadelphia sandwich." This Cheesesteak U special features an Amoroso roll stuffed to the gills with thinly sliced tenderloin steak, pepper jack, grilled onions, roasted red peppers, black olives, and banana peppers.

Besides loving the name of this restaurant, Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen stands out as the best sandwich in South Dakota for, well, the sandwiches. If you're the type who enjoys a classic roast beef, give the Almost Roast Beef a shot: made with seitan, 'shrooms, onions, arugula, Kasemeister Swiss, and horseradish aioli, your taste buds won't believe this delicious 'wich is plant based.

Meat lovers, however, can't get enough of the Porkstrami, a wholly unique carnivorous creation—pastrami but with pork belly—stacked between toasted Rye Bread and bursting with meat, sauerkraut, fontina cheese, and a special sauce Bread & Circus calls grainaise. Sandwich sorcery is happening in Sioux Falls, friends.

A small-town standout for big sandwich energy, Bert's Hometown Grill in Madisonville, Tennessee, has a robust menu that includes several Only In Your State sandwich favorites. The Philly cheesesteak and cheeseburger are classic, but we have to give the best sandwich award to the corned beef, which one Only In Tennessee reader called "the best sandwich ever."

From specialty sandwiches to cold cut classics, FoodHeads is proof positive it's not all tacos and TexMex in Austin, Texas. Everything on the menu slaps, but the Chicken Caesar is a delicious portable version of the eponymous salad, while the Chicken & Eggplant manages to translate the Italian classic into a handheld masterpiece.

There are no misses on the menu at River Rock Roasting Company, which, despite its name is so much more than coffee. Only In Your State reader Kathy praised the Pollo Tuscano and the Turkey Bacon Avocado Melt, both providing stomach-filling sustenance before a hike at nearby Zion National Park (the restaurant is on SR-9 just before the turnoff to the park). Don't take your meal to go, however: "the view off the deck is of the Virgin River [...] and the place has an eclectic outdoors adventure vibe," Kathy adds.

Nothing fills a hungry belly after a day on the slopes (or trails) than a sandwich: savory, satiating, immensely satisfying. This is certainly the case at Mountain Top Resort in Vermont, where the on-site Mountain Top Tavern stands out as serving one of the best sandwiches our Editorial Director's ever experienced. "The BLT was 100%," she said, with its herbaceous pesto aioli and crispy, tri-pepper bacon. The sandwich comes with potato chips but we recommend a foodie level up with the truffle fries; add in a glass of vino and views for days, and you've got the ingredients for a culinary revelation.

What started in 2005 as a simple (but stellar) sandwich shop, Earl's in Clarendon, Virginia, has expanded to include mid-Atlantic favorites like grilled-to-order salmon and deep-fried cod sandwiches. If you're the type who believes sandwiches are always better when made by someone else, Earl's delivers "homemade without the hassle" every time.

We received a slew of nominations for the best sandwich in Washington, and after careful review, we selected Butcher & Baker Provisions. Only In Your State reader Kelly sold us with her praise of the Fried Chicken Sandwich, an all-American classic made from scratch in-house with heaps of "juicy and plump fried chicken, homemade pickles, pimiento cheese, and smoked bacon." "It is a PACKED sandwich," she said, "but [the fried chicken sandwich is] so fresh, flavorful, and not heavy at all. It is huge and very satisfying!"

Colonel who?

Since 1955, Parkette Family Restaurant has been delighting carnivorous customers with its ribeye sandwiches. Nominated for 2020 "Best Sandwich in WV" by West Virginia Living Magazine, order the Ribeye Sandwich with 4 or 8 ounces of sliced meat, sautéed onions, Italian style peppers, and American cheese, served to to order on grilled Italian bread. If a superb steak sandwich is your love language, this spot in Clarksburg, West Virginia, will have you swooning at first bite.

A small, Italian family-founded businesses in Milwaukee, Glorioso's has been delighting customers since 1946. Step inside and find a deli filled with Mediterranean-Italian favorites; we recommend going with a hot option like the Italian Beef or Chicken Parm—and if you're a fan of a breakfast sandwich, definitely give Glorioso's a try, with ham, of course.

Saratoga Sandwich Company claims to "take sandwiches seriously"—and we agree. This breakfast options at this sandwich spot in Saratoga, Wyoming, are plentiful and varied, each more delicious than the last. If you're #teamcroissant, the Cowboy Croissant breakfast 'wich, with its cheese and bacon jam, sounds darn delicious (especially with a latte from Cowboy Coffee, conveniently located onsite!).