When the weather is hot, the air is sweltering, and the thought of indulging in excessive amounts of anything other than cool ice cream and ice water sounds like torture, a refreshing, piled-high Idaho sandwich will never let you down. And when winter is at its most brutal, what soothes better than a classic soup and sandwich combo? Absolutely nothing, that's what! Fresh, crisp, and served hot or cold with every possible strange, classic, or adventurous combination of toppings you can possibly imagine, some of the best Idaho delis and build-your-own sub havens are totally to-die-for when it comes to this universal comfort food! In no particular order, here are some of the best sandwich shops in Idaho:

1. Best Sandwich Shack, Coeur d'Alene

You might not know it from the outside, but this unassuming little roadside shack (a stationary food truck) lives up to its name - and has the award-winning clout to prove it! Walk up or drive through this fun little sandwich shop in CDA, Idaho - you can take your pick depending on how much time you have to indulge! You'll fall head over heels for their wide variety of cheesesteaks, like the Mac and Cheesesteak, the Breakfast Philly, and the Chubby Bacon Cheeseburger Philly. Just keep in mind that diving into these sammies is a two-handed operation.

2. Black Cow Mercantile, Fruitland

The sky-high sandwiches at Black Cow might just be the tallest we've ever seen, making them every meat-lover's dream come true. Dig into classic favorites, like the turkey and cranberry, the Cuban, or the iconic Rueben. You can't go wrong!

3. Deli George!, Boise

Formerly known for their upside-down restaurant sign, maybe it's time for Deli George to be recognized for what makes them truly special: insanely delicious sandwiches that you won't find anywhere else! Quality ingredients, flawless presentation, and all the accoutrements on top you could ever hope for.

4. Hugo's Deli, Meridian

There's something to be said for quality ingredients, especially when those ingredients are layered in the perfect order on top of super soft bread! It's hard to go wrong with a sandwich from Hugo's Deli - and their namesake Hugo (pictured) is definitely worth coming back time and again for! But meat lovers, take note: this is your new nirvana.

5. Junkyard Bistro, Salmon

The tiny town of Salmon, Idaho is quite the food gem all around, and Junkyard Bistro is no exception. Everything from the knockout Philly to the artichoke sandwiches are worth raving about! Although you can't go wrong with a burger here either -though the line between the two is quite thin, wouldn't you say?

6. Lemon Tree Co., Boise

One visit and Lemon Tree Co. will quickly become your new favorite go-to lunch spot in Boise. Some of the most refreshing Idaho sandwiches we've ever seen are lovingly crafted here, featuring vibrant seasonal ingredients, a huge variety of fresh vegan toppings, and an ever-changing menu of unique sandwich and soup creations. For a classic pairing (pun intended), try the sausage and pear, or for something unexpected, opt for the Massaman Curry Banh Mi. Whatever hearty option you choose, it's sure to satisfy!

7. Meltz, Coeur d'Alene

Cheesy, gooey, bubbly, perfectly grilled? Count us in! Sandwich perfection is most definitely served here! At Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese, you'll find unique combinations like the award-winning Potsticker (Provolone, Cheddar Jack, Crispy Wonton, Pork, Sriracha-Chili Aioli), as well as carnivorous favorites like the Oinker (pulled pork, bacon, cheddar, and fried onions). With multiple sammies even inspired by Idaho itself, this incredible sandwich shop might just make your heart melt into a puddle of happy tastebuds. We highly recommend working your way through the whole menu. Fortunately, Meltz now has a second location in Boise so those in Southern Idaho can get their fix too.

8. Stax, McCall

Stax is a classic lunchtime hotspot in McCall. Soft toasted, homemade bread can be topped with classic favorites to go with your bowl of soup, or go a little rogue with something hot and sassy... like the Vandal.

9. Twin Falls Sandwich Company, Twin Falls

The sandwiches, po'boys, tortas, and burgers at Twin Falls Sandwich Co. are all simply divine, each fabulous creation piled high and served up in a funky, eclectic environment. Local ingredients take center stage here, but it's the creative combos, soft breads, and gargantuan size of these sammies that will make your heart flutter. Dig in... they're wildly tasty too!

Every grownup lunchbox should come with one of the masterpieces from the best sandwich shops in Idaho inside...yum! What are your favorite menu items from these delicious Idaho eateries?

While not a complete list of the best delis in Idaho, these tasty shops are the perfect place to stock up on handheld eats before your next adventure. Next, work up an appetite: these easy hiking trails have amazing rewards at the end!