Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. eat a sandwich on any given day, according to studies.1 That’s a lot of bread and fillings! With sandwiches being such a staple of the American diet, it’s no wonder there are countless shops and restaurants across the country vying to make the best one.
Here are some restaurants where you can find the most crave-worthy sandwiches from coast to coast.
1. Katz’s Delicatessen – New York City, NY
What to Order: Pastrami on Rye
This legendary NYC deli has been slinging its massive sandwiches since 1888, making it the oldest in the city. The thick-cut pastrami on rye is an absolute must-order. Be prepared for a wait, but it’s well worth it for a taste of this iconic sandwich that even made a famous appearance in “When Harry Met Sally.”
2. Geno’s Steaks – Philadelphia, PA
What to Order: Classic Cheesesteak
You can’t talk about great American sandwiches without mentioning the Philly cheesesteak. Geno’s has been battling it out with nearby rival Pat’s for the title of best cheesesteak in town since 1966. (ref) Opt for the traditional version with thinly-sliced steak and your choice of “whiz,” provolone, or American cheese.
3. Turkey and the Wolf – New Orleans, LA
What to Order: Fried Bologna Sandwich
This unassuming NOLA sandwich shop has gained a cult following for its creative spins on classic sandwiches. The fried bologna topped with potato chips is a sleeper hit. Turkey and the Wolf proves that a great sandwich doesn’t have to be traditional.
4. Publican Quality Meats – Chicago, IL
What to Order: The Parm #2
Part butcher shop, part sandwich haven, PQM is a must-visit for meat lovers in Chicago. The Parm #2 is a glorious stack of juicy chicken, tomato sauce, and melty cheese that has been hailed as the best chicken parm sandwich in existence. PQM’s menu changes often so there’s always something new to try.
5. Primanti Bros. – Pittsburgh, PA
What to Order: The Pitts-burger
Founded in the 1930s to feed hungry truckers, Primanti Bros. is now synonymous with Pittsburgh. Their signature sandwiches are piled high with meat, cheese, coleslaw, tomatoes, and french fries right between the bread. The Pitts-burger, topped with a fried egg, is the ultimate indulgence.
6. Bäco Mercat – Los Angeles, CA
What to Order: The Original Bäco
Chef Josef Centeno is credited with inventing the “bäco,” a flatbread sandwich that’s a cross between a taco and a gyro. (ref) The original features crispy pork belly, beef carnitas, salbitxada sauce, and pickles. It’s a messy, wonderful feat of sandwich engineering.
7. Cochon Butcher – New Orleans, LA
What to Order: Le Pig Mac
This NOLA butcher shop and sandwich counter specializes in house-cured meats. Their take on the Big Mac, Le Pig Mac, swaps beef for pork patties and stacks them with special sauce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame bun. It’s a porky, drippy, delicious twist on a fast food icon.
8. Mudgie’s Deli – Detroit, MI
What to Order: The Gutty
Mudgie’s is a Detroit institution known for its huge selection of creative sandwiches. The Gutty is one of the most popular, made with house-roasted beef, bacon, melted cheddar, romaine, tomato, and horseradish mayo on an onion roll. Pro tip: get a cup of Mudgie’s famous lobster bisque on the side.
9. Cutty’s – Brookline, MA
What to Order: The Roast Beef 1000
This small but mighty sandwich shop on the outskirts of Boston has earned a big reputation. The Roast Beef 1000 is a New England classic kicked up a notch with sharp cheddar, Thousand Island dressing, and crispy shallots. Cutty’s roasts its beef in-house and it makes all the difference.
10. Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar – New Orleans, LA
What to Order: Fried Shrimp Po’ Boy
You can’t leave New Orleans without trying a po’ boy, and Domilise’s is one of the best places to get one. The fried shrimp version is a favorite, featuring a hefty pile of crispy shrimp with all the traditional toppings like lettuce, tomato, and mayo. This cash-only spot has been a local favorite for over 100 years.
Source:
1.https://www.ars.usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/80400530/pdf/DBrief/14_sandwich_consumption_0912.pdf
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
