Explore the U.S. one sandwich at a time—each bite is a taste of local culture and history. Which of these sandwiches will you try first?
The United States boasts a vast array of iconic sandwiches, each reflecting the rich culinary heritage of its region. From coast to coast, here are 20 legendary sandwiches you need to try, along with tips to elevate your sandwich journey.
Philly Cheesesteak – Pat’s King of Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)
What to Order: A cheesesteak “wit wiz” (with Cheez Whiz and onions).
Tip: Head to Pat’s early in the day to beat the crowds. Pro tip: Geno’s is just across the street for a cheesesteak showdown.
patskingofsteaks
Pastrami on Rye – Katz’s Delicatessen (New York City, NY)
What to Order: Classic pastrami on rye with mustard.
Tip: Ask for your pastrami “juicy” for extra tenderness.
Ramona G./Yelp
Po’ Boy – Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar (New Orleans, LA)
What to Order: Fried shrimp or oyster po’ boy dressed with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
Tip: Go during off-hours for quicker service and savor it with a cold beer.
foodnetwork
Lobster Roll – Red’s Eats (Wiscasset, ME)
What to Order: Lobster roll with butter or mayo on the side.
Tip: Prepare for a wait, especially in summer, but the generous lobster meat is worth it.
nytimes
Italian Beef Sandwich – Al’s Italian Beef (Chicago, IL)
What to Order: Italian beef, dipped, with sweet or hot peppers.
Tip: Wear casual clothes—the jus-drenched sandwich gets messy!
Jason Little
Monte Cristo – Blue Bayou (Anaheim, CA)
What to Order: Deep-fried Monte Cristo dusted with powdered sugar.
Tip: Secure Disneyland reservations early and pair your sandwich with the mint julep.
disneyfoodblog
Cubano – Versailles Restaurant (Miami, FL)
What to Order: Traditional Cuban sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
Tip: Wash it down with a cafecito (Cuban espresso).
miamiandbeaches
French Dip – Philippe the Original (Los Angeles, CA)
What to Order: French dip sandwich with beef and a side of au jus.
Tip: Add their spicy mustard for an extra kick.
Ren Fuller
Primanti Bros. Sandwich – Primanti Bros. (Pittsburgh, PA)
What to Order: Capicola and cheese, piled high with fries and slaw.
Tip: It’s great as late-night food after exploring the Strip District.
Muffuletta – Central Grocery & Deli (New Orleans, LA)
What to Order: Muffuletta with its signature olive salad.
Tip: Buy a whole to share or a half for a solo indulgence.
Youtube
Roast Pork Sandwich – John’s Roast Pork (Philadelphia, PA)
What to Order: Roast pork with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe.
Tip: Arrive early—they often sell out by lunchtime.
E. Teel for Visit Philadelphia
Bánh Mì – Ba Xuyên (Brooklyn, NY)
What to Order: Bánh mì with BBQ pork or pâté.
Tip: Don’t skip the pickled veggies—they add the perfect tang.
Kate Glicksberg
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich – Hattie B’s (Nashville, TN)
What to Order: Hot chicken sandwich with your choice of heat level.
Tip: Pair it with cooling sides like coleslaw or mac and cheese.
hattieb
Smoked Brisket Sandwich – Franklin Barbecue (Austin, TX)
What to Order: Smoked brisket sandwich.
Tip: Arrive early (or pre-order if possible) to avoid long lines.
Franklin Barbecue [Official]
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich – Nick’s Kitchen (Huntington, IN)
What to Order: Classic pork tenderloin sandwich, breaded and fried.
Tip: Ask for extra pickles for a flavor balance.
roadfood
Turkey Sandwich – Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse (Chicago, IL)
What to Order: Gibsons’ famous turkey club sandwich.
Tip: Pair it with their signature fries or a light salad.
gibsonssteakhouse
Fried Bologna Sandwich – The Eagle (Cincinnati, OH)
What to Order: Thick-cut fried bologna on toasted bread.
Tip: Add a cold draft beer for the ultimate pairing.
ohio.org
Rueben – Zingerman’s Delicatessen (Ann Arbor, MI)
What to Order: Classic Reuben with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss.
Tip: Split a sandwich—portions are huge!
zingermansdeli
Fish Sandwich – Big Al’s Seafood (Des Allemands, LA)
What to Order: Fried catfish sandwich with tartar sauce.
Tip: Freshness is key here; enjoy it right out of the fryer.
N. Davaine Studio
BLT – BLT Steak (Las Vegas, NV)
What to Order: The signature BLT with thick-cut bacon.
Tip: Indulge in their cocktails to round out the experience.
lindseyeatsla
