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Love sandwiches? You'll want to try these 10 best shops across the nation

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Best Sandwich or Sub Shop (2023) July 28, 2023

On any given day, around half of Americans eat a sandwich – sometimes more than one! It's little wonder too, given how endlessly versatile sandwiches are. PB&J, chicken salad, roast beef and Swiss, turkey and avocado, grilled cheese, BLTs, French dips, Reubens: if you can stick it between two slices of bread, chances are that millions of people are taking a bite today.

To find the best and most convenient places to grab a sandwich, 10Best editors and a panel of sandwich experts nominated their top picks for sandwich shops, sub shops, and delis across the country. Then, readers voted for their favorites.

Here are the 10 best sandwich or sub shop chains in the United States.

Firehouse Subs

No. 10: Firehouse Subs

For nearly 30 years, sub afficionados have sung the praises of Firehouse Subs, a shop with amazing sandwiches that gives back to firefighters in communities around the country through a grant program. Hot subs are their specialty, including the aptly named Hook and Ladder (smoked turkey breast, Virginia honey ham, and melted Monterey Jack) and Firehouse Hero (roast beef, smoked turkey breast, Virginia honey ham, and melted provolone).

Schlotzsky's

No. 9: Schlotzsky's

It's been about 50 years since the first Schlotzsky's opened, and they continue to assemble some of the tastiest sandwiches in the nation. Sink your teeth into any of their creations, from their smoked turkey breast to their roast beef and cheese to their fresh veggie, and more – all placed on sourdough buns made fresh daily.

Lennys Grill & Subs

No. 8: Lennys Grill & Subs

Lenny's Grill and Subs first opened in 1998, and since then, they've made plenty of customers happy with their fresh sliced deli subs, world-class Philly cheesesteaks, and grilled subs. Whether you go for the Mile High Turkey, Garden Veggie, Meatball Classic, or Chicken Philly, it's guaranteed to make you smile.

Earl of Sandwich

No. 7: Earl of Sandwich

The regal Earl of Sandwich is a welcomed sight to behold whether you're on a road trip, strolling through a mall, or simply get hit with a hardcore sandwich craving. From scrumptious eggy breakfast sandwiches to royal picks like The Original 1762 (a flavorful blend of roasted beef, cheddar, and horseradish sauce) and the Montagu (an inspired mix of roasted beef, turkey, Swiss, cheddar, lettuce, Roma tomato, and Earl's mustard sauce), it's a sub shop worthy of a crown.

Jersey Mike's Subs

No. 6: Jersey Mike's Subs

Since 1956, Jersey Mike's has been perfecting the art of the quick-but-tasty sub. Opt for cold or hot, pick your meat (turkey, ham, roast beef, proscuittini, among others) or skip it altogether, then add a few slices of provolone or Swiss. Get it "Mike's Way" for lettuce, tomato, and onion, plus the "sauce" (oil and vinegar) and spices.

Which Wich

No. 5: Which Wich

Which Wich first opened 20 years ago in Dallas, and since then has boomed in popularity with shops throughout the country as well as internationally. Go for their signature Wicked sandwich (made with turkey, ham, roast beef, pepperoni, bacon, cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, plus veggies and mayo), their Ultimate BLT, Chzbgrwich (a burger in sub form), or one of their more filling veg-friendly picks like the Black Bean Avocado (made with black bean patties for an extra protein kick). 

D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches

No. 4: D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches

The self-professed neighborhood sandwich shop of New England, D'Angelo's specializes in making the tastiest grilled sandwiches you've ever had. From the Double Peppercorn to the Korean BBQ and everything in between, they know just how to cook all kinds of fresh and delicious ingredients before piling them on a hearty Italian roll. Grilled not your thing? They've also got deli sandwiches and wraps.

Jason's Deli

No. 3: Jason's Deli

With hundreds of delis in more than half of U.S. states, Jason's Deli prides itself on offering variety for its customers. While they've got plenty of non-sandwich items to choose from (think soups, salads, pastas, and more), they've also got an eclectic list of meat-between-bun options, including their Italian Cruz Po'boy, Chipotle Chicken & Avocado Panini, and a few muffaletta options to choose from.

Capriotti's

No. 2: Capriotti's

Capriotti's is a beloved sandwich spot from coast to coast. In fact, their small (8-inch) sandwiches are even called "Beloved." But if that's not enough to fill your belly, they've also got an "Always Right" 10-inch sub and a "Notorious" 18-incher to satisfy all your mealtime needs. From a variety of cheesesteaks to roast beef, meatball, and even a selection of plant-based meat and vegetarian-friendly subs, Capriotti's has got your bases covered.

PrimoHoagies

No. 1: PrimoHoagies

If Italian specialty sandwiches are your jam, PrimoHoagies is definitely the place for you. Their menu has 10 sandwich categories to choose from, including Italian Classics (like their Sharp Italian), Philly Cheesesteaks (including a Pizza Steak), Schwartzies (think corned beef and roast beef), and even Meatless (like the Nonna's Veggies with eggplant and broccoli rabe).

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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  • Smart Living

Tired of Soggy Sandwiches? Pack These 10 Travel-Approved Sammies Instead

Updated on 12/15/2019 at 5:35 AM

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Gone are the days of soggy sandwiches! Whether you're on the road or packing something for a picnic or a hike, these sandwiches are ready to withstand the weather, challenges, and other wear and tear that may occur during travel. Choose one of these options and you're sure to have a delicious first bite.

Cheese and Pickle Sandwich

The key to Britain's famed cheese and pickle sandwich is the Branston Pickle, a chutney-like condiment made with diced veggies and spices. This is a no-brainer sandwich that lets you use up the rest of the cheddar in your fridge.

Cobb Salad Wrap Sandwich

Cobb Salad Wrap Sandwich

Salad fans don't have to be out of luck when traveling. Toss the greens and other ingredients of this famous salad, then wrap everything up in a tortilla for a Cobb salad wrap recipe that you'll want to keep around forever. We like to pack the dressing on the side and dip the wrap into it to avoid soggy lettuce.

Turkey Club Sandwich

Turkey Club Sandwich

Bacon, cheese, turkey, and avocado are just a few of the sturdy ingredients in this mighty club sandwich. It should hold for several hours — that is, if you can wait that long before diving into the triple decker of bread.

Turkey Feta Wrap Sandwich

Turkey Feta Wrap Sandwich

Bread can be tricky to keep fresh, so try a turkey wrap in a wheat tortilla instead. This one is packed with feta cheese, pear, and dried cranberries.

Finger Sandwiches

Finger Sandwiches

As long as you store them in a cooler and an airtight container, finger sandwiches like salmon and cream cheese and cucumber can be enjoyed on the go. The little size makes them easier to manage and eat, especially if you are driving.

Ham, Cheese, and Avocado Sub Sandwich

Avocado, cheese and ham? Yum! So refreshing for a mid-day snack or summer afternoon in the park.

Lox and Cream Sandwich

Lox and Cream Sandwich

Cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, and pickled red onions are all you need for this lox and cream sandwich. Put it in between wheat bread instead of a bagel to make it appropriate for lunch.

One-Handed Turkey Sandwich

One-Handed Turkey Sandwich

When you have one hand on the wheel, it's about time you start packing a turkey sandwich like this one, specially designed to be eaten with one hand.

Creative Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Creative Ham and Cheese Sandwich

This is ham and cheese, reinvented, with the addition of egg and sprouts. The hearty ingredients will keep for about as long as the protein-rich sandwich should tide you over.

Tuna With Fennel and Lemon Sandwich

Tuna With Fennel and Lemon Sandwich

Sometimes veggies have a tendency to make sandwiches soggy. The ones in this tuna, fennel, and lemon sandwich are tossed in the tuna, rather than stacked on top, to prevent this from happening. Plus, the preserved lemon on top of the tuna adds a fresh crunch in place of lettuce.

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The Best Sandwich in Every State, According to Yelp

Fast, easy, and delicious: it's hard to beat a sandwich.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

It's hard to beat a sandwich. They're easy to eat on the go and can be made to match any craving — from sweet and gooey Nutella and banana to a full-on Italian-style sammie with all the fixins. And while we're all about a BYO sammie, it's way more fun to take your tastebuds on the road and let the country's sandwich masters feed you. Wherever you go in the U.S., you'll find delicious offerings just waiting to be eaten. From melty, cheesy creations to sandwiches stacked high with deli meat or veggies on top of veggies — it's hard to go wrong.

Luckily for sandwich lovers everywhere, our friends at Yelp were able to identify the best sandwich spots in every state in 2021. To determine the best of the best, they identified businesses in the sandwiches category that had lots of reviews mentioning "sandwich," then ranked those spots using several factors — including the total volume and ratings of reviews mentioning "sandwich."

"This is an all-time list of the best sandwich spots in every state, according to Yelp. The list includes everything from Italian subs like the Lucky Luciano at Tony's Italian Delicatessen in Texas to the Thai chicken meatball sandwich on a bao bun at Ekiben in Maryland," Tara Lewis, Yelp's trend expert, told Travel + Leisure by e-mail.

Drooling? Round up a reliable sandwich-eating buddy and start planning the ultimate cross-country, sandwich-fueled road trip .

Regina's Kitchen in Mobile

MVP Sports Deli & Eatery in Anchorage

The Local Press Sandwich Bar in Wickenburg

Green Submarine in Fayetteville

Limoncello in San Francisco

City Cafe in Denver

Connecticut

The Dilly Duck Shop in Norwalk

Ioannoni's Bullroasters in New Castle

J28 Sandwich Bar in Hollywood

RW's Subs in Duluth

Ali'i Coffee in Honolulu

Lemon Tree in Boise

Sanguche in Naperville

Subito in Indianapolis

Her Soup Kitchen in Iowa City

The Wheel Barrel in Topeka

DV8 Kitchen in Lexington

Milk Bar in New Orleans

Henry VIII Carvery in Kittery

Ekiben in Baltimore

Massachusetts

Tutto Italiano in Hyde Park

Ernie's Market in Oak Park

Zuppa Cucina in Shakopee

Mississippi

The Grind Coffee and Nosh in Biloxi

Bay Boy Specialty Sandwiches in Kansas City

The Wich Haus in Whitefish

Banhwich Cafe in Lincoln

Karved in Las Vegas

New Hampshire

Jon's Roast Beef & Deli in Laconia

Second Street Bakery in Jersey City

Slow Roasted Bocadillos in Albuquerque

Green Juice Cafe in New York

North Carolina

The High Test Deli And Sweet Shop in Bryson City

North Dakota

Blarney Stone Pub in Bismarck

Express Deli in Brook Park

The Mule in Oklahoma City

The Sparrow Bakery in Bend

Pennsylvania

Christie's Deli in Philadelphia

Rhode Island

Shayna's Place in Wickford

South Carolina

Brown Dog Deli in Charleston

South Dakota

Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen in Sioux Falls

D'Andrews Bakery & Cafe in Nashville

Tony's Italian Delicatessen in Montgomery

Buds in Salt Lake City

Workhorse Cafe in Bondville

West Main Market in Luray

The Melon Seed Deli & Frozen Yogurt in Tacoma

Washington D.C.

Neopol Smokery at Union Market in Washington D.C.

West Virginia

Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee in Harpers Ferry

Bavette in Milwaukee

Kelly on the Gros Ventre in Kelly

15 Of The Best Sandwiches In America

15 Of The Best Sandwiches In America image

photo credit: Richard Casteel

Team Infatuation

Team Infatuation & Carlo Mantuano

September 19, 2023

It’s very possible to eat a sandwich for each meal of the day. You could start with a kaiser roll filled with fluffy eggs and cheese for breakfast, house a po’boy with fried shrimp and hot sauce for lunch, and end with a cheesesteak for dinner. Our point: there’s a sandwich for every mood, and we have a lot of them on this guide. Below, you’ll find 15 of our favorite sandwiches in cities across the country, with muffulettas in San Francisco , Italian subs in Chicago , and bánh mì in Houston .

THE SANDWICHES

photo credit: Teddy Wolff

Thai Diner image

NEW YORK CITY

Now is a good time to remind you that a great breakfast sandwich doesn't require a bagel or english muffin. Take the excellent version from Thai Diner in NYC . They use buttery roti to keep all of the sandwich elements tightly compact so that every bite includes the same consistent layers and flavors. From top to bottom, you’ll taste herbaceous sai oua sausage, a combo of mayo and scallions, a soft, folded egg crepe covered in oozing american cheese, and fresh thai basil, all pressed between that flaky roti.

Langer’s image

Langer's

LOS ANGELES

This LA institution has been serving Jewish deli staples like matzo ball soup and a creamy macaroni salad that’s far better than it needs to be since 1947. But you’re coming here for the #19: Langer’s signature thick-cut pastrami smothered in swiss cheese, russian dressing, and homemade coleslaw between two slices of the famous, twice-baked rye. The pastrami and rye fuse together to the point where you can’t even tell which is which. It’s euphoric, plain and simple. If we could vote this sandwich into public office, we would.

Un Bien image

The Caribbean roast pork sandwich from this Seattle shack has the power to do two things: bestow upon you eternal joy and destroy your white T-shirt with meat drips. It’s worth it, though, for this toasted baguette stuffed with braised pork clinging to tangy marinade, sweet onions stamped with char from the grill, tart pickled jalapeño, romaine, and a zesty aioli that laughs in the face of standard supermarket mayo. Just be sure to have your Tide Pen on standby.

photo credit: Tasty Planet

Sanguich De Miami image

Sanguich De Miami

Little Havana

Miami's contribution to this guide has to be the very best version of the city’s most famous sandwich: the Cuban . Sanguich De Miami is home to the platonic ideal of a Cuban sandwich—it’s a perfect example of the combined powers of ham, roast pork, pickles, mustard, and swiss cheese between Cuban bread. Each one is prepared in an assembly line and brushed with pork fat before being pressed into crispy triangles. Unlike a lot of the more casual Cuban options in the city, they make almost every component of this sandwich themselves, with plenty of time and care. It's a difference you’ll taste the nanosecond it touches your tongue.

photo credit: Emily Schindler

Angelo’s Pizzeria image

Angelo’s Pizzeria

Bella Vista

PHILADELPHIA

Philly is a sandwich town, but the clear meat king among the overstuffed royalty is the cheesesteak from Angelo’s. Tender shredded ribeye and melted american cheese are layered into a warm and crackly seeded roll baked in-house. And each time we have one, we feel like an Eagles fan watching the team win a Super Bowl (well, almost). The spot is always as packed as Walmart on Black Friday, but it’s definitely worth the wait.

photo credit: Quit Nguyen

Alpha Bakery & Cafe image

Alpha Bakery & Deli

Once you taste the dặc biệt bánh mì from Alpha Bakery & Cafe in Houston , it will tease you forever, reaching out in daydreams like a pork-laden angel. Watching a staffer spread a thick layer of creamy butter on a fresh baguette for the first time is a thing of wonder, especially when that baguette then gets stuffed with pâté, bologna, pork belly, head cheese, and a fistful of sliced vegetables and herbs. This is the best bánh mì in Houston , which is why it’s hard to believe it only costs $5.

photo credit: Derrick Koch

J.P. Graziano Grocery & Sub Shop image

J.P. Graziano Grocery & Sub Shop

This iconic family-run Italian deli and sub shop in Chicago has been around since 1937. J.P. Graziano’s industrial exterior hasn’t changed since the neighborhood was full of meatpacking warehouses, and inside they’re still making the most delicious Italian subs and sandwiches in the city. Specifically, the Mr. G, which has spicy soppressata, prosciutto, salami, hot oil, marinated artichokes, and a surprisingly delicate truffle mustard balsamic vinaigrette.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Sandy's image

Best New Restaurants

Sandy's

SAN FRANCISCO

This counter-service sandwich spot makes San Francisco ’s best muffuletta, but it’s not exactly typical of the New Orleans classic . Theirs uses original mayo—something that'd be frowned upon by purists—but it adds an essential layer of richness that takes the dream sandwich to the next level. The sesame bread is specially made for them by a bakery over in Oakland , and gets coated with a thick swath of spicy olive spread that has us under its fermented cauliflower and carrot giardiniera spell. They’ll suggest you order it toasted (another controversial move), and we do too, especially if you want maximum melted cheese satisfaction.

Mum Foods image

Windsor Park

The Rachel sandwich at Mum Foods in Austin combines everything you love about New York Jewish delis with everything you love about central Texas-style BBQ . That means brined, oak-smoked brisket that’s been cooked low-and-slow until it pulls apart with a gentle tug. The rye is grilled, the sauerkraut is subbed for coleslaw, and the dressing is russian. It’s crunchy, smoky, tangy, and rich, and it’s something that could only exist in Texas.

photo credit: Amy Sinclair

Firewall image

Though this pizzeria makes some of the best pies in Atlanta , we’d promptly trade them in for their incredible pita sandwiches. Firewall’s bread is baked in a wood-fired oven, so you get a nice crunch and a subtle smoky flavor from the sesame pitas. Every sandwich here is game-changing, but the Southern Italian is the best. Even though it’s inspired by Philadelphia’s roast pork , it stays true to Georgia with a load of tender collard greens that pairs naturally with braised shredded pork, salty provolone, and tangy hot peppers.

Parkway Bakery & Tavern image

Parkway Bakery & Tavern

NEW ORLEANS

Po’boy shops in New Orleans are as common as the discarded beads you’ll find on the street post-Mardi Gras. There are endless options, but if you want the best, head to Parkway Bakery. This corner sandwich shop is more than a century old and has been feeding everyone from local musicians to presidents since they first opened. Go for the roast beef with gravy, get it dressed (lettuce, tomato, mayo, and pickles), and ask for some spicy mayo made with Crystal hot sauce.

photo credit: Nina Palazzolo

Banana Blossom Bistro image

Banana Blossom Bistro

Union Market

WASHINGTON DC

DC ’s best sandwich is in the far back right corner of Union Market , the largest and busiest food hall in town. Don’t get distracted by all of the people or the dozens of spots serving pizza and dumplings—instead, go straight to the Banana Blossom Bistro’s stall for the pork thit kho báhn mì. The Vietnamese sandwich is loaded with crispy vegetables and juicy pork on a flaky baguette and comes covered with a mix of maggi seasoning and mayo that meld together seamlessly. You might not be able to finish the whole thing in one sitting, but that just means you have a breakfast báhn mì to look forward to.

photo credit: Eliza Kennard

Prince's Hot Chicken Shack South image

Prince's Hot Chicken Shack South

Fried Chicken

Nolensville Pike

The original owner of Prince’s in Nashville basically invented hot chicken , and there’s a lengthy origin story that involves an angry girlfriend and a tub of cayenne. But for the purpose of this guide, we’re more concerned with their extremely delicious Andre sandwich. It’s a messy one, thanks to the combo of creamy coleslaw and sweet heat sauce that’s reminiscent of Frank’s Red Hot, but the perfectly seasoned fried breast soaks up everything flawlessly. Get yours with a spice level of medium, or you too will embody a tub of cayenne.

photo credit: Shanley Cox

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que image

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Kansas City, Kansas

KANSAS CITY

Joe’s is the gold standard of KC BBQ , and their Z-Man sandwich might be the best thing involving smoked meat you can eat in Kansas. It comes loaded with brisket, provolone, onion rings, and barbecue sauce, all on a kaiser roll. You’ll probably have to wait around 30 minutes for your sandwich, but that only gives you more time to make friends in line and appreciate the functioning gas station restaurant in all its glory.

Frank’s Deli image

Frank's Deli & Restaurant

ASBURY PARK, NEW JERSEY

There’s a heated New Jersey debate on whether to call the famed breakfast sandwich pork roll or Taylor ham. It’s Taylor ham for us, but it’s certainly not called that at Frank’s in Asbury Park on the Jersey Shore. This is among the best places to get this iconic deli meat sandwich in the state, which actually means any other place on Earth. Get that thick-cut Taylor ham with egg and cheese on rye for a breakfast sandwich that can rival anything the neighbors over in NYC are putting out.

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  • DESTINATIONS

The 10 Best Sandwiches in the USA

The USA's sandwich game is unmatched. Relish ten of the nation's finest, each sandwich offering layers of flavors, textures, and stories.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

You can't deny the pure comfort of a great sandwich. A sandwich can be served hot or cold, eaten on the go, paired with soup or chips, and customized to include your favorite toppings. And while an Earl may have technically invented the sandwich in England, today, it feels like a staple of American cuisine. In fact, the US does sandwiches so well, it feels like there are dozens of sandwich masters in every city. So, while it was hard to narrow it down, we've managed to find the 10 best sandwiches in the USA. 

1. Po’Boy from Parkway Bakery and Tavern (New Orleans)

This restaurant has been open since 1911 and has been known for its classic po' boys for over 100 years. The po' boy is a traditional Louisiana sandwich typically served with fried seafood or roast beef on fluffy white French bread. Po'boy is short for "poor boy sandwiches" and represents the proud working class of New Orleans. 

Parkway Bakery has a full menu of both meat or seafood po'boys. But, we say you have to order the fried oyster po'boy. The sandwich comes with Louisiana wild-caught oysters and is topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and dressings. Parkway offers po'boys in two sizes - small and large. Take our recommendation and go for the large po'boys; you won't regret having leftovers. 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

2. Pastrami Sandwich from Katz’s Deli (New York)

Katz's Deli is famous in the foodie world. Not only is it a New York staple, but it's also been recognized by notable chefs like Anthony Bourdain as a must-visit spot. Katz's also became renowned internationally after the famous When Harry Met Sally Scene and the "I'll have what she's having" line. And several decades later, there's a reason why Katz's Deli still ranks as one of the best sandwiches in the world. 

It was hard to decide whether to name Katz's pastrami or their Reuben sandwich as their top contender. Without fail, the pastrami sandwich gets ordered the most. You can choose your pastrami with juicy, lean, or extra lean meat, deli rye or club bread, and various cheeses and toppings. The meat is thick and piled high, the bread is fresh, and the portions are large. It's all you could want! 

However, we have to give an honorable mention to Katz's Reuben too. If you're visiting Katz's for the first time, we recommend getting both sandwiches and sharing with a partner. 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

3. Cubano from Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop (Miami)

This no-frills shop is known for having the most authentic and delicious Cubano in all of Miami. The sandwiches at Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop are fresh, light, and cheap. You'll have many sandwiches to choose from, but we suggest going for the classic Cubano - ham, cheese, and pork all perfectly toasted and served warm. If you're feeling extra hungry, get the double Cubano for something more filling! 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

4.  Fried Chicken Sandwich from The King’s Kitchen (Charlotte)

Not only is the food delicious at King's Kitchen, but you can feel good about eating here. This restaurant was founded in 2010 and runs as a non-profit. The restaurant and bakery train and employ individuals who are often considered unemployable to give them the work experience they need to get new opportunities. It's a noble concept that all of Charlotte is proud to support. 

And people come far and wide for their Famous Fried Chicken Sandwich. The sandwich uses Joyce Farms chicken and tops it with slaw, Duke's mayo, house pickles, and a fresh bun from Copain Bakery. This sandwich is the perfect plate of Southern comfort food.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

5. Muffuletta from New Orleans Central Grocery (New Orleans)

You know New Orleans is a food city when it's snagged two spots on our top 10 sandwiches list. Many NOLO locals will argue with you whether the regional sandwich goes to the po'boy or the muffuletta. Both are delicious and win in our books. 

The muffuletta originated with Italian immigrants living in New Orleans. This sandwich is served inside round Sicilian sesame bread and comes with salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and an olive tapenade. It's no surprise that the best muffuletta in the country is served out of a small Italian deli. In fact, Italian owner Salvatore Lupo is credited with inventing the sandwich! Since 1906, everyone comes to the New Orleans Central Grocery for the best -and the original- muffuletta.  

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

6. Lobster Roll from Walrus Oyster & Ale House (Maryland)

The lobster roll may be native to New England, but Walrus Oyster & Ale House in Maryland truly elevates this sandwich. When you want a comforting and filling sandwich, there's nothing quite like a lobster roll. Traditionally served as lobster meat seasoned with butter (or mayo), lemon juice, salt, black pepper, all on a hot dog bun, it's simple and delicious. 

Walrus Oyster & Ale House has won the title for having the best lobster roll in all of Maryland. Our guess as to why? Not only is it a delicious recipe but the generous helping of more than a quarter-pound of lobster in each roll helps too. 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

7. Overnight Duck Confit Banh Mi from Duckfat (Maine)

It wouldn't be a list about sandwiches without mentioning a banh mi! And while this isn't your traditional banh mi, it's still one that is noteworthy. Duckfat's banh mi includes duck confit, pate, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and mint, all served on a fresh bread baked daily by Botto's Bakery. This sandwich is so popular it's the only item on Duckfat's menu that asks for "no alterations." 

While you're here, pair your banh mi with a side of fresh-cut Belgian fries cooked in - you guessed it - duck fat. 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

8. Philly Cheesesteak from Dalessandro’s (Philadephia)

It should be no surprise that our favorite Philly cheesesteak comes from Dalessandro's . A proper Philly cheesesteak comes with thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese - all served on a large hoagie roll. Not only does Dalessandro's do the Philly cheesesteak the right way, but they also do it with an extra-large portion, so you leave satisfied. 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

9. Carnitas Torta from La Torta Gorda (San Francisco)

A torta is a Mexican sandwich typically filled with meats, cheeses, and various toppings like avocado, spicy peppers, refried beans, all in a fluffy bun. It's filling, delicious, and comes in many different varieties. Our favorite torta comes from San Francisco's La Torta Gorda. This authentic Mexican restaurant initially opened in 2002 and quickly became recognized for its delicious menu. 

And, we're not the only ones who recognize the talent and taste at this little establishment. In fact, the Food Network gave La Torta Gorda's torta the third spot on its list of the top five sandwiches in the United States. We recommend trying the Carnitas Torta with deep-fried pork, refried beans, avocado, queso fresco, onions, mayo, and jalapenos. 

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

10. Chicken Biscuit from Biscuit Love (Nashville)

The husband-and-wife team started Biscuit Love as a food truck concept and now have a handful of brix-and-mortar locations already. Their success comes from their commitment to only using the freshest ingredients - and, of course, Nashville's natural love for biscuits helps too! 

Biscuits and gravy are always a fantastic meal, and Biscuit Love took that concept one step further. You can get various sandwiches at Biscuit Love , where the biscuits serve as the bread! The East Nasty sandwich comes with Nashville-style fried boneless chicken thigh, sausage gravy, aged cheddar, all served in between two fresh and buttery biscuits. Go one step further and add an egg to your sandwich. This won't be the healthiest meal, but it'll be one that you'll have dreams about!

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Want to hear more about some of America’s best? Check out our list on The Top 10 Hot Dogs in the US or The 7 Best Burgers in the US.  

Indulge in the USA's finest sandwiches, each a masterpiece in its own right. From classic comfort foods to inventive creations, these sandwiches offer a delightful range of flavors and experiences that cater to all tastes.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

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30 Sandwiches Worth Traveling For

30 Sandwiches Worth Traveling For

The humble sandwich is truly the great equalizer. All you need is two slices of bread and some meat, cheese, and/or veggies to put in between. No matter your culinary skills, anyone can make a sandwich. But, as any true sandwich connoisseur would know, it takes something special to elevate it to greatness.

Unlike other dishes, great sandwiches don’t require a whole lot of mise en scene to make them special. In fact, some of the best and most-lauded sandwiches are messy, wrapped up in paper, and eaten without a lot of fanfare. It’s the egalitarian ideal in the world of food. And the concept of food within a pocket of bread is universal with a remarkable diversity in sandwich culture across the continents. To celebrate the truly beautiful meal that is a great sandwich, we’ve decided to round up some of the best sandwiches that are worth traveling for.

Now, to set some boundaries, we’ve limited these to a selection of 30 popular and/or iconic sandwiches here in the United States. We’ve also eschewed hamburgers/cheeseburgers, which sometimes end up on the list of sandwiches on certain menus, as well as hot dogs which we firmly believe are categorically not sandwiches . Organized alphabetically below, we have a list of 30 sandwiches with our preferred destination for each. There’s a decent chance that many establishments offer just as good versions of the sandwiches — but these are our picks.

30 Great Sandwiches Worth Traveling For

Bagel & lox.

Rose Foods – Portland, ME

A bagel and lox, the simple yet delicious breakfast of champions, might be a controversial pick on a list of the greatest sandwiches. But, as many will attest to, a great bagel and lox breakfast sandwich is worth traveling for. New York is home to many amazing Jewish delis serving excellent renditions of this classic. Russ & Daughters has deservedly earned widespread acclaim and is well worth a visit. But, my first pick would be Portland, ME’s Rose Foods. This bagel shop keeps things simple yet delicious with nova lox, plain cream cheese, and of course some onions, capers, cucumbers, and dill. Delightful branding and merch along with a very solid coffee program and extensive breakfast menu ties this charming Maine shop altogether. Hit up Vacationland for your new favorite breakfast.

Nhu Lan Sandwich Shop – Falls Church, VA

The classic Vietnamese sandwich has earned widespread popularity in the U.S. — and for good reason. Combine crispy carrots, tender meat, crackly/pillowy baguette, and refreshing herbs, and you’ve got a fantastic sandwich on your hands. While traveling to Vietnam would be the best way to experience this delicacy, that might not be feasible. Any city with a thriving Vietnamese community and culinary scene is a great bet for a delicious bánh mì. The Bay Area of California is a particularly great destination but our top pick is Nhu Lan Sandwich Shop just outside of DC. Nhu Lan Sandwich Shop is tucked away in the Eden Center, a Vietnamese strip mall in Falls Church, VA.

Beef on Weck

Charlie The Butcher – Buffalo, NY

Now we’re getting into some regional specialties. The Beef on Weck is basically just a roast beef sandwich that hails from Western New York — Buffalo to be precise. It might not have risen to the same prominence as Buffalo Wings but locals take just as much pride in this hearty sandwich. The determining quality of a Beef on Weck is in its thin-cut, rare roast beef along with kummelweck roll. Add some horseradish and au jus and you’ve got a Beef on Weck. Once you’re in Buffalo, it’s hard to go wrong with this sandwich but one of the best options is Charlie The Butcher. While there are dozens of restaurants serving up a Beef on Weck, Charlie The Butcher is perhaps the most established destination for this Buffalo delicacy.

BLT

Ted’s Butcherblock – Charleston, SC

The BLT is perhaps my favorite sandwich. It’s a simple option made of just three ingredients (plus mayo, of course) but the quality of each of those ingredients is paramount. Fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and perfectly cooked bacon. Plus, the BLT has so many ways to riff and remix with other veggies, meats, sauces, and more. When it comes to picking a truly top-tier BLT destination, the choices are tough. A special shoutout should be reserved for my local Merritt’s Grill which has earned national acclaim for its thick and delicious BLT on sourdough. But, Ted’s Butcherblock is the truly impressive option. The Bacon of the Month BLT results in some extremely unique renditions so every trip will offer something different.

Breakfast Sandwich

Breakfast Sandwich

Elle – Washington, DC

As a New Jersey native, it’s worth giving a special shout to the classics: the Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese or, of course, the Bacon, Egg, and Cheese. Nothing fancy, greasy, and cheap. In my opinion, this is the Platonic ideal of the breakfast sandwich. Pop into any bagel shop, deli, or bodega in Jersey or NYC and you’ll find a stellar breakfast sandwich. But, if we’re talking destination breakfast sandwiches, I have to pull an audible and recommend Elle in Washington, DC. I have changed course on many long drives along the East Coast to make sure I could stop at this lovely bakery and coffee shop. Their breakfast sandwiches are relatively simple but the sesame seed bun elevates it to something truly special. Plus, while it’s an excellent breakfast destination, Elle has a fantastic bar and a great dinner menu.

Cheesesteak

Jim’s Steaks – Philadelphia, PA

I’m aware that cheesesteaks exist outside of Philadelphia, but if you want a Philly Cheesesteak, you go to Philly. There are dozens of great establishments serving their own rendition of this classic sandwich — cheese whiz and all — and the eternal debate is Pat’s v. Geno’s. But I am an absolute sucker for a late-night Jim’s Steaks trip. With several locations throughout Philadelphia, Jim’s Steaks attracts a serious crowd thanks to their no-frills, classic take on this delicious sandwich.

Katsu Sandwich

Konbi – Los Angeles, CA

Breaded chicken is a pretty universal food item with plenty of cuisines taking a crack at this delicious meal. While some would suggest the schnitzel sandwich as the supreme edition, I’d recommend trying a katsu sando. And, in particular, the katsu sando at LA’s Konbi. Like the best restaurants, Konbi doesn’t do much. But what they do, they do it well. As a caveat, Konbi actually uses pork for their katsu but it doesn’t matter. This simple dish is well worth the trip.

Chopped Cheese

Blue Sky Deli – New York, NY

For those unaware of this glorious sandwich, a chopped cheese is essentially NYC’s response to the Philly Cheesesteak. But it’s a worthy sandwich in its own right. Truthfully you could walk into most bodegas in New York City and get a mean chopped cheese at a fantastically cheap price. Blue Sky a.k.a. Hajji’s in East Harlem is considered the progenitor of this sandwich. My go-to spot was a random deli on the Upper East Side for years. So the moral of the story is get yourself to New York City, find a solid deli/bodega, and get yourself a chopped cheese. Add meunster, peppers, and jalapenos. Enjoy.

Club Sandwich

Tattooed Moose – Charleston, SC

Like the BLT, a good Club is the perfect canvas to elevate a sandwich experience. Moreover, it’s a good sandwich to judge a restaurant’s quality on. So, if the specialty club from Charleston, SC’s Tattooed Moose is good enough for Guy Fieri, it’s good enough for us. Tattooed Moose featured on Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and showcased its impressive Duck Club. Made with a triple decker of duck confit, hickory-smoked cheddar, garlic aioli, applewood-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and red onions, this is a serious sandwich.

Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop – Miami, FL

If you want a proper Cuban sandwich, you go to Miami. And if you want the best Cubano, you go to Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop. This classic sandwich counter is a local’s favorite, serving Cubanos through the takeout window for years. Expect long lines but we’d suggest waiting it out. Go early, they close in the early afternoon. You’re sure to find excellent Cubanos throughout Miami, but Enriqueta’s is an institution for a reason.

Fish Sandwich

El Pescador Market – La Jolla, CA

I was tempted to offer a fried fish option here. It’s hard to beat a fish and chips sandwich option or really any fried fish between two slice of bread. But, we decided to suggest a fresh fish sando from the buzzy and high-quality El Pescador Market in La Jolla. We recommend ordering the eponymous El Pescador which features crab, shrimp, and salmon–all fresh caught–between two slices of sourdough.

French Dip

Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet or Philippe the Original – Los Angeles, CA

Ah, we love a good restaurant rivalry. Particularly when it involves the creation of regional cuisine. Two competing restaurants in Los Angeles claim to have invited the French Dip, a sandwich made with roast beef on a French baguette. Sometimes cheese, onions, and other fixings are added but they aren’t required. Another component is that the sandwich is served au jus with the drippings from the roast beef in a cup for dipping. And the two restaurants that contend they are the creators are Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet and Philippe the Original. The two restaurants opened in 1908 and both lay claim to the sandwich’s origin. Regardless of who made it first, both are beloved establishments so try them out and compare the two French Dip versions. Add some spicy mustard and a side of fries, of course.

Learn More: Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet Learn More: Philippe the Original

Fried Bologna Sandwich

Turkey and the Wolf – New Orleans, LA

Turkey and the Wolf has earned some serious acclaim as a destination sandwich shop. Helmed by owner Mason Hereford, Turkey and the Wolf offers a variety of expertly crafted sandwiches that attracts flocks of sandwich lovers. While you can’t really go wrong with any of their offerings, it’s the Fried Bologna Sandwich that really put this award-winning restaurant on the map. This hot sandwich served with bologna, hot mustard, potato chips, mayo shrettuce, tomatoes, and American cheese is mouth-watering goodness.

Grilled Cheese

Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese – Coeur d’Alene, ID

You can trust an establishment titled Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese to take the classic grilled cheese quite seriously. Sure you can make a perfectly serviceable grilled cheese at home – but trust the pros at Meltz to give you the proper “extreme” grilled cheese experience. Located in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Meltz lets you fully customize your sandwich with a ridiculous number of add-ons. Or, you can go with one of their insane creations like the Oinker (Cheddar, Bacon, BBQ Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese, Fried Onions) or the Briqueso (Cheddar, Brie Mousse, Artichoke, Red Pepper, Caramelized Onion, Spinach, Grilled Zucchini, and Sundried Tomato Pesto). If you needed an excuse to visit Idaho, get yourself a mind-blowing grilled cheese.

Parthenon Gyros – Madison, WI

The Gyro has long been one of the greatest success stories of cross-cultural cuisine. The Greek sandwich has permeated the American food landscape showing up at authentic Greek establishments and run-of-the-mill diners. When done right, a gyro is a tangy, delicious meal that can be made quickly and cheaply. While there are dozens of excellent Greek restaurants throughout the country, we’re going to send you to a third-generation Greek-owned shop in Madison, WI. Parthenon Gyros has earned acclaim throughout Wisconsin and around the country as one of the OG Greek restaurants and one of the best destinations for a classic gyro.

Brown Hotel – Louisville, KY

While I have a lot of love and patience for the unique and fascinating world of regional sandwiches, the hot brown is…something. While the name isn’t particularly appetizing and sounds like more of an insult to bad coffee. But this is a genuine sandwich that has captured the attention of the entire country, far beyond its roots in Louisville, Kentucky, so it was worth mentioning on this list. The Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich consisting of turkey, bacon, and ham covered in Mornay sauce and baked. Cheese is often added and various restaurants top it off with fixings like herbs and tomatoes. Considering it was the originator of this sandwich, we’d recommend trying it out at Louisville’s own Brown Hotel.

Hot Chicken Sandwich

Prince’s Hot Chicken – Nashville, TN

Nashville Hot Chicken is high up there among my favorite sandwiches. And while you can find great fried chicken sandwiches throughout the country, no one does it quite like Nashville. Within Nashville, my first choice for a Nashville Hot Chicken would be the home of the fiery sandwich: Prince’s Hot Chicken. Stories differ on the sandwich’s origin, but everyone can agree that the local chain helped popularize the spicy sandwich. While you should expect some pretty long lines, we feel that it’s well worth the wait.

Italian Sandwich

Milburn Deli – Milburn, NJ

Broadly speaking, an Italian sandwich is just a sub loaded up with Italian meats, cheeses, veggies, and dressings. That basic combination has branched out and their are close relatives to the rather generic Italian sandwich construction. If you’re looking for a classic yet fantastic deli to find a good version of this sandwich, head to the suburbia NJ and find the Milburn Deli. This fine establishment is near my hometown and, while I’ll admit a bit of bias, has earned widespread acclaim for its low-frills, high-quality approach to sandwich making. Go for The Grand Salami for an excellent, fully-loaded Italian sub.

Italian Beef Sandwich

Al’s #1 Italian Beef – Chicago, IL

The Italian Beef is a quintessential Chicago creation featuring thin slices of roast beef topped with giardiniera and housed within a French roll. You’ll find this sandwich available throughout the Midwest and really around the country but Chicago is the birthplace of this beast of a sando. Portillo’s, a Chicago staple, is often-sited as a desirable destination for the Italian Beef but we’re going to send you to Al’s which claims to be the home of this iconic sandwich.

Lobster Roll

The Highroller Lobster Co. – Portland, ME

As the birthplace of the now infamous Lobster Roll, it’s only appropriate to make the trip to Maine for this summer staple. While there are plenty of excellent options for a quality lobster roll throughout the state, we’d implore you to check out Highroller Lobster Co. in Portland, ME. Despite its impressive and delicious menu along with a well-curated drinks menu, Highroller is a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously. What started out as a humble food cart has blossomed into one of Portland’s best restaurants. And the Lobster Roll is a beautiful combination of high-quality and unfussiness. Just a great brioche roll, lettuce, and your choice of sauce. (I’m partial to letting the folks at Highroller choose for me – they know best.) Go for the lobster roll and local craft beer, stay for the incredible merch .

Muffuletta Sandwich

Cochon Butcher – New Orleans, LA

The Muffuletta Sandwich truly originates in Sicily but was brought to the US by way of Italian immigrants in New Orleans. As such, the sandwich has remained a Big Easy staple for decades. Named for the unique thin muffuletta bread used, a Muffuletta sandwich includes olive salad, salami, ham, Swiss cheese, provolone, and mortadella. While many restaurants in New Orleans craft excellent renditions of this sandwich, we’d recommend Cochon Butcher. With house-cured meats adorning this delicious sandwich, Cochon Butcher takes an artisanal approach to the New Orleans classic.

La Torta Gorda – San Francisco, CA

It’s a bit reductive to pick out just a “generic torta” for this list. Tortas are a category all of their own and can be served hot or cold and with a variety of meats, cheeses, veggies, and fixings. In the simplest term, a Torta is a Mexican sandwich or perhaps more specifically a Mexican version of a sub. The defining feature is the bread of choice: a bolillo roll. And if you’re looking for the best example of a torta, go to Mexico. But, here in the states, you’ll find plenty of amazing tortas at authentic Mexican establishments. We’d recommend the unassuming yet extremely impressive La Torta Gorda in SF’s Mission District. You really can’t go wrong but the Pierna Enchilada or the Rajas con Queso are great picks.

Pastrami on Rye

Katz’s Delicatessen – New York, NY

There are few sandwiches so unequivocally tied to single restaurants like the classic Pastrami on Rye at Katz’s. Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side didn’t create the staple of Jewish delis but it did popularize this sandwich and bring it to the mainstream. Sure you’ll have to wait in a long line and yeah it’s a bit of a cliche at this point. But, if you need a real destination for a pastrami on rye we’d highly recommend taking a trip to Katz’s Delicatessen.

Po’Boy

Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar – New Orleans, LA

You may be noticing a theme that New Orleans is the de-facto sandwich capital of the country. And the Po’Boy is very possibly the city’s most famous contribution to the sandwich landscape. Packed with either roast beef or fried fish (usually shrimp) within a fluffy French bread, this sandwich has earned cult status within New Orleans and beyond. There are plenty of excellent destinations but we’re picking the unassuming yet stellar Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar, which has been dishing out po’boys since ’24.

Pulled Pork

ZZQ – Richmond, VA

You might not consider the mid-Atlantic city of Richmond, VA a barbecue destination. But I will go out of my way to visit ZZQ. This un-pretentious Texas-style barbecue joint does it right. Order as much meat and sides as you want and then enjoy. If you’re looking for a pure Pulled Pork Sandwich, this is an excellent spot. The bun is soft, the slaw is crispy and tangy, and the pork is sumptuously juicy.

Reuben Sandwich

Mudgie’s Deli – Detroit, MI

A classic Reuben is a staple of just about any deli. As such, you’ll find fine renditions of this sandwich anywhere you go. But, for a high-quality, travel-worthy option, head to Detroit and stop by Mudgie’s Deli. Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and 1000 island dressing create their iconic Corned Beef Reuben. They even have vegan alternatives featuring tempeh or seitan renditions of corned beef. But, if we’re being honest, we’re heading to Mudgie’s for the original Reuben.

Roast Beef Sandwich

Kelly’s Roast Beef – Revere, MA

The beachside sandwich shop Kelly’s is the self-proclaimed progenitor of the classic Roast Beef Sandwich. If you’re in the market for a delicious sandwich with thinly-sliced roast beef, American Cheese, mayo, and James River BBQ Sauce, then Kelly’s is the destination for you. The Roast Beef has been a staple around Boston and particularly on the North Shore for years. And Revere’s Kelly’s Roast Beef is considered one of the standout sandwich spots.

Chula Seafood – Scottsdale, AZ

If you want a proper fish sandwich, you got to a fish market. That would be pretty common sense. So, if you’re looking for an incredible tuna melt, head to Scottsdale, AZ’s Chula Seafood. This charming, intimate fish shop makes a mean tuna melt that is well worth a visit. The Green Chili Tuna Melt features albacore along with hatch chile, Oaxaca cheese, and chimichurri. If you can handle the heat, we’d highly recommend checking out this sandwich.

Turkey Sandwich

Mitchell Delicatessen – Nashville, TN

Mitchell’s in Nashville, TN is an unfussy deli with a seriously impressive lineup of delicious sandwiches. And, like the best delis, it’s an unassuming destination that prioritizes quality. Perhaps most impressive is that in its vast sandwich offerings, the turkey sandwiches stand out. Turkey sandwiches are plain, boring, middle school lunchbox sandwiches. Well, you might’ve thought that until you’ve tried Mitchell’s Turkey Brie with jalapeño cranberry relish, honey mustard, and apples.

Veggie Sandwich

Middle Child Clubhouse – Philadelphia, PA

And last but certainly not least we have a veggie sandwich. While most sandwiches on this list features some form of meat, there’s a real artistry to a delicious veggie sandwich. And few do it better than Philly’s Middle Child. The buzzy, fun sandwich shop offers a highly curated menu of excellent offerings. Chief among them are both the Bye Felicia!, with roasted and pickled seasonal veggies, artichoke relish, balsamic mayo, arugula, and raw onion, and the Phoagie, a vegan riff on the classic Philadelphia hoagie. Make a trip to the City of Brotherly Love just for these veggie sandwiches.

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Richard McCullough and his Italian hoagie roll.

‘Best sandwich in the world!’ Nine rolls, hoagies and sarnies worth crossing oceans for – picked by readers

One day you’ll encounter a sandwich that’s so fantastic you’d travel thousands of miles to taste it again. If you’re lucky, you’ll find it in your own kitchen. Here are some unforgettable examples, from Philadelphia, Manitoba, Scarborough …

T he king of sandwiches is the 2ft-long (60cm) Italian hoagie made in Russo’s Market deli in North Wildwood, New Jersey. It’s a colossal fresh-baked Italian hoagie roll filled with shredded lettuce, sliced onion, tomato, provolone cheese, a triple layer of Italian deli meats, light oil dressing, salt, black pepper, oregano and maybe a few hot yellow peppers on top or on the side. It’s wrapped in greaseproof paper and in mid-summer can be delivered to you on the beautiful Wildwood beach. I met my wife making these sandwiches in Wildwood as a student way back in 1992 – and along with many thousands of Irish students who made that famous trek back in the day, the Italian hoagie was a staple. We go back to the US often to visit our family and friends there and it is the first thing on our list to eat as soon as we’re off the plane. It’s worth flying across the Atlantic for. Richard McCullough, Belfast

The Northumberland lobster roll

Gary Reed’s lobster roll.

The greatest sandwich is the lobster roll from the fishmonger’s at Amble harbour, Northumberland. It’s a soft white roll with fresh lobster, salad and mayo. It can be bought just 10 paces from the fish quay with its views of Warkworth castle, the sand dunes and sea piers. It’s best eaten with half an eye out for swooping seabirds. All for £8: northern value for money. Gary Reed, 37, engineer working in fusion energy , Gateshead

The New York roast beef sandwich

Lizzie’s roast beef sandwich.

The roast beef sandwich at Katz’s deli in New York City is the best sandwich in the world. The place is famous for pastrami, but the first time I went I smelled this cold roast beef sandwich and knew I had to have it. Like all Katz’s sandwiches, it’s about 80% filling and 20% bread. The beef is cold and rare and delicious. It’s the only sandwich I’ve travelled 3,500 miles for. An absolute must every time I visit New York. Lizzie, York

The crab and chip buttie

Mark’s crab and chip sandwich.

Use the white meat of a dressed crab for fettuccine. Mix the grey meat with the equivalent amount of butter and a little salt. Spread on good bread – for me, it’s white sourdough – wrap in foil, and walk to chip shop. Fill with as many big chips as possible. Eat at the seaside with a pint of bitter. Mark, 60, Rutland

The Christmas leftovers

Felicity Spector’s Christmas leftover sandwich.

I love a Christmas leftover sandwich, ideally made with cranberry walnut bread (though focaccia is also acceptable) and crammed with turkey, cranberry sauce, cornbread stuffing, a light mayonnaise, roast parsnips, roast Brussels sprouts and chestnuts. Obviously with a jug of gravy on the side. Felicity Spector, 56, London

The Winnipeg cold cut banh mi

The cold cut banh mi from Khánh Hòa in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The greatest sandwich is the cold cut banh mi from Khánh Hòa in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I’m not sure how one small, nondescript Vietnamese deli came to create a sandwich unrivalled by the dozens of Vietnamese restaurants and delis across Canada I’ve visited since, but its enduring quality brings me back whenever I’m in the city. From the perfectly chewy baguette (make sure to ask for it not to be toasted) to the rich paté adorning its inner walls, this sandwich and its nestled ingredients of pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro (coriander), Thai chillis and an assortment of intriguingly patterned cold cuts will compel you to always buy two – one for immediate consumption and the second to enjoy later. Jonathan Kauenhowen, 34, Toronto, Canada

The vegetables and double chutney

Pradeep’s chutney, beetroot, potato, cucumber and onion sandwich.

While unprepossessing at first glance, this Indian sandwich is quite yummy. Use a plain white sandwich loaf: no other bread will quite cut the mustard in terms of its satisfying squidge. Then slather one slice with a Medjool date, jaggery and tamarind chutney, and another with a mixture of mayonnaise and green coriander chutney. The date and tamarind provides the sweet and sour counterpoint to the fresh coriander; the mayonnaise adds a satisfying creaminess. For the filling, slice a boiled beetroot through a mandolin to get wafer-thin slices. Slice boiled and cooled potatoes into quarter-inch roundels. Thinly slice cucumbers and red onions. Arrange the vegetables neatly on one slice of bread and sprinkle chaat masala and black salt on top. Cut the sandwich into four squares as the street vendors do. Surprisingly filling, yet light. Pradeep, London

The Philly cheesesteak

Liz Clifford’s Philadelphia cheesesteak.

The greatest sandwich out there is the humble cheesesteak, pride of Philadelphia. It has versatility, speed and ease of construction, and invites debate among connoisseurs. The classic cheesesteak should come with American cheese, thinly sliced ribeye seared and chopped on a flat-top grill and diced white onions cooked with and chopped into the beef, served on a toasted white sub roll. The world of acceptable toppings for a cheesesteak is vast and offers plenty of controversial items. Most will agree that hot peppers, mushrooms, pickles, lettuce, tomato and mayo are “reasonable” options, though ketchup is arguably childish. If you’re willing to be adventurous, add bacon, ranch dressing, Cheez Whiz cheese spread, fried mozzarella sticks. My personal favourite way to dress up a cheesesteak is extra cheese and Duke’s mayo, as pictured. Liz Clifford, Richmond, Virginia, US

Peanut butter, brie and pickle

Graeme Holbrook’s peanut butter, brie and pickle sandwich.

I know this looks like a sandwich only its mother could love, but it’s gorgeous: crunchy peanut butter, brie and Branston pickle. It doesn’t matter what the bread is: this sublime symphony of tastes and textures relegates bread to just something to stop your fingers getting sticky. The peanut butter offers a mild sweetness and something to chew on, while the brie offsets the gloopiness with its smoothness. The slight tartness of the pickle stops it being too sweet and provides a little more resistance to prevent you eating this perfect combination too quickly. Like all perfect creations, I discovered it when the ingredients were all I had in my fridge and thought: why not? Graeme Holbrook, 62, Scarborough

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10 Best Sandwiches For Road Trips (Road Trip Food)

The road trip is one of the greatest pastimes in the world. Hopping in your car, putting some great road trip tunes on the speakers and off you go!

The thing is, the longer the journey – you can get really hungry and the worst part is – there’s nowhere to get anything to eat for miles! You’re really feeling it in your stomach now and you need to get something in it right now!

Sandwiches

What’s the answer? Take some road trip snacks with you! But what are the best things to eat? If you’re on the road, you’ll want to get something quick and simple – sandwiches are the answer.

So let’s strap in and rev the engines. Time to explore the best sandwiches for a good old road trip and hit you up with some great ideas to help you make them!

The Club Sandwich 

An American classic all the way back from the 19th century from New York. The club sandwich is one of our very favourites and can be enjoyed everywhere and anywhere! It consists of a kaiser bread roll, mustard, chicken, sliced cheddar and rashers of delicious sizzling bacon.

The greatest thing about a club sandwich is you can have turkey instead of chicken if you prefer! It’s a beautiful creation. Don’t want bacon? Try using ham!

The key aspect of making the perfect club sandwich though is to make sure it’s toasted. Instead of struggling with the grill, get yourself one of these. This easy to use and easy on the wallet griddler can make any sandwich go from good to great in moments.

  • LCD and easy to read display
  • Changeable temperature
  • Different settings (panini, griddle, grill, half-grill)
  • Safe for the dishwasher
  • Great looking design
  • Not great for steaks

Peanut Butter and Jelly 

It’s peanut butter jelly time! This easy to make sandwich makes any road trip better. The night before or the morning of your road trip – a peanut butter and jelly sandwich can take moments to make and yet the taste lasts far longer! All you’ll need are 2 slices of your favorite bread, some peanut butter spread on one and some jelly spread on the other. Boom – you’ve got a snack!

This peanut butter is a non genetically modified product, it’s vegan friendly and tastes great! It’s a smooth taste with a perfect texture – the ideal peanut butter for your sandwich.

  • Full of protein
  • Tastes great
  • Vegan certified
  • Gluten free
  • You may love it so much that you’ll get fat eating it!

Frequently Asked Question

Does This Peanut Butter Contain Alcohol? No.

Does The Peanut Butter Have A Lot Of Salt? 100mg per bottle.

Grilled Cheese

Come on, who doesn’t love a grilled cheese sandwich? Just imagine this on a road trip! The grilled cheese is a snack that has a long history! Some have stated that even the Romans had an early version of the sandwich in some of their texts.

Now, the best grilled cheese is the one that you make! Traditionally, you would have two slices of any choice of bread, a few slices of Kraft singles cheese slices and finished under the grill. You could opt to put some bacon in it, maybe use some pumpernickel bread (carefully buttered.) Why not top all that off with your ideal sauce? Spice it up with some hot sauce!

Kraft was the crafter behind modern cheese ideas! When he created the cheese singles, along with the invention of the bread slicer, we saw our lives changed forever! Don’t settle for subpar ingredients when you can have the traditional and the best!

  • No artificial ingredients
  • Easily melts
  • Creamy taste
  • Not suitable for lactose intolerant people (contains milk)

Is It Yellow Or White Cheese? It’s a yellow cheese.

Can I Freeze The Cheese? No.

Bacon, lettuce and tomato. Simple but effective! Bacon is great at any time of day, so if your road trip has got you driving in the morning, afternoon or evening – you’ve got a sandwich you can trust.

You could super-size this with some bigger bread and fit some more BLT in your BLT! Many enjoy their BLT topped off with some mayonnaise. Sounds good to us!

If you really want a personalized experience, why not make your own bread and design the BLT of your dreams!

Get excited about your road trip with the mouth watering thoughts of eating real homemade sandwiches. With your own bread maker – you’re in control. The best part of this bread maker? You can prepare other things too! Want to take a cake with you? Sure! How about a pizza?!

  • Pre-programmed settings
  • The choices are yours
  • User friendly screen
  • Sometimes can get a little noisy

Is There A Keep Bread Warm Setting? There is and it stays on for an hour.

Does It Need A Lot Of Space In My Kitchen? No, it’s not super huge. Same size as a normal coffee maker.

Pulled Pork 

What a beautiful sandwich this is. Grab your favored bread and lather it with Southern barbecue sauce, then drag some succulent pulled pork into it. You can add some more to the equation with some lettuce or hot it up with some jalapenos. Whatever way you like it, make it authentically Southern!

  • Authentic Southern flavors
  • Perfect for a variety of foods (dip some chips in them during the drive!)
  • Comes in glass bottle so may find it difficult to spread evenly

Are They Made In The USA? Yes!

Are They Gluten Free? Yep! Also free from MSG

Meatball Sub

A little different now. A gorgeous baguette with a marinara sauce and some juicy meatballs lying within. Make your road trip a meaty one! A great shape if you’re one of those who eats while driving and an ideal accompaniment to a packet of chips!

A mix of beef and pork balls, these Italian meatballs can make any road trip feel like a vacation . Quick and simple to prepare, they can be baked, microwaved or even fried in moments. No waiting around for a tasty treat!

  • Easy to cook
  • Can be used in lots of recipes
  • Can also be used as a snack (perfect while driving!)
  • 60Kcal per meatball

Do These Need To Remain Frozen? Yes until cooked.

Which Method Is The Quickest Way To Cook These? Microwave – Full power for about a minute or two.

A chunky sandwich next up. Layers and layers of corned beef, topped with swiss cheese and sauerkraut, finished with some silky Russian dressing. A famous sandwich in New York City, the Reuben sandwich has a lot going on in it! Remember – for best results, toast the sandwich!!

For those of you who love a sandwich but would prefer a vegan option – you can try the vegan Reuben. Use vegan cheese and some unreal corned beef.

This plant based corned beef is entirely vegan. It’s also free from gluten and soy and free from GMO ingredients. It’s made with organic beets, tomatoes and chickpeas, giving it a unique flavor.

  • Entirely vegan friendly
  • Low carb/low fat
  • Great taste
  • Ideal selection for a vegan alternative
  • The slices are a little thin for some people

What’s The Best Way To Cook This Sandwich? Cook it over a skillet, medium heat and covered with a vegan oil.

Didn’t I See This On TV Once? You’re right! It featured on Shark Tank.

The Philadelphia Cheesesteak

In West Philadelphia born and raised! The Philly cheesesteak is a beautiful collusion of meat and cheese. Start off with a traditional Amoroso bread roll and add a thinly cut rib-eye steak (cooked to your liking.) Next, you’ll want to drizzle over some Cheez-Whiz and finish up by topping it with some onions.

If you’re not from Philly, you might want to stop off there on your road trip and compare your cheesesteak to the classic!

Amoroso bread rolls are an essential in making a Philly cheesesteak, so make sure you pick one up for this! Nice and fresh rolls can soak in the amazing cheese flavors and juices from the steak.

  • Essential ingredient in making a Philly cheesesteak
  • Awesome size for the road!
  • The cheesesteak will require some prep and make take longer to make than some on this list

Is This Really What Is Used In Philadelphia?  YES! Drive over to PA and find your proof in the sandwich.

How Long Are They? They’re around 7 inches long.

The Pilgrim 

Happy Thanksgiving! Who cares what date it is when a sandwich tastes this good? Any day of the year, this tasty snack can be enjoyed!

Choose your bread base and then begin to make the taste of thanksgiving come alive with your traditional left-overs from the day. Succulent turkey, stuffing, buttery mashed potatoes, a small portion of gravy, some cream cheese and finally top it all off with cranberry sauce . Oh yum!

Cranberry sauce is the classic accompaniment in the Holidays. Its unique, juicy and fruity flavors can bring out the overall potential of the meats and cheeses.

This cranberry sauce is the granddaddy of them all. A highly fruity and tangy taste, it is best to use this sauce whilst making some of the ingredients to your Pilgrim (such as the stuffing.) It comes in a can, so you’ll need to move it to a different bowl before adding it to something else.

  • Great mixer
  • High in fructose syrup

How Long Does This Last? Assuming you haven’t taken it out of the can, the sauce can last around 2 years.

How Much Should I Add To My Sandwich? Depends on your tastes! Maybe start off small and add more if you’re unsure.

The Muffaletta

A very unique sandwich up last on our list. Hailing from the lands of New Orleans, you’ve got a real challenge on your hands to finish this one!

Starting off with muffaletta bread, you’ll need to add some classic deli meats – salami and ham. Next, you’ll want to throw some mozzarella and provolone cheese on top and garnish with an olive salad. If you want to add your own touch to this, why not consider splashing on some BBQ or hot sauce?

The olive salad is what makes this sandwich so special. Made with canola oil, it boasts a selection of essential ingredients for the muffaletta sandwich such as cauliflower, celery, black olives, onions, carrots and sweet peppers. If you want an authentic sandwich – pick this up!

  • Great mix of salad
  • Amazing taste
  • Some people prefer it made without canola oil

Are The Olives Spicy? Not at all!

Is This Exactly Like They Have In New Orleans? You bet!

Suggested Road Trip Reading:

  • Best Mystery Audio Books for Road Trips
  • The Ultimate Texas Road Trip Guide

Buyer’s Guide 

When it comes to making the perfect road trip sandwich, you’ll need to have fresh ingredients and the best equipment to make a real, authentic, tasty and quick snack. Before purchasing any of the foods though, you must consider:

  • Allergies (check the labels)
  • Is it Kosher/Halal?
  • Does it contain lactose? (check for milk)
  • Is it vegetarian? Is it vegan?
  • Is it spicy?
  • Are there similar items available? Are they better?

Overall, it’s important you enjoy your sandwich and enjoy your road trip (see also ‘ 15 Best Fantasy Audiobooks For Your Travels ‘)! One way to enhance both is to make the day before you leave a “snack making” event. Get those who are going with you to help with making the sandwiches!

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Open Wide For The Best Sandwiches In America

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Pinterest image: photo of a tuna melt with caption reading

We ate and ranked the 22 best sandwiches in America. See if your favorite made the cut.

Chicken Sandwich at Flock and Fowl in Las Vegas

The Earl of Sandwich, otherwise known as John Montagu, gets credit for popularizing the sandwich concept in England during the late 18th century. But, despite centuries of history in England and beyond, the sandwich has become an American phenomenon.

When we think about the best sandwiches in the world, most have American roots. Sure, there are exceptions like Vietnam’s banh mi, France’s Croque Monsieur and Israel’s falafel. However, in our not-so-humble opinion, most of the best sandwiches bleed red, white and blue.

Discover our picks for the best sandwiches in the world .

Pastrami Sandwich at The Grange Community Kitchen in Buffalo

America is a society ‘on the go’. The attitude of “live to work” rather than “work to live” places the sandwich at the center of every lunch plate.

We’ve witnessed more than a few European eaters enjoying sandwiches by delicately consuming them with a knife and fork. While in Lyon , we gazed in disbelief as diners gently carved their burgers before consuming them.

In other words, in America, there’s only one way to eat a sandwich – WITH YOUR HANDS! We give a special dispensation for sandwiches like Kentucky’s Hot Brown – See Below .

Our Favorite Sandwiches in America

Primanti Classic at Primanti Bros in Pittsburgh

Merriam Webster defines a sandwich as ‘two or more slices of bread or a split roll having a filling in between’. Beyond this basic definition, the variety of USA sandwiches runs the gamut from simple snacks to ginormous ‘loaded’ Dagwoods. When it comes to sandwiches, the possibilities are practically endless.

Epicuriously curious, we wondered what was the best sandwich in America. Was it the cheesesteak in our home city of Philadelphia or the Po Boy in New Orleans? Or maybe it was a sandwich we were yet to eat.

Loaded Sausage Sandwich at FLX Weinery in the Finger Lakes

To answer this burning question, we dove deep into the American sandwich culture during a 10-week road trip that took us to to more than a dozen states plus the cities of Washington DC and Toronto. This journey solidified our appreciation for the classics and introduced us to some regional specialities.

We drove our zippy Nissan Sentra across the vast United States, stopping at road stands, drive-ins and diners in search of stand-out sandwiches representing the best of each city. We ate a variety including hamburgers, deli sandwiches and subs – all best eaten at the source.

Muffaletta at Central Grocery in New Orleans

Between this crazy road trip and our other food adventures over the years, we’ve accumulated a monstrous collection of sandwich experiences. These are our picks for the best sandwiches in America:

1. Fried Chicken Sandwich

Fried Chicken Sandwich at Federal Donuts in Philadelphia

Simultaneously crispy and juicy, the Fried Chicken Sandwich may be the best sandwich in America based on its satisfyingly savory flavor and crunchy texture. The popular sandwich even has a spinoff – Hot Chicken Sandwiches invented in Nashville almost a century ago.

We’ve eaten Chicken Sandwich classics at Chic-fil-A and newer favorites like the Chick’n Shack Burger at Shake Shack . We’ve also savored regional gems at Bakesale Betty in Oakland, now closed Flock and Fowl in Las Vegas and Federal Donuts in Philly .

Born during a time when the mere mention of the word chicken implied a healthier alternative to artery-clogging beef, Fried Chicken Sandwiches have become a staple of the American diet. They’re far from healthy, but they’re goooood.

Discover the best fried chicken in America and beyond .

Po Boy Close Up at Parkside Bakery in New Orleans.jpg

The Po Boy reigns supreme in a city filled with great cheap eats. Typically prepared on a Leidenheimer baguette and topped with either crispy seafood or slow cooked roast beef, this New Orleans creation is a king among sandwiches.

Also called a Poor Boy, the Po Boy is a reflection of the multicultural food collage that is New Orleans. The city’s cuisine shines with contributions from Italy, Austria, Germany, France and, more recently, Vietnam.

Our all-time favorite Po Boy joint is Parkway Bakery and Tavern , though Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar , Liuzza’s by the Track and Killer PoBoys are worthy contenders. Beyond New Orleans, we’ve eaten excellent Po Boys at The Chimes in Baton Rouge and Khyber Pass Pub in Philadelphia.

But NOLA is THE place to eat Po Boys if you want to skip the rest and eat the best.

Read more about our favorite New Orleans Po Boys .

3. Cheesesteak

Philly Cheesesteak at Johns Roast Pork

We didn’t have to drive far to find the best Cheesesteak. In fact, we didn’t have to drive at all. Philadelphia was our home city until the epic road trip launched our nomadic lifestyle . Famous around the world, the Cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia – hence the Philly Cheesesteak nickname and its popularity in the city of brotherly love.

Pat Olivieri gets credit for popularizing the iconic sandwich made with chopped steak, cheese (either Cheez Wiz or provolone) and fried onions. In Philadelphia, the bread is almost always a soft, long baguette-shaped hoagie roll.

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded at Pats King of Steaks in Philadelphia

If you ask Philly locals where to eat the best Philly cheesesteak, the answer will usually be either Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks , two Philly Cheesesteak shops located across from each other in the city’s Italian Market neighborhood at 9th & Passyunk.

The debate is real, though many Philadelphians swear by other stands like Jim’s on South Street and Dalessandro’s in Roxborough. As for us, we’re partial to the Cheesesteaks at John’s Roast Pork in deep South Philly.

Discover our Philadelhia food favorites .

4. Italian Beef

Italian Beef Sandwich in Hands at Portillos in Chicago

Despite its name, the Italian Beef Sandwich is an all-American sandwich with deep Chicago roots. And, while it sort of looks like Philadelphia’s steak sandwich, this meaty mouthful is its own special thing.

For the uninitiated, the Italian Beef sandwich is basically a long roll filled with thinly sliced roast beef. Chicago cooks follow local tradition by cooking seasoned roast beef in water and keeping it warm in its own juices on a steam table. The meat’s jus becomes part of the sandwich, adding a juiciness that’s not so different from the jus in a French Dip (see below).

This jus makes ketchup and mustard obsolete. Locals skip those condiments and instead pile on sweet peppers and/or spicy, pickled giardiniera , both of which provide additional color and flavor.

Read more about our favorite Chicago Italian Beef Sandwiches .

Cubano at Versailles in Miami(1)

Don’t be confused by this sandwich’s name. Although it sounds like it comes from Cuba, the Cubano is an American sandwich invented in Tampa, Florida and popularized by the many Cuban immigrants who live in the Sunshine State.

A classic Cubano piles roast pork, ham, swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on Cuban bread (a flatter, wider French baguette). The sandwich is then pressed to melty goodness.

This sandwich is particularly easy to find in Miami at diner-style restaurants like Versailles that specialize in food favorites from the nearby country.

6. Grilled Cheese

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Ooey and gooey aren’t always good food adjectives except when it comes to describing a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. This is a classic sandwich that tastes best when cheese and butter (and occasionally mayonnaise) are added without concern about calories or cholesterol.

Though other countries make toasties, there’s something special about the American version made with white bread and melty cheeses like American, Swiss and Cheddar. There’s not much better than a Grilled Cheese Sandwich paired with a bowl of tomato soup on a cold and windy East Coast afternoon.

7. Bagel + Lox

Bagel and Lox at Zingermans in Ann Arbor

The Bagel + Lox is a classic American sandwich even though two of its three main ingredients come from other countries. While Poland gets credit for inventing the bagel, the concept of smoking salmon started in Scandinavian countries like Norway .

However, cream cheese is an all-American product invented in New York and associated with Philadelphia due to marketing. America’s founding city had a reputation for luxury in the late 19th century – something we’re still attempting to fathom.

Bagel and Lox in New York

Popularized by European Jews who immigrated to New York’s Lower East Side in the early 20th century, a Bagel + Lox sandwich is a bagel filled with lox (brined smoked salmon) and cream cheese plus optional ingredients like tomatoes, onions and cucumber. People with an aversion to salty food can replace the lox with nova.

Although Bagels + Lox are easiest to find in urban cities like New York , Philadelphia, Chicago and Los Angeles, the sandwich has become a popular brunch item across America. Note: While much of salmon sold in grocery stores is machine sliced, the best lox is sliced by hand.

We ate fine versions at spots like Walla Walla Bread Company and Zingerman’s Delicatessen during our road trip, but the Bagel + Lox at Russ & Daughters Cafe in the Lower East Side remains our favorite. We also like the cafe’s Super Heebster with white fish salad and bright green wasabi roe, but that’s a different sandwich.

Discover our New York City food favorites .

Reuben at Lunch Nightly in the Catsckills

The Rueben is another American sandwich with roots in New York’s Lower East Side. However, unlike the Bagel + Lox, this grilled sandwich isn’t kosher due to a combination of ingredients that includes both meat and cheese.

Katz’s Delicatessen , the eatery made famous by the “I’ll have what she’s having” scene in When Harry Met Sally , makes the world’s most notable Reuben sandwich but the sandwich is available at delis throughout NYC and beyond.

Wherever you choose to bite into a Reuben, expect to encounter a melange of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing stuffed between two slice of rye bread. Also expect to love it.

Discover more great restaurants in NYC .

9. Lobster Roll

Lobster Roll at Lindeys in Columbus

The Canadian province of Nova Scotia serves a lot of lobster rolls, but this seafood-forward sandwich is an all-American sandwich invented in Connecticut. The lobster roll remains popular in the Constitution State as well as in nearby Boston and throughout New England.

The Lobster Roll is a unique entity born of America with a ‘top split’ toasted, buttered, short hot dog-style roll filled with lobster chunks combined with a mixture of mayo, celery, lemon juice and a dash of hot sauce .

Don’t be confused by its lowbrow appearance. The lobster roll is a luxury sandwich sold for luxury prices. It’s worth it and so are you.

10. Baloney Sandwich

Baloney Sandwich at Toutant in Buffalo

Although Bologna gets credit for inventing mortadella , Baloney Sandwiches are as American as it gets. This sandwich puts sliced bologna sausage (similar to mortadella) between two slices of plain white bread with optional add-ons like mustard and mayonnaise. Some people grill their Baloney Sandwiches and others add cheese but these are optional steps.

Perhaps we were influenced by the catchy Oscar Meyer jingle , but the Baloney Sandwich is a memorable part of both of our childhoods. We ate the simple sandwich at home and carried it to school in cartoon-decorated lunchboxes.

We later ate tasty Baloney Sandwiches at Payne’s Bar-B-Que Shak in Memphis and Buffalo’s Toutant . However, our favorite Baloney Sandwiches are the ones made by our moms when we were kids.

11. Hamburger

Hamburger at The Grill in New York City

After eating hamburgers around the world in countries like Slovenia, Vietnam and Portugal, we can attest that American burgers are the best burgers in the world. We like ours grilled to light pink medium rare before we add fresh tomatoes, sliced onions and various condiments.

The history of hamburger is as clear as mud with Hamburg in Germany and various American cities including New Haven staking a claim to its origin. Regardless of where the humble hamburger was invented, it’s fair to say that it was perfected in the USA where’s it’s since achieved ‘national dish’ status.

Hamburger variations run the gamut with toppings like cheese, chili, bacon and even avocado in the mix. We rarely say no to a Patty Melt with a hamburger patty, onions and cheese fried inside two pieces of rye bread. As for vegetarians, they say yes to the plant-based Impossible Burger.

Discover the world’s best burgers .

12. Hot Dog

Chicago Hot Dog at Mr. Beef on Orleans in Chicago

Although Hot Dogs are ‘as American as baseball and apple pie’, this sandwich’s history traces its roots back to sausages in Germany. This lineage hit us as we cruised through the Frankfurt airport and couldn’t help but notice the many Hot Dog, i.e. Frankfurter, stands.

History aside, the Hot Dog is firmly entrenched in the American food culture throughout the country. Families grill them during the summer and street vendors sell them in carts in cities like Chicago and New York.

Discover more great food in Chicago .

Hot Dog at Teds in Buffalo

If we had to pick our favorite hot dog, it would be either a grilled all-beef Dog with spicy mustard and sweet relish at Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island or a loaded Chi-dog in Chicago. “Dirty water dogs” sold by street vendors on the streets of NYC are also a favorite.

There are also all kinds of regional Hot Dog variations. Travelers will want to try Half Smokes in Washington, DC, Poi Dogs in Hawaii, Coneys in Detroit, Sonoran Dogs in the Tucson, Corn Dogs in Dallas and Tijuana Dogs in California.

Discover the world’s best hot dogs .

13. Hot Brown

Hot Brown at Gibbys in Frankfort

Most sandwiches are best eaten without utensils. The Hot Brown is an exception to this rule. However, using a fork and knife is worth the extra effort when it comes to this sandwich invented at Louisville’s Brown Hotel in 1926.

We stopped for Hot Browns after our tour of the Buffalo Trace distillery in Frankfort. It was our first time eating the classic Kentucky sandwich made with turkey, bacon and cheese and smothered in a decadent Mornay sauce. Needless to say, it was love at first bite.

14. Pastrami on Rye

Pastrami on Rye at Famous Deli in Philadelphia

The Pastrami on Rye is a classic New York sandwich introduced by Jewish immigrants from Lithuania and Romania more than a century ago. While much has changed in NYC since those halcyon days, the Pastrami on Rye remains a standard order at lower Manhattan spots like Katz’s Delicatessen .

For the uninitiated, pastrami is typically beef brisket that’s been brined, smoked and served warm from a steam table. We’ve eaten great versions at Schwartz’s Deli in Montreal and The Grange Community Kitchen near Buffalo, but nobody does it bigger or better than Katz’s.

Katz’s was immortalized by the movie When Harry Met Sally . Ironically, Sally ate a turkey sandwich in the movie while Harry ate pastrami. That’s why we’ll always ‘have what HE’S having’ when we eat at New York’s most famous Jewish deli.

15. Breakfast Biscuit

Biscuit Sandwich at Willa Jean in New Orleans

The word biscuit can be confusing since British people use this word the same way that Americans use cookie . In America, a biscuit is savory bread, more akin to a scone in Western Ireland than an actual twice baked pastry. It’s made with buttermilk, soft flour and a whole lot of butter. Though tasty on its own, the American biscuit doubles as an excellent sandwich platform.

Thanks to fast food chains like McDonalds, breakfast biscuits are available across America. However, the best ones are served in the American Southeast. We ate excellent Breakfast Biscuits in cities like Nashville, Asheville and New Orleans during our road trip – all at local cafes and none flanked by golden arches.

16. Primanti Classic

Primanti Classic at Primanti Bros in Pittsburgh P

Originally served to hungry truck drivers in the 1930s, the Primanti Classic is Pittsburgh’s most beloved sandwich. A blue collar sandwich created in a blue collar city, it’s a whopper of a sandwich thanks to the inclusion of french fries and coleslaw served inside the sandwich.

Bring a big appetite when you try a Primanti Classic in Pittsburgh or another city with a Primanti Brothers . Thanks to ingredients like grilled meat, provolone cheese, coleslaw, tomatoes and french fries, it’s a hearty meal hiding in plain sight between two thick slices of Italian bread.

Learn how to eat in Pittsburgh like a local .

17. Roast Pork Sandwich

Roast Pork Sandwich at Johns Roast Pork in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is famous around the world for its Cheesesteak. But did you know that the city’s best sandwich is arguably the Roast Pork Sandwich?

Popularized by Italian immigrants that once called Philly home, the Roast Pork Sandwich fuses American and Italian cuisines in a recipe that starts with slow-roasted pork and spices and adds sharp provolone cheese, greens like broccoli rabe or spinach and an Italian roll.

The connection to Italy made sense to us once we realized that broccoli rabe is the same thing as friarielli eaten in Naples . Even before we had that realization, we loved eating Roast Pork Sandwiches at J ohn’s Roast Pork in South Philly. In case you were wondering, their Cheesesteaks are good too.

18. French Dip

French Dip at Dirty French in New York City

You might think that the French Dip was invented in Paris or Lyon but you would be incorrect. Despite its name and its baguette base, this hot sandwich hails from Los Angeles . Yes, the French Dip is a California classic.

Typically served ‘au jus’ with a side of beef juice, the French Dip sandwich is a carnivore’s delight with its preponderance of thinly sliced roast beef. We ate an excellent gussied-up version at Major Food Group’s Dirty French in New York City but the classic is served at Phillipe’s in Los Angeles. And, yes, we both get the irony of eating a French Dip at Dirty French..

19. Beef On Weck

Beef on Weck at Schwabls in Buffalo

Beef on Weck would likely be Buffalo’s signature food if the chicken wing didn’t claim that spot. But don’t count out this Buffalo sandwich that gets its name from caraway-seeded kummelweck bread and sliced roast beef.

Local pubs starting adding roast beef to create the local belly buster after German immigrants brought the bread to Buffalo in the late 19th century. It was a match made in sandwich heaven.

Although you can find Beef on Weck on menus throughout Buffalo, we swear by Schwabl’s version served with pungent horseradish. We ate several excellent, beefy, real deal Beef on Weck sandwiches in Buffalo for ‘research’ purposes and this was easily our favorite.

Read our Buffalo restaurant guide .

20. Submarine | Hoagie | Hero | Grinder

Hoagie at Cosmis Deli in Philadelphia

You might eat a Submarine, Hoagie, Hero or Grinder when you’re extra hungry and choose to eat a sandwich. All of these sandwiches are long sandwiches topped with a generous combination of meat, cheese, vegetables and condiments. So what’s the difference in these four sandwiches? In one word, the answer is geography.

While most Americans call these jumbo sandwiches Submarines or Subs, Philadelphians love their hoagies, New Yorkers consume Heroes and Bostonians chow down on Grinders. The ingredients may vary from city to city but, at end of the day, a Submarine by any name is still a ‘hungry man’s’ best friend.

21. Pulled Pork Sandwich

Pulled Pork Sandwich at Garage in Lisbon

We have a thing for barbecue.

During our US road trip, we ate tender brisket in Lockhart and burnt ends in Kansas City. During other trips, we’ve eaten barbceue in disparate cities including Asheville, Memphis, and internationally-influenced versions in Helsinki and Paris . We’ve even eaten world class Southern barbecue in Da Nang . Sometimes, though, we want to eat barbecued meat on a roll. That’s when we order a Pulled Pork Sandwich.

Although restaurants around the world serve Pulled Pork Sandwiches, this saucy sandwich is indigenous to the American Southeast. Filled with shredded barbecued pork cooked low and slow, a Pulled Pork Sandwich tastes best when it comes with coleslaw and pickles and is topped with a Carolina-style vinegar sauce. With the addition of french fries or chips, this sandwich becomes a meal.

22. Muffuletta

Muffaletta at Napoleon House in New Orleans

Although muffuletta bread comes from Sicily, the Muffuletta sandwich is a New Orleans specialty created by some of the first Italians to immigrate to America.

Those immigrants invented the Muffuletta sandwich more than 100 years ago using the aforementioned Sicilian bread plus a whole lot of tasty toppings like cured meat, cheese and marinated olive salad. In our opinion, the punchy, acidic olive salad is what makes this sandwich sing.

Originally served at the Central Grocery in the French Quarter, the iconic sandwich is now available at restaurants and bars around New Orleans. Beyond Central Grocery, top contenders include Cochon Butcher and Napoleon House .

Read our guide to the best cheap eats in New Orleans .

Bonus – Ice Cream Sandwich

Ice Cream Sandwich at Ballyhoo in Buffalo

The only bad part about eating a sandwich is when you’re finished and all that’s left on the plate is crumbs. That’s when it’s time to continue the fun by eating an ice cream sandwich.

Invented in New York before it spread throughout the country, the Ice Cream Sandwich replaces bread with fo and meat with ice cream. The result is a fun dessert beloved by kids of all ages.

Video Recap

Hungry for more sandwiches.

Panino at Ca Pelletti in Bologna

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We purchased and ate the sandwiches featured in this article.

Original Publication Date: June 18, 2020

Sunday 31st of March 2024

You should check out the humble Zep. The sandwich with Rules.

Nelson Estupin

Friday 29th of March 2024

Surprised the Bahn Mi is not on this list. With Asian restaurants ever expanding into the American diaspora, this Vietnamese staple should be on your list.

Thursday 28th of March 2024

No meatball!? Burger @ #11? Good list otherwise. PB&J is a good add comment. Hot Brown looks magical. So hungry now.

Primanti Bros is the most overrated tourist sandwich in America. You can do much better.

Let's be clear. I don't know of a single Philadelphian that would recommend Pat's or Geno's. They are at the bottom of the list for cheesesteaks in Philly. If it wasn't for the tourist trade, both would be out of business. Don't get me wrong, they would be the best cheesesteaks in many cities, but in Philly there are at least 100 better cheesesteaks. Talk to some folks from Philly to get the real lowdown on where to eat. The others you mentioned are great examples of Philly cheesesteaks. Check out Angelo's for one of the best in town.

While we may not agree with them, we do know many Philadelphians who would recommend those places. Just a point of information - we lived within 10 blocks of Jim's, Pat's and Geno's for over a decade. In the article we do convey our preference for John's Roast Pork and, yes, we have eaten at Angelo's and love their cheesesteaks, hoagies and pizza.

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The Absolute Optimal Sandwich to Eat While Driving

By Tyler Kord

Illustration by Sara Zin

Image may contain Food Animal Seafood Lobster and Sea Life

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It's Road Trip Week at Bon Appétit! Which means every day, we'll be sharing stories about food on the long and lonely highway. Or not so lonely if you grew up traveling across the country in a minivan packed with six of your closest brothers, sisters, friends, and Poochie the carsick beagle. So buckle up, and don't make us turn this car around. Below, No. 7 Sub owner Tyler Kord tells us the absolute best sandwich you should be eating (carefully) in the driver's seat.

It’s summer and that means it’s time for road trips!! And while my childhood road trips meant eating every meal at McDonald’s (which made me so so super happy!), as an adult I’m admittedly not as thrilled when I see the golden arches. Not because McDonald’s tastes bad, in fact, it’s one of the most consistently delicious restaurants there is, but because the food is made of actual garbage and if you have the choice you should probably eat something made out of food instead. That said, if you’re planning on buying cheap cold cuts, bread, and produce at the grocery store to make a sandwich for eating on the road, you’re not exactly doing the world or your body any huge favors.

So what makes a great road trip sandwich? In my opinion you are looking for a couple of things specifically. You want something that is easy to eat with one hand, especially if you are driving (is it even legal to eat and drive?) and something that can sit for a while at room temperature with minimal risk of making you sick. You definitely don’t want to make a tuna salad sandwich with homemade/raw egg mayo and then let it sit in your non-air-conditioned 2003 Toyota Rav4 until you need to stop for gas in three hours. If your bread is fresh you should have nothing to worry about. The same goes for sliced onions, lettuce (though the NYC department of health feels that cut lettuce needs to be held at 41 degrees or below because they hate us all so much) and things of that nature.

And so with all of this information in mind, I would like to present to you the ultimate road trip sandwich. I call it the Famous Original Genuinely Not Ray’s Sandwich Extravaganza and it brings together my two favorite sandwiches of all time, ham on a baguette with literally nothing else on it (though I’m not mad when there is butter on it) and a slice of cheese pizza folded in half (please feel free to take to the comments section to rant about your narrow and exclusive views about what is and is not a sandwich, you heartless hotdog hater!). I could live the rest of my life and only eat those two sandwiches and I would be pretty stoked, though I would have to make sure I never drove by DeFonte’s or I would think too much about the roast beef with fresh mozzarella and fried eggplant there.

The bread is fresh, there’s no mayo to worry about, the cheese has cooked to a low enough moisture content that it will be fine for a while, and the ham is salty and cured (I don’t care what you say Applegate, celery is full of nitrates!). And it’s easy to eat with one hand! The recipe for this sandwich is quite simple. All you need is a fresh slice of pizza from any respectable slice joint, and 2 or 3 thin slices of a good boiled ham. Don’t try to get clever here and use a smoked ham, no I’m talking about actual awesome ham. Niman Ranch makes a good one, and the Applegate Farms one isn’t so bad either (though I disagree with them calling it uncured because it actually is cured and there’s nothing wrong with curing things but I suspect they’re just doing what the USDA tells them to rather than trying to trick us). Anyway, you take the ham and lay the slices over the pizza. If you want to dress it up, some raw red onion and mustard would be perfect. Next you fold the slice of pizza in half lengthwise, wrap the bottom in a paper towel for easier handling while driving, put the whole thing in a ziplock freezer bag until you’re ready to eat, and then consume it with both eyes on the road and "Life is a Highway" by Tom Cochrane blasting on the stereo.

I just googled “is eating while driving legal” and it turns out that it’s a bit of a gray area. Distracted driving is the cause of most of the accidents on the road and while texting/playing with a cell phone seems to be the worst offender, eating/drinking while driving is not making you a better person. In fact, distractions are pretty much always a bad thing, as is illustrated by this article. So maybe just switch drivers if you get hungry. Or take a break and go to McDonald’s!!

Tyler Kord is the author of A Super Upsetting Cookbook About Sandwiches (Clarkson Potter).

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Courtesy of Clarkson Potter

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I Tried 10 Classic Subway Sandwiches, and Here's What I'm Never Ordering Again

Wilder Shaw is a staff writer at Cheapism covering food, specializing in taste tests and fast food. He has over a decade of food-writing experience, and his work has appeared in Thrillist, The Washington Post, L.A. Taco, Time Out, and numerous other publications.

a stack of subway subs

Wilder Shaw / Cheapism

a stack of subway subs

The Sub Club

Subway has been around since 1965, and for most of the country, it’s been a fast-food staple. There are few places more reliable for road trips, last minute-lunches, and post-bar cravings. 

The chain constantly has new sandwiches in the works, but what about the classics? The stuff Subway was built on? I decided to try 10 of ‘em and uncover my favorites. Here’s how they stacked up.

Prices and availability are subject to change.

Meatball Marinara sub

Best: Meatball Marinara

When I was but a boy, Subway’s meatball sub was my favorite thing on the planet. I begged for it on a nightly basis. It’s been years  since I actually ordered it, so I didn’t really know what to expect.

Still hits, folks. Still hits. Are these the best meatballs in town? Almost certainly not, but that doesn’t matter. When they’re smothered in marinara sauce, covered with melted cheese, and wrapped up in a toasty sub roll, the quality of the meatballs is irrelevant. This is the absolute definition of comfort food . Eat it hot.

Oven-Roasted Turkey sub

2. Oven-Roasted Turkey

I’m a turkey sandwich guy, plain and simple. This is almost always what I get when I slide through a sandwich chain, and at Subway, it gets the job done. It may not be my favorite turkey in the game, but there are few things as reliable as a turkey sub. 

tuna sub

As a general rule, you should not eat tuna that comes out of a metal scoop like a damn serving of vanilla ice cream, but when it comes to Subway’s tuna, I cannot help myself. Been this way most of my life. Something about that tuna really does it to me. I know it’s objectively gross, but I have a sickness. If you enjoy nasty tuna sandwiches as much as I do, you have to give it up to Subway for having one of the best. Plus, get it toasted with cheese and bingo, you’ve got a tuna melt.

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Black Forest Ham sub

4. Black Forest Ham

Ham is ham, you know? I like ham. Subway’s ham tastes like ham. I like ham, so I like this. Do you like ham? You’ll probably like this ham too. Am I saying ham too much?

Related:   10 Best Subway Secret Menu Hacks

Roast Beef sub

5. Roast Beef

On any given day, I might grab a roast beef over a turkey or ham. This 5th place slot isn’t exactly firm, but I’m still more likely to order the above four sandwiches before I go for roast beef. It’s a nice consistency and not too dry, but I would love it if it was shaved just slightly thinner, the way real deli meat roast beef is. That makes it far easier to chew.

Related:   America's Best Subs, Grinders, and Hoagies

veggie patty sub

6. Veggie Patty

Where has this been all my life? Subway’s veggie patty is actually pretty good. It reminds me a lot of a veggie burger combined with a falafel. If I was a vegetarian, this would be a no-brainer since it really packs a lot of punch, flavor-wise. My only knock is that it’s so soft, it can get lost inside the consistency of the bread. If we could sear this thing on a flat top for a few seconds? Now we’re talking.

rao's frozen pizzas

7. Pizza Sub

I like the idea  of what’s going on here more than I actually like what’s going on here. I appreciate the spirit of a pizza sub, and truly, this does taste a lot like pizza. As a pizza-folder, I’m essentially always making myself a little sandwich when I eat pizza anyways. 

The issue here is that Subway’s pepperoni is only OK. It doesn’t really have the mmph  required to lead the entire sandwich. It does have nice heat and a great consistency that allows you to actually bite through it, but otherwise I’m underwhelmed. Yet, I could see myself going back for this again someday.

Rotisserie-Style Chicken sub

8. Rotisserie-Style Chicken

“Style” is the keyword here. I don’t really know what the deal is with this chicken, but I’m going to assume no rotisserie was used here. It’s pulled, which is better than the weird chicken breast strips Subway serves in some of its other sandwiches, but it’s still very dry. This just isn’t what I’m at Subway for. Stick with lunch meats, y’all. 

subway BLT

A BLT is like the 2013 Miami Heat. There’s LeBron James, the clear leader and star, and then there’s Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade, two incredible pieces of support and stars in their own right. They’re a tripod, those three, and if one leg falls, the others go down.

Bacon is the LeBron James of a BLT. Subway’s bacon is nothing like LeBron James playing basketball. Subway’s bacon is much more like me  playing basketball, and that’s not a goal anyone should aspire to. I can barely taste this bacon, but that’s probably a good thing. This is not top-tier bacon, people. From there, the rest falls apart. Get this if you want a snack.

Steak & Cheese sub

10. Steak & Cheese

Yeah, don’t know about this one. I see that this is an attempt to let customers make their own Philly cheesesteak, but that sandwich is all about proper bread and high-quality ribeye. Subway’s not slinging either of those things, and this steak just tastes … strange. Not bad. Just odd. I’m sticking with cold cuts.

Alani Nu energy drinks

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

  • Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
  • She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
  • In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

Insider Today

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: From Nepal to Kosovo, here's how countries are celebrating Pride

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

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Chrissy Teigen Says Meghan Markle's Jam Is 'One of the Best Bites' She's Had All Year – Here’s What She Made With It

The first product from the Duchess of Sussex's new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, was announced as strawberry jam.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Chrissy Teigen/Instagram

Chrissy Teigen is one of the lucky celebrities who got sent a jar of Meghan Markle ’s new jam.

Earlier this month, the first product from the Duchess of Sussex's new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard , was announced as strawberry jam. Teigen shared a video of herself making a tasty-looking sandwich for her whole family using the fruity condiment.

“We jammin!! This might have been one of the best bites we’ve had all year - all we used is some rustic bread, salted butter, triple cream brie, thick cut bacon and some @americanrivieraorchard jam!” she wrote in the caption. Bob Marley & the Wailers’ “Jamming” plays throughout the clip.

The melty sandwich wasn’t just for herself — the meal was approved by her family, too.

“Took about 8 mins total and made us happy for the entire weekend. 🤍” she closed out the caption.

In the video, Teigen takes fans through her cooking process, starting (of course!) by smearing the jam on the crusty bread and then frying bacon. 

Teigen and John Legend ’s 7-year-old daughter, Luna , makes an appearance as she licks the offset spatula clean of Meghan's strawberry jam.

After the mom of four assembles and cooks the bacon, brie and jam sandwich, Legend makes a cameo in the clip and takes a hearty bite with his wife.

This isn’t the only top-notch meal the cookbook author has made for her Grammy-winning husband this month. She recently went viral for chronicling her trip to China in which she went to purchase $900 worth of wagyu steak and short ribs from Legend’s favorite butcher.

“My husband John really loves short ribs and the kids were away at camp so of course I hopped on a plane to China to visit his most favorite butcher,” Teigen began in the voiceover for the satirical video , which documented her trip, as well as her cooking the dish she made out of her lavish purchase. 

She poked fun at her feat in the spot with several jokes overlaid in the post. 

“I did steal John’s credit card before I left so it made paying $900 an absolute breeze,” she added as the video switched to a clip of her paying for the wagyu steaks and short ribs before leaving the butcher shop with a bag and jumping back on a plane. 

Back at home, Teigen looked up the recipe for her braised short ribs in her second cookbook, Cravings: Hungry For More . 

While at the City Harvest Gala in New York City on April 10, the couple spoke about the popular video .

"The more and more I did it, I realized that I do this all the time, realistically," Teigen told PEOPLE at the gala. "So it's not even mocking anybody. It's actually a lifestyle that I love, and I want to be a part of."

Although the clip was clearly a joke, Legend told PEOPLE that Teigen actually does turn their family meals into a labor of love.

"She loves to take time with meals and put care into it," he said, adding that the post is a "massive hit."

He also said that her braised short ribs meal is his favorite recipe that Teigen makes.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

7-day Moscow itinerary

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

things to do in Moscow in one week

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

travel itinerary for one week in Moscow

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

exploring Moscow

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

Moscow sights

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

top things to do in Moscow

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

one week Moscow itinerary

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

Moscow itinerary

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

things to do in Moscow in seven days

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

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Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

aol travel 10 best sandwiches

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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aol travel 10 best sandwiches

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  29. What to See in Moscow

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