20 Once-Popular Sandwiches You Don’t See Much Anymore
I’ve always believed that sandwiches are little time capsules—you can tell a lot about an era by what people were piling between two slices of bread.
From quirky creations to beloved diner classics, these 20 once-popular sandwiches have slowly disappeared from menus and lunchboxes alike.
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or just curious about what people used to eat, take a bite out of history and discover some long-lost favorites!
1. The Dagwood
The Dagwood was a towering masterpiece, stacked high with meats, cheeses, and everything in between—a sandwich lover’s dream. Named after the comic strip character Dagwood Bumstead, this sandwich was all about excess. Imagine biting through layers of ham, turkey, roast beef, salami, cheddar, Swiss, and a mix of crunchy veggies.
Every bite was an adventure, a balance of flavors and textures that delighted. It was more than a meal; it was an experience. If you’ve never tackled a Dagwood, you’re missing out on a whimsical feast that tests your jaw’s endurance.
2. The Monte Cristo
If you’ve ever had a proper Monte Cristo, you know it’s a crispy, cheesy masterpiece deserving of a revival. Originally a French creation, this sandwich became an American classic with its unique combination. It’s a delightful blend of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, tucked between slices of bread, then deep-fried till golden.
The sweet touch? A light sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of jam, often raspberry or strawberry. The result is a sweet-savory symphony that dances on your taste buds. It’s a curious concoction, yet it works brilliantly.
3. The Chipped Beef on Toast
The Chipped Beef on Toast: A comfort classic that’s almost gone. Known fondly as “S.O.S.,” this dish was a staple in military and home kitchens alike. Thin slices of dried beef were gently simmered in a creamy, buttery sauce and served over crispy toast.
A simple, hearty meal, it warmed the soul and satisfied even the heartiest appetites. Its savory, salty goodness was balanced with the creamy sauce, making each bite a nostalgic delight. Great for breakfast or any time of day.
4. The Peanut Butter & Mayonnaise
Peanut butter and mayonnaise? Yep, it was a thing—and some people swear by it to this day. This odd combination found its way into lunchboxes across America during the Great Depression. Smooth, creamy, and undeniably unique, it’s a taste that transports you back to simpler times.
The salty-sweetness of peanut butter paired with the creamy tang of mayo creates a surprisingly delightful experience. For those adventurous enough to try, it’s a sandwich that offers comfort and curiosity in equal measure.
5. The Fluffernutter
Ah, the Fluffernutter! A sweet, sticky delight that was a childhood favorite for many. Combining creamy peanut butter with a layer of marshmallow fluff, this sandwich is an indulgent treat wrapped in nostalgia. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, offering a unique flavor profile that is hard to forget.
Every bite takes you back to carefree days, with sticky fingers and a smile on your face. Popular in the Northeastern United States, it was a lunchbox staple that brought joy to snack time.
6. The Liverwurst Sandwich
The Liverwurst Sandwich is a hearty, savory delight that has lost its place on modern menus. Made with slices of liverwurst, a type of liver sausage, this sandwich was rich, flavorful, and beloved by those who enjoyed its robust taste. Often paired with mustard and lettuce on rye bread, it was a lunchtime favorite.
The creamy texture of the liverwurst contrasted beautifully with the crisp lettuce and tangy mustard. It was a bold sandwich, not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciated its unique charm.
7. The Olive Loaf Sandwich
The Olive Loaf Sandwich was once a deli counter staple, offering a unique taste adventure. Olive loaf, a type of luncheon meat studded with pimento-stuffed olives, added a salty, tangy twist to the classic sandwich. Paired with lettuce and mayonnaise on soft white bread, it was a treat for the taste buds.
Each bite delivered a burst of flavor, with the olives adding a pop of color and zest. It was an unexpected combination, yet surprisingly delightful. A sandwich for those who dared to be different.
8. The Pimento Cheese Sandwich
This sandwich still is a Southern staple, known for its creamy, tangy goodness. Made with a blend of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, this spread is a flavor powerhouse. Served on soft white bread, it’s a simple yet satisfying delight.
The creamy texture and tangy taste of the pimento cheese make it a standout. Often enjoyed at picnics and gatherings, it was a symbol of Southern hospitality and charm. Though it’s still found in some regions, it’s less common today.
9. The Deviled Ham Sandwich
The Deviled Ham Sandwich was a picnic favorite, offering a spicy, savory treat. Made with deviled ham spread, a mixture of ham and spices, it was a flavorful delight that packed a punch. Served on white bread, it was often accompanied by a side of potato chips.
The spicy kick of the deviled ham spread made it stand out, offering a bold taste experience. It was a sandwich that delivered flavor and excitement in every bite.
10. The Egg Salad Sandwich
The Egg Salad Sandwich is a timeless classic that’s become a rare find. Made with creamy egg salad, seasoned with mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of paprika, this sandwich was a staple at lunch tables everywhere. Served on soft white bread, it was a comforting delight.
The rich, creamy texture of the egg salad, combined with the soft bread, made each bite a satisfying experience. It was a taste of simplicity and comfort, perfect for a casual meal.
11. The Ham and Cheese Sandwich
This classic has become less common in its traditional form. Often made with slices of ham and cheese, lettuce, and mustard on a crusty baguette, it was a lunchtime staple.
The combination of savory ham, rich cheese, and tangy mustard was a delightful balance of flavors. Each bite offered a satisfying mix of textures, from the crispy baguette to the tender ham. Though variations still exist, the traditional ham and cheese sandwich is a nostalgic favorite for many.
12. The Spam and Pineapple Sandwich
The Spam and Pineapple Sandwich was a tropical delight that brought a taste of the islands to American tables. Made with slices of spam and juicy pineapple, grilled to perfection, it was served on a soft Hawaiian roll.
The combination of sweet, tangy pineapple with savory spam created a unique flavor profile that was both intriguing and satisfying. It was a sandwich that offered a taste of paradise with every bite.
13. The Bologna Sandwich
The Bologna Sandwich was a lunchtime classic, offering a simple yet satisfying meal. Made with slices of bologna, mustard, and crisp lettuce on soft white bread, it was a staple in lunchboxes across America.
The mild, savory flavor of the bologna, paired with tangy mustard and fresh lettuce, created a balanced taste experience. It was a sandwich that offered comfort and familiarity with every bite.
14. The Tongue Sandwich
Made with slices of tender beef tongue, mustard, and pickles, served on rye bread, The Tongue Sandwich was made for the adventurous. It was a deli favorite, offering a unique taste experience.
The rich, savory taste of the beef tongue, combined with tangy mustard and crunchy pickles, created a bold flavor profile. It was a sandwich that required an open mind and a daring palate. Though it’s become a rarity, the tongue sandwich remains a fond memory for those who enjoyed its charms.
15. The Cheese and Tomato Sandwich
The Cheese and Tomato Sandwich was a simple yet satisfying delight. Made with slices of cheese and ripe tomato, layered on toasted bread and garnished with fresh basil, it was a taste of freshness.
The combination of creamy cheese, juicy tomato, and fragrant basil created a harmonious flavor profile. It was a sandwich that celebrated the beauty of fresh ingredients.
16. The Corned Beef Special
The Corned Beef Special was a deli delight, offering a hearty meal in every bite. Made with corned beef, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on rye bread, it was a favorite among sandwich lovers.
The combination of tender corned beef, crunchy coleslaw, and tangy Russian dressing created a flavorful experience. Each bite offered a mix of textures and tastes that satisfied even the heartiest appetites.
17. The Tuna Salad Sandwich
Made with tuna salad, seasoned with mayonnaise, celery, and a hint of lemon, served on whole-grain bread, this sandwich was a satisfying meal. The Tuna Salad Sandwich was a lunchtime favorite that offered a creamy, savory delight.
The combination of tender tuna, creamy mayo, and fresh celery created a balanced flavor profile. It was a sandwich that provided comfort and familiarity with every bite. If you’re feeling nostalgic, recreate this classic and enjoy its simple, satisfying flavors.
18. The Roast Beef Sandwich
The Roast Beef Sandwich was a hearty favorite, offering a savory delight. Made with slices of roast beef, horseradish sauce, and crisp lettuce on a crusty roll, it was a satisfying meal.
The combination of tender roast beef, spicy horseradish, and fresh lettuce created a bold flavor profile. It was a sandwich that offered a taste of indulgence in every bite.
19. The French Dip
The French dip provided a flavorful sensation and was a gourmet delight. Sandwich enthusiasts loved this dish, which was made with slices of roast beef on a French bun and served with au jus on the side for dipping.
A rich, decadent flavor was produced by the marriage of savory au jus and delicate roast meat. The au jus added depth and richness, and every bite tasted luxurious.
20. The Club Sandwich
A towering treat, the Club Sandwich provided a filling meal with each bite. It was a lunch counter and diner staple, made with layers of turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato on toasted bread.
A well-balanced flavor profile was produced by combining fresh veggies, crispy bacon, and savory turkey. Even the most ravenous appetites were satiated by the variety of flavors and textures that each bite brought.