21 Legendary Sandwiches Across the U.S. You Have to Try
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from traveling (and eating my way across the country), it’s that no two sandwiches are the same—and some are downright legendary.
Some of these are old-school classics, while others are wild, over-the-top creations that you have to taste to believe. Whether you’re a road tripper, a foodie, or just someone who loves a great sandwich, these 21 must-try sandwiches are worth the journey.
Get ready for melty cheese, crispy bread, and bold flavors that prove the best meals really do come between two slices of bread!
1. Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly Cheesesteak stands as a savory symbol of Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene. Thinly sliced beef, grilled to perfection, melds with melted cheese and a hint of onion, all cradled within a hoagie roll. This sandwich exudes warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Head to Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s in South Philly to experience the epic rivalry and decide for yourself which serves the ultimate cheesesteak. This iconic sandwich captures the essence of the city’s culinary pride.
Visitors to Philadelphia shouldn’t miss this culinary tradition.
2. Muffuletta
The muffuletta isn’t merely a sandwich—it’s a New Orleans institution. Layered with Italian meats, creamy cheese, and a tangy olive salad, this robust masterpiece demands attention.
Central Grocery in the French Quarter is the birthplace of this mouthwatering creation, where tradition meets taste in the ideal blend. The first bite offers a burst of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Each layer adds complexity, making it an unforgettable experience.
3. Lobster Roll
In the coastal towns of Maine, the lobster roll reigns supreme as a summer staple. Succulent lobster meat, lightly dressed, nestles in a buttery bun, offering a taste of the sea.
Red’s Eats in Wiscasset is famed for its generous servings and long lines, a testament to its lobster roll’s delightful reputation. Each bite is a reminder of the ocean’s bounty. The marriage of sweet lobster and creamy butter creates a luxurious yet unpretentious treat.
4. Po’ Boy
New Orleans’ po’ boy is more than a meal; it’s a cultural expression. Traditionally filled with crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce, this sandwich is a festival of flavors.
Parkway Bakery and Tavern stands as a beacon for po’ boy lovers, offering authenticity and a taste of history. The crunch of the bread and the juiciness of the filling create a delightful contrast.
5. Jucy Lucy
The Jucy Lucy is a burger with a twist, crafted with melted cheese seeping from its core. A creation of Minneapolis, it’s a delectable surprise waiting to be savored.
Matt’s Bar claims the original Jucy Lucy, where the first bite unleashes a molten cheese explosion, delighting cheese lovers. It’s a unique take on the classic burger.
6. Pastrami on Rye
New York City’s pastrami on rye is a deli classic that leaves a lasting impression. Thin-sliced pastrami, piled high on rye bread, mingles with a smear of mustard for a bold flavor. Katz’s Delicatessen serves this iconic sandwich, where each bite delivers a taste of history and tradition.
Patrons from around the world come to savor this sandwich, drawn by its reputation and culinary excellence. The combination of tender meat and hearty rye creates a timeless experience, celebrating New York’s rich food culture.
7. Pulled Pork Sandwich
In North Carolina, the pulled pork sandwich is synonymous with barbecue perfection. Tender, slow-cooked pork melds with tangy sauce and crunchy coleslaw in a harmonious blend. Lexington Barbecue offers a quintessential experience, capturing the essence of Southern hospitality and flavor.
The tender pork fills the senses, each bite satisfying the soul. This sandwich is a love letter to barbecue enthusiasts, celebrating the art of slow cooking. It’s a flavorful journey worth embarking on, inviting you to explore the region’s culinary heart.
8. Bánh Mì
The Bánh Mì is a culinary bridge between Vietnam and America’s West Coast. Filled with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and grilled pork, it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors.
Saigon Sandwich in San Francisco delivers an authentic experience, offering a taste of Vietnam’s culinary brilliance. The crisp baguette provides a satisfying crunch with each bite.
9. Cuban Sandwich
The Cuban sandwich is Miami’s culinary claim to fame. Layers of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard meet between pressed Cuban bread for a taste sensation.
The best place to get this sandwich in Little Havana is Versaille’s, where real flavors are brought to life. There is an appealing balance between the crunch of the bread and the zest of the filling. A taste of Cuban heritage that is not to be missed.
10. Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is a deli delight that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing come together on rye bread. You can get the best version of this sandwich again at Katz’s Delicatessen in New York.
The NYC’s oldest deli is renowned for this sandwich, offering a taste of tradition in every bite. This sandwich is a testament to New York’s culinary innovation, inviting you to relish its robust flavors and classic appeal.
11. Chicago Italian Beef
Chicago’s Italian beef sandwich is an indulgence of savory satisfaction. Thinly sliced beef, peppers, and giardiniera are dipped in rich gravy, creating a flavor-packed experience.
This sandwich is a celebration of flavor and tradition, inviting you to savor its juicy, spicy essence. Al’s Beef is the iconic spot to try this sandwich, offering a taste that’s both hearty and indulgent. Each bite is a mouthful of Chicago’s culinary pride.
12. Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
With its crispy fried chicken, pickles, and spicy sauce, Nashville’s hot chicken sandwich is a flaming treat. It’s an audacious gastronomic journey just waiting to be enjoyed. And I suggest you enjoy it at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack!
The combination of heat and crunch creates a mouthwatering experience. With its spicy embrace, this sandwich invites you to savor Nashville’s robust flavors and inventive cooking.
13. Monte Cristo
The Monte Cristo sandwich is a sweet and savory masterpiece. Ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese nestle between slices of bread, dipped in egg batter, fried, and dusted with powdered sugar.
Café Orleans in Disneyland offers a whimsical take on this classic, where each bite is a blend of flavors and textures. It’s a delightful dance of sweet and savory.
14. Fried Bologna Sandwich
The humble fried bologna sandwich is a Southern comfort food classic. Thick-cut bologna, fried to perfection, mingles with cheese and pickles for a nostalgic treat. The Big Bad Breakfast in Mississippi offers a taste of this culinary tradition.
Every mouthful brings back memories of comforting Southern flavors. This sandwich invites you to enjoy its simple yet delicious flavor, acting as a love letter to nostalgia. Anyone looking for a cozy link to Southern culinary tradition should definitely try it.
15. Turkey Club
The turkey club sandwich is a deli classic with an enduring appeal. Layers of turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato come together in a harmonious stack of flavors.
Carnegie Deli in New York City offers a quintessential version, where each bite captures the essence of a classic club sandwich. It’s a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.
16. Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese
A New Jersey morning mainstay is the Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich. As the name suggests, the fried egg, cheese, and layers of pork roll combine to create a delicious treat.
A classic variation is served at Tony’s Truck Stop in Hoboken, which provides a taste of the culinary inventiveness of New Jersey. This sandwich invites you to enjoy its rich, filling core and is a celebration of morning indulgence.
17. BLT
The BLT sandwich is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato unite in a simple yet delicious concoction.
The Blueplate Diner in Salt Lake City offers a noteworthy BLT, where classic ingredients shine. Try it and experience the harmony of fresh and delicious aromas.
18. Egg Salad Sandwich
If you want to experience New England’s vibrant food scene and culinary creativity, you have to try this sandwich. The egg salad sandwich is a simple pleasure with a rich history.
Creamy egg salad mingles with lettuce in a comforting union of flavors. The Flour Bakery in Boston offers a memorable version, capturing the essence of comfort and tradition. It’s creamy, and it’s silky; trust me, you’ll love it!
19. Shrimp and Avocado Wrap
The shrimp and avocado wrap is a refreshing taste of coastal living. Fresh shrimp, creamy avocado slices, and a mix of greens wrap together in a light tortilla.
This wrap is a celebration of freshness and flavor, inviting you to embrace its light, healthy appeal. Smooch Café in Santa Monica offers a delightful version, capturing the essence of California’s fresh food scene. Each bite is a burst of coastal flavors.
20. Gyro
This sandwich is a celebration of cultural fusion. The gyro is a Greek delight that has found a home in American street food culture. Seasoned lamb, fresh tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce wrap together in a warm pita.
The Athenian Room in Chicago offers an authentic experience, where each bite captures the essence of Greek culinary tradition.
21. Brisket Sandwich
The brisket sandwich is a Texas barbecue staple that delights meat lovers. Tender smoked brisket, slathered in barbecue sauce, mingles with pickles in a smoky symphony.
My suggestion is you try it at Franklin Barbecue in Austin, which stands as a temple to brisket. This sandwich is an ode to slow cooking and bold flavors, inviting you to indulge in its juicy, smoky essence.