20 Legendary Sandwiches Across The U.S. You Have To Try

From crispy, sauce-drenched classics to over-the-top creations, these legendary sandwiches prove that the best meals 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, as it offers a true taste of the local culture and the comforting embrace of a beloved classic.

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 a perfect blend. The first bite offers a burst of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
Each layer adds complexity, making it an unforgettable experience. For those wandering the Big Easy, indulging in a muffuletta is an essential culinary adventure. It’s a celebration of flavors that embody the spirit of New Orleans.

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.
This sandwich invites you to savor the simplicity and freshness of coastal living. The marriage of sweet lobster and creamy butter creates a luxurious yet unpretentious treat, perfect for a seaside escape.

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.
Exploring the city’s streets with this sandwich in hand is a rite of passage, offering a delicious connection to the city’s vibrant culinary roots. It’s a testament to New Orleans’ rich heritage and innovative spirit.

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.
This culinary icon invites food enthusiasts to experience the joy of unexpected flavor, nestled within a simple burger patty. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting the Twin Cities, promising a cheesy adventure that’s both satisfying and inventive.

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. It’s more than just food; it’s a New York institution.
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 vibrant 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 and the rich traditions of North Carolina’s food scene. 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.
This sandwich embodies a fusion of cultures, capturing the essence of culinary innovation and tradition. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of Vietnam’s rich food heritage, wrapped in the warmth of California’s diverse food scene.

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.
Versaille’s in Little Havana is the go-to spot for this sandwich, where authentic flavors come alive. The crunch of the bread and the zest of the filling create an irresistible harmony.
This sandwich celebrates Miami’s vibrant cultural tapestry, inviting you to indulge in its rich flavors and history. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting the city, offering a delightful taste of Cuban heritage.

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.
Katz’s Delicatessen in New York is renowned for this sandwich, offering a taste of tradition in every bite. The combination of savory and tangy flavors creates a unique culinary experience.
This sandwich is a testament to New York’s culinary innovation, inviting you to relish its robust flavors and classic appeal. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Eastern European-inspired cuisine.

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.
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.
This sandwich is a celebration of flavor and tradition, inviting you to savor its juicy, spicy essence. For anyone exploring Chicago’s food scene, it’s a delectable discovery that captures the city’s vibrant taste culture.

12. Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Nashville’s hot chicken sandwich is a fiery delight, boasting crispy fried chicken, pickles, and a spicy sauce. It’s a bold culinary adventure waiting to be savored.
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack serves as the epicenter of this spicy creation, offering a taste that warms the soul. The combination of heat and crunch creates a mouthwatering experience.
This sandwich is a testament to Nashville’s bold flavors and culinary creativity, inviting you to indulge in its fiery embrace. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of the city’s vibrant food scene and spicy traditions.

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.
This sandwich is a celebration of culinary creativity, inviting you to experience its rich, indulgent essence. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of elegance and playful flavor combinations.

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, where simplicity meets satisfaction. Each bite is a reminder of homey Southern flavors.
This sandwich is a love letter to nostalgia, inviting you to embrace its straightforward yet delightful taste. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting connection to Southern food heritage.

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.
This sandwich is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, inviting you to indulge in its timeless charm. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of traditional deli fare, wrapped in a modern culinary context.

16. Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese

The pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich is a New Jersey breakfast staple. Layers of pork roll, a fried egg, and cheese come together in a savory delight.
Tony’s Truck Stop in Hoboken serves a quintessential version, offering a taste of New Jersey’s culinary creativity. Each bite is a flavorful explosion of breakfast bliss.
This sandwich is a celebration of morning indulgence, inviting you to savor its rich, hearty essence. It’s a must-try for anyone experiencing New Jersey’s vibrant food scene and flavorful traditions.

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. Each bite offers a balance of savory and fresh flavors.
This sandwich is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, inviting you to enjoy its refreshing essence. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of classic American diner fare, wrapped in a modern culinary context.

18. Egg Salad 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. Each bite is a smooth, creamy delight.
This sandwich is a celebration of comfort food, inviting you to savor its rich, homey essence. It’s a must-try for anyone experiencing New England’s vibrant food scene and culinary creativity.

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.
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.
This wrap is a celebration of freshness and flavor, inviting you to embrace its light, healthy appeal. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of California’s vibrant culinary culture.

20. Gyro

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. It’s a vibrant, flavorful journey.
This sandwich is a celebration of cultural fusion, inviting you to enjoy its rich, savory flavors. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of Greek cuisine, wrapped in the warmth of Chicago’s food scene.

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.
Franklin Barbecue in Austin stands as a temple to brisket, offering a taste that’s both rich and indulgent. Each bite is a celebration of Texas’ barbecue heritage.
This sandwich is an ode to slow cooking and bold flavors, inviting you to indulge in its juicy, smoky essence. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Texas, promising a flavorful exploration of the Lone Star State’s culinary wonders.