Nothing hits the spot like a great sandwich.
We identified the most iconic or beloved sandwich shops in every state, from nationally known institutions like Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City to neighborhood delis, barbecue joints, and family-run counters that have become local legends.
Our list includes sandwich destinations with historical or regional significance and devoted national or local followings.
Many of these shops are known for signature local sandwiches that have stood the test of time, while others have earned acclaim for putting their own spin on a classic. Together, they show that every state has a sandwich worth traveling for.
Here are the most iconic sandwich shops in every state.
ALABAMA: Payne’s Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain in Scottsboro
Famous for being the oldest restaurant in the state, this old-fashioned restaurant dates back to 1869. Whether you sit in a booth or right at the soda fountain, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time.
Classic menu items include chicken melts and ice cream sundaes.
ALASKA: White Spot Cafe in Anchorage
White Spot Cafe has been feeding Anchorage since 1946, making it the city’s longest-running restaurant. The old-school diner has become a local institution, thanks in large part to its famous halibut sandwich, which USA Today once named the state’s must-try sandwich.
The lightly battered halibut sandwich is the obvious order, though the burgers and milkshakes have their own loyal following.
ARIZONA: Frank’s New York Style Deli in Phoenix
For more than 40 years, Frank’s New York Style Deli has been serving overstuffed subs from its unassuming Phoenix storefront. The family-owned shop has earned statewide acclaim for its authentic New York-style sandwiches and has repeatedly been recognized by publications and Yelp as one of Arizona’s best sandwich destinations.
Regulars rave about the pastrami, corned beef, and the Tony, the deli’s signature Italian sub piled high with meats and cheese.
ARKANSAS: Hollis Country Store in Plainview
You won’t find white tablecloths at Hollis Country Store, but you will find one of Arkansas’ most famous sandwiches.
The tiny country store has drawn travelers for decades with its oversized fried bologna sandwich, which has become something of an icon in the state.
CALIFORNIA: Philippe The Original in Los Angeles
Few restaurants can claim to have invented an American classic, but Philippe The Original says it created the very first French dip sandwich back in 1918.
More than a century later, the Los Angeles landmark is still serving generations of loyal customers from its counter-service dining room.
The classic beef French dip is the signature order, especially when paired with the restaurant’s famously spicy mustard.
COLORADO: Snarf’s Sandwiches in Boulder
What started as a single Boulder sandwich shop in 1996, affectionately known by locals as “The Shack,” has grown into one of Colorado’s best-known local chains.
Snarf’s built its reputation on toasted sandwiches stacked with premium meats, crisp vegetables, and a signature blend of peppers that gives many of its sandwiches a hearty kick.
CONNECTICUT: Rein’s New York Style Deli in Vernon
Since 1972, Rein’s New York Style Deli has been bringing authentic Jewish deli fare to Connecticut.
The roadside institution along I-84 has become a mandatory road-trip food stop for travelers looking for towering sandwiches, house-made pickles, and freshly baked rye bread.
The hot pastrami on rye and the Reuben are among the deli’s most beloved classics.
DELAWARE: Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop in Wilmington
Capriotti’s began in Wilmington in 1976 and has since grown into a national chain with more than 175 locations, but its Delaware roots remain a point of pride.
The shop became famous for roasting whole turkeys overnight instead of relying on processed deli meat. To this day, locals find the sandwiches fresh and tasty.
FLORIDA: Sanguich de Miami in Little Havana
Sanguich de Miami helped spark a new appreciation for the Cuban sandwich by focusing on traditional methods and high-quality ingredients in a casual, relaxed atmosphere.
Since opening in Little Havana in 2018, the shop has expanded and earned national praise while staying true to Miami’s Cuban culinary heritage.
The classic Cuban sandwich (named the best in Miami by locals and critics) is a must-order, though the turkey sandwich is another standout.
GEORGIA: Henri’s Bakery and Deli in Atlanta
Henri’s Bakery & Deli has been an Atlanta favorite since 1929, serving generations of locals from its bakery and lunch counter.
While it’s known for pastries and cakes, its sandwiches — from Reubens to chicken salad clubs — have earned an equally devoted following.
HAWAII: Storto’s Deli in Haleiwa
Storto’s Deli has become a North Shore tradition, serving oversized sandwiches to surfers, locals, and visitors. The laid-back shop is especially busy during Oahu’s big-wave season, when hungry beachgoers line up for its generously stuffed subs.
The Surfer sandwich is a customer favorite, though the Italian and turkey avocado are close behind.
IDAHO: Cobby’s Sandwich Shop in Boise
Cobby’s has been a Boise staple since the 1970s, serving freshly baked bread and generously filled sandwiches. It’s made many “best of” lists, including Food & Wine’s list identifying the best sandwich in every state.
The Cobby’s Club and Italian sub are among the menu’s longtime bestsellers.
ILLINOIS: Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park
Johnnie’s Beef has been serving Chicago’s signature Italian beef since 1961 and is widely regarded as one of the city’s gold standards. The tiny stand has been featured on countless best-of lists and draws long lines of devoted fans.
Order the Italian beef “wet,” with the sandwich dipped in savory jus, and add hot or sweet peppers.
INDIANA: Shapiro’s Delicatessen in Indianapolis
Family-owned since 1905, Shapiro’s Delicatessen is one of the oldest continuously operating delis in the Midwest.
The Indianapolis institution is famous for hand-cut meats, massive portions, and recipes passed down for generations. The hot corned beef or pastrami on rye are the deli’s signature sandwiches.
IOWA: Taylor’s Maid-Rite in Marshalltown
Taylor’s Maid-Rite has been serving its famous loose meat sandwiches since 1928, helping define one of Iowa’s signature foods. The no-frills restaurant remains a pilgrimage site for anyone looking to try the state’s iconic sandwich.
The original Maid-Rite — a seasoned ground beef sandwich topped with mustard, onions, and pickles — is the only order you should consider at this local institution.
KANSAS: Breit’s Stein & Deli in Kansas City
Breit’s Stein & Deli has become a Kansas City staple, earning a following for its old-school atmosphere and hefty deli sandwiches.
The house specialty is the Reuben: grilled rye piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. The pastrami and classic deli subs are also customer favorites.
KENTUCKY: Kirchhoff’s Bakery and Deli in Paducah
Kirchhoff’s Bakery has been part of downtown Paducah since 1873, making it one of Kentucky’s oldest continuously operating bakeries.
The family-owned business is known for baking its breads from scratch, giving its sandwiches an edge over typical deli fare.
The smoked turkey and roast beef sandwiches on fresh-baked sourdough are standout choices.
LOUISIANA: Fertitta’s Delicatessen in Shreveport
Fertitta’s Delicatessen has been serving Shreveport since 1927 and is one of Louisiana’s oldest Italian delis.
The tiny, family-run shop is best known for helping popularize the Muffy, a New Orleans-style muffuletta (Italian cured meats, cheeses, and olive salad) made with the deli’s own olive salad.
MAINE: The Clam Shack in Kennebunk
The Clam Shack has been a summer tradition in Kennebunk since 1968, drawing long lines for what many consider one of New England’s best lobster rolls.
Unlike many other Maine lobster rolls, the restaurant serves large chunks of fresh lobster meat on a round hamburger bun instead of a split-top roll.
If you visit, the lobster roll is the obvious choice, packed with lightly dressed lobster meat. Fried clams are another longtime favorite.
MARYLAND: Chaps Pit Beef in Baltimore
What started as a roadside stand in 1987 has become one of Baltimore’s defining sandwich destinations.
Chaps Pit Beef has earned national attention through appearances on shows like “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” helping popularize Maryland’s most famous local sandwich among tourists.
MASSACHUSETTS: Sam LaGrassa’s in Boston
Sam LaGrassa’s has been serving downtown Boston since 1968 and is consistently ranked among the country’s best sandwich shops. The family-owned deli has built a national reputation for oversized sandwiches made with premium meats and house-made dressings.
The chipotle pastrami sandwich is the shop’s signature creation, though the corned beef and brisket sandwiches are also beloved.
MICHIGAN: Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor
Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor is famous for its New-York-Style corned beef sandwiches, especially the Oswald’s Mile High, which is made with corned beef and yellow mustard on double-baked, hand-sliced Jewish rye bread.
MINNESOTA: Cecil’s Delicatessen in St. Paul
Since 1949, Cecil’s Delicatessen has been the Twin Cities’ go-to destination for classic Jewish deli fare. The family-owned institution is beloved for its towering sandwiches, bakery, and old-school atmosphere.
The hot pastrami on rye and the Reuben are the deli’s most iconic sandwiches, especially when paired with a bowl of matzo ball soup or a scoop of potato salad.
MISSISSIPPI: Big Apple Inn in Jackson
Big Apple Inn has been a Jackson landmark since the 1930s and is credited with popularizing the state’s famous pig ear sandwich.
The modest shop has welcomed famous figures over the years, from civil rights leaders to politicians.
The pig ear sandwich is its claim to fame, though the smoked sausage sandwich also has plenty of loyal fans.
MISSOURI: Blues City Deli in St. Louis
Blues City Deli combines two St. Louis favorites: great sandwiches and live blues music. Since opening in 2004, this sandwich shop has become a destination for locals and visitors, with lines often stretching out the door.
The New Orleans-inspired muffuletta is a standout, but the roast beef and Italian beef sandwiches are equally lauded.
MONTANA: The Pickle Barrel in Bozeman
The Pickle Barrel has been serving Bozeman since 1974 and has become a favorite among Montana State University students, locals, and travelers. The shop is famous for its huge menu of hot and cold sandwiches and generous portions.
The cheese steak is one of its most popular sandwiches, though customers have dozens of combinations to choose from.
NEBRASKA: Little King Deli & Subs in Omaha
Little King opened in Omaha in 1969 and has remained a Nebraska favorite, even as national sandwich chains have expanded across the state.
The Royal Treat, filled with ham, salami, and provolone, is among the chain’s signature sandwiches, along with its classic turkey and roast beef subs.
NEVADA: All’Antico Vinaio in Las Vegas
The famed Florentine sandwich shop All’Antico Vinaio brought one of Italy’s most celebrated sandwiches to Sin City in 2024, making its Nevada debut at UnCommons in southwest Las Vegas. The following year, it also opened up shop inside The Venetian Resort on the Las Vegas Strip.
The brand has earned an international following for its massive schiacciata sandwiches stuffed with premium Italian meats and cheeses — perfect to power you through a night of Vegas nightlife.
NEW HAMPSHIRE: Cheese Louise in Portsmouth
Cheese Louise has elevated the humble grilled cheese into one of New England’s most famous comfort foods. The Portsmouth shop has gained a loyal following for creative sandwiches made with locally sourced bread and cheese.
The classic grilled cheese is always a safe bet, but specialty grilled cheeses featuring bacon, tomato, or pulled pork are equally popular, as is the shop’s classic tomato soup for dipping.
NEW JERSEY: White House Sub Shop in Atlantic City
White House Sub Shop has been an Atlantic City institution since 1946 and is widely considered one of America’s greatest sub shops. Over the decades, it’s served everyone from Frank Sinatra to the Beatles and countless tourists.
The legendary Italian sub, piled high with premium meats, provolone, and crisp toppings, is the signature order, but the cheesesteak is another local favorite.
NEW MEXICO: Cheese & Coffee in Albuquerque
Cheese & Coffee has been an Albuquerque favorite since 2001, earning a devoted following for its generously sized sandwiches.
Despite its simple name, the locally owned shop has become one of New Mexico’s most beloved lunch spots.
One of its most popular sandwiches is the Chelsea, stacked with turkey, avocado, green chiles, and provolone, and served on grilled sourdough bread.
NEW YORK: Katz’s Deli in New York City
There’s nothing more NYC than a pastrami sandwich from Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The famous deli, which opened in 1888, is one of the city’s oldest delis and arguably the most famous deli in the country.
Scores of celebrities and politicians have frequented the restaurant over the years, and it was even featured in the classic 1989 romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally.”
Katz’s is where the iconic “I’ll have what she’s having” scene took place.
NORTH CAROLINA: Merritt’s Grill in Chapel Hill
Merritt’s Grill has been a Chapel Hill institution for decades, thanks largely to one famous menu item: the BLT.
The casual roadside restaurant has built a statewide reputation for sandwiches piled impossibly high with bacon.
The Triple BLT is the must-order, featuring layers upon layers of crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomato on toasted bread.
NORTH DAKOTA: The Red Pepper in Grand Forks
Since 1961, The Red Pepper has been a rite of passage for University of North Dakota students and alums.
The family-run shop is famous for its quirky menu, late-night hours, and one-of-a-kind sandwiches.
The Grinder is the restaurant’s signature sandwich. It’s topped with seasoned taco meat, deli meats, and its legendary white sauce.
OHIO: The Brown Bag Delicatessen in Columbus
Brown Bag Delicatessen has been a downtown Columbus favorite for decades, drawing office workers and visitors with its enormous made-to-order sandwiches.
The pastrami and corned beef sandwiches are customer favorites, though the deli offers dozens of hot and cold combinations on fresh-baked bread.
OKLAHOMA: Del Rancho in Oklahoma City
Del Rancho has been serving Oklahoma’s public since 1956 and helped popularize the state’s beloved chicken-fried steak, which remains a nostalgic favorite for generations of Oklahomans.
The steak sandwich supreme is the go-to order. It features a hand-breaded steak topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo on a toasted bun.
OREGON: Huber’s Cafe in Portland
Huber’s Cafe first opened in Portland in 1879 and has been serving customers at its current location since 1910.
In its early days, the historic restaurant was renowned for serving complimentary turkey sandwiches and coleslaw to patrons who purchased drinks.
Now, you’ll have to pay for your turkey sandwich at this more elevated restaurant, but the classic dish is still a specialty.
PENNSYLVANIA: Famous 4th Street Delicatessen in Philadelphia
Famous 4th Street Delicatessen has been serving Philadelphia since 1923 and is regarded as one of the country’s greatest Jewish delis.
The bustling institution is known for its towering sandwiches, old-school atmosphere, and appearances in movies, including “Philadelphia” and “In Her Shoes,” and on television.
The hot pastrami and corned beef on rye are legendary, but the Reuben is also worthy of its famous reputation.
RHODE ISLAND: The Sandwich Hut in Providence
The Sandwich Hut has been a Providence institution since 1963, serving generations of Rhode Islanders from its family-owned shop.
Its fresh ingredients and hefty portions have earned it a reputation as one of the state’s best sandwich destinations.
SOUTH CAROLINA: Groucho’s Deli in Columbia
What began near the University of South Carolina in 1941 has grown into one of the Southeast’s best-known deli chains, with over 35 locations across the Carolinas and Georgia.
Groucho’s has built a following around its tangy signature Formula 45 sauce and sandwiches named after colleges and universities.
The STP Dipper is the sandwich to order, served with the deli’s famous dipping sauce.
SOUTH DAKOTA: Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen in Sioux Falls
Bread & Circus has quickly become one of South Dakota’s premier sandwich destinations thanks to its chef-driven menu and premium ingredients.
The cheese steak sandwich and Cubano are among its standout offerings, though the menu changes seasonally to showcase fresh ingredients.
TENNESSEE: Tennessee Jed’s in Gatlinburg
Just steps from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee Jed’s has become a favorite stop for hikers and tourists.
The family-owned sandwich shop is known for creative sandwiches inspired by Southern flavors, as well as deli classics like the Reuben sandwich on rye.
TEXAS: Fossati’s Delicatessen in Victoria
Founded in 1882 by Fraschio “Frank” Napoleon Fossati, an Italian immigrant, Fossati’s Delicatessen is believed to be the oldest deli in Texas.
The historic downtown restaurant, a registered historic landmark, has served generations of Texans while preserving much of its original charm.
The roast beef sandwich is the classic choice, though the Reuben and muffuletta also have devoted followings.
UTAH: Tony Caputo’s Market & Deli in Salt Lake City
Tony Caputo’s has been introducing Utahns to artisan cheeses, imported meats, and authentic Italian sandwiches since 1997.
Its signature sandwich is the Caputo. which is layered with Italian cured meats, provolone, roasted peppers, and house-made spreads on fresh bread.
VERMONT: Vermont Country Deli in Brattleboro
Vermont Country Deli has earned statewide acclaim for its made-from-scratch prepared foods and hearty sandwiches. The family-owned shop is a favorite stop for travelers coming through the state.
The Vermont turkey sandwich, featuring local cheddar and maple mustard, is a fitting showcase of the state’s best-known flavors.
VIRGINIA: Puccio’s New York Deli in Leesburg
Puccio’s New York Deli has brought classic New York-style sandwiches to Northern Virginia for decades. The family-owned deli is beloved for generous portions, authentic breads, and traditional Italian recipes.
The Italian combo is the standout order, while the pastrami and chicken cutlet sandwiches also have plenty of devoted fans.
WASHINGTON: Tat’s Deli in Seattle
Tat’s Deli has earned a cult following for its Philadelphia-style sandwiches in Seattle. The small Pioneer Square shop is frequently ranked among the city’s very best lunch spots.
The Tat’strami and the classic cheesesteak are the stars of the menu; both are served on authentic Amoroso rolls shipped from Philadelphia.
WEST VIRGINIA: Cam’s Ham in Huntington
Cam’s Ham has been a family-owned Huntington institution since the 1950s, and is famous for one simple but unforgettable sandwich: its signature hot ham sandwiches.
Order the original hot ham with Swiss cheese and a side of onion rings.
WISCONSIN: Casetta Kitchen & Counter in Madison
Casetta Kitchen & Counter has quickly become one of Madison’s most celebrated sandwich shops, earning praise for creative recipes and locally sourced ingredients.
The neighborhood favorite combines classic deli techniques with modern flavors, served on mouthwateringly fresh focaccia bread.
The Paradigm, with spicy soppressata, mozzarella, and tomato vinaigrette, and the shop’s prosciutto sandwich are among the menu’s biggest draws.
WYOMING: New York City Sub Shop in Jackson Hole
New York City Sub Shop has been satisfying hungry skiers, locals, and tourists in Jackson Hole for decades. The casual shop is known for generously sized subs that are perfect after a day on the slopes or in nearby Grand Teton National Park.
The classic Italian sub is the signature order, but the cheesesteak and tuna sub are equally popular with regulars.
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