15 Must-Try Sandwiches for an Unforgettable Lunch in the US
Sandwiches are a staple of American cuisine, offering endless possibilities for creativity and flavor. From coast to coast, every region has its iconic sandwiches that reflect local tastes and traditions. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or adventurous ingredients, there’s a sandwich out there that promises an unforgettable lunch experience.
Here are 15 must-try sandwiches from across the United States, each a culinary masterpiece in its own right. Take a look and explore this delicious food journey celebrating the diverse and delectable world of American sandwiches.
Philly Cheesesteak – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Philly cheesesteak is a legendary sandwich that hails from Philadelphia. It features thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, typically served on a long hoagie roll. The most traditional versions use Cheez Whiz, but provolone and American cheese are popular choices.
This sandwich is a delicious blend of savory, cheesy goodness that locals and tourists love. Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are two iconic spots to try this classic. The Philly cheesesteak is a must-try for anyone visiting the City of Brotherly Love.
Po’ Boy – New Orleans, Louisiana
The po’ boy is a quintessential New Orleans sandwich, created to feed striking streetcar workers. It typically features fried seafood such as shrimp, oysters, or catfish, served on a French baguette-like roll known as Leidenheimer bread. Dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise, the po’ boy is a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Roast beef po’ boys, served with gravy, are another popular variation. Domilise’s and Parkway Bakery & Tavern are famous spots to enjoy this iconic sandwich. The po’ boy is a true taste of New Orleans’ culinary heritage.
Cubano – Miami, Florida
The Cubano, or Cuban sandwich, is a beloved staple in Miami’s vibrant food scene. This sandwich features roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all in Cuban bread. The combination of flavors and textures creates a deliciously balanced bite with each mouthful.
The bread is pressed until the exterior is crispy and the cheese is melted, making it a hot and satisfying meal. Versaille’s and La Carreta are popular destinations for this iconic sandwich. The Cubano is a perfect representation of Miami’s rich Cuban influence.
Lobster Roll – Maine
The lobster roll is a New England classic, especially cherished in Maine. It features chunks of fresh, sweet lobster meat, lightly dressed with mayonnaise or melted butter, and served in a toasted, split-top hot dog bun. This sandwich celebrates the simplicity and purity of lobster, allowing its natural flavors to shine.
Red’s Eats and The Clam Shack are famous spots for this delicacy. Enjoyed best by the seaside, the lobster roll is a quintessential taste of Maine’s coastal cuisine. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers visiting the region.
Italian Beef – Chicago, Illinois
The Italian beef sandwich is a hearty Chicago specialty packed with flavor. Thinly sliced roast beef is simmered in a seasoned broth and served on a long Italian roll, often topped with giardiniera (a spicy pickled vegetable mix) or sweet peppers.
The sandwich can be ordered “wet” (dipped in the broth) or “dry,” and sometimes with melted provolone cheese. Al’s Beef and Portillo’s are iconic spots to enjoy this sandwich. The Italian beef is a savory, juicy delight that showcases Chicago’s rich culinary traditions.
Hot Brown – Louisville, Kentucky
The Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich originating at the Brown Hotel in Louisville. It features turkey and bacon, topped with Mornay sauce (a creamy cheese sauce), and baked until bubbly and golden. Often garnished with tomatoes and a sprinkle of paprika, this sandwich is a rich and indulgent treat.
The Hot Brown is typically enjoyed as a hearty lunch or dinner. The Brown Hotel remains the premier spot to try this Kentucky classic. It’s a unique and delicious sandwich that’s become a symbol of Louisville’s culinary creativity.
French Dip – Los Angeles, California
The French dip sandwich, which originated in Los Angeles, is a flavorful creation. It features thinly sliced roast beef served on a French roll and a side of au jus (a savory beef broth) for dipping. The sandwich is typically topped with melted cheese and sometimes sautéed onions.
Philippe the Original and Cole’s are the two rival restaurants that claim to have invented this iconic sandwich. The French dip offers a savory, juicy bite with each dip, making it a beloved favorite. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that showcases LA’s culinary history.
Pastrami on Rye – New York City, New York
Pastrami on rye is a classic New York City deli sandwich many love. It features thick slices of pastrami, usually served warm, piled high on rye bread with mustard. The pastrami is cured, smoked, and perfectly seasoned, creating a rich, savory flavor.
Katz’s Delicatessen and Carnegie Deli are iconic spots to enjoy this sandwich. Each bite is a flavorful experience, with the tender pastrami and tangy mustard complementing the rye bread. Pastrami on rye is a must-try for anyone exploring NYC’s vibrant food scene.
Reuben – Omaha, Nebraska
The Reuben sandwich is a hearty creation that originated in Omaha. It features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures creates a deliciously balanced and satisfying sandwich.
The corned beef is tender and flavorful, while the sauerkraut and dressing add tangy and creamy elements. Crescent Moon is a famous spot to try this sandwich. The Reuben is a beloved favorite that showcases Omaha’s rich culinary traditions.
Bánh Mì – Various Cities
The Bánh Mì is a Vietnamese sandwich that has gained popularity across the US, particularly in cities with large Vietnamese communities. It features a French baguette filled with marinated pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and jalapeños.
Combining savory, sweet, and spicy flavors creates a unique and delicious sandwich experience. Bánh Mì Saigon and Ba Le Sandwiches are popular spots to enjoy this sandwich. The Bánh Mì is a perfect example of culinary fusion, blending French and Vietnamese influences. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore diverse flavors.
Pulled Pork Sandwich – Memphis, Tennessee
The pulled pork sandwich is a Southern classic, especially popular in Memphis. It features slow-cooked, tender pulled pork, typically served with barbecue sauce and coleslaw on a soft bun.
The tangy sauce and crunchy slaw complement the smoky, savory flavor of the pork. Central BBQ and The Bar-B-Q Shop are iconic spots to enjoy this sandwich. The pulled pork sandwich is a delicious representation of Memphis’ rich barbecue traditions. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any barbecue lover.
Roast Beef Po’Boy – New Orleans, Louisiana
The roast beef po’boy is another rich and flavorful New Orleans favorite. It features slow-cooked roast beef, often served with gravy, on a crusty French bread roll. The sandwich is typically dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise.
The roast beef is tender and juicy, creating a deliciously satisfying bite. Parkway Bakery & Tavern and Domilise’s are famous spots to enjoy this sandwich. The roast beef po’boy is a must-try for anyone exploring New Orleans’ diverse culinary scene.
Green Chile Cheeseburger – New Mexico
The green chile cheeseburger is an iconic spicy and flavorful sandwich in New Mexico. It features a beef patty topped with roasted green chiles and melted cheese, typically served on a toasted bun. Combining the smoky, spicy chiles with the savory burger creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Blake’s Lotaburger and Santa Fe Bite are popular spots to try this sandwich. The green chile cheeseburger perfectly represents New Mexico’s vibrant culinary traditions. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals.
Fried Catfish Po’ Boy – New Orleans, Louisiana
The fried catfish po’ boy is another beloved sandwich from New Orleans. It features crispy fried catfish fillets served on a French bread roll with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise. The catfish is seasoned and perfectly fried, creating a deliciously crispy exterior and tender interior.
This sandwich is a staple at seafood shacks and po’ boy shops throughout the city. Johnny’s Po-Boys and Parkway Bakery & Tavern are famous spots to enjoy this sandwich. The fried catfish po’ boy is a must-try for seafood lovers exploring New Orleans.
Shrimp Roll – New England
The shrimp roll is a delicious seafood sandwich famous in New England. It features tender, sweet shrimp, lightly dressed with mayonnaise and lemon juice, served in a toasted, split-top hot dog bun. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the shrimp’s natural flavors to shine.
Red’s Eats and The Clam Shack are iconic spots to enjoy this sandwich. The shrimp roll perfectly exemplifies New England’s rich seafood traditions. It’s a light, refreshing meal perfect for a summer lunch.
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