New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts an incredible array of sandwich shops. From classic delis to innovative gourmet spots, the city offers a sandwich for every craving. This guide highlights 17 of the best, categorized for easy navigation. Finding the perfect NYC sandwich is a journey, and this list is your compass.
Classic NYC Deli Experiences
These establishments represent the quintessential New York deli sandwich experience, often featuring towering stacks of meats and cheeses on crusty bread.
Katz's Delicatessen (Lower East Side)
Katz's Delicatessen is an institution. Established in 1888, it's practically a New York City landmark. Their pastrami on rye is legendary, a thick-cut masterpiece of cured meat, tangy rye bread, and spicy mustard. Expect a wait, but it's worth it. The atmosphere alone is a trip back in time. Don't forget to grab a Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray soda!
Second Avenue Deli (East Village)
A close contender to Katz's, Second Avenue Deli offers a similarly impressive pastrami on rye, along with a vast menu of other classic deli sandwiches. Their corned beef is also highly regarded, juicy and flavorful. The generous portions are guaranteed to leave you satisfied.
Mile End Deli (Williamsburg)
Mile End Deli brings a modern twist to the classic deli experience. While they still offer the staples, like pastrami and corned beef, their focus on high-quality ingredients and creative combinations sets them apart. Try their smoked meat sandwich for a unique take on a classic.
Gourmet & Creative Sandwiches
These shops elevate the sandwich to an art form, showcasing innovative flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients.
Saltie (Williamsburg)
Saltie is a Williamsburg favorite known for its creative and seasonally-inspired sandwiches. They use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, resulting in fresh and flavorful creations. Their menu changes regularly, so there's always something new to try.
Alidoro (West Village)
Alidoro specializes in Italian-style sandwiches, using fresh, high-quality ingredients and artisanal bread. Their simple yet elegant combinations highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. The prosciutto and mozzarella is a must-try.
La Parisienne (Greenwich Village)
La Parisienne offers a taste of France in the heart of Greenwich Village. Their French-inspired sandwiches are made with delicious baguette, flavorful cheeses, and high-quality meats. This is your go-to for a sophisticated sandwich experience.
International Flavors
NYC’s diverse culinary landscape is reflected in its sandwich scene. Here are some spots showcasing international cuisines:
Num Pang (Multiple Locations)
Num Pang offers delicious Cambodian sandwiches, featuring unique flavor combinations and fresh ingredients. Their signature sandwich, the K'nyah, is a must-try. The marinated pork is flavorful, and the pickled vegetables add a refreshing crunch.
Los Tacos No. 1 (Multiple Locations)
While known for tacos, Los Tacos No. 1's al pastor torta is a revelation. The succulent marinated pork, pineapple, and cilantro are a delicious explosion of flavor. It’s a casual but supremely satisfying option.
Quick Bites & Casual Spots
These shops are perfect for a quick and delicious lunch on the go.
Halal Guys (Multiple Locations)
A NYC institution, the Halal Guys' chicken and rice platter is incredibly popular, but don't overlook their chicken or gyro sandwiches. They're a flavorful and affordable option, perfect for a quick bite.
Artichoke Basille's Pizza (Multiple Locations)
While known for pizza, their artichoke pizza is so popular, it's almost a sandwich! The creamy artichoke filling, rich mozzarella, and crispy crust offer a unique and satisfying option.
Unique & Noteworthy
These sandwich shops stand out for their unique offerings or exceptional quality.
Parm (Multiple Locations)
Parm offers classic Italian-American heroes, made with high-quality ingredients and a focus on simplicity. Their simplicity is their strength, delivering a perfect rendition of a beloved classic.
Luke's Lobster (Multiple Locations)
For seafood lovers, Luke's Lobster offers fresh lobster rolls. These are a splurge but worth it for the delicious, high-quality lobster meat. It's a lighter option that still delivers big on flavor.
Joe's Shanghai (Multiple Locations)
Known for their soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai also serves a delicious pork and vegetable sandwich. The flavor is unique, and this option is a less messy alternative to the soup dumplings.
Westville (Multiple Locations)
Westville serves excellent sandwiches with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes frequently, offering a delightful surprise each visit.
Finding Your Perfect NYC Sandwich
This list provides a great starting point for your NYC sandwich adventure. Remember to explore beyond these suggestions – the city’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, and new gems are always emerging. Your perfect sandwich awaits!
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and many other fantastic sandwich shops exist throughout NYC. The best sandwich for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Happy eating!
