Silver Lake, with its vibrant arts scene and eclectic atmosphere, boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious sandwich scene. Forget the boring turkey and cheese; this neighborhood is home to creative takes on classic sandwiches, inventive combinations, and some seriously mouthwatering meats. Whether you crave a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, this guide will help you navigate the best sandwich shops Silver Lake has to offer. This list focuses on restaurants known for their sandwiches, not necessarily those with a broader menu.
The Best Sandwich Experiences in Silver Lake
This list isn't ranked; instead, it offers a diverse range of styles and flavors to suit every palate.
1. Gjusta
- Type: Artisan Breads, Deli Meats, Specialty Sandwiches
- Vibe: Upscale, trendy, bakery-deli hybrid
- Why it's great: Gjusta is the place for seriously good bread. Their sandwiches are built on this foundation, featuring high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Expect long lines, but it's worth the wait. They offer vegetarian and vegan options as well.
2. Little Dom's
- Type: Italian-American Deli
- Vibe: Casual, family-friendly, neighborhood favorite
- Why it's great: Little Dom's is a Silver Lake institution. Their Italian subs are legendary, piled high with cured meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables on crusty rolls. They also offer excellent pasta dishes if you want to expand beyond sandwiches.
3. Sqirl
- Type: California-inspired, seasonal ingredients
- Vibe: Trendy, slightly upscale, known for its jams
- Why it's great: While known for its jams and ricotta toast, Sqirl also creates incredible sandwiches featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their combinations are inventive and often vegetarian-focused. Be prepared for lines, especially on weekends.
4. All Time
- Type: Gourmet Sandwiches, creative flavor combinations
- Vibe: Casual, modern, hip
- Why it's great: All Time stands out for its inventive sandwich creations. They use high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients, and don't shy away from bold flavor pairings.
5. Gracias Madre
- Type: Vegan Mexican
- Vibe: Casual, lively, plant-based focus
- Why it's great: For a completely different experience, Gracias Madre offers outstanding vegan Mexican sandwiches. They prove that delicious sandwiches don't require meat. Their jackfruit carnitas are a standout.
6. The Sycamore Kitchen
- Type: California cuisine with an emphasis on sandwiches
- Vibe: Rustic-chic, neighborhood gem
- Why it's great: The Sycamore Kitchen provides expertly made sandwiches in a comfortable setting. Their menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh ingredients and interesting flavor combinations.
7. Lasa
- Type: Filipino food, with sandwich options
- Vibe: Casual, family-friendly, authentic Filipino flavors
- Why it's great: Lasa offers a unique taste of the Philippines with their sandwich offerings. Explore the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine in a casual setting.
8. Fred 62
- Type: American comfort food with excellent sandwiches
- Vibe: Casual, upscale, great for brunch or lunch
- Why it's great: Fred 62 blends a casual atmosphere with sophisticated comfort food, and their sandwiches are no exception.
9. Sage Vegan Bistro
- Type: Vegan
- Vibe: Casual, vegetarian and vegan focused, community oriented
- Why it's great: Another strong vegan option, Sage Vegan Bistro offers a delicious array of plant-based sandwiches.
10. Cliff's Edge
- Type: American cuisine with a good selection of sandwiches
- Vibe: Upscale, rooftop bar and restaurant, great views
- Why it's great: Cliff's Edge offers a sophisticated sandwich experience paired with amazing city views.
11. David's Cookies (for a sweet treat!)
- Type: Cookies & Sandwiches (dessert)
- Vibe: Classic, sweet treats
- Why it's great: While not solely a sandwich shop, David's Cookies offer inventive ice cream sandwiches that are a perfect dessert.
12. Crossroads Kitchen (vegan)
- Type: Upscale Vegan
- Vibe: Elegant, plant-based fine dining
- Why it's great: Though not strictly a sandwich spot, Crossroads offers elevated vegan options, some of which could be considered gourmet sandwiches.
13. The Virgil
- Type: American comfort food, with sandwich options
- Vibe: Casual, live music venue, neighborhood pub
- Why it's great: The Virgil offers a vibrant atmosphere with well-made sandwiches, perfect for a casual meal.
14. The Spare Room (Bowling Alley Sandwiches!)
- Type: Upscale, with unique bar snacks and sandwiches
- Vibe: Chic bowling alley, high-end cocktails
- Why it's great: For a unique experience, combine bowling with a delicious sandwich at The Spare Room. Their menu emphasizes high-quality ingredients and inventive twists.
Finding Your Perfect Silver Lake Sandwich
This list offers a starting point for your Silver Lake sandwich adventure. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours, menus, and any special offers. Happy eating!
