New York City is one of the culinary capitals of the world, and its diverse food scene includes many types of sandwiches. From classic Italian cold cut subs to the native New York invention of chopped cheese, there’s a sandwich for every palate in this city.
NYC also boasts a number of dedicated sandwich shops with artisanal breads and gourmet ingredients. These places make it easy to satisfy your cravings for a quick lunch on the go. Whether you’re looking for a spot to grab a bite before your flight or a casual lunch break with a co-worker, these NYC restaurants will have you chowing down in no time.
For the ultimate deli experience, head to Defonte’s in Greenwich Village. It’s an old-school Italian joint with a massive selection of cured meats and cheeses in a tight space. It’s not surprising that Defonte’s has been a favorite of locals for decades, and it’s a great place to bring out-of-town visitors for a taste of New York.
Another Greenwich Village deli worth visiting is Alidoro. This popular eatery has a cult-following thanks to its delicious Italian specialty sandwiches and incredibly fresh ingredients. You can’t go wrong with any of the sandwiches here, but try the Pinocchio for a true delight. It features soppressata, prosciutto, spongey mozzarella, and sweet roasted peppers on crusty sesame bread.
You’ll find a more modern luncheonette experience at Foster Sundry in Bushwick. This casual eatery serves a variety of sandwiches with creative toppings and inventive combinations. The chicken parm hero here is a favorite, but you should be sure to try out some of the other options, like the green goddess egg salad or chicken meatball sandwich.
While you’re in the area, pay a visit to the swanky Carlton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan to indulge in a meal at The Bar Room. The menu here is just as impressive as the ambiance, and it’s worth a stop for anyone who loves good food. The sandwitch here is huge, and it’s perfect for sharing.
If you’re in the mood for a more traditional New York lunch, head to Blue Boy in Arlington. This hole-in-the-wall restaurant is a beloved local staple that has been serving up sandwiches for 41 years. The sandwiches are massive, and they’re perfect for sharing with a friend or eating on the go. The pastrami is especially delicious here.
There are a few other NYC restaurants that deserve mention, including 94 Avenue B and Carmenta’s. 94 Avenue B is an Alphabet City gem that specializes in innovative sandwiches with cheesy names. Try the PHO Real, which turns Vietnamese soup into a wrap with roast beef, sriracha, and avocado. Carmenta’s is a tiny sandwich shop near me in Bushwick that sells some pasta dishes, but this place is all about the sandwiches. Their chicken parm and Italian combos are a must-try, but be sure to try the Dom G with fried eggplant, ricotta, roasted peppers, mint, and tomato vinaigrette.