11 Regional Sandwiches That Belong On Every Food List
Some sandwiches aren’t just local legends; they’re national treasures waiting for their rightful spot on every serious food list. These regional favorites capture what makes American food so good: comfort, character, and no nonsense. Here are 11 that earn their place at the table every time.
Sonoran Hot Dog
Tucson’s bacon-wrapped masterpiece takes everything you love about hot dogs and dials it up. Beans, jalapeños, crema; it’s Southwest flavor without the fuss. Get the recipe here.
Hot Brown Sandwich
Kentucky’s open-faced favorite doesn’t need an introduction. Rich, cheesy, and broiled to perfection, it’s the kind of comfort that never goes out of fashion. Get the recipe here.
Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Indiana’s beloved sandwich doesn’t hold back. The pork cutlet is crisp, oversized, and hanging off the bun like it owns the plate; and honestly, it does. Get the recipe here.
Roast Pork Sandwich
Philadelphia doesn’t need to brag when it comes to this one. Slow-cooked pork, sharp provolone, and garlicky broccoli rabe make a sandwich that’s as rich as the city’s food history. Get the recipe here.
Italian Beef Sandwich
A Chicago icon through and through, this sandwich piles tender beef into a crusty roll and soaks it in jus. Add spicy giardiniera and you’ve got perfection that deserves every headline. Get the recipe here.
Muffuletta Sandwich
New Orleans never does food halfway. The Muffuletta, with its stacked Italian meats and olive salad, is a celebration between two halves of one perfect loaf. Get the recipe here.
North Shore Beef
Up in Massachusetts, this roast beef sandwich defines local pride. Topped with BBQ sauce, cheese, and mayo, it’s messy, bold, and completely worth the drive. Get the recipe here.
Detroit Coney Dog
Detroit’s spin on the hot dog is legendary. A snappy frank smothered in chili, onions, and mustard; it’s fast food, but with heart and a whole lot of character. Get the recipe here.
Runza
Nebraska’s baked bread pocket is the ultimate road trip sandwich. Filled with beef, cabbage, and onions, it’s practical, portable, and proof that simplicity can win big. Get the recipe here.
Fried Chicken Biscuit
Crispy chicken, fluffy biscuit, total satisfaction. This Southern staple keeps winning hearts everywhere it goes, and it’s easy to see why it stays on every must-eat list. Get the recipe here.
French Dip Sandwich
Los Angeles gave us the French Dip, and the rest of the country never looked back. Tender beef, toasted bread, and warm au jus; it’s indulgence done right. Get the recipe here.