11 Sandwiches That Carry the Spirit of Regional America

Every region has its pride on a plate, and sandwiches tell those stories best. These 11 are living proof that local spirit is served between bread.

Italian Beef

Chicago’s Italian beef is dripping with au jus, often topped with giardiniera. It’s messy, flavorful, and a badge of Midwest pride. Get the recipe here.

Hot Brown

Louisville’s open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon and Mornay sauce is rich, indulgent, and unmistakably Kentucky. Get the recipe here.

North Shore Beef

Massachusetts’ roast beef “three-way” with cheese, mayo, and BBQ sauce is saucy, sloppy, and pure New England attitude. Get the recipe here.

Pastrami Burger

Utah’s pastrami burger blends deli tradition with drive-thru comfort. It’s one of those sandwiches that instantly tells you where you are. Get the recipe here.

Lobster Roll

Maine’s lobster roll is cold lobster meat on a buttered bun. It’s simple, decadent, and tied directly to the coast of New England. Get the recipe here.

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Indiana’s breaded pork tenderloin, often far larger than its bun, is fried perfection and a slice of small town Midwest life. Get the recipe here.

Muffuletta

New Orleans’ muffuletta combines olive salad with layers of meat and cheese. One sandwich feeds a crowd and represents Crescent City spirit. Get the recipe here.

Runza

Nebraska’s runza, a stuffed bread pocket filled with beef and cabbage, is portable comfort baked into the heart of the Plains. Get the recipe here.

Grinder Sandwich

Connecticut’s grinder is packed with deli meats, cheese, and veggies. It’s a sandwich that feels right at home in every corner deli. Get the recipe here.

Chicken Spiedie

Binghamton’s spiedie of marinated grilled chicken tucked in bread carries small town charm and upstate New York pride. Get the recipe here.