16 Superb Regional Sandwiches Every American Needs

America’s regional sandwiches tell the story of creativity, tradition, and pure culinary ambition. Each state offers a signature sandwich that stands tall in the lineup. Here are 16 superb regional sandwiches every American needs to experience at least once.

Brisket Sandwich

Texas-style smoked brisket is slow-cooked, sliced, and piled into a soft bun. The smoky, peppery beef speaks for itself. Taste a Brisket Sandwich

Vermonter Sandwich

Vermont’s namesake sandwich combines turkey, tart apple slices, cheddar, and maple Dijon on thick bread. It’s the best excuse to eat cheese and apples together. Try the Vermonter Sandwich

Chicken Spiedie

Marinated chicken grilled and tucked into soft Italian bread is what makes the Binghamton, New York spiedie so special. This simple sandwich brings together bold flavors with every bite. Taste Chicken Spiedie

Chicago Dog

Packed with yellow mustard, onions, relish, tomato, sport peppers, celery salt, and a pickle spear, the Chicago Dog isn’t just a hot dog. It’s a full garden party in a poppy seed bun. Get a Chicago Dog

Crab Cake Sandwich

Maryland’s crab cake sandwich keeps it classic: a big crab cake, lettuce, tomato, and a soft roll. One bite and you’ll be hooked on Chesapeake seafood forever. Order Crab Cake Sandwich

Detroit Coney Dog

The Detroit Coney Dog comes loaded with chili, yellow mustard, and onions on a snappy frank. It’s a Motor City essential that’s equal parts hearty and nostalgic. Try Detroit Coney Dog

Banh Mi

This Vietnamese import has conquered American palates with pickled veggies, grilled meats, fresh herbs, and a perfect baguette. Every bite is a crunchy, spicy, sweet experience. Get a Banh Mi

Fried Chicken Biscuit

Picture crispy fried chicken tucked inside a fluffy, buttery biscuit. It’s the South on a plate, and one sandwich you’ll wish you could eat every morning. Eat a Fried Chicken Biscuit

Loose Meat Sandwich

Iowa’s answer to the burger is ground beef, onions, and secret spices on a soft bun. It’s messy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to win you over. Get a Loose Meat Sandwich

Patty Melt

The patty melt combines a burger, caramelized onions, and Swiss cheese between slices of toasted rye. It’s retro diner comfort at its absolute best. Make a Patty Melt

Polish Boy

This Cleveland original stacks kielbasa, fries, slaw, and BBQ sauce on a bun. Every bite is a chaotic, delicious mix that’s impossible to put down. Order a Polish Boy

Primanti Brothers Sandwich

Pittsburgh’s Primanti Brothers sandwich loads grilled meat, fries, slaw, and tomato between thick slices of bread. This is the kind of lunch that requires a nap afterward. Try a Primanti Brothers Sandwich

Lobster Roll

Maine’s lobster roll is pure summer: tender lobster meat, mayo, and a toasted split-top roll. It’s the taste of the coast, no suitcase required. Get a Lobster Roll

North Shore Beef

North Shore Massachusetts goes all in with piles of roast beef, mayo, white American cheese, and James River BBQ sauce on a soft onion roll. This three-way combo is iconic for a reason. Try North Shore Beef

Shrimp Po Boy

Louisiana’s shrimp po boy comes with crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, and remoulade on crusty French bread. It’s messy, filling, and absolutely unforgettable. Order a Shrimp Po Boy

Runza

Nebraska’s runza is a golden bread pocket filled with seasoned ground beef and cabbage. Each bite is pure Midwestern comfort. Get a Runza