Dive into 9 Iconic Sandwiches of New York

As iconic as the bagel, black-and-white cookie, and pizza slice, Katz's Deli's pastrami on rye is a classic New York treat. Yes, it's the famous sandwich from 'When Harry Met Sally,' the one that had people ordering 'what she’s having,' often with a line stretching out the door.

But in New York City, there's always room to push the boundaries (this is the birthplace of the cronut, after all). In recent years, the city has welcomed a fresh wave of delicious and inventive sandwiches.

Every new creation adds something unique, enhancing the lunchtime experience for New Yorkers. Here are nine standout sandwiches in the city that deserve a place next to Katz's pastrami on rye in the sandwich hall of fame:

1. Pulled Duroc Pork Sandwich from Num Pang Sandwich Shop

Since its debut in 2009, this small but influential chain has taken the humble Cambodian banh mi-style sandwich to new heights, proving that even something as simple as pulled pork can be elevated with the right touch.

At Num Pang, they pair tender pulled Duroc pork with spiced honey, then add fresh cucumber, tangy pickled carrots, cilantro, and spicy mayo, all sandwiched in a semolina or quinoa baguette for a mouthwatering combination.

It’s nothing short of addictive.

2. Falafel Sandwich from Mamoun’s

New York's oldest falafel joint may very well be the best, maintaining its classic charm and loyal following after over four decades. Not much has changed, and that’s exactly what keeps the regulars coming back for more.

The standout item on the menu is the falafel sandwich: crunchy, golden chickpea balls with a blend of spices, served in a soft pita with tahini sauce and a side of fresh salad, all at an affordable price.

3. Broccoli Classic from No. 7 Sub

First things first: Leave your expectations behind when it comes to this broccoli sub.

Forget what you thought you knew, the towering sandwich from No. 7 is an absolute game-changer.

Filled with roasted broccoli, crumbled feta, crispy fried shallots, creamy mayo, and a hint of lychee for sweetness, all packed into a freshly baked Italian hero roll from Brooklyn. Who knew a vegetarian sandwich could be this delicious?

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4. Lobster Roll from Luke’s Lobster

While it's easy to find Maine lobster in New York City, securing a truly excellent lobster roll is a whole different challenge.

That all changed in 2009 when Luke’s Lobster introduced their lobster rolls – simple yet satisfying buns, lightly dressed with mayo, spices, and a generous portion of premium Maine lobster claw meat.

It was an instant hit: after launching its first shop in East Village, Luke’s Lobster has now expanded across the U.S. and even to Tokyo.

5. Classic Sliders from The Meatball Shop

Chef and owner Daniel Holzman’s vision for a restaurant dedicated entirely to meatballs and subs came to life in 2010 with the opening of The Meatball Shop, which quickly became a fan favorite thanks to its sliders.

The mini meatball and sauce combo served on a soft bun lets diners customize with different sauces and meats, but the classic version – a single beef meatball, hand-rolled and topped with a rich tomato sauce – remains the standout.

Their beloved tomato sauce has earned a reputation of its own: since opening six years ago, TMS has sold over 55,000 gallons, and it’s now available for purchase both in stores and online.

6. Burnt Ends Sandwich from Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque

A relatively new player on the New York food scene, Mighty Quinn’s first introduced its barbecue offerings from a booth at a Brooklyn outdoor food market.

By 2013, the barbecue joint had established a permanent location in the East Village and quickly gained a passionate fan base.

Mighty Quinn’s unique fusion of Carolina and Texas barbecue styles results in mouthwatering pulled pork, tender ribs, and especially their signature burnt ends – all of which deserve their own sandwich.

The crispy, charred brisket ends are stacked on a warm, freshly baked bun and drenched in a rich, house-made sauce. No wonder this dish is a crowd favorite.

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7. Smoked Meat Sandwich from Mile End Deli

Located in Brooklyn, Mile End is a Jewish/Canadian deli with a twist, offering a non-kosher experience. Their smoked meat sandwich is as unique as the deli itself.

Rivaling Katz’s pastrami, Mile End’s sandwich features dry-cured brisket that’s expertly spiced, smoked, and generously piled on rye bread with a dollop of mustard.

Owner Noah Bernamoff explains, "Deli meats have become a mass-produced commodity, but people love our smoked meat because we prioritize time and care, starting with premium beef, dry-curing, and smoking over real hardwood."

8. The Italian Combo from Court Street Grocers

A sub filled with Italian cured meats and cheeses might seem simple, but Court Street Grocers spent over two years perfecting their Italian Combo sandwich.

A delicious combination of mortadella, capicola, soppressata, Swiss, mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, red onion, arugula, mayo, and Court Street's special hoagie spread is packed into a seeded club roll. This new take on a classic sandwich is executed flawlessly.

9. The Chicken Parm Sandwich from Parm

Taking the beloved Italian-American classic and transforming it into a show-stopping sandwich requires a unique touch.

For the chicken Parmigiana sandwich, that special touch comes from Parm.

With its tangy tomato sauce, tender chicken, fresh basil, and semolina roll, Parm elevates this comfort food to new heights. It’s no wonder their sandwiches are now available at Yankee Stadium.

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