11 Iconic New York City Sandwiches You Can’t Miss on Your Next Visit

New York City is known for its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant culture, but one of the best ways to truly experience the city is through its food. Among the many culinary treasures in the Big Apple, sandwiches hold a special place. Whether you’re craving a classic deli bite or something uniquely NYC, the sandwiches here offer a delicious taste of the city’s history and diversity. Here are 11 iconic sandwiches you can’t miss when visiting New York City.

1. Pastrami on Rye (Katz’s Delicatessen)

No sandwich list for New York would be complete without the famed pastrami on rye. Katz’s Delicatessen, an NYC institution, serves this masterpiece—thinly sliced, tender pastrami piled high on soft, fresh rye bread. The combination of the savory, smoky pastrami and tangy mustard is a taste of Jewish deli tradition, and no visit to NYC is truly complete without trying it.

2. The New York-Style Bagel with Lox and Cream Cheese (Russ & Daughters)

A quintessential New York breakfast, the bagel with lox and cream cheese is a must-try. Russ & Daughters, a legendary shop on the Lower East Side, offers some of the city’s best bagels. Topped with silky cream cheese, thinly sliced smoked salmon (lox), and capers, it’s the perfect combination of salty, creamy, and chewy. This sandwich is a true New York classic.

3. The Classic Reuben (2nd Avenue Deli)

Another deli staple, the Reuben features layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled between two slices of rye. For the best Reuben in the city, head to 2nd Avenue Deli. The rich flavors and crispy texture make this sandwich an NYC favorite.

4. Chicken and Rice (The Halal Guys)

The chicken and rice platter, popularized by food trucks like The Halal Guys, has become a must-have meal in New York City. Tender, spiced chicken served over a bed of rice with a side of white sauce (and often hot sauce) has earned this street food a cult following. While you can find it all over the city, a visit to the original food cart at 53rd and 6th is the ultimate NYC experience.

5. The Classic NYC Bacon, Egg, and Cheese (BEC)

A staple for New Yorkers on the go, the bacon, egg, and cheese (BEC) is the ultimate breakfast sandwich. Often served on a soft roll, bagel, or croissant, this sandwich combines crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese for a hearty breakfast that’s loved by locals and visitors alike. Grab one from any local deli or corner shop for a quick and satisfying meal.

6. The Meatball Sub (Carbone)

Carbone is a high-end Italian-American restaurant that serves an unforgettable meatball sub. Tender, flavorful meatballs are served in a soft hoagie roll with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. If you’re in the mood for a rich, comforting sandwich, this one should be at the top of your list.

7. New York-Style Egg Salad Sandwich (Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop)

Egg salad may seem simple, but in New York, it’s an art form. Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop serves up one of the best egg salad sandwiches in the city. The creamy egg salad is piled high between two slices of white bread or a roll, offering a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a nostalgic, no-frills favorite that never goes out of style.

8. The Italian Hero (Mamma’s Pizzeria)

For an Italian-inspired sandwich, the Italian hero is a must. Filled with layers of salami, pepperoni, ham, provolone cheese, and all the right fixings, this sandwich is a true deli delight. Mamma’s Pizzeria in Brooklyn offers one of the best versions, with fresh bread and a generous amount of meat and cheese.

9. The Knish (Yonah Schimmel’s)

While not technically a sandwich, a knish is a savory pastry that’s often filled with potatoes, meat, or cheese and deserves a mention. Yonah Schimmel’s is a New York institution known for its knishes, and if you’re in the mood for something handheld, this will hit the spot. It’s a satisfying snack that reflects the city’s Eastern European Jewish roots.

10. Lobster Roll (Ed’s Lobster Bar)

New York City is home to some incredible seafood, and one sandwich that stands out is the lobster roll. Whether you prefer it cold with mayo or hot with melted butter, a lobster roll from Ed’s Lobster Bar in SoHo is an indulgence worth trying. Fresh, sweet lobster meat in a buttery, toasted bun is the perfect treat for seafood lovers.

11. The Pastrami Burger (J.G. Melon)

While pastrami on rye may be the most iconic NYC sandwich, J.G. Melon’s pastrami burger takes things up a notch. This decadent creation features a juicy hamburger patty topped with layers of smoky pastrami and served on a soft bun. It’s an epic mash-up of two NYC favorites and a must-try for any burger or pastrami fan.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, these 11 iconic sandwiches capture the heart and soul of the city’s diverse food scene.

From classic deli sandwiches to inventive takes on comfort food, each one tells a story of the city’s rich history and culture. So, next time you’re in New York City, make sure to indulge in these culinary gems and experience the flavors that make this city so special.

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