10 Iconic American Sandwiches You Need to Try at Least Once

Few foods represent American culture quite like the sandwich. From deli counters to diners and backyard barbecues, sandwiches have long been a staple of everyday life. They are portable, versatile, and endlessly customizable, but some creations have reached legendary status. These iconic sandwiches not only satisfy hunger but also tell a story about the regions and traditions they come from. Whether dripping with sauce, stacked with meat, or layered with fresh vegetables, here are 10 sandwiches every American, and every visitor, should try at least once.

1. Reuben

The Reuben is a deli classic that delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, it is grilled between slices of rye bread until the outside crisps and the cheese melts. Believed to have originated in the early 20th century, the Reuben embodies the hearty comfort of American delis. Each bite offers tangy, salty, and savory notes, making it a favorite across diners nationwide and a lasting symbol of indulgent comfort food.

2. Philly Cheesesteak

Few sandwiches are as tied to a single city as the Philly cheesesteak. Born in Philadelphia in the 1930s, this sandwich features thin slices of beef cooked on a griddle, topped with melted cheese, and stuffed into a long hoagie roll. Options like onions, peppers, or mushrooms are common, though purists prefer just beef and cheese, often Cheez Whiz or provolone. The sizzling meat and gooey melt of cheese create a sensory experience that reflects Philadelphia’s food culture. To locals, it is more than a sandwich, it is civic pride.

3. Lobster Roll

The lobster roll is a New England treasure that celebrates fresh seafood at its best. Sweet chunks of lobster meat are lightly dressed in butter or mayonnaise, depending on regional style, then served in a toasted split-top bun that is crisp on the edges and soft inside. Popular in states like Maine and Massachusetts, the lobster roll is as much about the seaside atmosphere as the flavor itself. Fresh, simple, and luxurious, it remains one of America’s most celebrated seafood sandwiches.

4. Po’ Boy

The po’ boy, Louisiana’s most famous sandwich, was created in New Orleans during the 1929 streetcar strike. Served on crusty French bread with a soft interior, it can be filled with fried shrimp, oysters, catfish, or roast beef. Dressed versions include lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayonnaise, though simpler versions showcase the protein alone. With every bite, the po’ boy captures the soulful flavors of New Orleans cooking. It is both comfort food and cultural heritage, embodying the spirit of Southern hospitality.

5. Cuban Sandwich

The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a Florida icon with deep ties to Cuban immigrant communities. It layers roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard between slices of Cuban bread. Once pressed on a hot grill, the bread becomes crisp while the cheese melts and the flavors meld. Especially popular in Miami and Tampa, the Cuban sandwich reflects Florida’s blend of cultures and cuisines. Bold, savory, and satisfying, it remains a classic handheld meal that locals and visitors alike seek out.

6. Grilled Cheese

The grilled cheese is one of the simplest yet most beloved sandwiches in America. With just bread and cheese pan-fried until golden, it achieves a perfect balance of crisp exterior and gooey interior. While the classic version uses white bread and American cheese, modern twists include sourdough, cheddar, or even gourmet additions like bacon or tomato. Often paired with tomato soup, it is a dish tied to childhood memories and family kitchens. Its staying power lies in comfort, nostalgia, and the universal appeal of melted cheese.

7. Monte Cristo

The Monte Cristo is an indulgent sandwich that bridges breakfast and lunch. Traditionally filled with ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, it is dipped in egg batter and pan-fried or deep-fried until golden. Some versions are dusted with powdered sugar and served with jam, creating a distinctive sweet-and-savory profile. First popularized in American diners in the mid-20th century, the Monte Cristo remains a beloved menu item for those craving something unique, rich, and slightly decadent.

8. French Dip

The French dip sandwich was invented in Los Angeles in the early 1900s, with both Philippe’s and Cole’s restaurants claiming credit. It features thinly sliced roast beef piled onto a crusty French roll, served with a side of au jus for dipping. The hot broth enhances every bite, creating a juicy, tender, and deeply flavorful experience. Sometimes onions or cheese are added, but the classic beef-and-bread pairing continues to define the French dip as a satisfying, elegant staple of American sandwich culture.

9. Sloppy Joe

The Sloppy Joe embodies the casual, playful side of American food. Made from ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce, it is piled onto a soft hamburger bun and served hot. The appeal comes from its messy, saucy nature, with each bite slightly different from the last. Popular in school cafeterias, casual dinners, and backyard cookouts, the Sloppy Joe is a nostalgic comfort food that has endured for generations. Simple, hearty, and satisfying, it continues to hold a place in American kitchens.

10. Club Sandwich

The club sandwich is a diner and hotel classic that balances flavor and presentation. Made with three layers of toasted bread, it usually includes turkey or chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. Cut into quarters and secured with toothpicks, it is often served with fries or chips. The club offers variety in each bite, from crisp vegetables to smoky bacon and creamy mayo. Reliable, filling, and easy to share, it reflects the heart of American casual dining and remains a standard on menus nationwide.