14 Retro Sandwiches That Deserve a Comeback
Sandwiches have long been a symbol of comfort food, offering endless possibilities between two slices of bread. While modern creations like avocado toast and artisanal paninis get plenty of attention, many classic sandwiches have quietly faded from menus at home and in restaurants. These retro bites remind us of simpler times when flavor came first and presentation was second. From savory staples to quirky combinations, these old-school favorites are ready for a revival. Here are 14 nostalgic sandwiches that deserve another spot at the table.
1. Tuna Melt
The tuna melt is a diner classic that combines creamy tuna salad with the gooey satisfaction of melted cheese. Made by mixing canned tuna with mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings, the filling is spread on bread and topped with cheddar before being grilled or broiled. The result is a warm, savory sandwich with crisp edges and a soft, cheesy center. Affordable, easy to prepare, and timelessly comforting, it still stands out as one of the most reliable sandwiches. Served with pickles or chips, the tuna melt delivers the full retro effect.
2. Sloppy Joe
Sloppy Joes were a staple of school cafeterias and family kitchens for decades. The recipe begins with ground beef cooked in a skillet, then simmered with ketchup, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce until thick and tangy. Spoon the mixture onto soft hamburger buns for a hearty sandwich that is messy yet satisfying. This old favorite may not be fancy, but it delivers bold flavor and a dose of nostalgia in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, the Sloppy Joe is comfort food without any pretension.
3. Egg Salad Sandwich
Once a lunchtime staple, the egg salad sandwich is long overdue for a comeback. Hard-boiled eggs are mashed and mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper to form a creamy filling. Spread between slices of soft white bread, it becomes a simple yet satisfying meal that is light but full of flavor. Some versions add celery for crunch or paprika for a little spice. Egg salad sandwiches are budget-friendly, quick to make, and an ideal way to use leftover eggs. Served with a side salad, it becomes a balanced retro lunch.
4. Monte Cristo
The Monte Cristo sandwich takes indulgence to another level. Layers of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese are stacked between bread, then dipped in an egg batter and pan-fried until golden. Traditionally served with powdered sugar and a side of jam for dipping, it combines sweet and savory flavors in one bite. This decadent sandwich is filling enough to serve as brunch or dinner. Although it requires more effort than simpler sandwiches, the Monte Cristo remains a retro treat that feels special and worth the time to bring back.
5. Chicken Salad Sandwich
The chicken salad sandwich was once a go-to choice for picnics, luncheons, and casual gatherings. Shredded cooked chicken is mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and often grapes or nuts for a creamy and flavorful filling. Served on sandwich bread or tucked into a croissant, it balances lightness with substance. Its versatility makes it appealing. You can keep it traditional or add twists with herbs, apples, or curry powder. Easy to prepare ahead of time, the chicken salad sandwich deserves a place once more in everyday lunch or dinner routines.
6. Patty Melt
The patty melt is a delicious cross between a cheeseburger and a grilled cheese. Ground beef is shaped into a patty and cooked until juicy, then layered with caramelized onions and Swiss cheese between slices of rye bread. Grilled until the bread is crisp and the cheese has melted, the patty melt is rich and bursting with flavor. It pairs perfectly with fries and a milkshake, making it the ultimate diner comfort food. Once common across America, the patty melt is a retro dish that deserves a comeback.
7. Deviled Ham Sandwich
Deviled ham spread was once a pantry staple, often sold in small cans for quick meals. It is made by blending finely chopped ham with mustard, mayonnaise, and seasonings like paprika or hot sauce for a flavorful kick. Spread onto soft bread, the result is tangy, savory, and slightly spicy. Though it has faded from popularity, deviled ham sandwiches remain affordable, simple, and satisfying. With today’s interest in bold flavors, this retro favorite is easy to revive in home kitchens as a quick and memorable lunch option.
8. Club Sandwich
The triple-decker club sandwich was once a signature item at diners and hotel cafés. Traditionally layered with turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, it is stacked high between three slices of toasted bread and cut into quarters with toothpicks to hold it together. The combination of smoky bacon, crisp vegetables, and savory turkey ensures a balanced and satisfying bite. Often served with fries or chips, the club was a menu staple for decades. It remains an iconic retro sandwich that is well worth reviving in modern kitchens.
9. French Dip
The French Dip is a classic built on simplicity and flavor. Thinly sliced roast beef is piled onto a baguette or hoagie roll and served with a side of warm au jus for dipping. The bread soaks up the savory juices, creating a rich and comforting bite. Many versions add melted provolone or Swiss cheese for extra indulgence. Once a diner and steakhouse favorite, the French Dip is hearty, satisfying, and interactive. Bringing it back to home dinner tables would revive one of the most timeless comfort foods.
10. Bologna Sandwich
The bologna sandwich was once a lunchbox standard and a symbol of simplicity. Typically made with slices of bologna on soft white bread with mustard or mayonnaise, it was inexpensive and filling. Some families fried the bologna for extra flavor and crisp edges. While not considered gourmet, the sandwich represents no-fuss comfort food many grew up with. With modern upgrades such as artisanal breads, gourmet mustards, or fresh vegetables, the humble bologna sandwich could be reimagined while still holding onto its nostalgic roots.
11. Croque Monsieur
This French café favorite gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. The Croque Monsieur is made with ham and Gruyère cheese layered between slices of bread, topped with béchamel sauce, and baked until golden and bubbling. Rich, creamy, and decadent, it blurs the line between casual and elegant dining. Its close cousin, the Croque Madame, adds a fried egg on top for extra indulgence. Although it requires more preparation than simpler sandwiches, the Croque Monsieur is a retro dish that deserves revival.
12. Meatball Sub
The meatball sub is an Italian-American creation that once featured prominently on deli and pizzeria menus. Juicy meatballs simmered in marinara sauce are nestled in a crusty roll and topped with melted mozzarella or provolone. It is hearty, saucy, and messy in the best way possible. Served hot, it delivers bold flavors and plenty of comfort. While not as common today, the meatball sub remains one of the most satisfying sandwiches ever made and deserves a return as a weeknight dinner or weekend indulgence.
13. Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben is a deli classic that combines corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. Grilled until the bread is crisp and the cheese melts, it delivers a tangy, savory, and satisfying bite. Once a staple of diners, the Reuben has faded from many menus but still stands out as one of the most flavorful sandwiches created. Its bold mix of textures and tastes makes it a retro dish worth bringing back for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.
14. Hot Turkey Sandwich
The hot turkey sandwich was once a Sunday dinner favorite, often made with leftovers from holiday roasts. Slices of turkey were layered on white bread and smothered with rich gravy, sometimes served with mashed potatoes on the side. Simple yet comforting, it turned leftovers into a meal that felt special. This fork-and-knife style sandwich was a staple in diners and home kitchens alike. With roasted turkey now available year-round, there is no reason this nostalgic dish cannot return as an easy and satisfying comfort classic.
