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These Are the Best Sandwiches in NYC
100+ New Yorkers Voted
NYC Bites
March 04, 2025
If there’s one thing New Yorkers are opinionated about, it’s food.
So when we set out to find the best sandwiches in the city, we didn’t just rely on our own taste buds—we asked over 100 locals to weigh in.
From classic Italian heroes to overstuffed deli creations, the city is packed with incredible sandwich shops.
But which ones are truly the best?
We compiled votes from lifelong New Yorkers, foodies, and our subscribers to bring you the ultimate list, broken down by borough.
Get ready to discover your new go-to sandwich spot.
The Best Sandwiches in NYC by Borough
Manhattan
Faicco’s Italian Specialties
📍 Greenwich Village
This old-school Italian deli is a go-to for massive sandwiches piled high with premium meats and fresh mozzarella. Their Italian combo is legendary—prosciutto, salami, ham, and cheese stacked on fresh bread with just the right amount of seasoning.
Pisillo Italian Panini
📍 Financial District
If you want a serious sandwich, Pisillo delivers. These Italian-style paninis are huge, filled with high-quality cured meats and fresh mozzarella. Expect a line at lunchtime, but it’s worth the wait.
Court Street Grocers
📍 Greenwich Village & Various Locations
This isn’t your average sandwich shop. Court Street Grocers takes classic deli sandwiches and elevates them with high-quality ingredients and creative twists. The Clubfoot (smoked turkey, bacon, and house-made mayo) is a must-try.
Sunny & Annie’s Deli
📍 East Village
A true hidden gem, Sunny & Annie’s is an unassuming bodega that makes wildly creative sandwiches—think fresh ingredients, unique combinations, and hilarious names. The Pho Real (roast beef, hoisin sauce, sriracha, and basil) is a fan favorite.
All’Antico Vinaio
📍 Midtown
This famous Italian import has taken NYC by storm with its overstuffed focaccia sandwiches. If you love thick, fresh bread and top-tier Italian meats, this is your spot.
Brooklyn
Defonte’s
📍 Red Hook
A Brooklyn institution since 1922, Defonte’s is known for its massive hot Italian sandwiches. The Nicky Special (fried eggplant, mozzarella, ham, salami, and roast beef) is the sandwich of legends.
Lioni’s
📍 Bensonhurst
This old-school Italian deli serves massive heroes, all named after famous Italian-Americans. The Frank Sinatra (prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and roasted peppers) is a crowd favorite.
John’s Deli
📍 Gravesend
If you’re craving a classic roast beef sandwich, John’s Deli is the place to go. Their version, smothered in mozzarella and brown gravy, is chef’s kiss.
Queens
Sal, Kris & Charlie’s Deli
📍 Astoria
Nicknamed “The Sandwich King of Astoria,” this unassuming deli is home to The Bomb, an absurdly stacked sandwich featuring turkey, ham, roast beef, salami, pepperoni, and just about every topping you can imagine.
The Bronx
Mike’s Deli (Arthur Avenue)
📍 Belmont
Located in the heart of the Bronx’s Little Italy, Mike’s Deli is famous for its eggplant parm sandwich and Italian cold cut heroes.
Tino’s Delicatessen
📍 Belmont
Another Arthur Avenue staple, Tino’s is a local favorite for freshly made Italian sandwiches packed with high-quality ingredients.
Staten Island
John’s Famous Deli
📍 Innis St.
A no-frills Italian deli with generous portions and high-quality ingredients. Locals swear by their roast beef & mozzarella sandwich.
Royal Crown Bakery
📍 Grasmere
More than just a bakery, Royal Crown is home to some of the best Italian-style heroes in Staten Island, made with fresh, house-baked bread.