Houston is a city that celebrates diversity not only in culture but also in cuisine, and nothing embodies this culinary richness quite like the sandwich. From hearty meatball subs to refreshing banh mi, the variety of sandwiches in the Bayou City is sure to delight every palate. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best sandwich spots in Houston.
Tony’s Italian Delicatessen has garnered recognition as one of the top five sandwich establishments in the United States and stands out as the best in Texas according to Yelp. Located in Montgomery, with another branch in Tomball, Tony’s is revered for its high-quality and homemade Italian sandwiches. With names inspired by iconic Italian figures, both real and fictional, the deli serves a range of flavorful options. One standout is The Sophia, which features roasted turkey, roasted red peppers, Roma tomatoes, Swiss cheese, basil pesto mayo, a spring mix, and sub oil on an Italian roll.
Another beloved establishment is Kenny & Ziggy’s Delicatessen, a Houston institution since its inception in 1999. This New York-inspired deli is famous for its massive meals and extensive menu, including triple-smoked pastrami on rye and house-pickled corned beef. Priced between $16.95 and $24.95, the sandwiches here are sizeable enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites, making it a perfect spot for a casual date or a double date.
A unique addition to Houston’s sandwich scene is Stuffed Belly, created by the husband-and-wife duo of MasterChef winner Christina Ha and restauranteur John Suh, who also own The Blind Goat, a well-respected Vietnamese restaurant. This drive-thru concept specializes in American comfort food and sandwiches, with highlights including the Belly Melt, Sichuan Chicken, and the Humpty Dumpty Egg’wich sandwich. Stuffed Belly also features house-made sodas like the Dirty Dr. Pepper and Orange Creamsicle, making it a fun stop for a quick bite.
Located in Midtown, Thien An Sandwiches is a quaint Vietnamese diner that deserves mention for its outstanding banh mi. This family-run spot offers a no-frills environment with an array of vibrant dishes, including crepes, spring rolls, and of course, mouth-watering banh mi sandwiches.
Antone’s, established in 1962 by Jalal E. Antone, a Lebanese-Syrian immigrant, has become a historic name in Houston’s sandwich landscape. Known for its signature cold Po’ Boys, this deli has transformed from a local neighborhood eatery into one of the city’s most recognized brands. The Original sandwich, filled with salami, ham, provolone, and a special chow chow relish, is a must-try for newcomers.
Hobbit Cafe, situated on Richmond Ave, offers a whimsical dining experience with a diverse array of sandwiches. Originally opened in 1972 as Houston’s first mead bar, the cafe showcases a Tolkien theme with creative sandwich names such as the Gandalf and Smaug’s Delight. A crowd favorite is the Shire, which features avocado, tomato, fresh tabouli, alfalfa sprouts, and mayo on a fresh roll.
Ploughman’s Deli & Cafe has made a name for itself with repeated accolades from local and national best-of lists, including a feature on Food Network’s 51 Best Delis in the Country. This quirky, sci-fi themed cafe in Garden Oaks provides delicious options like the corned beef reuben on marbled rye, the meatball sub on French bread, and a unique ham and egg sandwich on a ciabatta roll.
Roostar is another notable establishment in Houston, co-founded by University of Houston graduates Ronnie and Linda Nguyen. This Vietnamese restaurant is celebrated not just for its banh mi sandwiches, but also for its rice and noodle dishes, all crafted from fresh ingredients. Favorites from the menu include the Chopped Ribeye, Grilled Pork, and The Special, which features pork belly, pate, and ham.
Tucked away in Montrose, Paulie’s offers a laid-back atmosphere, allowing patrons to indulge in scratch-made pastas and hearty sandwiches. Its menu highlights include the Italian Hoagie, Pork Tenderloin with Cajun Mustard, and the K.C. Special with mozzarella, roasted tomato, lettuce, and avocado with pesto mayo. Open daily but Sundays, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget-conscious diners who want a satisfying meal.
Finally, BB’s Tex-Orleans blends Cajun cuisine with Texas flair, creating a dynamic menu filled with seafood, entrees, cajun pastas, and burgers. Their po’ boy options, particularly the Midnight Masterpiece featuring roast beef debris and dark gravy, are essential for anyone craving a taste of Louisiana in Texas.
In Houston, no matter the craving, the sandwich scene offers an incredible mix of flavors and experiences that showcase the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
image source from：secrethouston
