Sandwiches seem to be a universal favorite food for so many people, and lucky for us, LA is filled with tons of excellent sandwich shops that are quick and leave you satisfied with every bite. The best part about a sandwich is there are so many different combinations to choose from. Cold cut sandwiches, hot sandwiches, Italian subs, and even the classic Peanut Butter & Jelly (a favorite pick!). If you are new to the sandwich game or looking for some fun local spots to try out, we recommend these as the 8 best sandwich shops in LA.
1. Potato Chips Deli
Neighborhoods: Los Angeles, Culver City, Long Beach
Most LA residents are familiar with Potato Chips Deli (and if you aren’t, run and try it!). If you haven’t stopped by any of their locations, this is your sign to try one of their delicious, fresh sandwiches. They offer 11 simple and scrumptious recipes that are bound to have you craving more. Whether it’s an Italian, Veggie, or Caprese sandwich, the menu is filled with plenty of options. Be sure to stop by for a to-go sandwich and don’t forget to complete your meal with Dirty or Zaps chips.
2. Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
The LA Girl’s Fav! Since 1925, Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery is the home of the Godmother sandwich. This deli offers quality Italian food that is made with fresh ingredients on site, but because it’s such a hotspot, the line can get quite long during lunchtime. Worried about what to cook for dinner? Head over to Bay Cities because not only do they offer sandwiches but also fresh pasta, baked dinners, salads, and tasty desserts. LA Girl Tip: Try some of the customer’s all-time favorite dishes and desserts, which include Cannolis and Sfogliatelle.
3. Sunset Deli
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
Located on Sunset Blvd is the one and only, Sunset Deli. This is a go-to spot if you’re looking to explore more unique, adventurous sandwiches as opposed to traditional sandwiches that we have probably all tried before. Yes, they serve the Godmother and the Godfather, which are common favorites at this shop. The LA Girl recommends trying out their New York-style corn beef called The Big Ben, or their Blazing Buffalo Ranch, for a unique lunch pick. With 17 sandwiches on its menu and a “Make Your Own Sandwich” section, Sunset Deli will be able to serve up something for you to enjoy!
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4. Mendocino Farms
Neighborhoods: Culver City, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Studio City
With Mendocino Farms, the options are limitless. Starting as a family business in 2005, Mendocino Farms has expanded to one of the tastiest and most well-known lunch spots around LA. From Cheffy Sandwiches, salads, and bowls to ½ sandwich combos and soups. Of course, they have many vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, as well.
5. Uncle Paulie’s Deli
Neighborhoods: Studio City, Los Angeles, Downtown LA
With locations in Studio City, Downtown LA, and 3rd Street, Uncle Paulie’s offers its customers different, must-try sandwiches like The Joey (Roast Beef, Horseradish Creme, Pickled Fennel, Onion, Arugula & Balsamic Glaze), The Paulie, The Bodega, and so many other combinations. If you are not in the mood for a sandwich, they also serve breakfast, salads, and sides, and they have a kid’s menu.
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6. Ike’s Love & Sandwiches
Neighborhoods: Culver City, Los Angeles, Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, El Segundo
If you are hungry and looking for a big, full sandwich, Ike’s Love & Sandwiches is a classic chain sandwich shop. We recommend trying their Matt Cain sandwich, which won ESPN’s Best Sports Sandwich Fanwich Award! If you are vegan or vegetarian, no worries, they have plenty of options (10 to be exact) for you to choose from.
7. Mr. Pickle’s Sandwhich Shop
Neighborhoods: Lake Forest, Mission Viejo
With over 26 years of success and offering various locations, Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop is one of Cali’s most famous sandwich shops. Their locations may be just outside of LA, but if you are ever in Orange County near one of their shops, be sure to give it a try! We recommend checking out their menu ahead of time because of the wide variety of options. They offer cold and hot sandwiches, vegan options, salads, and even a kids’ menu for your little ones to enjoy, too.
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8. Something About Her – COMING SOON!
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
Vanderpump Rules’ Katie Maloney and Ariana Madix are expected to open the upcoming Something About Her sandwich shop in mid-august 2023. The stars are keeping most details under raps as of now, but they have released some teaser information! The two are working with Food Network & Bravo’s celebrity chef Penny Davidi on the shop’s menu which “will have something for everyone”. We got a sneak peak to the first possible menu item in a recent TikTok featuring the two making an egg salad and tomato sandwich on grain bread. And don’t worry the shop will have gluten-free options too! The shops vibe will also transport you into a regal cottage core bakery fairytale with its bread baskets, vintage tea and coffee pots, as well as the soft yellow, sage, and white color scheme. As of now, sources say, “Everything is completely done – the menu is done, the interior is done, staff is hired,” which means we’re even closer to craving the mouthwatering sandwiches offered.
Featured Image Photo Courtesy of Sparo’s Deli & Catering