Texas is known for its vibrant food scene, and sandwiches are no exception. From classic deli-style creations to innovative gourmet combinations, the Lone Star State offers a diverse array of mouthwatering options for sandwich enthusiasts.
The best sandwich shops in Texas showcase the state’s culinary diversity, using fresh ingredients and unique flavor profiles to create unforgettable handheld meals. These establishments range from family-owned delis to upscale eateries, each putting their own spin on this beloved lunchtime staple. Whether you’re craving a traditional pastrami on rye or a Texas-inspired brisket sandwich, the top sandwich spots in the state have something to satisfy every palate.
1) Franklin Barbecue, Austin
Franklin Barbecue stands as a legendary institution in Austin’s culinary landscape. This acclaimed establishment has earned a reputation for serving some of the best barbecue in Texas, if not the entire country.
At the heart of Franklin’s menu is their mouthwatering brisket, known for its perfectly rendered fat and flavorful bark. The pulled pork and ribs also receive high praise from patrons and food critics alike.
While Franklin Barbecue is famous for its meats, their sandwiches are equally noteworthy. The Tipsy Texan, a hearty combination of chopped beef and sausage, has become an iconic offering.
Be prepared for long lines, as Franklin’s popularity often results in wait times of several hours. Many enthusiasts argue the wait is part of the experience and well worth it for the exceptional barbecue.
Franklin Barbecue is located at 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702. For more information or to place an order, visit franklinbarbecue.com or call 512-653-1187.
2) Easy Tiger, Austin
Easy Tiger is a beloved Austin institution known for its exceptional sandwiches and freshly baked bread. This bakery and beer garden offers a delightful combination of artisanal baked goods and craft beer.
Their sandwich menu features a variety of options made with high-quality ingredients. Standout choices include the pastrami on rye and the turkey avocado sandwich, both crafted with house-made bread.
Easy Tiger’s commitment to quality is evident in their baking process. They use traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients to create their breads and pastries, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Visitors can enjoy their sandwiches in the spacious beer garden, adding to the overall dining experience.
Easy Tiger has multiple locations in Austin, making it convenient for locals and tourists alike to enjoy their delicious offerings.
Contact: (512) 614-4972
Address: 1501 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
Website: easytigerusa.com
3) The Gypsy Poet, Houston
The Gypsy Poet in Houston offers more than just sandwiches. This artisan pizzeria has gained a reputation for serving some of the best pizza in the city.
Located in the heart of Houston, The Gypsy Poet takes pride in its handcrafted, rustic-style pizzas. The chef uses high-quality, fresh ingredients to create unique flavor combinations.
The pizzeria’s commitment to quality has earned it the title of “Best Pizza in Houston” multiple times. One of their most popular offerings is the Fancy Backpacker pizza.
The Gypsy Poet’s interior is described as minimal and modern, featuring a mix of regular and high tables. This creates a welcoming atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meals.
While primarily known for pizza, The Gypsy Poet’s menu may include sandwich options that reflect the same attention to quality and creativity as their pizzas.
The Gypsy Poet has two locations in Houston:
2404 Austin St, Houston, TX 77004
1050 Studewood St, Houston, TX 77008
4) Miller’s Smokehouse, Belton
Miller’s Smokehouse in Belton, Texas offers more than just barbecue. This family-owned establishment serves up delicious sandwiches that have earned it a spot among the best sandwich shops in the area.
Their sandwiches feature carefully smoked meats, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. The menu includes a variety of options to satisfy different tastes.
One standout is their house cheeseburger, available as a basket with fries. For those seeking a unique twist, “Tha’ Curtis” combines chopped brisket with beans, Fritos, jalapeños, pickles, and onions.
Miller’s Smokehouse operates seven days a week, with breakfast served daily from 7:30 AM to 10:55 AM. Lunch and dinner hours vary, with the restaurant open until 3 PM Sunday through Wednesday and until 8 PM Thursday through Saturday.
Located in Belton, Miller’s Smokehouse has garnered positive reviews for its food quality and service. It ranks as the top restaurant in Belton on Tripadvisor, with a 4.5-star rating.
Miller’s Smokehouse: 300 E Central Ave, Belton, TX 76513
Phone: 254-939-5500
Website: millerssmokehouse.com
5) Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, Dallas
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop in Dallas brings Delaware-style sandwiches to Texas. The chain is known for its high-quality ingredients and generous portions.
Their signature sandwich, The Bobbie, features roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mayo. It’s often called “Thanksgiving on a roll” and has gained nationwide popularity.
Capriotti’s also offers a variety of other subs, including cheesesteaks and vegetarian options. The shop slow-roasts whole turkeys in-house daily, ensuring fresh meat for their sandwiches.
The Dallas locations maintain the brand’s commitment to freshness and flavor. Customers can enjoy their sandwiches in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Capriotti’s has multiple locations in Dallas, including:
6112 Luther Ln, Dallas, TX 75225
Phone: (972) 218-0961
Website: www.capriottis.com
6) Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop, Dallas
Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop stands out as a top sandwich destination in Dallas. Located in the vibrant Deep Ellum neighborhood, this funky eatery draws crowds for its creative and delicious offerings.
The menu features over a dozen spectacular sandwich options. Favorites include the Cuban, veggie banh mi, and shaved ribeye steak topped with blue cheese. Their shaved ribeye salad is also a popular choice.
The atmosphere is casual and energetic, with concrete floors and lively music. Diners appreciate the diverse crowd and fast-casual service model.
Opened in 2011 by Kathy and Bryan Crelly, Uncle Uber’s has become a local institution. Their signature sandwich, The Clara Peller, is a hot roast beef creation that packs a flavorful punch.
Visitors can expect a packed house, especially during lunch hours. The shop’s rotating menu ensures there’s always something new to try.
Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop
Address: 2713 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75226
Phone: (214) 653-8237
Website: www.uncleubers.com
7) ThunderCloud Subs, Austin
ThunderCloud Subs has become an Austin staple for sandwich lovers. Founded in 1975, this local chain has grown to over 30 locations across the city, offering consistent quality and flavor.
Their menu features a wide variety of cold and hot subs, with options to suit every taste. Popular choices include the ThunderCloud Special, loaded with ham, turkey, and roast beef, and the California Club, a fresh take on a classic.
ThunderCloud prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, including freshly baked bread and locally sourced produce. Their commitment to quick service and affordable prices has made them a favorite among students and professionals alike.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere of ThunderCloud Subs locations adds to their charm. Many Austinites appreciate the laid-back vibe and friendly service that have become synonymous with the brand.
Beyond serving great sandwiches, ThunderCloud Subs is known for its community involvement. Their annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot has raised millions for local charities over the years.
ThunderCloud Subs
3200 Guadalupe, Austin, TX 78705
Phone: (512) 452-5010
Website: thundercloud.com
8) Schlotzsky’s, Austin
Schlotzsky’s is a beloved sandwich chain that originated in Austin, Texas in 1971. The restaurant has become a local institution, known for its unique and flavorful sandwiches.
At the heart of Schlotzsky’s menu is “The Original” sandwich, featuring a blend of meats, cheeses, and olives on a distinctive sourdough bun. This signature item has been satisfying customers for decades.
While The Original remains popular, Schlotzsky’s has expanded its offerings over the years. Visitors can now enjoy a variety of hot sandwiches, specialty pizzas, wraps, salads, and soups.
The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and baking its bread in-house daily. This commitment to quality has helped Schlotzsky’s maintain its reputation as a top sandwich destination in Austin.
Schlotzsky’s also offers catering services, making it a convenient choice for office lunches or events. Many locations feature Cinnabon desserts, adding a sweet option to the menu.
Schlotzsky’s W. Anderson
Address: 2545 W. Anderson Lane, Ste 202, Austin, TX 78757
Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Website: www.schlotzskys.com
9) Snarf’s Sandwiches, Austin
Snarf’s Sandwiches has become a beloved spot for sandwich enthusiasts in Austin, Texas. This eatery offers a diverse menu of toasted sandwiches crafted with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
Located in the bustling South Congress area, Snarf’s South First Street location provides a convenient option for downtown workers and visitors alike. The shop’s proximity to the Texas Capitol and Austin’s Financial Center makes it a popular lunch destination.
Snarf’s prides itself on serving what many locals consider to be “Austin’s Best Sandwiches.” Their menu features a range of options to satisfy various tastes and dietary preferences, including vegetarian choices.
The restaurant maintains a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Customers can enjoy their sandwiches in a relaxed setting or take them to-go for a quick meal on the move.
Snarf’s Sandwiches: 1404 S 1st St., Austin, TX 78704. Phone: 512-614-4109. Website: eatsnarfs.com
10) Local Foods, Houston
Local Foods offers a unique dining experience in Houston, combining elements of a grocery store, restaurant, and bakery. The establishment is known for its creative sandwich combinations made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Customers can enjoy a variety of innovative sandwiches that showcase the flavors of Texas. The menu changes seasonally to take advantage of the best produce available.
The atmosphere at Local Foods is casual and welcoming, making it a popular spot for lunch or a relaxed dinner. The restaurant’s commitment to supporting local farmers and producers is evident in the quality of their sandwiches.
Local Foods has multiple locations throughout Houston, making it accessible to sandwich lovers across the city. Their flagship store offers a spacious dining area and a selection of local groceries and prepared foods.
Address: 2555 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77019
Website: www.houstonlocalfoods.com
History of Sandwich Culture in Texas
Texas sandwich culture developed from diverse influences and evolved over decades to reflect the state’s unique culinary heritage. Regional flavors and cultural blends have shaped distinctive Texas sandwich styles.
Influences and Origins
German and Czech immigrants introduced deli-style sandwiches to Texas in the late 19th century. Their traditional meats and breads laid the foundation for Texas sandwich culture. Mexican influences brought tortas and other Latin-inspired creations to the state.
Cattle drives popularized hearty, portable meals like the chuckwagon sandwich. This staple featured thick slices of bread filled with beef or pork. Rural communities embraced simple but satisfying sandwiches made with home-cured meats and fresh produce.
Urban areas saw the rise of lunch counters in the early 1900s. These establishments served classic American sandwiches alongside regional specialties.
Evolution Over Time
Post-World War II, Texas sandwich culture flourished with new innovations. The po’boy gained popularity in coastal regions, while smoked brisket sandwiches became a barbecue staple.
Fast food chains introduced mass-produced sandwiches in the 1950s and 60s. Local delis and sandwich shops responded by emphasizing quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
The 1980s and 90s saw a gourmet sandwich trend. Artisanal breads, specialty cheeses, and upscale fillings elevated Texas sandwiches. Food trucks in the 2000s further diversified offerings with creative fusion sandwiches.
Today, Texas sandwich culture continues to evolve. Farm-to-table ingredients, international flavors, and health-conscious options coexist with beloved classics.
Popular Types of Sandwiches
Texas offers a diverse array of sandwich options, from traditional favorites to innovative creations. The Lone Star State’s sandwich scene reflects its rich culinary heritage and modern food trends.
Regional Specialties
The Texas toast sandwich stands out as a local favorite. This hearty option features thick-cut, buttered, and grilled bread. It often comes loaded with BBQ meats, reflecting Texas’ famous barbecue tradition.
Tex-Mex influences shine in sandwiches like the torta. This Mexican-inspired sandwich typically includes refried beans, avocado, and various meats on a soft roll.
The chicken fried steak sandwich showcases another Texas classic. It consists of breaded and fried beef cutlet on a bun, often topped with gravy.
Modern Twists on Classics
Innovative chefs in Texas are reimagining sandwich staples. Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches now feature artisanal breads and unique cheese blends.
Vegetarian and vegan options have gained popularity. Plant-based “meat” substitutes and creative vegetable combinations cater to health-conscious diners.
Fusion sandwiches combine diverse culinary traditions. Examples include banh mi tacos or barbecue brisket paired with Korean-inspired toppings.
Food trucks and pop-ups often lead the way in sandwich innovation, offering limited-time creations that push culinary boundaries.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Sandwich
Finding a great sandwich requires attention to detail and timing. These tips will help you locate the ideal sandwich experience in Texas.
Key Ingredients to Look For
Fresh bread is crucial. Seek out bakeries or delis that bake their own bread daily. The texture should be crusty on the outside and soft inside.
Quality meats make a difference. Look for places that use high-grade, freshly sliced deli meats or house-roasted options.
Fresh vegetables add crunch and flavor. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers elevate a sandwich.
Unique spreads or sauces can set a sandwich apart. Artisanal mustards, flavored mayonnaises, or house-made dressings often indicate attention to detail.
Cheese selection matters. A variety of cheese options, especially locally-sourced varieties, can enhance the overall taste profile.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday lunch hours (11:30 AM – 1:30 PM) often showcase the freshest ingredients and fullest menus.
Early mornings, around 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM, are ideal for breakfast sandwiches when bread is freshly baked.
Avoid peak weekend hours (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM) to skip long lines and ensure better service.
Late afternoons (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM) can offer a quieter atmosphere and potentially discounted items.
Some shops have daily specials. Check their schedules to try unique combinations or get the best value.