The Best Sandwiches Downtown
From a seriously old-school family-run institution to a fast-casual fried chicken shop–these spots have the perfect bite to satisfy any sandwich craving.
The Big Apple is overflowing with fantastic sandwich joints—you just need to know where to go and avoid getting sidetracked by the latest TikTok sensation. Spoiler alert: most of the legendary spots are found below 14th Street, and many of them have been around for years, serving up sandwiches that have rightfully earned cult followings. From a seriously old-school family-run institution in the West Village that’s been perfecting Italian sandwiches for generations to an Alphabet City deli whose eclectic creations made with Asian-inspired flavors include several phở-themed sandwiches—these spots have the perfect bite to satisfy any sandwich craving. So head downtown, bring your appetite, and dig into some of the best the city has to offer.
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If you’ve ever found yourself in the heart of the Lower East Side during the day, chances are you’ve sidestepped the long outdoor line of tourists waiting to get into Katz’s Delicatessen. Known for its old-school vibe and towering sandwiches, the legendary spot on the corner of Ludlow and Houston has been serving up classic deli fare since 1888. Their pastrami on rye is a true New York icon. It’s made with a mountain of piping hot, perfectly seasoned pastrami that’s been slow-cooked and hand-sliced on rye bread with a touch of mustard. The result is a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth experience that keeps patrons coming back for more. It’s a quintessential New York experience—you’ve got to try it at least once. Just be prepared to fight the crowds, because this spot’s not just famous; it’s an institution. And yes, that scene from When Harry Met Sally? It happened right here.
205 E Houston St; T. (212) 254-2246
This 24-hour, family-owned deli (est. 1997) is an Alphabet City staple, adored by both regulars and curious visitors for its wildly creative and eclectic menu of sandwiches, each one packed with bold flavors. The menu blends Asian-inspired flavors with traditional deli ingredients, with highlights including several phở-themed sandwiches, like the P.H.O. #1 (roast beef, bean sprouts, basil, cilantro, avocado, hoisin, and sriracha). Another standout is the Kimchi Bulgogi Sandwich, which combines marinated Korean beef with tangy kimchi, Korean noodles, sautéed onions, melted mozzarella, chives, and avocado on your choice of bread. Every sandwich comes with a crunchy pickle on the side, but for those looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, there’s an impressive selection of candy, cookies, and pints of ice cream. Fun fact: If the cramped, colorful aisles look familiar, it’s likely because you’ve seen them featured in Russian Doll or Law & Order: SVU.
94 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009; T. (212) 677-3131
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Located at the intersection of Chinatown and the Lower East Side, this small, family-run Italian deli has been delighting patrons with its mouthwatering sandwiches since 2017. Regina’s Grocery quickly became a locals’ favorite, serving up hearty sandwiches named after family members, each crafted with traditional Italian ingredients. Showstoppers include Grandma Lucy, a savory and satisfying combination of Genova Italian tuna, provolone, Regina’s olive spread, arugula, red onion, EVOO, and balsamic, all piled onto stirato bread, a rustic, Italian-style baguette. Another favorite is the Uncle Jimmy, which comes stacked with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, hot soppressata, smoked ham, arugula, and housemade hot pepper spread. For something lighter, the Ricky offers a refreshing combination of fresh mozzarella, pesto, arugula, and balsamic vinegar. Delizioso!
27 Orchard St; T. (917) 261-5792
Rowdy Rooster, a fast-casual Indian fried chicken spot that opened in early 2022, has quickly become a neighborhood favorite in the East Village, with lines often spilling out the door. This pint-sized gem brings head-turning, flavorful twists to fried chicken by drawing inspiration from street food across India. Their menu may be short, but it packs a punch, with the Big Rowdy Sandwich taking the spotlight as the fan favorite. This crazily crispy fried chicken masterpiece is nestled in a soft potato bun and topped with pickled onions, sesame yogurt, and zesty mint chutney—spicy, crunchy, and unforgettable. Choose your cut (dark or white meat), pick your heat level, and if you go for the “Rowdy” heat, we suggest cooling down with a refreshing Mango Lassi.
149 1st Ave
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The focus of this buzzy hotspot, which debuted in Greenwich Village in 2024, is honoring the chopped cheese, a staple of New York delis. In other words, Brown Bag Sandwich Shop offers a menu of deli classics like the turkey club and chicken Caesar wrap, with the option to have them chopped. The must-order is the Anthony Bourdain, served hot on a Kaiser roll with a hill of crispy mortadella, sharp provolone, and a tangy mix of Dijon and mayo. Whether chopped or not, this sandwich delivers in the hearty, tasty, and super satisfying department.
218 Thompson St; T. (646) 707-3409
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This family-run, classic Italian specialty shop in the West Village has served authentic Italian fare since 1900. Known for its no-frills approach and top-notch ingredients, Faicco’s Italian Specialties offers sandwiches that are nothing short of life-changing. The standout? The crispy chicken cutlet hero, topped with fresh mozzarella and housemade pesto—an absolute flavor explosion. The chicken cutlet parmigiano hero is another must-try, but honestly, every sandwich here is a perfect choice for anyone craving a mind-blowingly good Italian bite.
260 Bleecker St; T. (212) 243-1974
Parisi Bakery, a family-run joint in Nolita, has been making bread lovers’ dreams come true since 1903—this includes Frank Sinatra, who’d famously have their crusty, freshly baked loaves shipped to his Palm Springs home. Parisi’s sandwiches are just as iconic, with the massively sized Dennis being the show-stopper. Picture this: a crispy and juicy chicken cutlet, prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, tomato, balsamic vinegar, and basil spread, all piled high on their signature bread. At this small, old-school, no-frills, cash-only spot, it’s all about the flavors—no gimmicks, just exceptional food that keeps locals and legends alike coming back for more.
198 Mott St; T. (212) 226-6378
WORDS Alex Catarinella
PHOTOGRAPHY @reginasgrocery