Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its diverse culinary landscape. Among the many options available, sandwiches hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and visitors alike. This simple yet versatile dish is a canvas for creativity, often reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures found throughout this vibrant city. Here, we’ll delve into the ten best sandwiches across various neighborhoods in Los Angeles, illuminating their uniqueness and the stories behind them.
1. The Original Italian Sub – Bay Cities Italian Deli
Location: 1519 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
In the heart of Santa Monica, Bay Cities Italian Deli has been a revered institution since 1925. Their Italian sub boasts layers of quality meats—ham, salami, and mortadella—accentuated with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a signature spread that adds a zing. The communal experience of ordering and eating at the deli encapsulates a familial spirit, enticing patrons to savor not just a sandwich, but a slice of tradition.
2. The Pastrami Sandwich – Langer’s Delicatessen
Location: 704 S Alvarado St, Los Angeles, CA 90057
Langer’s Delicatessen is often hailed as the epicenter of pastrami in Los Angeles. Prepared with meticulous attention and served on fresh rye bread, their pastrami sandwich possesses an unparalleled flavor profile. The secret lies in the precise steaming process and the hand-slicing technique that preserves the integrity of the meat. Dining here not only satisfies hunger; it transports patrons to a bygone era, embodying the Jewish deli culture that permeated early 20th century Los Angeles.
3. The Classic Cuban Sandwich – Portos Bakery
Location: 315 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203
Porto’s Bakery defines Cuban cuisine in Los Angeles, and their Cuban sandwich stands as a testament to culinary excellence. Layered with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed bread, this sandwich deftly balances savory and tangy flavors. The establishment reflects the city’s rich Hispanic influence and serves as a reminder of the multicultural mosaic that is Los Angeles.
4. The Cheesesteak – Phil’s BBQ
Location: 4000 W. 27th St. Los Angeles, CA 90018
While synonymous with Philadelphia, Phil’s BBQ brings a West Coast twist to the classic cheesesteak. Generously packed with beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll, the sandwich’s zest is enhanced by the BBQ sauce that envelops the ingredients. It captures the essence of fusion, displaying how traditional recipes can adapt and thrive in new environments, a reflection of LA’s dynamic culinary scene.
5. The Sloppy Joe – Aliki’s Greek Taverna
Location: 2435 S. Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90064
At Aliki’s Greek Taverna, the Sloppy Joe is not merely a nostalgic childhood treat, but a gourmet experience. This version bursts with seasoned ground beef on a bun, topped with a homemade sauce that adds a remarkable depth of flavor. The establishment illustrates how immigrant narratives inspire reimaginings of comfort food, elevating beloved classics while preserving their soulful essence.
6. The Banh Mi – The Nomad
Location: 3097 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90007
The Nomad exemplifies the fusion of flavors encapsulated in the Vietnamese Banh Mi. A delightful marriage of crusty French bread filled with savory meats, fresh vegetables, and cilantro, this sandwich is a sensory overload. Each bite reflects coalescing cultures—French colonization juxtaposed with Vietnamese culinary artistry—demonstrating how food can narrate the complexity of Los Angeles’ historical and cultural identity.
7. The BLT – The Griddle Café
Location: 7916 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
At The Griddle Café, the unassuming BLT is taken to new heights. Crisp bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes reside between artisanal bread, elevated by a house-made aioli. This sandwich has a perfected simplicity that underscores the significance of fresh, quality ingredients, highlighting an emerging trend in LA of prioritizing local farms and sustainable practices.
8. The Fried Chicken Sandwich – Howlin’ Ray’s
Location: 727 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Howlin’ Ray’s fried chicken sandwich has garnered a near cult-like following. Brimming with spicy fried chicken, pickles, and slaw all nestled within a soft bun, it radiates flavor and excitement. The painstaking process of frying chicken to the perfect crispy texture is reflective of the deep Southern roots that many Los Angelenos embrace, encapsulating a sense of community around food that is both joyous and celebratory.
9. The Meatball Sandwich – Little Italy
Location: 3011 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Little Italy brings the charm of traditional Italian cooking to the forefront with its delectable meatball sandwich. Juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese harmonize on a fresh roll, offering satisfying comfort. This sandwich is not just a meal; it represents the camaraderie of gathering around the dining table, where ingredients come together to form connections, echoing the Italian immigrant experience.
10. The Breakfast Sandwich – Eggslut
Location: 1 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Eggslut has transformed the humble breakfast sandwich into a gourmet delight. Featuring fluffy scrambled eggs, cheese, and local toppings encased in a soft brioche bun, each bite is a luxurious awakening. This sandwich reflects a growing trend in Los Angeles where breakfast options are no longer afterthoughts but exquisite offerings worthy of appreciation.
In conclusion, the sandwich scene in Los Angeles is as eclectic as the city itself. Each specialty sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a narrative of cultural exchange, culinary innovation, and community connection. With every bite, you’re not only indulging in flavor but also a deeper understanding of the influential history and diverse cultures that shape the character of Los Angeles. Whether you’re a resident or a first-time visitor, these ten sandwiches offer an evocative journey through the city’s rich culinary tapestry.
