Top 10 Must-Try Sandwich Shops in Los Angeles

This Koreatown cafe combines quality coffee culture with seriously good sandwiches in a bright, modern space. Their Korean-inspired bulgogi sandwich bridges cultures beautifully, featuring marinated beef with kimchi aioli and fresh vegetables. The atmosphere skews young and creative, perfect for solo laptop work or casual catch-ups with friends. Don't overlook their excellent espresso drinks and rotating selection of house-made pastries that pair perfectly with any sandwich.

Santa Monica's Bread Head has garnered a devoted following for their creative sandwich combinations and exceptional bread baked in-house daily. The fried chicken sandwich with pickles and spicy mayo hits all the right notes—crispy, juicy, with just enough heat. The laid-back beach-town atmosphere attracts everyone from yoga enthusiasts to local business people grabbing quick lunch. Their breakfast sandwiches are equally impressive, making this an all-day destination.

This West LA neighborhood spot keeps things simple but executes brilliantly with locally-sourced ingredients and creative daily specials. Their roasted turkey sandwich with avocado and house-made aioli showcases how quality ingredients need minimal fussing. The cozy cafe vibe with outdoor seating makes it perfect for casual meetings or working remotely over lunch. Regulars swear by their rotating soup-and-sandwich combos that change with the seasons.

Since 1947, this MacArthur Park institution has been crafting what many consider the finest pastrami sandwich on the West Coast. The #19—hot pastrami piled impossibly high on rye with coleslaw and Russian dressing—rivals anything you'll find in New York. The old-school deli atmosphere, complete with vintage booths and no-nonsense servers, transports you to another era. It's a must-visit for serious sandwich aficionados, tourists seeking authentic Jewish deli culture, and anyone willing to wait in line for perfection.

Nancy Silverton's Italian deli in Echo Park brings her Michelin-star pedigree to the sandwich counter with spectacular results. The mortadella sandwich—featuring thick-cut mortadella, burrata, and pistachio spread—is a luxurious take on Italian simplicity. The bright, modern space features excellent coffee and pastries, making it perfect for a leisurely brunch or sophisticated lunch date. While newer to the scene, it's already competing with LA's best thanks to impeccable sourcing and technique.

This Glendale treasure boasts a near-perfect rating for good reason—their Armenian-Italian fusion sandwiches are executed with precision and generous portions. The meatball sandwich is legendary among locals, featuring homemade meatballs in rich marinara with perfectly melted cheese. Family-owned and operated, the warm service matches the quality of the food, making every visit feel like eating at a friend's house. It's a hidden gem that rewards those willing to venture slightly outside central LA.

This Hollywood destination earned its reputation by absolutely obliterating the concept of portion control—their sandwiches are loaded with fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, and whatever else strikes their fancy. The Fat Texas BBQ with brisket, onion rings, and tangy sauce is a challenge for even the heartiest appetite. It's beloved by late-night party-goers, groups seeking outrageous Instagram content, and anyone looking to conquer a truly indulgent meal. Come hungry, leave in a food coma.

Tucked into a Melrose Avenue storefront, this sleek sandwich bar elevates simple ingredients into craveable creations with California flair. Their signature smoked salmon sandwich with avocado, cucumber, and dill cream cheese is a revelation—fresh, light, and perfectly balanced. The minimalist interior and quick service make it ideal for solo lunches or influencer-approved photo opportunities. Don't sleep on their rotating seasonal specials that showcase local produce.

This Los Feliz gem has quietly built a cult following with their massive, generously stuffed sandwiches that put most chains to shame. The Italian combo is a work of art—layers of premium meats, provolone, and their signature giardiniera piled high on fresh-baked bread. The casual, no-frills counter service keeps prices reasonable while quality remains sky-high. It's a neighborhood favorite where locals line up for quick lunch runs, though seating is limited so plan accordingly.

This legendary downtown institution has been serving its famous French Dip sandwiches since 1908, claiming to be the original inventor of the iconic dish. The sawdust-covered floors and communal seating create an old-school Los Angeles atmosphere that's part museum, part diner. Their double-dipped roast beef or lamb sandwiches, dunked in rich au jus, are a rite of passage for any Angeleno. Perfect for history buffs, tourists seeking authentic LA flavor, and late-night eaters (they're open until 10 PM most nights).