Orlando Sandwich Guide
If I'm being honest, sandwiches might be the perfect meal. They're usually quick, satisfying, and customizable, which is essential to mayo haters everywhere. There is no day part that isn't touched by the majesty of a sandwich made right. Your breakfast is made far more filling and exciting with eggs on a brioche bun than a boring bowl of cereal. Lunch is quintessential sammy time, and who among us hasn't enjoyed a robust meat-filled sandwich for dinner?
What makes one stand out? For me, it all starts with the bread. Layer all the fresh ingredients and accouterments you want, but if the right bread isn't used, you've created a deceptive trap. It can't be too tough to chew, but it can't be so soft that it absorbs every ounce of moisture and becomes a soggy mess. It can't go overboard with the crispiness on the outside, but also has to have just the right amount of interior softness. There is much to consider, and pairing the wrong bread with the wrong innards will destroy the whole experience. When it's done right, a sandwich isn't just a meal; it's genuinely a brief moment of happiness.
To sum it up, where can one find a delicious sandwich in Orlando? I've compiled a list of 51 spots to explore, and I've ranked them on a scale of one to ten. Not everyone is a 10 (actually, I don't think any of them reached a 10), but these are my honest thoughts on the many sandwiches I've consumed in Orlando and its surrounding cities and suburbs. You should always patronize these businesses and make up your own mind as to what Sammy Reigns reigns supreme in your heart.
Bánh mì
Bánh Mi Cali - West Orlando
If you asked me what my #1 spot for a banh mi is, it has been Banh Mi Cali for some time. Over in the “Chinatown” plaza in West Orlando, what’s probably more popular than the sandwiches are the patrons lined up and waiting for fresh baguettes. That same fresh bread serves as the foundation for these nearly perfect sandwiches, featuring marinated pork, an abundance of crunchy, tangy veggies, and a hint of heat from the jalapeno.
Ranking: 9.5/10
Parking: Easy - dedicated parking lot
An Vi - Casselberry
Coming in a close second for my favorite bánh mì is An Vi, located inside a strip center in Casselberry. The sandwich is packed with the goods and quite filling. I usually have half left over to take home. Their grilled pork is my favorite, but I was surprised when I accidentally ordered their house special pork and enjoyed it just as much. Great flavors and fresh veggies make this a top contender for banh mi in the area.
Ranking: 9/10
Parking: Easy, strip center lot
Y Nhu Bakery and Cafe - Mills 50
This no-frills bakery on E. Colonial serves up some solid Bánh mì and Vietnamese coffees. While it's not my personal favorite, it's still a solid option if you're in the area and worth a stop.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: street parking on Colonial - brace yourself
Bamita - Mills 50
Bamita is a small walk-in space attached to the Super Oriental Market on E. Colonial. Their Vietnamese coffees are among my favorites in the city, and I’ve also enjoyed their Bánh mì sandwiches. The bread shines here, a beautiful crispy baguette, and I’m partial to the grilled pork option.
Ranking: 8/10
Parking: Easy - dedicated parking lot
P’s Viet Mi - South Orlando
P’s Viet Mi is a no-frills, family-owned Vietnamese fusion restaurant. You can get an affordable meal here with solid Banh Mi. If I lived closer I would have it in my usual rotation more frequently, especially since their Viet coffee is solid. Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Easy - strip center parking
Bánh mì Boy - Mills 50
I was a fan of Bánh mì Boy long before the opening of Mills Market, back when it was a no-frills spot that only local Bánh mì enthusiasts knew about. Now, because of all the commotion that has come of the market getting a revamp and constantly going viral on social media, long gone are the days when I casually walk in and grab a sandwich. Now it involves fighting the crowds, the barely working AC, and the accident waiting to happen parking nightmare. That being said, they did have a solid option in town, but I prefer Bánh mì Cali and An Vi over these for several reasons. If you find yourself in the whirlwind of the crowded market, it's worth a try.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Hellish
Somot - Winter Park
This cute little Vietnamese cafe feels slightly out of place in an unsuspecting strip center next to a busy Aldi. Inside, it’s calm and quiet. The Vietnamese coffees are good, but they also offer baked goods and their own freshly made Bánh mì. The bread here doesn't seem as fresh as at the other spots, nor is it nearly as crispy around the edges.
Ranking: 6.5/10
Parking: Easy - dedicated parking lot
Deli Style Sandwiches
Because Publix doesn’t need your money
Lawless Subs - Altamonte Springs
This small sub shop has been around since 1992 and is often overshadowed by other sandwich spots, perhaps because it’s not located in the heart of Orlando. In my experience, the bread has been crispy and fresh, and the sandwiches have been generously stuffed, filling you up without overwhelming you.
Ranking: 7/10
Parking: Easy - dedicated parking lot 
D’Amico & Sons Italian Market & Bakery - Oviedo
This market should be on your list, whether you're looking for a sandwich or not. Their bakery case is a thing of beauty. As for their sandwiches, they were okay. The bread was a little crispier than I would have liked, but overall, it was a worthwhile sandwich experience. I'd need to try more of their offerings to understand how the deli counter performs truly.
Ranking: 6.5/10
Parking: Easy - dedicated parking lot
Butcher’s Nook - Mt. Dora and Apopka
I’ve been to both locations and got a better sandwich in Mt. Dora. There it was where I ordered the Italian Americano (Prosciutto Cotto, Mortadella, Genoa Salami, Pepperoni, Provolone, Lettuce red onions, tomatoes, Butcher's dressing, Peperoncini mayo, Sub Roll for 15.90) as well as the L'Diablo (Prosciutto Cotto, Hot Capocollo, Salame Calabrese, NDuja, Arugula, Smoked provolone Calabrian chili, aioli, on Ciabatta for $16.89). Loved the bread and the flavors in both sandwiches. They just aren’t the cheapest.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Easy - downtown street parking in Mt. Dora so it depends on the day and time you go
Stasio's Italian Deli & Market - Milk District
Stasio’s is beloved here, but for me, my love is solely based on certain items, not the whole menu, because I’ve had some misses here. It’s a rather unpopular opinion to hold, but I recall enjoying their sandwiches much more when they first opened years ago. Their Classic Italian (which is my standard go-to at delis) has not always hit the mark for me, often coming across as flavorless, and I’ve had stale bread more than once. I think you have to find the item that suits your taste, depending on the flavors you want to experience.
Ranking: 6/10 (depending on what you order)
Parking: Pretty awful - bring lots of patience or be aware of towing areas
Cerrato's Italian Market and Deli - Melbourne
I'm cheating by putting this place on my list, as it's not in Orlando, but if it were, it would be the only deli-style sandwich shop I frequented. I've been here multiple times, and my first experience of bliss was not a fluke. As you wait for your sandwich, you'll likely see the fresh bread coming straight out of the oven, which is your first sign that you're in for a treat. The ratios of all the ingredients are spot on, their bakery items are good, and the staff is incredibly welcoming.
Ranking: 9/10
Parking: Easy - dedicated parking lot
Schweini's Delicatessen - Winter Garden
No one talks about Schweini’s Deli, and that kinda makes me sad because they are serving up some pretty solid German-style sandwiches. This one is the Müller, a pastrami sandwich with house pickles, muenster cheese, and mustard on marble rye, and the flavors pack a punch! Paired with a pretzel and a German beer, you have yourself a carb-heavy party.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Easy - downtown Winter Garden parking is free so you can choose garage, lot, or street parking
Pickles Deli - Longwood
I'm not here to say whether Pickles is an authentic NY Style Deli, you can make that argument amongst yourselves. I'm here to say that the 1/2 Brooklyn Reuben was a delightful surprise. Dubbed their "world famous" corned beef and pastrami, you get a generous portion of meat piled high, grilled with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and homemade 1000 Island dressing. When I placed that order, I was concerned it wouldn't be the sandwich for me, but I honestly crave it. There are several sandwiches on their menu, so while this one might not be your style, it's a good place to try that won't break the bank. I have had some misses (the chicken Caesar wrap), but if you stick with what they are known for, I think you will be ok. I do think they may have a consistency issue from time to time. But nothing a tub of pickles hasn't been able to fix to keep me coming back.Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Easy - shared parking lot, although it does get full at peak times
Laspada’s - Orlando
Before you yell at your screen and say this place doesn't have the best cheesesteak, I don't go here for cheesesteaks. I go here for ONE SINGULAR sandwich. Their Deluxe Italian Special is my favorite: ham, Genoa salami, capicola, pepperoni, and double provolone cheese. I don't believe they make their bread in-house, but their rolls are always soft, making it easy to stuff your face. A mini is all I need to satiate me, and Laspada's is one of the few local places you can find curly fries. I love this particular sandwich so much that I haven't bothered trying other menu items, so who knows if there's something better, or if everything else on the menu is a miss. It's a question I don't need answered.
There are other locations, but I'm referring solely to the Lee Road spot, which is almost always packed at lunchtime.
Ranking: 8/10 based solely on the one item I get
Parking: Easy - shared parking lot, although it does get full at peak times
Cosa Nostra Italian Deli - Clermont
Cosa Nostra is in the heart of downtown Clermont, and let me tell you, this place gets packed for lunch. Not an empty seat inside or outside. I don’t know much about the establishment other than it’s an Italian family (you could hear them speaking Italian behind the line), and it’s beloved in that area. I’ve only been once, and I had a really hard time picking what to get. I ended up getting the Italian Salami (Italian salami, Provolone Cheese, Red Onions, Roasted Red Peppers, tomato, and aioli) for $12.49. I watched as the other orders were being made, and as I saw the creations come to life I had a sad realization that my order was basic, and perhaps I had made a huge mistake. I watched gorgeous pesto being smothered and huge chunks of fresh mozzarella being pulled, and I was immediately jealous. I had to eat it in my car because there was literally nowhere else to go, but the sandwich keep me distracted because it was good, and the bread was nice and soft. I think I would have loved some of the other sandwiches even more, so I’m eager to go back and try them again.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Street parking downtown, but it’s free.
Art’s Sandwich Shop - Orlando
Art’s is old Orlando. They’ve been open since 1972, and the inside is pure 70s nostalgia down to the orange and brown colors, the cozy booths, and pictures of times past all over the place. The menu is extensive, so this is another spot where I think you need to find your perfect sandwich. I tried their Italian Combo, and my friend had their Philly and loved it. I took a bite, and I agreed it was solid and not overly greasy. Is it the best of the best? I don’t think so, but it was packed for lunchtime, and the prices were still moderate, and the service was so friendly and attentive. Also, the fries were really good.
Ranking: 7/10
Parking: Easy, dedicated parking lot
Breakfast Sandwiches
Stasio’s - Milk District
Much like their deli sandwiches, you must find the right one for breakfast as well. I was disappointed in their B.E.C., so if you want my personal opinion, stick with their sausage, egg, and cheese on a Kaiser roll.
Ranking: 7/10 (ranked solely for the item shown below)
Parking: Awful
Hinckley’s Fancy Meats - East End Market
Sadly, I don't think this breakfast sandwich is on their menu anymore (at least it doesn't show up on their website), which is a shame because it was incredible. However, there are plenty of other breakfast and lunch options for sandwiches at Hinckley's, whose claim to fame is that it was featured in the Orlando episode of Somebody Feed Phil. Based on this sandwich alone, I have complete faith in the other offerings. For the sake of your wallet, it's essential to note that most menu items are priced at $15 or above.
Ranking: 8/10 (ranked solely for the item shown below)
Parking: During the week, not too bad in their dedicated lot, on the weekend,s you will probably have to use off-site parking
Deli Desires - Mills 50
I’ve tried most of the menu at Deli Desires, a walk-up counter offering a mix of breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Some of my favorites include the Latke, the Bacon, and, surprisingly, their Egg Salad is fantastic (if you’re into egg salad). A bonus is that their coffee program is top-notch, so for breakfast, especially, this is a one-stop shop for a brekkie that is sure to make you smile. They also have a pretty unbeatable $15 lunch special complete with a sandwich, drink, and side.
Ranking: 9/10
Parking: Meh, it’s a tiny lot, so sometimes it can get a little wild, but you can always park down the street for a short walk.
Egg Sandwich - Deeply Coffee
In a city bursting with coffee shops, not all offer quality food options beyond pastries. That is where Deeply shines. They provide a nice variety of options to enjoy in their downtown location, one of which is a simple yet pleasing Egg Sandwich. Breakfast Sandwich. It offers bacon, egg, cheddar cheese, sriracha mayo ketchup, crunchy potato sticks, fresh arugula, on a warm brioche bun for $12.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: It’s downtown, so you know.
The Salted Goat - Debary
Now, full disclosure, I’ve only been to the Salted Goat once, but they had me at farmer-driven gastropub. If this place were in Orlando, I think you’d hear a lot more about it, especially since we lack great brunch options. On my visit, I got their “Best F@!%ing Breakfast Sandwich” (their name, not mine). Served on Ciabatta bread, you get a sunny-side-up egg, Candied Quicky Cattle Co. Brisket, garlic aioli, local greens, cheddar jack cheese, shoestring potatoes, and home fries ($15). It was a beast of a breakfast sandwich, and it took all my might to conquer it. It left me so full I don’t think I ate much else the remainder of that day, so the $15 was well worth it. If you find yourself in Debary at breakfast time, it’s worth your own investigation.
Ranking: 8/10 (ranked solely for the item shown below)
Parking: Easy, they have their own lot
EggDose - Winter Garden Farmers Market + City Food Hall
If you've ever had Egg Slut, the comparisons are pretty spot on, so much so that Eggdose feels like an Egg Slut dupe. When I first tried them, it was during their pop-up days. Now you can find them at the Winter Garden Farmers Market, as well as the new City Food Hall. These sandwiches were never cheap (thanks to the add-ons), but I've heard rumors that the cost has increased, and the portion size has decreased. They were a great portion size before, plenty filling with all the ingredients stuffed into a lightly toasted brioche bun. I have not tried their new spot in the food hall to confirm if the rumors are true. They were once an excellent breakfast sandwich option that cost around $15, but I'm not sure I would pay more than that.
Ranking: 7.5/10 based on price and portion size, I paid during pop-up days
Parking: The Saturday morning farmers market in downtown Winter Garden really depends on when you go. However, you can park for free anywhere in downtown and walk. The City Food Hall has terrible parking.
Great Harvest Orlando Bakery & Café - Downtown Orlando
One of the best things about the Great Harvest bakery downtown is that they offer gluten-free options, which are quite scarce in Orlando. Their breads and housemade butter were a highlight, so much so that I bought some to take home. Sitting in the cafe left a little to be desired. The Classic Breakfast Sandwich was quite small ($8.49 with $1.50 charge for a gluten-free biscuit). It was fine, but nothing to write home about. But the gluten-free people should know this place is an option that caters to them.
Ranking: 5.5/10
Parking: It’s downtown Orlando, so be prepared to search and pay
B.E.C from Orlando City Deli
I love Orlando City Deli - and have been a fan since my first Chopped Cheese there back in 2022. Their B.E.C. is not to be missed. It’s thick, stacked with the goods and fully melted cheese (I shouldn’t have to point that out as a perk, but sadly, I actually do). There is flavor without it being too salty. It’s a win!
Ranking: 9/10
Parking: There are dedicated spots right outside their door
Off-Earth Street Food - Curry Ford
This spot flies under the radar because it’s inside the ghost kitchen at Curry Ford and Conway. You can order through DoorDash or order when you arrive inside. No one is there to greet you, but each kitchen resident has their bell you ring, and one of their employees appears to help you.
This bacon, egg, and cheese is one of my favorites, I just wish it was easier to get. It was just salty enough, lots of cheese, with a good roll - it hit all the spots.
Ranking: 9.5/10
Parking: Easy, huge parking lot
Ray’s Deli
This bodega-style spot is a convenience store with a kitchen that serves a variety of sandwiches. The bacon, egg, and cheese was ok, although not as stuffed as some of the others in Orlando.
(They do have lots of other sandwiches to go check out tho including a Chopped Cheese.)
Ranking: 6/10
Parking: Easy, they have a parking lot
Egg Sammy at Redlight Redlight
Brunch service at Redlight by Chef Jes Tantalo doesn’t get the kudos it deserves. Actually, Chef Jes doesn’t get the kudos she deserves, and she executes the entire food menu there. But speaking strictly of breakfast offerings, there is always something to devour on Sundays. Her rotation of waffles, pancakes, the humongous burrito, and the simple egg sammy. It’s a folded egg with wilted spinach, Swiss cheese, and Parmesan sauce (you can add bacon for an additional charge). There might be other options that seem more tantalizing, but do yourself a favor and opt for this as a savory option, and add a sweet option to share with your food partner.
Ranking: 8/10
Parking: There is parking, but you may need to utilize street parking if it’s busy.
Hot Chicken
Jam Hot Chicken - Winter Park
My reigning champ among the hot chicken contenders at the moment is Jam Hot. Their sando is $14, and it has five heat levels from no heat to you’ve been warned. The mild is enough to get me tingly. I dare not go above it. I love that I never taste the fry oil (which I can’t say for other spots), and the breading is always immaculate.
Ranking: 9/10
Parking: Street parking around the area
Sweet and Salty Island Grindz - Sanford + Apopka
This sandwich, the Hot Butter Chicken Katsu, has gone viral many times over on social media, but I’m going to tell you the truth. It has a lovely breading on it, and the piece of chicken itself is huge, so when you see it there is an absolute wow factor. The crunch on this bad boy cannot be denied. However, when I ate it, I detected little to no flavor or heat. I asked about the heat level on it, and they said it was mild, but there was nothing, and I am someone who is highly sensitive to spice. I loved the mac salad on it, but it left me wanting for big, bold flavors to match the presentation. I’m still rooting for it, because it has the makings of a great sandwich. Perhaps it was a fluke, so I leave it up to you to decide if you want to give it a whirl.
Ranking: 6/10
Parking: Both locations have dedicated parking
Chicken Fire - Colonialtown
Chicken Fire was the first spot to bring Nashville-style hot chicken to Orlando. I have fond memories of hitting up his truck in the Redlight Redlight parking lot and screaming inside a beer hall for milk. Now, his brick-and-mortar establishment has been open for years and remains a beloved spot in the city for those who want to go all in on spice. If you want to go the sandwich route at his shop, your only option is the Munch Box or the Slider Box (one versus two sliders). A slider is a relative term, depending on the size of your hand, because they are a decent size.
Ranking: 7/10
Parking: Easy, dedicated parking within a strip center
Swine & Sons - Winter Park
Swine & Sons is a Michelin-recommended restaurant, and the Crispy Hot Chicken sandwich is one of their mainstays on the menu. If you wanna go really hot, you can opt for the Chiang Mai Hot Chicken. It used to be one of my favorites, but competition has gotten hotter (pun intended), so it’s fallen slightly from when I fell in love with it at their first location, which was across from Ravenous Pig. You can find them now in the Milkhouse.
Ranking: 7/10
Parking: Depending on the time you go, there is a dedicated parking lot, but it’s not that big
Chopped Cheese
Orlando City Deli - OBT
The owners of Orlando City Deli are ex-New Yorkers and have blessed us with a little spot that gives us a taste of NYC with their B.E.C and their Chopped Cheese. Made right there, fresh in front of you on their flat-top grill, this sandwich gets the ratios just right and satisfies anyone looking for a taste of up North.
Ranking: 8.5/10
Parking: There are designated parking spots in front.
Off-Earth Street Food - Curry Ford
Much like their B.E.C., their Chopped Cheese is stuffed tight with immaculate layers of goodness. While being inside a Ghost Kitchen might be a deterrent, I promise you that ordering online is just as easy as picking up. There is no reason not to try this spot out.
Ranking: 9/10
Parking: Easy, huge parking lot
Winter Park Biscuit - Vegan Chopped Cheese
If you want in on the Chopped Cheese goodness, but live a Vegan lifestyle, head over to Winter Park Biscuit at the East End Market. They have a wonderful way of making everything that is vegan fool you into thinking you are eating the real thing. It’s a generous portion size with good flavor.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Ok during non-peak times, otherwise, may the odds be in your favor.
Cuban Sandwiches
Cubans on Wheels - Near the airport
This place drives me nuts because they have huge, juicy, well-seasoned Cuban sandwiches, but every time I’ve tried going back to them, their food truck has been closed. It has a permanent spot in a shopping center close to OIA, but I still haven’t gotten a good hold of their hours. If you ever ate at the College Park Diner years back, their chef was responsible for these same sandwiches. Now they run their own food truck with sandwiches worth driving across town for (when they are open).
Ranking: 8/10
Parking: Easy, they have a parking lot
Cubans on the Run - Casselberry
Perhaps another unpopular opinion, but it’s the Media Noche Iike from Cubans on the Run, not the Cuban. The Cuban has often been on the dry side for me, and I've never experienced that with their Media Noche, so do with that information what you will. This with a side of maduros and their horchata is a great standard lunch option.Ranking: 8/10 on the Media Noche
Parking: They have a parking lot, but lunchtime is extremely busy, and you will likely have to park on nearby side streets.
Rincón Latino Restaurant & Café
I think it’s odd no one mentions this place when the conversations of no good Cuban food in Orlando start swirling about. Yes, we are not Miami, but you know I’ve had bad Cuban food in Miami, so everyone needs to calm down. I’ve visited Rincon several times, and while there can be a bit of a language barrier if you don’t speak Spanish, you will always be well taken care of. Both their Cuban and Media Noche are good (I actually prefer the Media Noche). It’s complete hole-in-the-wall vibes, complete with Abuelas in the kitchen.
Ranking: 8/10
Parking: Easy, they have a parking lot
Buchito - Downtown Kissimmee
I’m not in downtown Kissimmee often, but when I'm, I make sure to stop by Buchito. It’s a charming little Cuban cafe with excellent coffee and great Cuban sandwiches. It hits all the marks: tender and properly marinated pork, proper mustard and pickle ratio, and thoroughly melted cheese. It also has a very welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. When I’m usually here, I’m alone, and I’ve always felt at ease dining solo.
Ranking: 8/10
Parking: Street parking downtown
Cuban Sandwiches To Go - Lee Rd.
This spot is a walk-up window with a few outdoor tables located on Lee Rd, just a short distance from Edgewater. It’s been here longer than I can remember, and is widely beloved as a Cuban option in the city. This is yet another spot where I vastly prefer the Media Noche over the standard Cuban. Word of warning, though, if you go at lunchtime, do not think you will get in and out. On my last visit, I hadn’t pre-ordered, and my sandwich took a solid 40 minutes, no exaggeration. So order ahead. Trust me.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: There is a small parking lot, but at lunchtime it’s kind of insane.
Speciality Sandwiches
Palm Beach Meats - SODO
You won’t see many Philly sandwiches on this list, because I’ve had several on many trips to Philadelphia, and I know the ones here just don’t compare. Maybe it’s because it’s Wagyu, maybe it’s because it wasn’t overly greasy, but this is a really good take on a Philly.
Ranking: 8.5/10
Parking: Easy, they have a parking lot
Pork Floss, Egg, and Cucumber Sando - Sun Pearl Bakery
I'm not exaggerating when I say this sandwich is currently my hyperfixation sandwich. When I saw it at Sun Pearl, I bought it and munched on it in my car. I loved it so much, I went in and bought another. It’s a very simple sandwich of white bread, pork floss, egg, and cucumber, but it hits all the marks for me. The saltiness and texture of the pork, the creaminess of the egg, and the light, refreshing crunch of the cucumber. Perhaps it’s just me, but I love a simple sandwich like this. Last visit, I paired it with their Ube latte, and it was a delightful and affordable lunch pit stop.
Ranking: 8.5/10
Parking: Easy, strip center parking
Ispirazione Italian Sandwiches - Ocoee
A strip center in Ocoee is not where one expects to find freshly made Tigelle, but Ispirazione offers up beautiful sandwiches on this flatbread that is crunchy on the outside and sturdy enough to be slathered with delicious pesto and slices of meat, but still feels soft and pillowy in each bite. My only caveat with this place is that the sandwiches are small, so if you're really hungry, you might want to order two, which puts you in the $20 range to feel full. I opted for one sandwich and the in-house-made pistachio tiramisu.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: It’s a little confusing; the entrance is in the back, not the front, where you will park. There is a large shared lot.
Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich - The Strand
There was a time when we were a proper city. A city where The Strand was open for lunch and a weekend Brunch. Those times are no longer, but I still dream of them. However, one of the lunch mainstays is on the dinner menu, the Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich ($17). I love their batter, it’s always crispy and never overly greasy in its final form. While it’s a solid sandwich, my personal opinion is that there are far more exciting things on the dinner menu here to enjoy. However, it’s nice it’s still offered when you have a dining companion who wants something familiar (aka my Dad when I took them here for an anniversary dinner).
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Street parking only
Pulled Pork Sandwich - Mohawk Smokehouse
If you keep up with my blog, you know I’m a big Mohawk fan, and I think they easily reign as the best BBQ in the city right now. Their pulled pork is so tender and has its own distinct flavor profile, making it unnecessary to smother it in sauces. What's nice to have on the side are a few of their pickles and pickled red onions. While I do love their brisket, the pulled pork sandwich is sure to win you over as well.
Ranking: 8.5/10
Parking: They are a pop-up, so it depends on the location.
M'ama Napoli Italian Bakery & Deli - Mills 50
I’m a big fan of this small, authentic Italian Bakery and Deli. If it were socially acceptable to sit here all day stuffing my face with their pillowy focaccia bread, I would plant myself in a booth daily. Instead, I try to remain civilized, ordering the Toto: Prosciutto, Arugula, Mozzarella, tomatoes, and shaved Parmigiano. This sandwich is blissful, as well as huge. I can usually only finish half of it; and the rest becomes dinner. Their eggplant is great as well, and that's coming from a non-eggplant fan. Also noteworthy, this is one of the few places I’ve taken my hard-to-please father, where he has raved.
Ranking: 9.5/10
Parking: Easy, the parking lot is located behind the strip center, and you can access it through both the front and back entrances.
Turci Panino - College Park
Owned by the family that runs Turci Pasta next door, this spot is all about Italian sandwiches. The sandwiches are ok, but the bread will make or break your meal. In my experience, some of the bread has been far too stiff and unforgiving, making the bites a lot of work. Making things worse, instead of elements being finely shaved and sliced, some are quite bulky. What I do love are their spreads, specifically the pesto cream and pistachio cream. The flavors aren’t in question here, but a sammie connoisseur knows the bread makes or breaks the experience. Command your inner sandwich artists and modify the bread if they let you, and enjoy.
Ranking: 6.5/10
Parking: College Park parking is available on the street, and it’s free.
Upsala Grocery - Sanford
This convenience store/beer haven in Sanford also has a small sandwich counter where you can pick up some pretty good, affordable sandwiches. The Tikka Masala sandwich and the Honey Hot Chicken are both delectable and worthy choices on their large menu. I’ve had the breakfast burrito, and while it’s packed and affordable, it didn’t have much flavor; it really needs a sauce to bring it home. Regardless, there are good options, and the staff is nice.
Ranking: 8/10 depending on the item you order
Parking: Easy, this stand-alone spot has its own parking lot.
Krungthep Tea Time - Winter Park
Krungthep has survived the Orlando food renissance and remained consistent during its tenure. If you want a simple sandwich and a fun tea or dessert, they will always deliver. One of my go-tos is the Satay Satay Sandwich ($15) Marinated grilled chicken , red onion, pickled cucumber, carrot, provolone and our special curry peanut sauce. The sandwiches aren't oversized, but filling, and they always come with a small dressed salad on the side. It's consistent and hits the spot when you want some Thai flavors but in sandwich form. Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Easy, this stand-alone spot has its own parking lot.
Boba Queen - Pine Hills
Boba Queen in Pine Hills has way more than boba. You can get freshly made onigiri, Taiwanese popcorn chicken, and a Katsu Chicken Sando. It comes out fresh and hot, and in my experience, it has always been moist and just saucy enough without being too much. Paired with a boba, and it’s a great lunch on that side of town.
Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Easy, strip center parking
Vegan Chicken Sandwich - Winter Park Biscuit Co.
The Crispy Chik Sandwich here will definitley fool you. A Crispy Chik Cutlet with Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles & Mayo on a toasted Brioche Bun. Overall, their food is pretty consistent, and with less and less Vegan options in the city, they remain a solid choice. If you want more flavor consider having it tossed in their buffalo or gator sauce. Ranking: 7.5/10
Parking: Poor at peak times, especially on weekends for lunch.
As always, all sandwiches were paid for personally. Obviously, there are more sandwiches in town beyond what is listed, but these are the fifty I chose to include.
If you are wondering why beloved Pom Pom’s isn’t on this list, because they closed for a time and reopened in a new location, I want to visit it before I rank it again, in case anything has changed.
If you are wondering how Beefy King could have been missed, I’ve had Beefy King and didn’t like it at all. Sorry!