We love a good sandwich, and sandwiches, in their endless variety, serve as a universal language of comfort and convenience. Every culture has its own version of this beloved dish so here are twelve legendary sandwiches from across the globe that are worth a taste.
Reuben Sandwich from the USA
Another American classic, the Reuben Sandwich, combines corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. Its origins are disputed, but its deliciousness is universally acknowledged.
Cubano from Cuba
The Cubano is a grilled sandwich that originated in Cuban cafes in Key West and Tampa, Florida. It’s made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. Pressed until crispy, the Cubano is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that combines sweet and tangy flavors.
Banh Mi from Vietnam
A product of French colonialism in Vietnam, the Banh Mi is a flavorful fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. A crispy baguette is filled with savory ingredients such as pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy chili. The Banh Mi is a testament to the harmony of contrasting flavors and textures.
Croque Monsieur from France
Originating in Parisian cafés in the early 1900s, the Croque Monsieur is a grilled ham and cheese sandwich that embodies French culinary elegance. Typically made with Gruyère or Emmental cheese and thinly sliced ham, it’s often topped with béchamel sauce and more cheese before being broiled to golden perfection.
Philly Cheesesteak from the USA
Hailing from Philadelphia, this iconic American sandwich consists of thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (often Cheez Whiz, Provolone, or American cheese), and sometimes onions and peppers, all served on a long, crusty roll. The Philly Cheesesteak is beloved for its hearty, comforting flavors.
Shawarma from the Middle East
Shawarma is a beloved street food originating from the Middle East, featuring thin slices of marinated meat (usually lamb, chicken, beef, or turkey) that’s been slow-roasted on a spit. Served on a flatbread or pita with tahini, vegetables, and sometimes fries, Shawarma offers a mouthwatering mix of spices and textures.
Torta from Mexico
The Torta is a versatile Mexican sandwich served on a bolillo or telera roll. Ingredients vary widely by region but often include avocados, beans, mayonnaise, meats, and cheeses. Each bite of a Torta offers a snapshot of Mexico’s rich culinary diversity.
Katsu Sando from Japan
The Katsu Sando is Japan’s take on a sandwich, featuring a breaded and fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) with cabbage and tonkatsu sauce, all served between slices of fluffy white bread. Its perfect blend of crunch and sweetness makes it a popular snack and lunch choice.
Smørrebrød from Denmark
Smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, starts with a buttered rye bread base and is topped with an array of ingredients such as cold cuts, fish, cheese, and spreads, artfully arranged. Each Smørrebrød is a miniature masterpiece, showcasing the Danish dedication to quality and aesthetics in food.
Chivito from Uruguay
Uruguay’s national dish, the Chivito, is a substantial sandwich consisting of a thin slice of filet mignon, mozzarella, tomatoes, mayonnaise, olives, and often bacon, eggs, and ham. Served in a bun, it’s a hearty meal that reflects Uruguay’s rich culinary traditions.
Doner Kebab from Turkey
The Doner Kebab is a Turkish delight that has found popularity worldwide. It’s made with meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then sliced and served in a pita or flatbread with vegetables and sauces. The Doner Kebab is celebrated for its rich flavors and quick, satisfying nature.
Vada Pav from India
Often called the “Indian burger,” Vada Pav is Mumbai’s favorite street food. It consists of a spiced, fried potato dumpling (vada) placed inside a bread bun (pav) and served with one or more chutneys and a green chili pepper. It’s a simple yet irresistible combination of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors.
From the streets of Mumbai to the heart of Philadelphia, these twelve sandwiches are a testament to the universal appeal of this humble culinary format. Each sandwich tells a story of cultural exchange, regional ingredients, and culinary innovation, inviting us to explore the world one bite at a time. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or simply looking for your next meal inspiration, these legendary sandwiches offer a taste of the diversity and richness of global cuisine.