There are a lot of sandwich shops in Seattle worth visiting, and only so much space in this newsletter, so consider this a starter pack of a list, not a definitive rundown.
Louie’s Deli
🥓 Our first entry is also the newest place on this list. This deli hidden inside an indoor courtyard in Pioneer Square just earned a rave review from the Seattle Times. Louie’s doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel (though it does put whole grain mustard in its Italian sub), it just serves classic, East Coast-style sandwiches that are well-balanced and served on sturdy, fresh bread.
Know before you go: The hype is real, and Louie’s often sells out by the early afternoon.
The Original Philly’s
🧀 For more than 30 years, Philly’s has been a destination for any Seattleite craving a cheesesteak. Since then it’s moved from 23rd and Union down to its current location opposite Franklin High School, but the menu hasn’t changed much. Big, meaty, rich, and served in rolls that somehow hold up, these bad boys feed two people or one very hungry person. You can also get variations on the cheesesteak like a “pizza steak” with red sauce.
Know before you go: Philly’s is takeout-only.
Layers Green Lake
🚣 Steps away from Green Lake is a summer destination of a sandwich shop. Layers serves a rotating menu of wildly creative sandwiches. You want some crispy pork belly with pepper jam? Ham and burrata sharing a potato bun with strawberry jam? Or just try the tuna sandwich that has some barbecue chips inside for a bit of flavor and crunch.
Know before you go: Get a side of crispy potatoes just so you get access to the green goddess dressing dip.
Fortuna
🇮🇹 Last year focaccia sandwiches were suddenly everywhere in Seattle. This Greenwood spot deviated from that trend by using schiacciata bread instead, which is crispier and thinner than focaccia. It’s a perfect vehicle for traditional Italian sandwich fillings. Expect olive oil — they have a lot of different olive oils — creamy stracciatella cheese, the usual meats… you know the drill.
Know before you go: Expect lines if you go at peak lunchtime.
Un Bien
🍖 The Carribbean sandwich king of Seattle, Un Bien specializes in slow-roasted pork and luxurious caramelized onions, though non-carnivores can content themselves with rice and bean bowls, salads, or a sandwich that is just onions, which is honestly not a bad idea.
Know before you go: Get the beans. Aromatic, saucy, with a hint of sweetness, they are an incredible side.
