Seattle’s Best Sandwiches: Part 2

After more than 12 years as a local professional cook in Seattle, I can tell you firsthand that the city’s sandwich game is unmatched. From iconic delis to creative neighborhood spots, Seattle continues to serve up some of the best sandwiches in the Pacific Northwest. In this second part of our sandwich series, we’re exploring even more must-try shops and hidden gems that prove why Seattle is one of the best cities in America for food lovers.

Here’s a map to all our sandwich visits.

DeLaurenti Food & Wine

Nestled inside Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, DeLaurenti Food & Wine isn’t just a specialty grocery — it’s also home to some of the city’s best sandwiches and pizza. For over 75 years, this Italian deli has been a staple for locals and visitors alike, serving hand-crafted sandwiches stacked with premium meats and cheeses alongside slices of classic, New York–style pizza. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch during your Pike Place visit or searching for authentic Italian flavors downtown, DeLaurenti’s remains a must-try Seattle institution.

Dingfelder’s Delicatessen

Right in the heart of Capitol Hill, Dingfelder’s Delicatessen has become Seattle’s go-to spot for true New York–style Jewish deli eats. Known for sandwiches stacked so high they barely fit in your hands, this deli brings East Coast flavor and tradition to the Pacific Northwest.

The star of the show is their pastrami and corned beef, cured and sliced to perfection, then piled onto fresh rye bread with mustard. It’s a bite that feels straight out of Manhattan, but without leaving Seattle. Beyond the towering sandwiches, Dingfelder’s also serves matzo ball soup, bagels, and deli sides that round out the full Jewish deli experience.

The atmosphere is welcoming and no-frills — the kind of place where the food speaks for itself. Whether you’re a local craving a taste of New York or a visitor looking for one of Seattle’s best sandwiches, Dingfelder’s delivers on both flavor and authenticity.

Gilbert’s on Main

We’ve visited this establishment before in our food series, Gilbert’s on Main. It has long been a neighborhood staple, famous for its hearty breakfasts and oversized sandwiches that feel like a hug on a plate. For decades, locals have started their mornings here, fueling up with dishes that blend East Coast deli comfort with Pacific Northwest charm.

The menu is stacked with options, but Gilbert’s is best known for its massive breakfast sandwiches — think fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or pastrami layered between fresh bread. Their classic Reuben and turkey club are also standouts, piled high with quality meats and all the fixings. Portions are generous enough to share (though you probably won’t want to), making it a go-to for anyone craving a satisfying start to the day.

Inside, Gilbert’s has that cozy, bustling energy that makes it feel like home. Families, regulars, and curious visitors alike gather over coffee and sandwiches that keep you full well past lunch. Whether you’re a Bellevue local or just crossing the bridge from Seattle, Gilbert’s on Main is a must-visit for one of the best breakfast sandwich experiences in the area.

Bad Chancla

In the lively Capitol Hill neighborhood, Bad Chancla has carved out a name for itself by serving up bold Latin flavors with a Seattle twist. Known for its tortas — hearty Latin sandwiches layered with meats, fresh toppings, and flavorful sauces — this spot brings a unique addition to the city’s growing sandwich scene.

Standouts include their carnitas and carne asada tortas, stacked on soft telera bread with avocado, beans, lettuce, tomato, and salsa that packs just the right amount of heat. For something even more indulgent, the fried chicken torta balances crispy, juicy meat with creamy spreads and pickled accents. Pair it with their loaded fries or a cold drink, and you’ve got a Capitol Hill meal that hits all the right notes.

The vibe at Bad Chancla is casual and energetic, perfect for grabbing a bite with friends or fueling up before a night out. For anyone exploring Capitol Hill or searching for one of the best Latin sandwiches in Seattle, Bad Chancla delivers food full of flavor, attitude, and authenticity.

Mr. Fish Chips & Chowder

Right off the north end of Pike Place Market, Mr. Fish Chips & Chowder has earned its reputation as a go-to Seattle spot for seafood comfort food. Known for crispy fish and steaming bowls of chowder, this casual eatery also serves one of the best fish sandwiches in town.

The menu highlights Pacific Northwest staples — from their signature Fish & Chips made with three pieces of Alaskan cod, to hearty Clam & Bacon Chowder and rotating seasonal chowders. But the hidden gem is the Fishwich of the Month: a golden, beer-battered cod fillet stacked on a toasted bun with crisp lettuce, tangy slaw, and house-made tartar sauce. Pair it with fries or a cup of chowder for a meal that’s both satisfying and authentically Seattle.

Located at 2010 Western Ave, Mr. Fish Chips & Chowder offers a laid-back atmosphere just steps away from Pike Place Market’s buzz. Open seven days a week from 11:30 AM to 7:00 PM, it’s an easy stop for lunch or an early dinner. For locals and visitors alike, Mr. Fish Chips & Chowder is a must-try for classic fish & chips, creamy chowder, and one of Seattle’s best fish sandwiches.

Metropolitan Market

Throughout Seattle, Metropolitan Market isn’t just your upscale grocery—it’s a go-to spot when you want a quality, ready-made sandwich without compromising on flavor or freshness. Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go, shopping for drinks & snacks, or craving something hearty, their deli and prepared foods sections deliver.

Their sandwich & wrap selection is broad: classics like the Little Turkey & Cheddar and Tuna Sandwich, more indulgent items like their Signature Prime Rib Sandwich (on fresh baguette with creamy horseradish & au jus), plus wraps, snack-friendly options, and seasonal favorites. They also offer handmade, smaller size sandwiches & wraps that are perfect for lighter lunches or pairing with a salad.

The atmosphere at any Metropolitan Market store is polished, modern, and convenient. It feels more boutique grocery + café than just deli counter. That makes it a solid choice for Seattle locals and visitors alike who want a made-to-order or ready-to-go sandwich that tastes like it’s been crafted with care. If you’re hunting for a good sandwich in Seattle that balances quality, variety, and convenience, Metropolitan Market hits all those marks.

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese

At the heart of Pike Place Market, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese has become a Seattle icon — but their reach extends beyond just one spot. With a few locations throughout the Seattle area, Beecher’s is where locals and visitors alike go for artisan cheese, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, and their famous “World’s Best” Mac & Cheese.

At Pike Place, you can watch cheesemakers at work through the glass walls while grabbing a fresh sandwich or cup of tomato soup. Their signature grilled cheese is stacked with thick slices of bread and generous layers of Beecher’s flagship cheese, making it a comfort food favorite. Pair it with their creamy mac or seasonal soups for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re at Pike Place, visiting one of their cafés in neighborhoods across Seattle, or picking up Beecher’s cheese at a local market, you’re never far from one of the city’s best sandwiches. With a commitment to real, quality ingredients and bold flavor, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese continues to be a must-visit for sandwich lovers in Seattle.

Hello Em Viet Coffee & Roastery

Right in Seattle’s Little Saigon neighborhood, Hello Em Viet Coffee & Roastery blends Vietnamese café culture with creative food offerings — including banh mi that are as bold (and tasty) as their coffee.

The banh mi menu rides the line between traditional and inventive. You’ll find the An Sang Banh Mi (breakfast banh mi) loaded with fried shallot-eggs, cha lua (Vietnamese ham), pâté, Vietnamese mayo, and pickled vegetables — a flavorful, salty-savory bite that kicks off the day strong. There’s also the Xúc Xích banh mi, featuring a Vietnamese-style hot dog, creamy cheese, pickles, and the same bright pickled veggies that balance the rich components.

Hello Em is more than just a café — it’s a community roastery with art, history, and culture built into its walls. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, exploring the menu, or slowly savoring your banh mi, Hello Em delivers flavor, authenticity, and something special for both locals and visitors.

Saigon Deli

Saigon Deli has long been a go-to for bánh mì and fast, affordable Vietnamese sandwiches. With a no-frills setup and take-out focus, it’s where locals go when they want a hearty sandwich done right — especially during lunch rush.

Saigon Deli offers a wide variety of bánh mì: classic picks like roasted pork, chicken, fish, and vegetarian tofu versions. Each sandwich comes on a fresh Vietnamese baguette with pickled daikon & carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and optional extras like egg. Their bread is noted for being crispy on the outside while still soft inside — that contrast is part of what makes their banh mi stand out.

If you want savory sandwiches that blend Vietnamese tradition with city-wide convenience, Saigon Deli delivers solid value and flavor every time.

From hearty East Coast-style hoagies to Latin tortas, fried chicken sandwiches, and bánh mì packed with flavor, Seattle continues to prove it’s one of the best sandwich cities in the country. Each spot in this guide — whether it’s an iconic deli, a Pike Place staple, or a hidden gem in Capitol Hill — showcases the diversity and creativity of Seattle’s food scene. And the journey doesn’t stop here. Stay tuned for Part 3 of our series, where we’ll uncover even more of the best sandwiches in Seattle that every local and visitor needs to try.