A good sandwich is many things: a marvel of engineering, the perfect balance of flavors and a visual treat. These places in Massachusetts serve sandwiches that check all three boxes.
We didn’t include burgers (because they’re sort of in a class of their own) but you can check out our ultimate Massachusetts burger bucket list for more drool-worthy dining inspiration.
1. Pajer Superette, Agawam
These sandwiches are not only good – they're enormous. The grinder shown above is actually the smallest size they offer, and it's only $4.50. The best part? Everything is homemade and delicious. It's hard to beat value and taste like this.
2. Cutty's, Brookline
This place has been wooing sandwich lovers for years with their fresh takes on traditional Italian lunch fare. Thrillist calls the "Spuckie" sandwich "the best Italian sandwich you've ever had in your life." What's a Spuckie? It's fennel salami, hot capicola, mortadella, mozzarella, olive-carrot salad on a homemade ciabatta roll. Yes, please.
3. The Clam Box, Ipswich
Is something served on a hot dog roll a sandwich? We think so. The Clam Box is an institution, and their reputation is due in no small part to their incredible clam roll and lobster roll. Grab one in each hand and have yourself a seafood revelation.
4. The Linden Store, Wellesley
The sandwich menu is pretty extensive at The Linden Store, but fan favorites include the Kaitlyn (prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, fresh basil, & roasted red peppers drizzled with olive oil & balsamic vinegar, served on a fresh baked baguettine) and the Dude Ranch (sliced BBQ chicken breast, pepperjack cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and ranch dressing). This place can get busy, but the the line always moves along quickly and you're sure to get your grub before too long.
5. Carl's Steak Subs, Waltham
That beautiful monster pictured above? It's the Mexican steak and cheese sub, and it's only $8. If your hunger has reached epic proportions, try the MOAB: the Mother of All Burritos, a fully-loaded steak or chicken burrito. Carl's has a few small tables outside so you can enjoy the sunshine while you munch, but their forté is really takeout.
6. Kelly's, Revere
A roast beef sandwich from Kelly's is pretty much a rite of passage in Massachusetts. Based in Revere, Kelly's has five locations across the state that are family-owned and operated. Go for the classic roast beef and prepare for flavor heaven.
7. Harrison's Roast Beef, North Andover
We love our roast beef here in Massachusetts, and Harrison's serves up tremendous sandwiches in a no-frills atmosphere. The interior may not be Instagram-worthy, but the food sure is.
8. Woodstar Cafe, Northampton
This place is pretty much hipster heaven, but they serve sandwiches that will make even the most stodgy traditionalist drool. A great local business with an ever-cheerful staff, you can't go wrong ordering the Berkshire or Nantucket sandwiches. While you're at it, ask for a mug of the ginger chai. The ginger syrup is homemade and has the perfect amount of kick.
9. Housatonic Cafe, Lee
Housed inside a beautiful Victorian building with a bright wash of pink and green paint, the Housatonic Cafe is a Berkshire gem. Try the Gouda Choice sandwich (pictured) for a cheesy and savory lunch, or the ever-popular Buffalo Bill with spicy buffalo chicken, sharp cheddar, lettuce, tomato, bacon and Cajun remoulade on a jalapeno ciabatta roll.
10. Specialty Sandwich, Holden
Specialty Sandwich lives up to its name. With a HUGE selection of customizable sandwiches and friendly service, this shop prides itself on giving you what you want. They have a nice amount of international flavors as well, so you can pair your Greek gyro with a spicy Mexican side.
11. Gene's Variety, Milford
This little Italian convenience store has a poorly-kept secret: their sandwiches are awesome. Order the Porketta for a hit of decadent swine, or go the classic route with an Old School Italian: a beautiful fresh roll piled high with cold cuts. They use homemade sausage and meatballs on their sandwiches, which is a special touch that makes a huge difference.
12. Marzillis Bakery, Fall River
This is another one of those places that delivers enormous sandwiches for puny prices. Their large subs are 20 inches long and can easily feed multiple people. Fresh ingredients, friendly people and an old-school New England sub shop feel. The classic Italian grinder is not to be missed, and their salads come with garlic bread. Pick up a few rolls or loaves of Marzillis bread to take home with you; it's a bakery, after all.
13. Fresser's Delicatessen, Randolph
Fresser's Delicatessen serves a reuben that is not for the faint of heart (pictured). Served on a lovely marble rye bread, you'll hear locals rave about this sandwich. For a classic New York deli feel and a simple (but delectable) lunch, you can't go wrong stopping at this place.
14. Wrapture, Beverly
There's no reason a sandwich has to be loaded down with meat, and this place has a great selection of lighter, veggie-based fare. Try the Middle Eastern for a raw and delicious bundle of flavor, or check out the lime chicken wrap for the perfect combo of citrus and savory.
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