These Indiana Sandwich Counters Are Kept Quiet By Locals Like Priceless Secrets

Indiana has a quiet way of keeping its best sandwich spots a secret. These places don’t chase attention, they’ve earned their following through years of doing things right.

You’ll find them in corner shops, small-town delis, and no-frills counters where the focus stays on the food. The bread’s fresh, the ingredients are stacked with care, and the flavor speaks for itself.

Locals know where to go, and once you’ve been, you’ll understand why they don’t give up these names easily.

1. Shapiro’s Delicatessen (Indianapolis)

Since 1905, this cafeteria style deli has been slinging massive corned beef sandwiches that could feed a small army. The line snakes around the counter during lunch, but locals know it moves fast.

Order the Reuben if you want to understand why people drive across state lines for this place. The meat gets piled high between fresh rye bread with tangy sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.

My uncle took me here when I was twelve, and I couldn’t finish half my sandwich. That memory still makes me smile every time I visit.

2. Goose The Market (Indianapolis)

Tucked in Linwood, this market combines grocery shopping with seriously good sandwiches made from scratch daily. The menu changes based on what’s fresh, keeping regulars guessing and excited.

Their breakfast sandwiches earn legendary status among early risers who crave something beyond boring fast food. Grab a seat at the small counter or take your order to go.

The staff remembers your name after just a couple visits, making you feel like part of their food loving family instead of just another customer.

3. Hoagies & Hops (Indianapolis)

This spot proves that sandwiches and craft beverages make perfect partners when done right. The menu features creative combinations you won’t find at chain restaurants.

Their cheesesteak rivals anything you’d find in Philadelphia, loaded with tender meat and melted cheese on a proper roll. Vegetarians aren’t left out either, with several meatless options that actually taste amazing.

Located in Fountain Square, the casual atmosphere welcomes families and friends looking for quality food without pretentious vibes or overpriced menus.

4. South Side Soda Shop (Goshen)

Step back into the 1950s at this authentic soda fountain that serves sandwiches alongside milkshakes and floats. The black and white checkered floor sets the nostalgic mood perfectly.

Their club sandwich comes stacked three layers high with turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato on toasted bread. Pair it with a cherry phosphate for the full retro experience.

Locals treat this place like a community gathering spot where generations meet over simple, honest food that never tries too hard to impress anyone.

5. Indiana Deli & Catering (La Porte)

Don’t let the plain name fool you because this deli cranks out sandwiches that punch way above their weight class. Everything gets made to order with ingredients sliced fresh that morning.

The Italian sub features layers of salami, capicola, and provolone with just the right amount of oil and vinegar. Grab extra napkins because things get delightfully messy.

I once watched someone order six sandwiches to go for a family gathering, and the staff treated each one like a work of edible art worth savoring.

6. Subito (Indianapolis)

Fast doesn’t mean cheap or tasteless at this quick service spot that elevates the humble sandwich into something special. The ingredients come from local suppliers whenever possible.

Their roasted turkey sandwich features real carved meat instead of processed slices that taste like cardboard. Add avocado and bacon for extra flavor that makes lunch feel like a celebration.

The streamlined ordering process gets you in and out quickly, perfect for busy professionals who refuse to sacrifice quality for convenience during their limited lunch break.

7. Lost River Market & Deli (Paoli)

Way off the beaten path, this market serves sandwiches that make the drive completely worthwhile for adventurous eaters. The building itself looks like something from a country postcard.

Local ingredients shine in every bite, from the bread baked nearby to the vegetables grown within miles of the shop. Their pulled pork sandwich comes topped with homemade coleslaw.

Visiting here feels like discovering a secret that only the smartest food lovers know about. The staff greets everyone like old friends coming home for Sunday dinner.

8. Nick’s Kitchen (Huntington)

Famous for inventing the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, this diner has been serving hungry folks since 1908. The sandwich hangs over the bun edges like a delicious plate sized frisbee.

You can’t visit Indiana without trying a proper tenderloin, and Nick’s does it better than almost anywhere else in the state. The meat gets pounded thin and fried golden brown.

History buffs appreciate eating at the same counter where generations of families have gathered. The walls tell stories through old photographs and newspaper clippings from decades past.

9. Lumpy’s Café (Cambridge City)

This quirky café serves breakfast and lunch with a side of small town charm that big cities just can’t replicate. The building sits right along the old National Road.

Their sandwiches range from classic BLTs to creative daily specials that showcase whatever the cook feels inspired to make. Nothing tastes mass produced or reheated from yesterday’s leftovers.

Truckers and travelers stop here for fuel that actually tastes good instead of the usual highway food that leaves you feeling sluggish and regretful about your choices.

10. The Friendly Tavern (Zionsville)

Despite the name suggesting otherwise, this spot focuses heavily on outstanding sandwiches that keep locals coming back week after week. The atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming for all ages.

Their grilled cheese goes beyond basic with multiple cheese varieties melted between buttery toasted sourdough bread. Add tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combo.

My neighbor swears by their turkey club and orders it every single visit without even glancing at the menu. That kind of loyalty speaks volumes about consistency.

11. Working Man’s Friend (Indianapolis)

Since 1918, this no frills joint has been serving working folks who need hearty food at fair prices. The menu stays simple because they focus on doing a few things really well.

Their double cheeseburger comes smashed flat on the griddle with grilled onions and pickles. Some argue it’s technically a burger, but locals consider it sandwich royalty regardless of definitions.

Counter seating only means you might end up chatting with strangers who become friends over shared meals. The place runs on old school values and genuine hospitality.