6 Must-Try Florida Sandwiches That Not So Many People Know About
The food scene in Florida goes way beyond the famous Cuban sandwiches and seafood platters. Hidden in neighborhood corners and family-owned shops are sandwich masterpieces that locals treasure but tourists rarely discover.
I’ve spent years hunting down these bread-wrapped wonders, and today I’m sharing my absolute favorites that fly under the radar. Get ready for a mouthwatering tour of Florida’s secret sandwich scene!
1. 903 Mills Market – Orlando
Nestled in Orlando’s historic Milk District, this neighborhood gem serves sandwiches that locals guard like precious secrets. The “Grateful Bread,” their Thanksgiving-inspired creation, combines roasted turkey, cranberry relish, and herb stuffing into a portable feast.
The market’s cozy porch makes the perfect spot to devour their Monte Cristo, a sweet-savory masterpiece that’s dipped, fried, and dusted with powdered sugar. Pure sandwich sorcery!
2. Bad As’s Sandwiches – Orlando
With a name that perfectly describes their creations, this former food truck turned brick-and-mortar spot doesn’t mess around. Their namesake sandwich combines slow-roasted pork and beef with pickled vegetables and house aioli on fresh-baked bread.
I still dream about “The Knight” – a magnificent stack of ribeye, bacon, and tater tots (yes, TOTS!) drizzled with saffron aioli. It’s a beautiful mess that requires both hands and several napkins.
3. Cousin Vinny’s Sandwich Shop – Tampa
Don’t be fooled by the strip mall location – Cousin Vinny’s creates sandwich magic behind its modest storefront. The “Bella Bruschetta” changed my understanding of what chicken sandwiches could be.
Crispy chicken cutlets meet fresh mozzarella, tomato bruschetta, and a balsamic glaze that ties everything together in perfect harmony.
Grab extra napkins for this one – the juicy goodness has no respect for clean shirts!
4. Brocato’s Sandwich Shop – Tampa
This Ybor City landmark has survived since 1948 for one simple reason: they make Cuban sandwiches that haunt your dreams. While tourists flock to more famous spots, locals know Brocato’s is where the real magic happens.
The perfect press creates a crispy exterior that gives way to melty cheese and succulent meats. Their devil crab croquettes make the perfect side – spicy, crunchy heaven that complements their sandwiches perfectly.
5. La Segunda Central Bakery – Tampa
The secret weapon in La Segunda’s sandwiches isn’t fancy ingredients or special sauces – it’s the bread. This historic Ybor City bakery produces Cuban bread so legendary that restaurants across Florida have it delivered daily.
Their Media Noche (midnight sandwich) keeps me coming back again and again. I once drove two hours just for this sweet-bread Cuban variation!
The contrast between the soft, slightly sweet bread and savory fillings creates perfect sandwich harmony.
6. Camel Rider Sandwich – Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s best-kept culinary secret isn’t found in trendy bistros but in unassuming delis across the city. The Camel Rider – a uniquely Floridian creation born from Jacksonville’s Arab-American community – stuffs cold cuts, cheese, and Italian dressing into a pita pocket.
Simple yet extraordinary, this regional specialty delivers perfect bites where the soft pita, savory meats, and tangy dressing create sandwich harmony. Find authentic versions at The Sheik or Village Bread Cafe.