9 Texas Sandwich Shops You’ve Got To Try And 3 That Totally Steal The Show
Texas truly knows how to build a sandwich worth remembering! From the bustling streets of Houston to the creative kitchens of Austin, and every hidden gem in between, the Lone Star State is home to some of the most mouthwatering sandwich joints in the country.
Each stop offers its own unique twist—whether it’s smoky barbecue piled high, freshly baked bread stacked with savory meats, or bold flavors that surprise you with every bite.
I’ve spent years exploring, tasting, and savoring sandwiches across Texas, and now I’m thrilled to take you on this flavorful journey to nine amazing spots and three legendary shops you’ll never forget.
1. Kenny & Ziggy’s Delicatessen – Houston
Walking into Kenny & Ziggy’s feels like teleporting straight to New York City! The sandwiches tower so high you’ll need to unhinge your jaw like a snake.
My first bite of their famous Reuben changed my sandwich standards forever. Piled with warm corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, it’s a masterpiece between rye bread.
The owners brought authentic deli traditions to Texas, and boy, am I grateful! Their matzo ball soup makes a perfect sidekick to any sandwich. The portions are enormous – expect to leave with tomorrow’s lunch boxed up.
2. East Side King’s Thai-Kun Sandwiches – Austin
Flavor explosion alert! East Side King’s Thai-Kun sandwiches marry Texas and Thailand in the most delicious wedding ever. The brainchild of chef Paul Qui combines unexpected ingredients that somehow make perfect sense together.
Their pork melt knocked my socks off with its sweet, spicy, and savory notes dancing across my palate. The bread gets perfectly toasted while still maintaining that crucial softness inside.
Food truck roots give this place authentic street food vibes. Don’t miss their Thai fried chicken sandwich – the crispy exterior gives way to juicy meat that’s been marinated in a secret blend of herbs and spices.
3. Weinberger’s Deli – Grapevine
Holy meatballs! Weinberger’s Deli in Grapevine boasts a menu with over 150 sandwich combinations. The tiny shop packs big flavors into every creation, leaving first-timers wonderfully overwhelmed by choices.
My personal obsession? The Messy Bessy – roast beef, turkey, and ham with all the fixings. Owner Dan Weinberger often works behind the counter, sharing sandwich wisdom accumulated over generations.
The walls display quirky sandwich-themed memorabilia collected over decades. Each sandwich comes with its own personality and backstory. Grab extra napkins because these beauties live up to the ‘messy’ reputation – in the most delicious way possible!
4. Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop – Dallas
Gobble gobble goes my happy tummy! Capriotti’s Bobbie sandwich – essentially Thanksgiving between bread – makes me grateful year-round. Fresh turkey roasted in-house daily creates a world of difference compared to processed deli meat.
Founded by siblings Lois and Alan Margolet in 1976, Capriotti’s named their shop after their grandfather. The Dallas location maintains the family tradition of quality ingredients and generous portions.
Cranberry sauce adds tangy sweetness while stuffing brings herby comfort to each bite. Their cheesesteaks deserve a shoutout too – juicy and packed with flavor. The shop’s bright, clean atmosphere makes lunch feel like a mini vacation.
5. Noble Sandwich Co. – Austin
Bacon lovers, rejoice! Noble Sandwich Co. cures and smokes their own bacon in-house, and the difference will blow your mind. Their commitment to handcrafted ingredients extends to everything – breads, condiments, and pickles.
The PBLT (pork belly, lettuce, tomato) converted me from a bacon purist to a pork belly enthusiast. Chefs John Bates and Brandon Martinez elevate sandwich-making to culinary artistry.
Every component gets thoughtful treatment here. The duck pastrami sandwich features meat that’s been cured for days before smoking. Even their veggie options pack serious flavor punches. Come hungry – these sandwiches mean business with their hearty portions and robust flavors.
6. Katz’s Delicatessen – Houston
Midnight sandwich cravings? Katz’s famous slogan “Katz’s Never Kloses” means you can satisfy your pastrami urges 24/7! The Houston institution (not related to the NYC namesake) serves up enormous sandwiches that’ll feed you for days.
Their cheesecake-thick slices of pastrami stack higher than Texas skyscrapers. The restaurant’s retro diner atmosphere adds nostalgic charm to your dining experience.
Late-night visits here saved me during college exam weeks. Something magical happens when you bite into their hot pastrami at 3 AM! The pickle bar lets you customize your crunchy sides. Order the Reuben egg rolls for a delicious fusion appetizer before your sandwich arrives.
7. Carshon’s Delicatessen – Fort Worth
Step back in time at Carshon’s, Fort Worth’s oldest deli operating since 1928! Jewish deli traditions thrive in this unassuming spot where regulars have occupied the same tables for decades.
The chopped liver sandwich might sound adventurous to some, but trust me – it’s a revelation of rich, savory goodness. Family recipes passed down through generations make every bite taste like history.
Homemade pies tempt you from glass cases as you wait for your sandwich. Their chicken salad contains a secret ingredient that’s sparked many friendly debates among locals. The no-frills interior hasn’t changed much over the years – and that’s exactly how the loyal customers like it!
8. ThunderCloud Subs – Austin
Austin weirdness meets sandwich perfection at ThunderCloud Subs! This local chain feels anything but corporate, with each location sporting funky decor and staffed by folks who embody Austin’s eclectic spirit.
My college budget survived thanks to their affordable yet substantial sandwiches. The New York Club became my weekly reward after tough classes – turkey, bacon, and avocado creating the perfect flavor trifecta.
ThunderCloud sponsors Austin’s annual Turkey Trot, having donated over $4.1 million to Caritas of Austin. Their veggie delight satisfies even dedicated carnivores with its fresh crunch and zesty hummus. The wheat bread has a slightly sweet note that complements every ingredient combination they offer.
9. Jason’s Deli (original in Beaumont) – Beaumont
Before Jason’s Deli became a nationwide sensation, it started as a humble Beaumont shop in 1976. The original location maintains that special hometown feeling that bigger chains often lose.
Their muffaletta transported me straight to New Orleans with its olive mix and perfectly balanced flavors. Founder Joe Tortorice Jr. created a menu focused on quality ingredients before it became trendy.
Free ice cream with every meal? Yes please! The salad bar stretches longer than a Texas highway. Their commitment to removing artificial trans fats, high-fructose corn syrup, and MSG from all menu items makes this guilt-free comfort food. The potato soup paired with half a sandwich creates the ultimate lunch combo.
10. Franklin Barbecue (brisket sandwich) – Austin
Worth every minute of the infamous three-hour wait! Franklin Barbecue’s brisket sandwich steals the show with meat so tender it practically melts before touching your tongue. The first time I bit into this smoky masterpiece, I actually closed my eyes and mumbled something embarrassingly close to a love confession.
Pitmaster Aaron Franklin earned his James Beard Award by obsessively perfecting his smoking technique. The simple white bread serves as the perfect humble stage for the star performer – that legendary brisket.
Even barbecue snobs from other states grudgingly admit Franklin’s superiority. The sandwich comes unadorned – no sauce needed when the meat speaks such eloquent volumes. Add house-pickled onions for a tangy contrast that elevates it to sandwich immortality.
11. La Barbecue – Austin
Girl power meets smoke power! La Barbecue, founded by LeAnn Mueller of the famous Mueller barbecue family, proves women can smoke meat with the best of them. The El Sancho sandwich knocked me sideways with its audacious combination of brisket AND pulled pork.
The line moves faster than Franklin’s, but the quality rivals the best. Their house-made chipotle slaw adds spicy, creamy crunch that complements the meat perfectly.
Originally operating from a food truck, La Barbecue now has permanent digs while maintaining its rebel spirit. The staff treats you like family from your first visit. Their homemade pickles provide the perfect acidic counterpoint to the rich, smoky meat – grab extra if offered!
12. Louie Mueller Barbecue – Taylor
Smoke-blackened walls tell the story before you even taste the food! Louie Mueller Barbecue in tiny Taylor has been perfecting their craft since 1949. The brisket sandwich comes with a pepper-crusted bark that makes spice lovers weep with joy.
My pilgrimage to this barbecue mecca changed how I evaluate all smoked meat. Third-generation pitmaster Wayne Mueller maintains the time-honored traditions while subtly evolving the craft.
The dining room’s patina comes from decades of smoke absorption – you’re literally breathing in barbecue history! Their enormous beef ribs make fantastic sandwiches too. The simple white bread and onion slices follow Texas tradition, letting the expertly smoked meat remain the undisputed star of this sandwich show.