The Absolute Best Sandwiches in Arlington VA [Updated 2025]

You know that feeling when you take a bite of a sandwich and it’s like a flavor explosion? That’s what I live for, and after scouring Arlington’s culinary scene, I’m thrilled to share my top picks. I’ve tasted and tested twelve incredible spots that elevate the humble sandwich to a work of art.

With years spent exploring the nooks and crannies of this vibrant food town, I’ve developed a keen palate and a knack for spotting the best bites. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, trust me—you won’t want to miss these mouthwatering creations. Let’s dive into the deliciousness that Arlington has to offer!

Earl's Sandwiches

Highlights
Fantastic turkey club
Cozy atmosphere
Made-to-order sandwiches
Flavorful Cuban Club
Cane soda fountain machine

Earl's Sandwiches: A Taste of Arlington's Best

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Arlington, Earl's Sandwiches is a haven for sandwich aficionados like myself. Walking through the door, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere that instantly felt inviting. The aroma of fresh bread and sizzling meats swept me off my feet, setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience.

I couldn't resist trying their fantastic turkey club—a quintessential classic that truly lives up to the hype. Each layer bursts with flavor, making each bite a savory delight. But my adventure didn’t stop there! I dove into the flavorful Cuban Club, where savory pork and tangy pickles danced playfully with the melty cheese. It’s a sandwich that will transport you straight to the colorful streets of Havana with every mouthful.

What makes Earl's stand out, however, is their dedication to made-to-order sandwiches, ensuring freshness at every turn. To top it all off, I indulged in a carbonated delight from their (cane soda fountain machine)—a quirky touch that brought nostalgia to my palate.

In my humble opinion, Earl's Sandwiches is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Arlington's best. Grab a sandwich and savor the magic!

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Ahra Cafe & Sandwich

Highlights
Clean and efficient environment
Freshly carved roast turkey
Best breakfast burrito in town
Friendly and lovely staff
Great quality at amazing prices

During my recent culinary adventure in Arlington, I stumbled upon Ahra Cafe & Sandwich, and it proved to be a delightful surprise! The moment I stepped in, I was struck by the clean and efficient environment—a perfect backdrop for any food exploration.

I decided to go for their freshly carved roast turkey sandwich, and oh my, it was a revelation! Each slice was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. I don’t say this lightly, but I think Ahra might just serve the best breakfast burrito in town—a delicious morning concoction that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is energizing.

What truly sets this cafe apart is the friendly and lovely staff who made me feel right at home. Their genuine warmth complements the delightful meal, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes you want to linger. And let’s talk about value—Ahra Cafe offers great quality at amazing prices, a rare find in today’s dining scene.

If you're searching for a sandwich that hits all the right notes without breaking the bank, I wholeheartedly recommend you make your way to Ahra Cafe & Sandwich. You won’t regret it!

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Sugusto Sandwich and Coffee

Highlights
Best Breakfast Bagel Sandwich
Fresh Cracked Eggs
Delicious NY Style Chopped Cheese
Unique and Inviting Decor
Highly Recommended Dining Experience

Sugusto Sandwich and Coffee is a culinary gem tucked away in Arlington, VA, and if you're anything like me—a sandwich aficionado—you'll want to mark this spot on your map! As soon as I stepped inside, the ambiance struck me with its unique and inviting decor, blending contemporary vibes with a cozy feel. It was the perfect backdrop for the delicious adventure that awaited.

Now, let me tell you about their best breakfast bagel sandwich. Imagine fresh cracked eggs enveloped in a perfectly toasted bagel, with just the right amount of creaminess that dances on your palate. But if you’re feeling indulgent, their NY style chopped cheese is an absolute must-try. This sandwich is a flavor-packed delight that encapsulates the heart of New York right here in Arlington!

The experience was complemented by the warm atmosphere and friendly staff, making it highly recommended for anyone looking for a satisfying bite. Sugusto proves that the perfect sandwich is not just about ingredients; it's about the entire dining experience. So, grab your friends and head over—you won’t regret it! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

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Bub and Pop's

Highlights
Exceptional Italian Hoagie
Massive sandwich portions
Flavorful pasta salad
Friendly and accommodating staff
Featured on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives

Bub and Pop's has become a staple for sandwich lovers, and let me tell you, it’s a delicious destination! As soon as I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread enveloped me, immediately igniting my appetite. They are renowned for their exceptional Italian hoagie, which is like a symphony of flavors in each bite. The hoagie is generously stacked with layers of deli meats, cheeses, and vibrant veggies, all piled high to create a sandwich that’s not just a meal but an experience.

What truly impressed me were the massive portions—you definitely get bang for your buck here. Even their pasta salad, a delightful sidekick, is infused with bold flavors, making it hard to resist finishing every last bite.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and I must commend the friendly staff for being so accommodating. It's no wonder this gem was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives! If you're in Arlington, make it a priority to visit Bub and Pop's; it’s a treasure trove of tasty sandwiches that’ll have you coming back for more. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Superette

Highlights
Best sandwich shop in Arlington
Tender pastrami and short rib
Awesome cocktails
Chic urban atmosphere
Moist and juicy pulled pork

Superette in Arlington, VA, is a sandwich haven that effortlessly takes the prize for one of the best sandwich shops in the area. For starters, their tender pastrami and short rib sandwich had me questioning if I’d ever need another meal again. Each bite revealed layers of flavor that seemed to dance on my palate—juicy and aromatic, as if they knew just how to awaken my taste buds.

The atmosphere is equally delightful; it boasts a chic urban vibe that perfectly complements its gourmet offerings. You can't help but feel a sense of excitement when you're surrounded by fellow sandwich enthusiasts.

Now, let’s not forget about the moist and juicy pulled pork—this dish is as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly day. Pair it with one of their awesome cocktails, and you’ve got yourself a dining experience that’s both playful and sophisticated.

Overall, Superette is a delightful culinary destination where every sandwich feels like a carefully crafted masterpiece. If you find yourself in Arlington, this gem is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the art of a truly great sandwich!

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Bozzelli's Italian Deli-Crystal City

Highlights
Delicious Philly cheese steak
Fast service, friendly staff
Cozy grab-and-go establishment
Exceptional pickle pizza
Extensive menu options

Bozzelli's Italian Deli-Crystal City truly captures the essence of a quintessential sandwich shop! As I walked in, the cozy atmosphere welcomed me like an old friend, and the friendly staff made the experience even better with their warm smiles. I had high expectations, especially for their Philly cheese steak, which did not disappoint. Every bite was a heavenly medley of flavors, with perfectly melted cheese enveloping succulent slices of meat.

Another delightful surprise was their exceptional pickle pizza—who would have thought that pickles on pizza could create such a symphony of taste? The crunchiness of the pickles paired with the cheese was unexpectedly addictive, leaving me wanting more.

Service was impressively swift, which I appreciated, as I was in a bit of a hurry. It’s the kind of place that has you dreaming about your next visit while trying to finish your meal! With an *extensive menu of Italian delights, Bozzelli's is a true gem in Arlington. If you’re hunting for a sandwich that offers both satisfaction and a bit of fun, you must stop by Bozzelli's; you won't regret it!

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Poppyseed Rye

Highlights
Bacon Cinnaroll Sandwich
Incredible cheese steak
Kind and welcoming staff
Beautiful in-store decor
Relaxing environment

Poppyseed Rye is a delightful gem nestled in Arlington, VA, and I must say, it left quite an impression! Upon entering, I was instantly captivated by the beautiful in-store decor that creates a welcoming atmosphere—perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy gathering.

Now let's talk sandwiches! The Bacon Cinnaroll Sandwich is a must-try; it’s a delightfully unexpected combination that plays with savory and sweet in the most delightful way. Then, I had to sample their grilled cheese steak, a dish that truly stands out with its rich flavor profile and melty cheese that oozes perfection with every bite. I could hardly contain my excitement!

What really stood out, however, was the staff—super kind and ready with recommendations, adding a personal touch to the experience that one rarely encounters these days.

Whether you're seeking a serene spot to unwind or craving an unforgettable sandwich adventure, Poppyseed Rye will not disappoint. It’s definitely a top contender in the quest for the best sandwiches in Arlington! Treat yourself; you won’t regret it!

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Chelsea Market & Deli

Chelsea Market & Deli is a hidden gem that surprised my taste buds. Their classic Reuben is a hearty masterpiece, featuring perfectly stacked layers of tender corned beef and tangy sauerkraut, all embraced by toasted rye that adds just the right crunch. The secret home-made dressing drizzled on top elevates each bite to heavenly heights! The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel like part of the family. If you’re in Arlington and craving a sandwich, don’t miss this charming spot—it’s a delicious adventure waiting to happen!

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New Yorker Grill

At New Yorker Grill, I felt like I had stepped into a bustling deli right from the streets of Manhattan. The pastrami on rye was a delightful masterpiece—generously layered with juicy pastrami, perfectly complemented by a tangy mustard that kicked things up a notch. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, reminding me of classic NYC charm. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff added to the experience, making it hard to resist indulging in a second sandwich! For anyone craving a taste of the Big Apple, the New Yorker Grill's sandwiches are simply unmissable.

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Paramount Café

At Paramount Café, I discovered a sandwich paradise tucked away in a cozy ambiance. The signature roast beef sandwich burst with flavor, boasting tender meat and a zesty horseradish mayo that danced on my palate. The fresh, crusty bread complemented the filling perfectly. I also savored their delightful Caprese panini, which was a symphony of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all grilled to perfection. The vibe is inviting, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch. All in all, Paramount Café serves up sandwiches that are as enchanting as they are delicious—definitely a must-try in Arlington!

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The Italian Store

Upon entering The Italian Store, the aroma of fresh bread and cured meats instantly enveloped me like a warm hug. I opted for their renowned Italian sub, which is a delightful symphony of salami, capicola, and provolone, perfectly balanced with crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes. Each bite was a savory explosion, accented by their zesty house dressing. The baguette was crusty yet pillowy, holding everything together like a loyal friend. If you're searching for a delicious escape, this spot is a must-visit. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful adventure!

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Jetties

At Jetties, sandwiches transcend the ordinary. I indulged in the Jimmy’s Favorite, a delightful fusion of fresh turkey, crisp lettuce, and their signature sauce—each bite was a flavor explosion! The homemade bread is soft yet sturdy, perfectly cradling flavorful fillings. The atmosphere was welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch or leisurely bite. If you're on the hunt for a gourmet sandwich experience in Arlington, Jetties is an absolute must-visit. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this delectable adventure!

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