The Best Sandwich Shops in the Sacramento Area

Sandwich, sando, sammich, sammie — there are as many names for the portable, bread-and-fillings fare as there are versions of the food itself! Whether bologna or PB&J, lobster or fried eggs, sandwiches are a staple of casual American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any time of day! Sandwiches can be found in every corner of the globe, from Mexican tortas to Italian panini. In China, you’ll find roujiamo, stewed pork in a flatbread bun, and in South America, arepas, fried corn patties stuffed with cheese or other ingredients.

The concept of meat or veggies wrapped in bread dates back to ancient times. But the sandwich as we know it came about in 18th-century England, when John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, ordered beef between two pieces of bread so he could continue his card game without interruption. Its popularity spread throughout Europe and the United States, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Today, sandwiches reign supreme as the most perfectly portable finger food. They are also the top choice when it comes to picnics. With the weather warming up, it’s a great time to explore some of the best sandwich spots the Sacramento area has to offer. Speaking of picnics, U.C. Davis Picnic Day will be held April 20, which is a great excuse to indulge in a sandwich from a local sandwich shop! Following are some options.

Zia’s Delicatessen | Davis

Named best deli in Yolo County, Zia’s in Davis is an old-school Italian spot. Sandwich offerings include everything from salami and provolone to meatball and marinara. They also have specialties such as roast pork and grilled eggplant, plus sides such as pasta salad. Photo courtesy of Zia’s Delicatessen.

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Roxie Deli | East Sacramento

Located in East Sacramento, Roxie is a neighborhood favorite known for their hefty sandwiches and barbecue. Daily barbecue specials include tri-tip and pulled pork, or you can try other popular offerings such as the hot turkey and pastrami or chicken marinara. They also have breakfast sandwiches served all day. Photo courtesy of Roxie Deli.

Timmy’s Brown Bag | Placerville

Looking to try something different? This tiny shop in Placerville has a one-of-a-kind menu. Although options change day to day, they include sandwiches such as apple corned beef with pickled blueberry slaw and boba bubbles, Spam and kimchi, and smoked oysters with pepper bacon. You can even get a strawberry cheesecake sandwich for dessert! Photo courtesy of Timmy’s Brown Bag.

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Roundhouse Deli | Elk Grove

With locations in Roseville and Elk Grove, this local deli has all the classic sandwiches, including a cheesesteak and a BLT. They’re known for their house-smoked tri-tip, which you can order in a taco or on a French roll with barbecue sauce. They also have burgers and breakfast sandwiches. Photo courtesy of Roundhouse Deli. 

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Cracchiolos Market & Deli | Woodland

In operation since 1958, this historic market in Woodland has continued to grow over the years. They now have an old-fashioned butcher shop on premises as well as a deli. You can build your own sandwich or choose from their selection of specialty sandwiches, including Polish sausage, French dip, or Italian sub.

Rim’s Deli | Fair Oaks

This laid-back spot in Fair Oaks offers all the traditional sandwiches: turkey, ham, roast beef, and more. But they are perhaps known best for their hot pastrami, served on toasted bread with melted cheese and a pickle. They also have a lobster seafood sub and BLT, plus several gourmet salads.

The Sandwich Spot & Deli | Roseville

The Sandwich Spot was born in the vibrant neighborhood of Midtown, Sacramento, CA, in 2007. Fast forward to today, and The Sandwich Spot family has grown, stretching their sandwich empire across California and beyond, with over 30 locations including Nevada, Arizona, and Texas. Photo courtesy of The Sandwich Spot.

Dominick’s Italian Restaurant & Deli | Granite Bay

Part restaurant, part deli and market, this family-run spot in Granite Bay has an old-world vibe. Sandwiches take on an Italian spin, and include choices such as eggplant parmigiana, veal cutlet and Italian beef. They also have grilled panini with various cold cuts and cheese. Photo courtesy of Dominick’s Italian Restaurant & Deli. 

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Corti Brothers | Sacramento

This long standing specialty market in Sacramento carries a range of imported gourmet food items. They also have an extensive deli counter where they serve oversized sandwiches. In addition to the classic turkey, salami and ham, they have a meatloaf sandwich, a sausage sandwich and a chicken parmesan sandwich. You can order online ahead of time to save the wait during the busy lunch rush.

North Fork Deli | Auburn

If you’re in the Auburn area, check out the offerings at this family-run deli. You can build your own sandwich or choose from their signature selections, which includes tuna, a Reuben, and an Italian melt. They also have grilled cheese and hot dogs, plus a number of house-made soups.

Duc Huong | South Sacramento

Banh mi is a traditional Vietnamese sandwich made of meat and pickled vegetables on a French baguette. There are many different varieties, but the most popular is grilled pork with carrots, radishes, cucumbers and cilantro. This sandwich shop in South Sacramento has a cult following for its selection of banh mi, which also includes barbecue pork, meatball, sausage, and pork belly. Photo courtesy of Duc Huong.