Sandwich shops are located all around the District, but not all sandwich shops are created equal. If you've ever watched the sitcom "Friends" and listened to Joey rhapsodize about his beloved meatball sub and found yourself nodding in agreement, then you know what I'm talking about.
A great sandwich can have many facets. Many would agree that it starts with the bread, and then is a combination of the right amount of meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomatoes, dressings, and toppings. So with that in mind, to follow is a list of my favorite sandwich shops around town:
- Best Sandwich Place,1801 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006; 202-452-8989. This place uses fresh bread and fresh ingredients and offers a variety of options. If meatball subs are your passion then the Best Sandwich Place will satiate your palate and keep you coming back. Additionally the turkey reuben is another fave. It is consistently good and I can't eat it quick enough. Expect to pay anywhere between $9 and $12 for a sandwich, chips and drink.
- Wagshals, 4855 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington DC 20016; 202-363-5698. This delicatessen is a local favorite. Many of my friends swear by the roast beef Russian and coleslaw and the Sicilian sandwich (Italian sausage, parmesan and mozzarella cheese, fresh herbs, marinara, green peppers and sautéed mushrooms) is one of their grilled sandwiches that gets many kudos. Lunch will run you about $10-$12 depending on what you order.
- The Perfect Pita, 951 N. Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314; 703-683-8805 or 703-683-8806. The Perfect Pita is probably my personal favorite. Their signature pitas are the best, try the veggie delight. You will be impressed with how fresh and warm the pita bread is and how the combination of the melted provolone with the feta cheese makes for a mouth-watering experience. Expect to pay about $10 for a pita, chips and drink.
- Pot Belly Sandwich Works (locations throughout DC). This chain sandwich shop is awesome. The hot peppers really make this sandwich a memorable experience. The Wreck with bacon gets a lot of attention, but I really enjoy the veggie sandwich. Add one of their shakes and you may need a nap after lunch. Lunch will run you about $10-$12.
- Earl's Sandwich, 2605 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA; 703-248-0150. Earl's Sandwich roasts its own turkey, beef and pork and it really does make their sandwiches stand-out. The Louie (freshly roasted turkey, served on toasted ciabatta with lettuce, tomato, and pesto mayonnaise) is awesome, but their BLT served on grilled sourdough makes me think of the sandwiches my mom use to make--pure goodness. Expect to shell out $8-$11 for lunch.
Did I miss your favorite sandwich shop in or around the District? Who do you think has the best sandwiches?