Level Up Your Lunch
Forget the same old turkey on rye! The DMV's sandwich game is strong, and a fresh wave of innovative shops is serving up anything but ordinary creations. From globally-inspired fillings to comforting classics with a twist, your midday meal is about to get a serious upgrade. We've scoured the area and unearthed five must-try sandwich destinations that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey!
1. Mikey & Mel’s: A Midwestern Hug in a DC Deli
(📍 1828 L St., NW | 🌐 Website)
While Mikey & Mel’s has quickly become a downtown DC darling for its authentic Jewish deli fare, it’s their decidedly non-traditional "Clevelander" that truly stole our hearts. Brothers Aaron and Harley Magden, hailing from Ohio, have crafted a sandwich that's like a cozy Thanksgiving feast nestled between two slices of bread. Imagine succulent, in-house roasted turkey (both honey-glazed and regular!), crispy bacon, creamy provolone, fresh lettuce, and tomato, all slathered with mayo and a vibrant housemade cranberry spread. This isn't just a sandwich; it's a nostalgic, flavor-packed experience that will leave you completely satisfied.
Why it’s a must-try: The unique combination of Thanksgiving flavors in a deli setting. That housemade cranberry spread is a game-changer!
2. Dragon Hero: Slaying Hunger with Creative Heroes
(📍 2016 Ninth St., NW | 🌐 Website)
Step into the vibrant Shaw neighborhood and discover Dragon Hero, a sandwich shop that opened in February with a menu inspired by legendary dragon slayers. While each "hero" boasts its own intriguing personality, it's "The Mario" that deserves your immediate attention. This isn't your average meatball sub. Chef/owner Adam Campbell meticulously crafts a slow-cooked marinara using San Marzano tomatoes and then blends pork chuck, beef chuck, and lamb shoulder for incredibly flavorful meatballs. The secret? A perfectly balanced panade, enriched with Grana Padano cheese for a subtle umami punch. Don't let Campbell's lack of a traditional "nonna" fool you – this sub tastes like it came straight from an Italian grandmother's kitchen.
Why it’s a must-try: The expertly crafted, multi-meat meatballs and the rich, slow-cooked marinara. It's a comforting classic elevated to an art form.
3. Silver and Sons: Reinventing the Reuben with Bold Flavors
(📍 5362 Westbard Ave., Bethesda | 🌐 Website)
The Reuben. A deli staple that demands perfect harmony. At Silver and Sons, a Bethesda storefront blending Jewish deli traditions with barbecue flair, owner Jarrad Silver has masterfully achieved that balance – with a twist. While purists might raise an eyebrow at his unconventional approach (pastrami made from short rib, a dressing born from aïoli and mustard barbecue sauce, and thick-cut rye sourdough), the resulting "Pastrami Reuben" is an explosion of spot-on flavors. Each bite offers a delightful interplay of smoky, tangy, and savory notes that will leave even the most discerning deli aficionado impressed.
Why it’s a must-try: The bold and innovative take on a classic. Silver’s unique flavor combinations are a testament to his culinary creativity.
4. Buffalo & Bergen: Unexpectedly Delicious Hybrid Creations
(📍 3501 Connecticut Ave., NW; 240 Massachusetts Ave., NE | 🌐 Website)
Known for their fantastic bagels and lively bar scene, Buffalo & Bergen also boasts a sandwich that defies expectations: "Silvie’s Big Bun." Owner Gina Chersevani admits that not all culinary experiments work, but this creation at their Cleveland Park and Capitol Hill locations is a resounding success. The star of the show? Cheesy, perfectly griddled pupusas that form the base of the sandwich. These are then generously layered with tender, long-braised brisket and a vibrant jalapeño slaw. Don't forget to ask for extra of chef Silvia Zelaya’s homemade lime crema – it’s the perfect tangy counterpoint to the rich brisket.
Why it’s a must-try: The ingenious use of cheese pupusas as a sandwich base. It's a unique and incredibly satisfying flavor and texture combination.
5. Saigon Rolls: Authentic Bánh Mì from a Hidden Gem
(📍 606 King St., Alexandria | 🌐 Website)
For two decades, Nha Trang has been a beloved, albeit low-key, Vietnamese culinary haven within the Eden Center in Falls Church. Now, its Old Town Alexandria sibling, Saigon Rolls, brings that same dedication to flavor to a new audience. While their spring rolls and vermicelli bowls are excellent, the bánh mì here are a true standout. Expect perfectly toasted baguette subs filled with all the essential crunchy goodness – cucumbers, pickled carrot and radish, fresh cilantro, and a creamy aïoli. The choice of grilled beef or grilled pork elevates these classic Vietnamese sandwiches to a new level of deliciousness.
Why it’s a must-try: The authentic flavors and the perfect balance of textures in their bánh mì. It’s a taste of Vietnam in the heart of Old Town.
So, ditch the boring lunch routine and embark on a delicious adventure through the DMV's exciting sandwich scene. These five spots offer a diverse range of flavors and creative combinations that are sure to leave you craving more. Which one will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!