Who doesn’t love a good sandwich? No one I’d trust with my life, that’s for sure.
There’s something downright magical about the right combination of bread, meats, cheeses, and condiments that makes you feel like you’re biting into happiness itself.
Whether it’s a perfect Reuben with just the right balance of sauerkraut and Swiss, a loaded Italian sub, or a breakfast sandwich so good it convinces you that eggs might just be the most versatile food in existence, Central Ohio’s got it all.
As a self-proclaimed sandwich aficionado, I’ve scoured the area to bring you the best spots to satisfy all your sandwich cravings. Here are the must-visit sandwich spots in Central Ohio where every bite is better than the last!
Must-Have Sandwiches and Sandwich Spots
1. Wario’s Beef and Pork
If you’re in the mood for a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich, Wario’s Beef and Pork is the spot. This gem in the heart of Columbus is famous for its epic sandwiches like the Chicken Caesar—a twist on the classic salad, but obviously better because it’s between two pieces of bread (a semolina stick, to be specific). Don’t miss their Cold Cut, stacked high with all the meats your deli-loving heart desires. And let’s not forget their Cheesesteak, which you should definitely get Wario’s Way—loaded with melted white American cheese and sharp provolone for the perfect gooey, cheesy bite. You can practically feel the East Coast influence in every bite, and trust me, it’s worth every calorie.
2. Katzinger’s Delicatessen
No list of the best sandwich spots in Central Ohio would be complete without Katzinger’s. This deli is the holy grail for anyone with a love for traditional, old-school sandwiches. Their Reuben is a classic, piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on freshly baked rye. It’s the kind of sandwich that requires two hands and maybe a napkin or two. Katzinger’s doesn’t just stop at Reubens; their menu is filled with all the Jewish deli staples your heart (and stomach) could desire, from pastrami on rye to turkey clubs that redefine what a sandwich can be.
3. The Brown Bag Deli
898 Mohawk St, Columbus, OH 43206
Nestled in the charming German Village, Brown Bag Deli offers a quaint yet satisfying sandwich experience. The vibe is as comforting as their sandwiches are delicious. You’ll find classics like the Roast Beef sandwich and more adventurous options that cater to all taste buds. It’s the kind of place where you feel like every sandwich is made just for you, with love and a bit of deli magic. Brown Bag Deli is where your taste buds go when they need a hug.
4. Si Señor
For a little Latin flair in your sandwich game, Si Señor is your go-to. They specialize in Latin-inspired sandwiches, particularly the Chicharron Peruano, which features delicious and tender chunks of Peruvian-style fried pork shoulder, pickled red onions (salsa criolla), and sweet potato mayo. Each bite is a journey to sandwich nirvana, and the flavors will transport you to the streets of Lima, even if you’re just sitting in downtown Columbus. Trust me, this place knows how to pack a sandwich with flavor!
5. Deli-Licious
141 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
This small but mighty deli is big on flavor and personality. Located downtown and only open for lunch, Deli-Licious is a staple for working professionals who need a delicious midday pick-me-up. While their menu isn’t readily available online, this spot is beloved for its fresh ingredients and classic deli vibes. It’s the kind of place that makes your workday lunch feel just a little more special.
6. Fox In The Snow Cafe
While Fox In The Snow is best known for its coffee and pastries, it’s their Souffléd Egg Sandwich that truly steals the show. Picture this: a fluffy egg soufflé, candied bacon, Swiss cheese, arugula, and dijon cream all nestled between a perfectly toasted ciabatta. It’s a breakfast game-changer that’ll make you a morning person if you weren’t already. And let’s be real—anything with “soufflé” in the name is automatically fancier and more delicious.
7. Bears Bagels
4142 Main St, Hilliard, OH 43026
Bears Bagels brings the NYC bagel experience right to Ohio, and it’s the perfect spot for when you’re in the mood for a great sandwich with a bagel twist. The GoldieLox is a must-try, topped with pastrami-rubbed lox, garlic & chive schmear, pickled red onion, tomato, cucumber, and fresh dill on a toasty everything bagel. It’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all in one gloriously chewy and savory bite.
8. Valter’s at the Maennerchor
976 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206
Located in the historic Maennerchor building, Valter’s is a blend of old-world charm and modern comfort food. They’re renowned for their Reuben and French Dip sandwiches, both of which are practically dripping with deliciousness. The Reuben is a perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory, while the French Dip, served with au jus, is the kind of sandwich that makes you wonder why every sandwich doesn’t come with a dipping sauce.
9. Hoagie City
3870 Main St, Hilliard, OH 43026
If you’re on a quest for the best hoagie in Central Ohio, look no further than Hoagie City. Their menu is stacked with the kinds of sandwiches that make you rethink everything you thought you knew about hoagies. Whether it’s a classic Italian or something more adventurous, this spot has your hoagie needs covered. Their sandwiches are stacked super high with incredible portions of meat, so make sure you grab a few extra napkins!
10. Yogi’s Hoagies
1274 Morse Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
Yogi’s Hoagies takes sandwiches seriously, and it shows. Their menu features classics like the Italian Hoagie, loaded with meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomato, and Yogi’s special dressing—it’s a spot that never disappoints. While there isn’t a Buffalo chicken or turkey club here, their selection of hoagies and sandwiches is top-notch, and each is crafted with care.
11. Vincenzo’s Convenient Elegance
6393 Sawmill Rd, Dublin, OH 43017
This Italian market isn’t just about pasta and olive oil—Vincenzo’s also crafts some of the best Italian sandwiches in town. Their Italian sub is a standout: between slices of crusty, fresh-baked bread are four layers of meats and two layers of cheese topped with crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, mild banana peppers, and their own special dressing. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a whole experience that transports you straight to Italy.
12. Marlow’s Cheesesteaks
93 N High St, Gahanna, OH 43230
For the cheesesteak lovers out there, Marlow’s is where you need to be. This spot is dedicated to perfecting the art of the cheesesteak, and their version will transport you straight to Philly. The sandwiches here are loaded with tender steak, gooey cheese, and just the right amount of grilled onions and peppers. It’s everything you could want in a cheesesteak and more, all served on a perfectly crusty roll that holds up to all the deliciousness inside. Even native Philadelphians are jealous of these cheesesteaks!
13. India Oak Grille
590 Oakland Park Ave, Columbus, OH 43214
It may be best known as a neighborhood watering hole, but India Oak Grille also serves up one of the best Italian Subs in Central Ohio. It’s a hidden gem you wouldn’t expect from a place like this, but the sub is anything but basic. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, packed with all the classic Italian flavors you love.
14. La Super Torta
721 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
If you haven’t tried a Mexican torta yet, what are you even doing with your life? La Super Torta’s Torta Pastor is a must-try, packed with marinated pork, pineapple, mayonnaise, black beans, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. The Torta Adobada is another standout, featuring marinated pork, mayonnaise, black beans, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. It’s a flavor explosion that’ll have you coming back for more. And if you’re not into pork, there are plenty of other options to keep your taste buds entertained.
15. Piazza Pelino
772 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
For a touch of Italian elegance in every bite, Piazza Pelino serves up the Il Top sandwich, which features Mortadella, Pistacchio di Bronte DOP pesto, Stracciatella, and pistacchio granella. It’s a unique combination that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about sandwiches. Each sandwich feels like it was handcrafted just for you—because it is! The focaccia bread is as fresh as it gets, as it’s baked every single morning, and every single ingredient is sourced directly from Italy. This is the kind of place where each sandwich feels like it was made just for you, with flavors that dance on your tongue like a group doing the Tarantella.
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!
Final Thoughts
There you have it, folks—a sandwich lover’s dream list right here in Central Ohio. Whether you’re craving a classic Reuben, a loaded Italian sub, a breakfast bagel, or something with a little more flair, you can find it on our list. So, grab your napkins, loosen that belt, and dive into the best sandwiches Central Ohio has to offer. Because life’s too short to eat bad sandwiches, am I right?
Yes. Yes I am.
