Brisket to Bánh Mì: 17 Must-Try Nashville Sandwich Spots

Nashville has seriously stepped up its sandwich game in recent years — think expertly layered classics, inventive new topping combinations, and locally-made breads that fill your stomach and your soul. Whether you’re into brisket, bánh mì, or a next-level BLT, these must-try spots make a convincing case for planning your day around lunch. Oh, and there are fantastic vegan options, too!

*Listed in alphabetical order

51st Deli

Neighborhoods: The Nations & West End
What to order: The Reuben, 51st Philly
More Info: 51stdeli.com

The beloved 51st Deli is a laidback gem serving everything from breakfast sandwiches to heartier, hot options. There are over 25 sandwiches on the menu, and you can even create your own combo. The 51st Philly is a bit of a local legend, stacked with freshly cut rib-eye (or chicken), gooey American cheese, grilled onions and peppers, all on a hero roll.

You can also go classic with the Reuben, which features corned beef, Swiss, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island on marble rye. The deli uses Boar’s Head meats and cheeses, so you know it’s the real deal.

A classic Reuben sandwich with corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted cheese on rye bread, served on Boar's Head branded paper. — While there are certainly more inventive options at 51st Deli, you can’t go wrong with a classic Reuben. Image: Facebook

All’Antico Vinaio

Neighborhoods: The Gulch & Midtown
What to order: La Paradiso, L’Inferno
More Info: allanticovinaiousa.com

All’Antico Vinaio officially landed in Nashville in May, and yes, the hype is real. The legendary Florentine sandwich shop offers thick, crusty schiacciata (a Tuscan flatbread that’s kind of like a thin, and crispy focaccia) and over-the-top Italian fillings. Fan favorites like L’Inferno (porchetta, nduja cream, grilled vegetables, and arugula) and La Paradiso (Mortadella, stracciatella, pistachio cream, and pistachio) are here in all their glory.

Of course, you should also try the Nashville-exclusive: the “Italian Hot,” a fiery twist on hot chicken with turkey, nduja, and Calabrian hot honey.

Two stacked sandwiches on ciabatta bread, one with sliced chicken and sauce, the other with prosciutto, cheese, and fresh greens — All’Antico Vinaio keeps it simple: bold Italian flavors, layered high on their signature schiacciata bread. Think creamy spreads, salty prosciutto, roasted veggies, and tender meats. Image: All’Antico Vinaio

The BE Hive Deli & Market

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: Nashville Hot Chxn Sandwich
More Info: thebehive.com

Who says meat-eaters should have all the fun? The BE Hive in East Nashville is proof that plant-based fare can still pack a punch. This all-vegan deli and market serves indulgent sandwiches like The Picnic (roast beef, cheddar, bacon, tomato, lettuce, onion, chips, and house-made sauce on a baguette) and a killer Reuben — all made with their house-crafted seitan.

In fact, the seitan is so good that you’ll find it on sandwiches at other local shops like Mitchell Delicatessen. And while Nashville tends to overdo it on the hot chicken dishes, the plant-based Nashville Hot Chxn Sandwich is hands-down the crowd favorite.

SB Tip: The BE Hive’s market carries the best selection of vegan meats and cheeses around.

A close-up of hands holding a cheesesteak sandwich filled with plant-based meat, vegetables, and melted cheese, with sliced jalapeños and sauce containers nearby—just like the delicious options at top sandwich shops in Nashville. — The BE Hive rotates the menu often, but keep an eye out for the Jalapeño Monster Cheesesteak with BE Hive Roast BEef, bacon, peppers, onions, pickled jalapeño and vegan cheese on a Charpier roll. Image: Facebook

Bill’s Sandwich Palace

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: Whatever’s in rotation!
More Info: billssandwichpalace.com

Bill’s rotates sandwiches more than most of us rotate our tires, so it’s tough to name just one must-try. It feels like a cop-out to say you can’t go wrong, but if the bun fits …

Look out for hits like Badass Bill’s Beef with Bear Creek Farm braised chuck roast, caramelized onions, horseradish mayo, and pickled veggie giardiniera, or the Cauli Shore, a crispy, saucy cauliflower number with gochujang, scallion and celery slaw, and green goddess ranch. These sandwiches are playful, bold, and never boring.

A sandwich with sesame seed bun, sliced turkey, creamy sauce, shredded lettuce, red onion, guacamole, cheese, and potato chips set against a black background. — Look at this beauty! Bill calls her the Rachel Green, and she’s filled with oven-roasted turkey breast, melty caramelized cheese, cider vinegar slaw, crunchy Sour Cream & Cheddar Ruffles potato chips, chili crisp garlic dill pickles, and dijonnaise. Image: Facebook

Brotherly Love Cheesesteaks

Neighborhood: The Nations
What to order: The Cheesesteak
More Info: brotherlylovecheesesteaks.com

Brotherly Love Cheesesteaks brings an authentic taste of Philly right to the heart of Nashville. Their classic cheesesteak is a fan favorite. Think thinly sliced center-cut ribeye, perfectly grilled and topped with melted cheese, all tucked into a fresh Amoroso roll shipped straight from Philadelphia. It’s simple, satisfying, and true to its roots. For a no-frills, flavor-packed bite, Brotherly Love delivers the real deal.

A sandwich roll filled with sliced beef and chopped onions is served on a metal tray with a red pepper on the side—a classic option at top sandwich shops in Nashville. — Sink your teeth into an authentic Philly cheesesteak. Image: Facebook

Duke’s

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: Salsalito Turkey, Duke’s Italian
More Info: dukesbarnashville.com

Duke’s in East Nashville keeps the deli vibes chill and the sandwiches stacked. Favorites like the Salsalito Turkey (with its spicy, smoky, sriracha kick) and the loaded Duke’s Italian are local go-tos for a reason. Feeling picky? Build your own from a solid lineup of meats, cheeses, and toppings. It’s casual, classic, and hits the spot every time.

A favorite at sandwich shops in Nashville, this sandwich comes with sliced meat, lettuce, and sauce on a bun, served alongside potato chips and a yellow pepper. — Be sure to check out what sandwich specials are on tap … Image: Facebook

East Side Bánh Mì

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: The No. 1
More Info: eastsidebanhmi.com

At East Side Bánh Mì, Chef Gracie Nguyen brings big flavor to a deceptively simple sandwich. Each one starts with a house-baked baguette and builds from there — fried shallot mayo, pickled veg, Maggi drizzle, and all the crunch you crave.

The No. 1 is a classic: ham hock terrine, pâté, and smoky bologna. But don’t sleep on the veggie sandwich with chili crisp tofu and roasted eggplant; it holds its own. It’s Vietnamese tradition with a healthy dose of East Nashville swagger.

A person holding a banh mi sandwich filled with meat, cilantro, vegetables, and sauce on a baguette—a delicious find at one of the best sandwich shops in Nashville. — It’s a meatball sub, reimagined. The “Xiu Mai” features roasted and smashed Impossible meatballs topped with julienned carrots, cilantro, and other delicious goodies. Image: Michael David Rose

FatBelly Pretzel Bakery & Deli

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: The Hamma Mia
More Info: fatbellypretzel.com

Get ready for some seriously fun signature sandwiches. FatBelly Pretzel only has half a dozen options, but every single one offers bold flavors on fresh-baked bread. The Hamma Mia is the running favorite, with shaved ham, Genoa salami, creamy mozzarella, and artichoke spread on sourdough focaccia. This combo gets fired up with spicy Italian chili crisp, a balsamic drizzle, and peppery arugula. It’s salty, spicy, savory, and just the right amount of fancy.

A hand holds up a thick deli sandwich filled with sliced meats, cheese, and pickled vegetables, showcasing why sandwich shops in Nashville are a must-visit, with an outdoor market and building in the background. — We’re still standing by our Hamma Mia recommendation …. but look at this mufuletta! Image: Facebook

Grilled Cheeserie

Neighborhood: Hillsboro Village
What to order: The Pimento Mac & Cheese Melt
More Info: grilledcheeserie.com

The Grilled Cheeserie is a beloved Nashville staple, serving up nostalgic comfort with a gourmet twist. Build your own grilled cheese or dive into fan favorites like the Pimento Mac & Cheese — housemade pimento cheese, white cheddar, macaroni, tomato, and Benton’s bacon on sourdough. It’s best paired with classic tomato soup for the ultimate throwback. And don’t miss our runner-up, the bold Quesabirria Melt, loaded with birria beef, white cheddar, cumin-lime aioli, and served with rich dipping juice.

A close-up of a grilled sandwich from one of the top sandwich shops in Nashville, filled with macaroni and cheese, tomato slices, and bacon pieces on patterned paper. — Housemade pimento cheese + macaroni = all things nostalgic and delicious. Image: Facebook

JamBox Sandwich Shop

Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston & Franklin
What to order: The Californication
More Info: jamboxdeli.com

There’s some legit sandwich art going on at JamBox Deli, where you can get fun combos with ingredients like apple butter jam, potato chips, and wontons (though not all together). The reigning fan favorite is The Californication, a spicy little number loaded with pulled chicken, pepper jack cheese, jalapeño slaw, Doritos, and red hot chili pepper jam. Get ready; it’s totally addictive.

A sandwich from one of the top sandwich shops in Nashville, filled with sliced turkey, coleslaw, and potato chips, sits in front of a boombox with snack bags visible in the background. — Check out the Cranberry Linger, a Thanksgiving-esque sammy with turkey, cheddar, bacon, Alabama white slaw, potato chips, and cranberry jam. Image: Facebook

Little Gourmand

Neighborhood: Berry Hill & Green Hills
What to order: Classic Jambon de Paris, Campagnard
More Info: littlegourmand.us

If you’re a fan of French sandwiches, this is your next lunch stop. It isn’t a designated sandwich shop, per se (you can grab everything from quiches to pastries to caviar), but if you’re a lover of authentic baguettes layered with simple ingredients that make you feel like you’re on a picnic in Provence, you’re in for a treat.

For us, the top choice is a toss-up between the traditional Jambon de Paris (butter, ham, and Gherkins) and the Campagnard (chicken, Dijon mustard, mayo, dried apricots, almonds, tarragon, Romaine lettuce, and tomato). With a macaron or two for dessert, naturally.

A baguette sandwich filled with lettuce, tuna salad, and sliced tomatoes on a wooden surface. — If you’re a tuna fan and can catch it on the menu, The Brittany is a beautiful baguette topped with tuna salad, Romaine lettuce, and sliced Roma tomatoes. Image: Facebook

Little Hats

Neighborhood: Germantown & Franklin
What to order: Sausage, Pepper & Onions, Eggplant Parmesan
More Info: littlehatsmarket.com

If you’re craving a sandwich that tastes like Nonna cooked it, head to Little Hats Market. The Sausage, Pepper & Onions is a smoky, saucy dream with roasted sausage, pesto rosso, and just enough salsa verde to make you question your life choices (in a good way).

Not to be outdone, the Eggplant Parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and gloriously melty. And both are stuffed into a killer Italian sub roll that will have you swooning. Of course, you can also find everything from a classic Caprese to the Mortadella Mufuletta.

Bonus: There’s a legit Italian market inside stocked with fresh pasta, sauces, olive oils, and everything else you need for an authentic Sunday supper.

An open Italian sandwich from Little Hats Market, featuring roasted veggies. — How gorgeous is this seasonal sandwich with roasted veggies? Image: Fresh Creative Studios

Mitchell Delicatessen

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket, Asian Flank Steak
More Info: mitchelldeli.com

I genuinely don’t know how to choose a favorite here, but my go-tos are the Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket and the Asian Flank Steak. The Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket is a masterpiece, loaded with house brisket, onion jam, and lime mayo on a perfect Silke’s hoagie. The Asian Flank Steak is piled with marinated steak, provolone, and house-made giardiniera for some crunch. Vegetarians, the Seitan Supreme is super tasty and features BE Hive seitan!

Also worth trying: French dip with au jus and the turkey brie — savory, sweet, and a little fancy without trying too hard. There’s also a soup and salad bar, and you can snag some locally sourced market items, too. They stock everything from Drew’s Brews coffee to Benton’s bacon and stone-ground grits.

A sandwich from one of the top sandwich shops in Nashville, featuring turkey, cheddar cheese, tomato slices, sprouts, and sauce between two pieces of toasted bread on a wooden surface. — If anyone can elevate a turkey and cheese sandwich, it’s Mitchell Deli. Rumor has it this sandwich sells four times more than any other. Nicknamed by the staff as “The Sandwich That Built Mitchell Deli,” the Turkey Avocado (with Benton’s bacon!) is a show-stopper. Image: Facebook

Music City Sandwich Company

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: Build your own!
More Info: Instagram

In February, musician Jason Eskridge opened Music City Sandwich Co., introducing East Tennessee-style steamed sandwiches to the area. The shop offers a build-your-own sandwich experience, allowing you to select your preferred bread (Charpier’s white bread or pumpernickel rye), meats (including turkey, ham, roast beef, and bacon), vegetables (from lettuce and tomato to banana peppers and sauerkraut), and sauces (think deli mustard, horseradish, and hot honey).

Jason grew up near Knoxville and was inspired to fill the local void of steamed sandwich options reminiscent of his upbringing. The shop’s motto is “Hunger is not a game,” and we’re here for it.

A close-up of a sub sandwich from one of the top sandwich shops in Nashville, featuring dark bread, sliced deli meats, melted cheese, shredded lettuce, and onions. — At Music City Sandwich Co., you can build your own masterpiece. There are endless possibilities! Image: Facebook

Spread Market & Larder

Neighborhood: Germantown
What to order: The daily special
More Info: spreadthings.com

Spread Market & Larder in Germantown keeps things fresh with daily sandwich specials (one meaty, one not), so there’s always something new to look forward to. Think combos like Italian ham with peaches, mozzarella, and fig vinegar on a Tuesday, or Sunday’s knockout: chorizo, pimento cheese, and pickled green tomato. It’s thoughtful, seasonal, and always layered with flavor. Come for lunch, leave planning your next visit.

A hand holds two stacked sandwiches—like those from top sandwich shops in Nashville; the upper features chicken, cucumber, and herbs, while the lower boasts sliced meat and cheese on crusty bread. — Sandwiches are pre-made and ready for grab-and-go from the cooler. Gluten-free sandwiches can be made by request. Image: Molly Peach

Tower Market & Deli

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: The East Nasty
More Info: towerdelimarket.com

Sandwiches abound on the Tower Market & Deli menu. We’re talking over 40 options for sandwiches alone, so you aren’t running out of choices anytime soon. While it’s tough to select a favorite, one of the most popular is the East Nasty, and it’s more than just a fun name. Sink your teeth into spicy breaded chicken breast, capicola ham, jalapeño bacon, pepper jack cheese, and sabi sauce on a ciabatta roll.

A hand holds a halved sandwich filled with shredded meat, melted cheese, and vegetables. Cheese stretches between the halves, with a grassy yard and fence in the background. — If you’re up for more exotic flavors, try the Lamb Philly, with Tower‘s seasoned roasted leg of lamb, provolone cheese, grilled peppers, onions, and Moroccan harissa on a hero roll. Image: Facebook

Turkey and The Wolf Ice House

Neighborhood: East Nashville
What to order: Fried Bologna, Collard Green Melt
More Info: turkeyandthewolficehouse.com

Turkey and the Wolf Ice House landed in East Nashville a few months ago, bringing its quirky New Orleans charm to 800 Meridian Street. This counter-service spot is a nostalgic nod to the ’90s, complete with playful decor and outdoor picnic seating. The menu features bold, flavor-packed sandwiches like the iconic Fried Bologna — griddled bologna with hot mustard, mayo, American cheese, and a heap of potato chips on thick toast. But the most talked-about sandwich may be the Collard Green Melt, with slow-cooked collards, Swiss cheese, pickled cherry pepper Russian dressing, and coleslaw on toasted rye. It’s a funky, flavor-forward experience that’s quickly becoming a local favorite.

A stacked sandwich with layers of greens and egg on toasted bread is served on a colorful plate, reminiscent of the delicious offerings at sandwich shops in Nashville, with a red building in the background. — This collard greens melt is the stuff of dreams. Image: Facebook

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17 Must-Try Nashville Sandwich Spots!