Cincinnati’s official sport might be cheering for the Bengals, but we’ve perfected a more delicious tradition: sandwich hunting. This is either because our city takes its bread seriously, or (more likely) because we need something substantial to soak up all that local craft beer. If you’re in the latter camp, these are the spots that make the search worthwhile—where every bite justifies the journey.
Tom & Chee
$ | (513) 873-7889 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving comfort food and want to actually indulge, swing by Tom & Chee and then get a grilled cheese. The line during lunch can get pretty long, so stopping by on a quiet afternoon is a smart move. You’re obviously here for the West of Philly sandwich (think gooey cheese and savory meat, but all of the grilled cheese options are pretty solid too. You probably shouldn’t miss out on the creamy tomato soup either. You earned it.
Red Fox Grill
$ | (513) 621-7924 | WEBSITE
Everyone raves about the riverfront views in downtown Cincinnati, but as far as we’re concerned, the real draw is Red Fox Grill. Because there’s truly no better way to cap off your morning errands than to eat your weight in comfort food once you’re done. The bacon cheeseburger is absolutely the star of the show, but the fish sandwich is the quiet champion and also deserves your attention.
Izzy’s – Elm Street
$ | (513) 721-4241 | WEBSITE
After you’ve explored Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine district, make the most of being in the neighborhood and get to Izzy’s. It’ll hit the spot when you’re craving a classic deli experience and the good Reuben sandwiches that come with it. It’s right on Elm Street, so your meal comes with a great local vibe.
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings
$ | (513) 914-5030 | WEBSITE
You want a meal that’s indulgent enough to feel like a proper cheat day, but satisfying enough that you won’t regret it afterward. Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings is the answer. While we normally head here for a quick lunch, the full spread at this classic sandwich spot in Cincinnati is worth your time to. It involves everything from bourbon cheesesteaks and Philly cheesesteaks to garlic Parmesan wings and ultimate fries.
Chef’s Cafe World Famous Chicken Salad
$ | (513) 779-2323 | WEBSITE
Lunch breaks are busy, Chef’s Cafe is breezy. It’s the kind of unpretentious sandwich spot that’s tough to match anywhere else in Sharonville. They have incredible roast beef wraps (served warm) and cucumber tomato mozzarella salads, and pretty much everything here holds up beautifully. Grab your order for a quick office meal or savor it once you’ve settled at your desk.
McAlister’s Deli
$ | (513) 914-0771 | WEBSITE
In Cincinnati, the winter chill can put a damper on your weekend plans. McAlister’s Deli is perfect if you’ve endured errands that were colder/longer/more tedious than you expected and need a Sweet and Smokey Chicken sandwich with Mac and cheese to properly recover. They also have some of the city’s best baked potatoes.
Izzy’s
$ | (513) 825-3888 | WEBSITE
Izzy’s inspires the sort of selective memory people develop about their favorite childhood diner. You overlook the occasional sticky table during the lunch rush and dismiss the slightly tricky front doors, because it’s the food at the end of the counter that makes every minor inconvenience vanish. Primarily because it’s waging a noble campaign for the enduring supremacy of the Reuben in a city increasingly crowded with artisanal options.
This spot also dishes out pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and those legendary potato pancakes.
Penn Station East Coast Subs
$ | (513) 772-7366 | WEBSITE
Your East Coast relatives are visiting, and you’re determined to show them that Cincinnati has sandwich game too. Start with a stroll through Findlay Market to prove there’s more to food scenes than Philly’s Reading Terminal, and make a stop for lunch at Penn Station East Coast Subs. Almost every sub on the menu is solid enough to satisfy even the most particular sandwich critic, but we’re partial to the Italian and the Philly Cheesesteak.
They also have a great selection of fresh-cut fries, so bring a friend and make sure to share an order.
Potbelly
$ | (513) 793-4520 | WEBSITE
There are as many sandwich shops in Cincinnati as there are anywhere else in the country, and Potbelly is one of our favorites. This is where to head when you’ve just finished a big project and need a reliable meal to refuel.
Chicken Salad Chick
$ | (513) 388-9111 | WEBSITE
Sometimes after a long morning you just need the most satisfying lunch possible. This is where Chicken Salad Chick comes in. Grab a chicken salad sandwich to enjoy, and then explore the sides. We’re very into the broccoli salad, but you’d be missing out if you skip the frosted sugar cookie.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (513) 474-4344 | WEBSITE
Jersey Mike’s Subs is a classic place to stop pre- or post-errand. Their sandwiches are big enough to fuel your afternoon, but if you want something with a little more freshness to it, go with the veggie or gluten-free options. And throw in an extra side in case you start to feel a little hungry and need something to jumpstart your appetite.
