7 Massachusetts Sandwich Shops That Rank Among America’s Best

Sandwiches can be more than a quick bite. When made with care, they become an affordable way to enjoy craft and flavor.

Massachusetts has shops where layers of bread and filling tell stories of heritage, creativity, and pride. While big chains stay busy, these local places win national recognition.

Here are seven Bay State sandwich shops worth the trip.

1. Maes Sandwich Shop (Marshfield)

Along the South Shore, this shop has earned loyal fans with hearty subs stacked high. Cold cuts are sliced fresh each day. Breads come crusty and warm, making every sandwich feel substantial. Regulars often call it the best in the region.

Classic Italian subs mix salty meats with tangy pickles and crisp lettuce. Roast beef sandwiches bring tender slices with sharp cheese. Maes proves simplicity shines when ingredients are handled with care.

2. Sam LaGrassa’s (Boston)

Downtown Boston lines form quickly outside this famous deli. Sandwiches here tower with cured meats, cheese, and house-made spreads. Rye bread often carries pastrami or corned beef piled impossibly high. Every bite feels big, bold, and satisfying.

Recipes come from decades of deli tradition. Generous portions match the city’s appetite for flavor. Visitors leave stuffed and certain why it ranks among the best.

3. Cutty’s (Brookline)

This Brookline favorite is known for sandwiches built with chef-level precision. Seasonal produce fills rolls with bright flavors. Roast beef and fried chicken options headline the menu, both done with finesse. The small shop buzzes with energy at lunchtime.

House-baked bread supports fillings without overwhelming them. Sauces add brightness or richness, depending on the choice. Cutty’s balances neighborhood comfort with culinary skill.

4. Chacarero (Boston)

Boston’s Chacarero introduced a Chilean specialty to New England. Soft rolls cradle grilled chicken or steak layered with beans, avocado, and cheese. Green beans add crunch, setting it apart from standard sandwiches. Sauces bring heat and freshness in equal measure.

This creation reflects immigrant heritage carried proudly into the city. Customers line up daily for flavors rare in most American delis. Chacarero brings global influence into Boston’s streets.

5. Family Delicatessen (Maynard)

In Maynard, this old-fashioned deli keeps things traditional. Cold cuts, cheeses, and salads line the counter for custom orders. Italian grinders remain the favorite, loaded with meats and sharp provolone. Portions fill rolls generously without skimping.

The atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. Recipes have changed little over decades. Family Delicatessen continues to serve sandwiches with heritage and heart.

6. Drop Cafe (Haverhill)

North of Boston, this cafe stands out for its balance of coffee culture and sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch menus both shine. Bagels and pressed sandwiches highlight fresh vegetables and rich spreads. Cozy interiors invite lingering with a drink and a bite.

Turkey and cheese options show creativity with seasonings and sauces. Plant-based fillings appeal to modern tastes while staying flavorful. Drop Cafe offers variety while keeping standards high.

7. Mike & Patty’s (Boston)

Tucked into Boston’s Bay Village, this small shop draws crowds for breakfast sandwiches. Eggs, cheese, and meats fill buttery English muffins. Unique combinations like jalapeño jam or avocado bring modern twists. Lines form early for morning meals worth the wait.

Everything feels indulgent yet balanced in flavor. Portions stay manageable while flavors shine boldly. Mike & Patty’s elevates the simple breakfast sandwich into something memorable.