Lunch can feel like the most dull and tedious meal of the day, especially when you’re eating leftovers or the same homemade peanut butter and jelly day after day. If breakfast is the most important meal, and dinner is a communal family affair, what does that make lunch? Usually, the meal we rush through, skip, or scarf down a bland and forgettable dish. However, with these local sandwich shops, you can make your lunch break feel more like a pick up instead of a let down.
These five delis and restaurants offer your favorite sandwiches piled high with delicious meats, cheeses, and toppings. And who doesn’t love a sandwich? We just want something a little more amped up than our homemade creations. Serving all your classic favorites and some new picks as well, these sandwich shops will quickly become your fix for that lunchtime slump.
Earl’s Sandwiches
Earl’s has been a community staple in Arlington for over 15 years. Referring to their meals as “homemade without the hassle,” Earl’s makes all their soups and sauces from scratch and roasts all the meats for their sandwiches daily — no cold cuts here. Breakfast sandwiches are available all day long for those who can’t get enough of their bacon, egg, and cheese. Earl’s has all your classic sandwich combos, like Earl’s Turkey Club and Roast Beef and Cheddar, as well as some new offerings that you might not find elsewhere, like their pesto salmon or lightly breaded eggplant. With fresh ingredients and sandwich options for all, you really can’t go wrong with Earl’s. 2605 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
South Street Under
When you enter South Street Under, don’t be surprised to be greeted by the delightful smell of freshly baked bread. A bakery that has expanded to include breakfast and lunch, South Street Under knows that a good sandwich starts with good bread. The deli menu includes options like daily soups, fresh salads, and hot and cold sandwiches served on homemade ciabatta or rye. And if you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, it also offers a range of cakes and pastries. It’s the best of all worlds. 203 Harrison St., Leesburg
The Sandwich Shop
A quaint restaurant in the heart of Vienna, The Sandwich Shop is a classic lunch spot known for its great service and comfortable atmosphere. The sandwich selection is massive and even includes a separate section for vegetarian sandwiches, with creations like Broccolini and sun dried tomato that sound even better than your classic cold-cut sandwiches. But that doesn’t mean The Sandwich Shop lacks in familiar favorites. Check out the Italian, chicken salad, or Reuben. The outdoor patio also provides a lovely place to get out of the office and have a true lunch break. 132 Church St. NW, Vienna
Sandwich Republic
Known for homemade ciabatta bread, Sandwich Republic is a classic family-owned sandwich joint with all the usuals (Italian, roast beef, tuna salad), and some unusuals — shrimp salad and tandoori chicken breast. Its bright, colorful salads make a fine addition to any sandwich, or a whole meal by themselves. Check out the catering service for your next office lunch — everyone will enjoy these fresh sandwiches made with the finest ingredients. 7020 Old Keene Mill Rd., Ste. C, Springfield
Chutzpah Deli
Looking for an authentic New York deli here in Northern Virginia? Check out Chutzpah Deli. The menu is huge — you could eat here for months and get a different order each time, with options from bagels, omelets, soups, salads, burgers to entrees, like chicken parmesan and Wiener schnitzel, in addition to their expansive sandwich menu. But go the authentic route, and try something undeniably New York, like the classic Reuben or Matzo Ball Soup. Be sure to follow the deli’s “Six Simple Rules” of eating New York-style, including never asking for mayo on corned beef, pastrami, or brisket. 12214 Fairfax Town Center, Fairfax
Feature image by Alice Levitt
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