The sandwich has been around for centuries, but it was perfected in the last century as a cheap, filling and delicious food for the masses. And while it wasn't invented in the U.S., it's become as much a part of American culture as hamburgers and pizza (which were also invented elsewhere).
If you love a great sandwich, put these sandwich shops on your list of must-visit spots. Some of them are legendary, others are up-and-coming, but they'll all melt your tastebuds like gooey cheese in between roast beef.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Open since: 1930
Rating: 31.6 (based on Tripadvisor reviews)
According to our readers, the Philly cheesesteak is the best sandwich in America. And according to our in-house cheesesteak expert and Philly native, there's no place quite like Pat's.
Yes, we're aware that Geno's fans will be offended, but the truth is the truth. If you want a classic cheesesteak that's been feeding the hungry since the 1930s, make plans to visit Pat's on your next visit to the City of Brotherly Love.
Location: New York, New York
Open since: 1888
Rating: 38.1
When you can call yourself the oldest deli in New York, you earn yourself a spot on every single sandwich list. Opened in 1888, Katz's Deli is the best in the city, and it's not open to discussion.
Go in for the mile-high sandwich and to relive the iconic "When Harry Met Sally" scene filmed here.
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Open since: 2005 (selling from a pushcart since 1995)
Rating: 43.1
Chacarero has become the unlikely king of Boston sandwiches. Yes, the North Shore-style roast beef sandwich is amazing, but it's this Chilean spot that people in the city can't stop raving about.
Come at night to enjoy the charmingly tacky neon signs before biting into a chacarero, made with grilled steak, Muenster, avocado and tomatoes on round bread.
Location: Miami, Florida
Open since: No data
Rating: 51.7
Enriqueta's claims to have the best Cubano in Miami - and the people of the city agree. The laid-back joint is the perfect place to get a cortadito, a small but strong Cuban coffee. Pair it with a sandwich to get a true Miami experience that has nothing to do with the beach.
And while the Cubano is near and dear to our hearts, every sandwich here is absolute perfection.