Your Guide to the Best Sandwiches In Austin (Updated for 2024)

Few things in life are as magical as biting into a spectacular sandwich. Luckily, the ATX has no shortage of good-bread-with-things-in-between-them options. In fact, you could literally build an extensive “things to do in Austin” list simply out of sandwich spots. Not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered. As part of the Austin Food Blogger Alliance City Guide, here’s a look at some of the best sandwiches in Austin.

In other exciting news, Toast recently named me one of the top food blogs in Austin! I’m featured alongside some other super impressive people, and it’s one of the coolest honors Phat Phoodies has ever received. Check out the full list here.

You’ll find a map of all these spots at the bottom of the page. I’ve also collaborated with my pal Shveta over at ATX Bites, who has even MORE sandwiches to add to your list. Scroll down to see her selections!

Two Hands

Many places on South Congress are cumbersome to get to, but Two Hands is conveniently located right next to a parking garage. You won’t have to worry too much about circling around in frustration while your dining partner(s) sit in silence, judging your inability to arrive on time. And then, once you sit down, you have a variety of wonderful options. My top pick is the Classic Salad Sandwich, which looks like a rainbow. I’m not sure if it tastes like one, too, though I’d say it comes pretty close.

1011 South Congress Ave., Suite 170, Austin, TX 78704

Walton’s Fancy and Staple

I somehow just discovered Walton’s within the past few years, but I sure am glad I did. It’s easy to walk by without realizing it, yet they should be near the top of any Austin best sandwiches list. Tucked away amidst the constant construction on 6th Street, Walton’s Fancy and Staple has plenty of goodies. Grab an avocado toast that is so eye-catching it’s almost a shame to eat it. Pick up a sweet like the Honey-Bee Cake (honey almond cake, mmmm) or the Cream Cheese Brownie.

But let’s be real – the reason you’re here is for sandwiches, and Walton’s does not disappoint. My personal favorite is the Turkey Sweet – turkey, applewood smoked bacon, white cheddar, and caramelized onion-apple chutney (yum) with maple aioli (double yum) on a croissant. But with caprese, reuben, freebird chicken, and a whole host of other options, you really can’t go wrong. And if you don’t find something you like on the menu, you can build your own sandwich. What flexibility!

609 West 6th Street, Austin, TX 78701

Biderman’s Deli

Back when I was a young lad, I would come home from school and follow the same routine. I’d watch cartoons and have a bagel. Sliced and toasted, with peanut butter on one side and cream cheese on the other. This is by no means the best dietary plan to follow, but it sure was delicious. The reason I’m giving you this pinch of nostalgia is because Biderman’s has some DAMN fine bagels. They’ve taken it to the next level, though, and use them as the basis for their breakfast sandwiches. Whether you’re a fan of Classic Lox or want to spruce things up a bit with PB Nutella & Banana or the Salami Scramble, you’re gonna have a good time.

Likewise, the deli options are no joke. The Far West Club is probably my top jam, but they have options for just about every protein preference imaginable. So pull up a chair, order a sandwich, and chow down like you’re a Chain Chomp.

3742 Far West Blvd, #101, Austin, TX 78731

Kerbey Lane

Who’da thunk I used to live basically across the street from one of the best sandwiches in Austin? Kerbey Lane always has the Chicken Pesto Panini on its menu (that grilled rustic Italian bread, tho). However, it’s the seasonal menus that really make Kerbey Lane’s sandwiches stand out. Literally every time they come up with one of these limited-time things, I find a sandwich like their spring pear and bacon panini that makes me drool all over the table. And then it’s awkward because someone walks by and is like, “huh, why is that table so wet?” And I have to pretend like I don’t know why. But of course, I DO know why. It’s because of Kerbey Lane. My recommendation would be to bring a few extra napkins – and a hefty appetite.

Multiple locations around Austin

Loro

Before the pandemic, our office would routinely hit up Loro for happy hour. It was within walking distance, and there is SO MUCH outdoor space. It’s glorious. For the longest time, we’d only get drinks (shout out to the Mango Sake Slushee) and appetizers like Chicken Karaage and Corn Fritters.

It took me a hot minute to finally try a sando, though I’m certainly glad I did. That Slow Smoked Turkey Breast sandwich is…*chef’s kiss* I mean, look at it! It’s bursting at the seams with flavor, just waiting for a hungry belly and eager mouth to take it on.  

2115 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Bouldin Creek Cafe

Most of the items on Bouldin Creek Cafe’s menu are (or can be made) vegan. When I’ve mentioned this to friends, a few of them flee in terror, thinking there’s no way these vegan sandwiches can be good. Naturally, I am no longer friends with those people. Bouldin Creek has a great environment, and they pair that with great food that doesn’t try to imitate meat – it just tastes good.

Their Veggie Royale is among the most popular (get the chipotle-pecan pesto), but with things like the Bello Jiafra Melt and the Kool Hummus Sandwich, your lunch is as much fun to say as it is to stuff into your mouth.

1900 South 1st Street, Austin, TX 78704

Forthright Cafe

Forthright’s outdoor patio is a lovely experience any time of year. Yet this spot is on this list for one huge reason: the Waffle Sandwich is SUPREME. Bacon, gruyere, an over-easy egg, and maple syrup. In case the name didn’t give it away, this is all between two delightful waffles. If you want to go really wild, you can throw some fried chicken on there, too. You can also go gluten-free on the waffle if need be. It’s one of the best sandwiches in Austin, so don’t hesitate. Just go to Forthright and enjoy your life.

35 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Austin Rotisserie

My first experience with Austin Rotisserie was during a visit to Infinite Monkey Chimp. And while wine pairs well with these lil’ sandwiches, you know what else pairs well with them? Literally anything, or even nothing at all. In fact, you may not want to fill up on any drinks. These sandwiches are so freakin’ tasty and provide a nice twist on traditional French cuisine. While their chicken is their most popular item, their rôtisserie tacos and baguette sandwiches are the true hidden gems. Austin Rotisserie is now located in Fareground Austin, but never fear — the sandwiches are still great.

111 Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78701

Grilled Cheese Kitchen

This is cheating a little bit, but if you’re not ready to go out to eat (or don’t live in Austin), you can still knock out a good sandwich at home. How? By picking up a copy of this book focused all on grilled cheeses. Grilled Cheese Kitchen: Bread + Cheese + Everything in Between by Heidi Gibson, Nate Archer, and Antonis Achilleos explores everything you could ever want to know about grilled cheeses (one of my favorite types of sandwich) and then some. Sure, you could slap some meat and cheese on a couple of slices of bread and call it a day, but we can get more creative than that. This book has a ton of good ideas to help out with your home cookin’.

And there you have it! My list of Austin best sandwiches – or at least some of the best sandwiches in Austin, since there are so many amazing places in the ATX.

The Best Sandwiches According to Shveta at ATX Bites

Few people are as sandwich-obsessed as me, but Shveta at ATX Bites knows WHAT’S UP with the sandos. She’s got a terrific selection, too, so don’t forget to check out Shveta’s list over on ATX Bites.

What’s tops on your list? Let me know in the comments below or on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.

You know what goes even better with sandwiches? Podcasts (and drinking)! I host the Parks n Wrecked podcast, and I’d love for you to check it out. Subscribe below on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts.

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