The vast selection of sandwiches across Los Angeles and the broader Southland continues to offer Angelenos plenty to discuss. Whether it's classic French dips, old-school Italian subs, or modern twists on a Reuben, the region maintains a "no shortage of sandwich excellence." Local diners, it seems, "can’t get enough of bread layered with varied and hearty ingredients." An Altadena native, Mona Holmes, emphasizes that the "bread, meat, condiment, and cheese ratio is always key" in a good sandwich, while also expressing a soft spot for the long-standing legendary sandwich makers of Los Angeles.
Among the latest additions to the must-try list are West Hollywood’s Italian specialist Mamie, Chinatown’s late-night focaccia sandwich stand Frank & Frank’s, and two notable options from Echo Park’s Henrietta. While making room for new contenders, some beloved spots have taken a step back. Phil’s Deli & Grill is no longer featured, nor is Highland Park’s Delicias Bakery and Some, which closed in June 2026.
Frank & Frank’s, a new Chinatown shop from Brian Ayala and Howlin’ Ray’s veteran Mario Aguilar, offers a tight menu that includes a spicy Italian with salami and stracciatella crema, or the Nostalgia with turkey and candied bacon. For those out late, it serves sandwiches until 1:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Over in Long Beach, A&J Seafood Shack's beef stick sandwich is a menu mainstay that stands out without a single piece of seafood, featuring lemongrass-scented beef, a carrot and green papaya slaw, and a rich sriracha mayo on a toasted hoagie.
For those who prefer a classic, Langer’s in Westlake continues its tradition with the No. 19 pastrami, a Jewish deli sandwich served on house-baked rye with Russian dressing, cheese, and coleslaw, complete with a crisp pickle spear. Nearby, Philippe the Original remains a Los Angeles institution, famous for its beef double-dip, made with tender roast beef and a heavy dose of salty jus. Located a short walk from the Union Station shuttle to Dodger Stadium, Philippe's maintains sawdust floors and prepares sandwiches to order, making it feel like "time hasn’t passed."
Mike’s Deli, with locations in View Park-Windsor Hills and Little Tokyo, prides itself on expertly layered, thinly sliced meats, with the hot club sandwich being a standout, featuring maple-glazed honey turkey and avocado. In Echo Park, Henrietta offers a hearty mushroom French dip and a turkey porchetta sandwich, available on gluten-free Vesti focaccia. Meanwhile, the Heights Deli & Bottle Shop in Lincoln Heights is noted for its chicken Parm sub, alongside a selection of natural wines and canned beer.
