From the Philly Cheesesteak to the Po’boy: The 25 best sandwiches in the world and the U.S. dominates the list

From hamburgers to sloppy joes, to Po’boys and Philly cheesesteaks, the U.S. is a land of sandwich lovers.

Of course, the U.S. is by no means the only place where sandwiches are eaten—far from it. Most countries have their own specialties and ingredients they pack between bread. Across the world, from workers to schoolchildren, sandwiches fuel societies.

Still, in a list published by CNN of the 25 best sandwiches in the world, the U.S. dominated, with six classics making the ranking. These sandwiches hail from different parts of the vast country, each with its own history, often tracing back to immigrant communities that blended the flavors of their homelands with the ingredients available to them.

First stop: New Orleans

The Muffaletta, from New Orleans, Louisiana, dates back to the late 19th century. It was created by Italian immigrants who packed the sandwich with its namesake bread, olives, Genoa salami, ham, and most commonly, Swiss and provolone cheese.

Also hailing from New Orleans: the Po’boy

According to Parkway Deli’s history of the beloved sub, the Po’boy has roots in American labor history. Brothers Bennie and Clovis Martin opened the Martin Brothers Coffee Stand and Restaurant in 1922 after working as streetcar conductors. In 1929, when the city’s streetcar workers went on strike, the brothers supported them by handing out sandwiches—“poor boys,” which eventually became “Po’boys.”

Parkway’s history of the sandwich claims the original recipe included “fried potatoes, gravy, and spare bits of roast beef on French bread.” Today’s versions often swap roast beef for shrimp or fried oysters and add pickles and fresh vegetables.

Heading east to Florida

The next sandwich on the list is shared between Cuba and the U.S.—the Cubano. Though its roots are Cuban, South Florida, particularly Tampa and Miami, each claims their own take on the classic. For those looking to recreate it at home, the Cubano is simple: ham (boiled or roast pork), pickles, mustard, and Swiss cheese. Cheap, simple, and delicious.

Moving north to the city of brotherly love

The Philly Cheesesteak can be traced back to the early 20th century, though its exact inventor remains unknown. Most believe the sandwich’s roots date back to the 1930s in the East Coast city when two brothers running a hot dog stand decided to try something new—loading a hoagie roll with chopped beef and onions. Little did they know, they were making Philadelphia history.

Up to New England we go

A staple of New England’s cuisine, the Lobster Roll made the cut. With Maine lobster, you can’t go wrong with this sandwich, typically seasoned with lemon juice, mayonnaise, and herbs. That warm goodness is nestled on a hot dog bun, or roll of choice, and best enjoyed during the lobster season, which lasts from June to December.

Last but not least...

The Reuben, a sandwich claimed by various regions, has earned its spot on the list of favorites. Packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a mayonnaise-based sauce, often Thousand Island, this hearty creation has been a culinary staple since the early 20th century. Traditionally served on rye bread, many delis have put their own twist on the Reuben over the years, even substituting corned beef with fish in some variations.

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