Best sandwiches in Sydney: top picks you must try
If you’re looking for the best sandwiches in Sydney, you are in for a treat. From big schnitzel rolls in Darlinghurst to Japanese katsu sandos in Surry Hills, Sydney is home to plenty of spots offering tasty, top-notch lunch options. Favourites like South Dowling Sandwiches, Good Ways Deli, and Marrickville Pork Roll have earned cult followings for good reason. Whether you are in the mood for something classic or a delicious twist, the sandwich scene in Sydney can provide the best lunch fix. In this article, we uncover the best places to grab a cracking sandwich in Sydney for the ultimate lunch experience.
Why people are obsessed with Sandwiches
Sydney’s obsession with sandwiches isn’t just about quick grab-and-go options or a smorgasbord of choices; it is also about nostalgia, creativity, and flavour. There are cafés across Sydney that are inspired by craft traditions from around the globe, mixing different flavours from home to create something comforting and familiar that is also different. Given the current pressures of the cost of living, a good quality sandwich from cafés in Sydney can also offer good value, especially if it is piled high with quality ingredients.
Best Sandwich spots in Sydney
Here’s a curated list of the best sandwich spots in Sydney, where flavour, creativity, and love come together:
1. South Dowling Sandwiches
Famous for a heap of schnitzel stuffed between a fluffy Sicilian-style sandwich. The chilli chook and classic schnitty are local favourites that’ve earned cult status in the neighbourhood.
2. Kosta’s Takeaway – Rockdale, Rosebery & CBD
Greek-style takeaway selling tuna melts, pastrami stacks and grilled sourdough creations. Mass amounts, small price.
3. Marrickville Pork Roll – Marrickville, Haymarket
Cult-favourite authentic Vietnamese banh mi – crunchy baguette loaded with roast pork, pâté, pickles, and chilli.
4. Sandoitchi – Darlinghurst
Japanese milk bread sandwiches done well! Try the prawn katsu or pork tonkatsu with house-made mayo and shredded cabbage!
5. Small’s Deli – Potts Point
An elegant, modern deli with fresh paninis and some standout veggie options like “The Al Green” with avo, kale and apple.
6. Norma’s Deli – Manly
A beachside Greek deli selling focaccia sandwiches with lamb, labneh, pickled onion and rocket. Big, bold and filling.
From classic to creative: The best Sandwiches for every type
If you want something more traditional or something more out there, here is a list of top sandwiches by style:
- Classic chicken schnitzel – South Dowling Sandwiches
- Banh Mi – Marrickville Pork Roll
- Japanese katsu – Sandoitchi
- Vegan option – Small’s Deli (the Al Green panini)
- Gourmet deli – Good Ways Deli
- Focaccia by the beach – Norma’s De
Top tips for tracking down a cracking sandwich in Sydney
- Don’t stay in the CBD: Places like Marrickville, Newtown and Redfern have all the hidden gems and innovation at an affordable price.
- Look at the specials board: Many delis and cafes have a seasonal rotating sandwich menu or daily specials, which might just surprise you!
- Ask locals: The food-loving folk of Sydney are sure to know the best hole-in-the-wall joint that is not reported on in the news.
Tips for discovering your perfect sandwich in Sydney
Here are some points for discovering your perfect sandwich in Sydney
- Check the daily specials: Many cafes around Sydney produce sandwiches that are in limited runs, often rotating based on seasonality or just the chefs’ inspiration.
- Get in early: Many of the best sandwiches from Sydney will sell out by 1–2 pm; this is even more so for weekends.
- Think about drinks: Different drinks can add to the whole lunch experience, so try and put your sandwich with a fresh juice, cold brew, or even a craft soda.
- Don’t forget small places: Some of the best sangas are from hole-in-the-wall takeaways and food vans/adaptable trucks.
Final thoughts
Saying Sydney has the best sandwiches is no overstatement—flavour, creativity, and variety are everywhere. The sandwiches can be simple or constructed like a deli or a hybrid of both, depending on what kind of flavours, textures and sensations you’re chasing. Hunting down the ideal sandwich, whether you’re a local or just visiting, is the kind of trip well worth the ride. Sydney has so many great picks in every neighbourhood, filling customers with sandwich happiness.