The Most Delectable Sandwiches in Washington

Della J's Delectables

★★★★☆ 4.3 (927) • $$

"I ordered 2 individual Thanksgiving meals from Della J's this year. The meal options sounded good so I went with a white meat turkey meal and a brisket meal. Each meal came with a choice of bread (I selected cornbread for both) and 2 sides (choose from the regular menu). I knew it was a lot of food but I wanted options and to try a few things from this restaurant.I didn't like that individual meals had to be ordered the day before TG as takeout meals. That meant they were hot so you had to reheat them for TG, while the meals for larger parties came chilled with reheating instructions. It's like those ordering individual meals were being treated differently (and not in a good way). On to the ordering process. I called around 12:30pm the day before TG and was told they were backed up and to call back in an hour. I called back more than an hour later and got the busy signal a few times and the call wouldn't go through. Now I was getting nervous that I might be left without a plan if I couldn't get through. But finally did get through and placed my order. Had to provide a credit card over the phone for payment. I was told the order would be ready in about 20 to 25 minutes and received a text in about that amount of time.I picked up my order and when I asked if there were reheating instructions was told no. I do think the customer service could be a little friendlier. Anyway, I checked that everything was there and left. Food smelled good on the drive home too.Fast forward to TG day. I decided to heat it up in the oven instead of the microwave. I was excited to eat but the food left me underwhelmed. First off why in the world they put the gravy on the turkey knowing people would be reheating it the next day, I don't know. It seemed to create a plastic like seal after reheating. Kinda gross looking. Overall the food had just a little flavor but I was expecting more for a restaurant like Della J's. I tried not to add salt but once I did, things tasted a little better (and I'm not one to overly salt my food). Out of everything, the best were the sweet potatoes and the cranberry sauce. I've had brisket elsewhere and this one seemed to be cooked in a bbq-like sauce that was just ok. The most disappointing was the Mac & cheese. Very very greasy and also lacked flavor. The cornbread was dry, but after using butter and sprinkling with salt, it tasted better.I hate to say it but Della J's did not satisfy my TG food craving."

Federalist Pig

★★★★☆ 4.3 (879) • $$

"Considering how crazy packed this week was-FP's service was perfect. We met friends for drinks before heading out for dinner. The location was loud-and I loved it"

Full On Craft Eats & Drinks

★★★★★ 4.5 (688) • $$

"Service with a smileTake a trip to value townAll-in on Full OnFrench Dip, Le Pilgrim, ClubWhatever you pick, they're all dubsRings top notch, no snubsGot my order wrongFood runner was MVPSaved and made my day."

Banh Mi DC Sandwich

★★★★☆ 4 (869) • $

"The mayo.And the price, size, and satisfaction of the perfectly harmonized flavors = perfection."

Bagels Etc.

★★★★☆ 4.3 (691) • $

"Great place: quality food, good prices, friendly and efficient staff and service. Ambiance is good. I stop by between jobs in the morning when in that area: quick in and out: get coffee and bagel. Coffee is good quality/tasty, bagels always fresh and crispy (toasted), fresh cream cheese/lettuce/tomato/onion and sometimes lox... Thank you."

Stachowski's Market

★★★★☆ 4.4 (647) • $$

"Was dying to try this place since I saw it on Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix. While on a trip to DC, went into the cool Georgetown area. This is a corner shop in a pretty neighborhood. The young guy at the counter was friendly, service is really important to me. I ordered the grinder sandwich. It's huge, a great value and delicious! Its on really good bread, loaded with meat, cheese and veggies. It took me two meals to finish it. Can't find anything like this back home in Honolulu.Bonus: Jamie, the owner that was on Feed Phil, walked in and took a pic w me at my request. He was really nice and made the visit all the more memorable."

Zorba's Cafe

★★★★☆ 3.9 (803) • $$

"This was a second trip to Zorba's. The first was my friend's 1st time having Greek food ever and they won her over. So now the second time I visited we had to go back. This time since we were with a few friends we did basically an enhanced sampler as they have a sampler but we also added the spicy whipped feta and a pizza. I think overall my favorites were the tabouleh, tzatziki and feta. We also had a few Greek beers and sat upstairs and chatted for almost 2 hours it was such a great experience and good time."

Pizzeria Paradiso Georgetown

★★★★☆ 3.7 (874) • $$

"Literally the best pizza I've ever eaten. I got the Paesana pizza, it's loaded with cheese, veggies and chicken sausage"

Lost Dog Cafe

★★★★☆ 3.7 (856) • $$

"I love lost dog cafe. It's an institution in Arlington! Huge variety of sandwiches and pizzas. They are very accommodating of allergies. The staff is always super friendly."

Luke's Lobster Georgetown

★★★★☆ 4.2 (659) • $$

"Went to Luke's Lobster with a friend on a Friday afternoon. It was pouring out so it wasn't packed and the staff was very welcoming. Luke's lobster always has great quality food and comes out in a timely manner. Even though it's not exactly a sit down greeted by server type restaurant, they still bring the food to wherever you decide to sit which is nice because you don't have to awkwardly stand in front of them until the food is ready. The only down side is that the price range is very high. It is high quality food though so I'm not complaining, but it's just not something I would get on a daily basis."

Fettoosh

★★★★★ 4.5 (564) • $$

"When we hurried in at closing time on Tuesday night, the host (presumably the owner) told us we were lucky--he had already turned off the grill when we called to see if Fettoosh was still taking orders for take out, and he was just at that moment reaching for the lights. There had been a problem with the phones in the wake of Labor Day, he told us, but he had found a way to call me back nonetheless when I enquired about whether the restaurant was open. The answer was it would stay open for us, if we could come within 15 minutes. And so we picked out a handful of items that leapt out from the menu (SFEHA BI-LAHMI; chicken shawarma wraps, fresh tabouli, Bastilla chicken, and Harira soup) and rushed from the coffeeshop where we had called in Clarendon. Upon arrival, we watched as the food was cooked before our eyes. The host said he could not let us go home hungry, as if he knew the journey we had undertaken to get there without our even mentioning the distance. We had driven over an hour (from Silver Spring) with our car-shy rough collie in the backseat, and on the cusp of 9.30, we were simply famished! We were very lucky indeed, as it turned out. The dishes were delicious, down to the creamy hummus and homemade semolina bread that were mere sides. We are Greek gourmands, and I am a super-taster (my taste-buds detect when there is too much spice, or salt, an ingredient that does not belong e.g. MSG, or spoilage of any kind), and this was simply one of the best restaurants we have encountered on our quest for Mediterranean cuisine in the DMV. There wasn't a sprig of parsley left in our Styrofoam containers when we dug in at the dining table at home--in fact we did not even manage to dish out the meal on real plates--we gobbled it all down so fast! My siblings and I look forward to returning to Fettoosh on our next culinary detour to Northern Virginia. We will make a point to order what we missed out in this first round because of the late hour at which we showed up. We are looking forward to the kabobs, the couscous, and the tangines!"

SUNdeVICH

★★★★☆ 4.2 (646) • $$

"My favorite sandwich shop in DC! The sandwiches are quite large so I think the price is fair (usually $16). Great spot to stop in for lunch and they have so many options to choose from. Vegetarian and meat options. Surprised this place isn't talked about as it's just off the busy tourist path and not far from the White House. I got the Seoul sub, my go to! I need to try another one soon."

Lost Dog Café & Gourmet Pizza Deli

★★★★☆ 3.8 (787) • $$

"Whenever I'm back in my home town I drop by. Nestled in the Westover it just one of those home town spots. The service is always good. Everyone is friendly and personable. When it's busy. It's just busy and just understand it is. The theme and decor has never lost its touch. There is history behind the name. I've always liked the feel of the place. I would describe the food as a typical college type of good. Pizza and good sandwiches. Being a hokie this is what we lived off of. Known for their pizzas I went with go to Italian and for my daughter the grown up grilled cheese. Both just good enough to share for both of us. If you're in the area this is a neighborhood spot that you should check out."

Duke's Counter

★★★★☆ 4.2 (611) • $$

"Burger was bomb. Service was really welcoming. Happy hour is fantastic! Proximity to my fave DC institution (zoo/preserve that doesn't feel like a circus) is a great plus. Ready for them to come to Maryland soon, hopefully with the same warm vibes as the Woodley Park location"

Stan's Restaurant & Bar

★★★★☆ 3.9 (652) • $$

"Let me start off by saying; yes the reviews are correct!! Their drinks are strong and their food is good! I drank 2 long islands, which tasted like an actual Long Island, and ate half dozen whole wings which end up being a dozen regular wings! That mamba sauce they serve it with wow! Delicious! The bartender was attentive and the conversation flowed effortlessly. Will definitely come back when in DC!"

Sidamo Coffee and Tea

★★★★☆ 4.3 (527) • $

"Great coffee on H street! Nice vibey spot in DC to go work, study or even just hang out. Will definitely come back for coffee. Had coffee and white mocha; delish!"

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls - National Harbor

★★★★☆ 4.3 (526) • $$

"Absolutely loved it! Service was fast. The gentleman who made my roll put his own little twist on it and it was amazing! Definitely will be going back."

Captain Pell's Fairfax Crabhouse

★★★★☆ 3.6 (728) • $$$

"Everything was amazing! Hot crabs & seasoned fries were just the bomb diggety. Always the best attitude wait staff ever. The atmosphere is so sports oriented with a bunch of T.V.'s. I love everything about this place. I was going to Captain Pells when they were a mere carryout in Merriefield."

Earl's Sandwiches

★★★★☆ 4.1 (494) • $$

"So good!I've had this place bookmarked forever and I'm so glad to finally try it out! Found street parking nearby. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. The sandwich shop is clean and super organized. The cashier was incredibly friendly and helpful. Restroom is in the back and clean as well. There is also a diaper changing table in there. Tried their Roast Beef & Cheddar Sandwich, Sweet Potato Fries, Hand-Cut French Fries, and Fish & Chips Basket. It was all very good! Quality ingredients are used and the flavors are all there. Nothing was overly salty. The portions are generous. What a lovely sandwich shop, with amazing options.Can't wait to come back and try some more of their menu options."

Aldo's Italian Kitchen

★★★★★ 4.6 (383) • $$

"Extraordinary foods.I have eaten there several times. Always on warm weather where I dine outside enjoying the view of the Potomac.The deserts are off the chart."

Le Bledo Eatery

★★★★☆ 4.4 (418) • $$

"FINALLY... I went here! Le Bledo has been recommended by so many people but I never really go to Springfield to even be able to try this place out. This place is super roomy, essentially being a restaurant that has a lot of grab and go offerings too.Since they're known for their banh mi, my friend and I stopped by to order some. While a little bit on the pricier side of most banh mi shops, I definitely prefer their banh mi over other spots, as the baguette itself isn't super hard on the outside to the point where it might cut the roof of your mouth lolI really enjoyed that they have a lot of options here! My friend and I just wanted to grab the banh mi, but when we walked in I saw that they had banh bot chien and some other items, so I ordered that too. The staff were super friendly and helpful, and I honestly just love the decor here!I want to head back here to try some of the other items, so when I'm back in the area, I'll definitely stop by!"

Mangialardo

★★★★★ 4.6 (381) • $

"Mangialardo's is a hallmark of D.C. food culture. They have been around forever and it taste delicious as ever, fresh as it always has been, and continually delivers value. Pick your sub roll (soft or hard). Decide on whether you want it cold or oven-warmed. I adore the tuna salad cold sub on a soft roll with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayonnaise, sweet peppers, and oil-vinegar. So simple, but just masterfully made. Those topping are it too, except they have mustard and S&P. No fancy micro-greens or avocado or gimmicky aiolis. Back in the day (been coming here since the 1970s as a kid) the turkey and cheese sub was my go to. It is flavorful and hearty with a perfect meat-to-bread ratio. Those who partake in pork seem to love the "G" man sub that features salami, mortadella, pepperoni, and cheese. Of the hot subs I get the pizza sub with no meat but extra cheese. The red gravy and cheese just melts into the soft roll to form a chef's dream school lunch French bread style pizza. The corned beef and the pastrami subs are excellent too. Every once in a while they have macaroni salad (perfectly prepared) but the real side are a bag of chips. Give me Utz crab flavor or an old school bag of pretzels. The owner's family sells homemade brownies that are divine. Nothing fancy, probably a box of Betty Crocker brownie mix, but I get them every time with no complaints.The family-run sandwich shop has a perfect menu consisting of freshly made sandwiches that are classics. If you are fed up with places that are more concerned about wowing you with an exotic ingredient no matter whether it is good on a sandwich, or places that are more bourgeoisie in style over working-class substance, then Mangialardo's is for you. Carry-out only, but the services is excellent. Knowing their customers and treating them like family (old faces and newbies alike) is my favorite part about coming. They been in the same place for decades! Even the call ahead ordering number, (202) 543-6212, has not changed since at least the 1970s, when you didn't have to dial the area code to call within the city. Old school, simple, classic. Five stars easily."

The Greek Spot

★★★★☆ 4 (503) • $$

"Stopped here for a quick bite after the gym. The woman who took my order was extremely nice!! I inquired about the vegan options and she not only directed me to the vegan/vegetarian menu but she also told me about the different modifications that could be made to make it a vegan dish. The food was delicious as well! I got the falafel platter without feta and substituted the fries for the pasta."

Grazie Grazie

★★★★☆ 4.3 (421) • $$

"Grazie Grazie has some of the best sandwiches in the DMV!! The Marathon is a personal fave!"

The Jerk Pit

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (754) • $$

"The food was excellent! The chicken was spicy, seasoned well, and cooked through. Even got jerk chicken sauce. Cabbage and rice and peas were good. Everyone enjoyed their food, jerk Kingfish, oxtail , and jerk chicken. Service was good, but know the wait is long. Only cons/floor is extremely sticky, the tables are unbalanced, and bags are .$.20But I went there for the food."

La Famosa

★★★★☆ 4.2 (432) • $$

"I love La Famosa downnnnnnnn! Definitely one of my favorite places in Navy Yard! The beef picadillo pastelillos are delicious and have great texture and flavor. My go to order is usually the Pollo Milanesa or the Bistec Encebollado, both flavorful and filling. Top it off with a Mousse De Parcha and you have the perfect meal!"

Uncle C's Chicken & Waffles

★★★★☆ 4.1 (422) • $$

"This restaurant specializes in fried chicken. They have chicken sandwiches, fried chicken parts, wraps, and breakfast sandwiches. They also have fish and shrimp. There is a modest sized dining area here and the available parking is also kind of limited.Even hough my interaction with them was limited, the staff seemed helpful and friendly. I ordered the Atlanta, a crispy chicken smothered in honey butter, topped with cheese on a brioche bun. I also go a side of fries. It took them about 10 minutes to prepare my food. It was fresh, hot and very delicious. There was a ton of food and I could not eat it all. I highly recommend getting some of their lemonade if you like sweet lemonade. mmmmmm. The chicken was flavorful and well seasoned. This is an underrated spot in my book. If their friend chicken tastes half as good as it looks, it will taste amazing. I did really like my meal though. I highly recommend checking this place out. You will not be disappointed."

McGinty's Public House

★★★★☆ 3.6 (542) • $$

"It's been way too long since I've been here for happy hour. Still have the great deals, only $1.00 more now ($6). Still a great deal for the best fish & chips in the area. I especially love the dipping sauce and the malt vinegar on the table. We also had shishito peppers ($6.50) with a dipping sauce. First time for my friend and she loved them. I liked theirs, but they are a bit oily. I do mine in the air fryer. At least they are cheaper here than other places and you get a lot. I had a cosmo (also $6), and my pal had a Smithwicks draft ($5). She enjoyed it. I need to come back more often. Montgomery County's new parking regulations stink. It costs so much more, especially when you are required to prepay in the nearby garages ($1.25/hr)."

Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company - Alexandria

★★★★☆ 3.9 (452) • $$

"I've been going to Rocklands since the 90's or whenever it used to be in Carpool. Anyway, I don't know what was going on today, but it seemed like the young guy working the counter at the Alexandria location today seemed to have no idea what was going on.The table behind me had an issue with their order where they got corn pudding instead of cornbread that they asked for. The table next to me only got half of their order. Then we didn't get what we ordered either.We ordered the Texas brisket...and mind you, there is only ONE item on the menu with "Texas" and "Brisket" in the name. I ended up with the plain brisket sandwich. When I went and asked about it, the other guy was trying to tell me "yeah, that's Texas brisket". And I asked "where on the menu is this item was?"...he said the one that says brisket. I was "does it say TEXAS?!?!". I have no idea which one we paid for because they also had taken our receipt and also gave us our items to go when we asked to eat in. I don't know, but it was a really annoying experience. Considering everyone else around us also had issues with their order, maybe I wasn't overreacting and confused about what we ordered versus what we received. It was just a bad experience overall, which is disappointing. The food was okay, but it wasn't the @$@&ing Texas brisket that's on the menu. ‍"

Dog Tag Bakery

★★★★☆ 4.4 (354) • $

"Delicious baked goods, friendly service, amazing mission, and pleasant interior with cozy tables."

Neopol Savory Smokery

★★★★★ 4.6 (294) • $$

"This salmon BLT and ginger cardamom lemonade was tastyyyyy! I had seen pics and knew the BLT looked delicious so ordered it confidently. And after sampling the lemonade I ordered one for me and my sister! So so refreshing and really a perfect meal on a humid summer day. I'll be back real soon!"

Detour Coffee

★★★★☆ 4.2 (349) • $$

"I might be a little bias but I love going to detour for the ambience, they have a lot of different events during weekdays for the community. I usually go with friends and we end up just hanging out and playing games. I personally get the mango hibiscus tea everyone I go, with the agave to sweeten it. I love it. I've had their sliders and flatbreads as well and so far I haven't been disappointed :) the flatbread especially is very easy to share when I'm with a group. Note: the seats are definitely worn down if that's an issue"

Preservation Biscuit Company

★★★★☆ 4.3 (327) • $$

"Hidden gem and great breakfast/brunch spot. Ordered the avocado sandwich which had egg and bacon as well. Hot sauce available upon request!Service was prompt and the vibe was very low key and chill."

Bugsy's Pizza Restaurant & Sports Bar

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (496) • $$

"Perfect southern charm and everything was good here. The pizza was perfect and the hot wings looked like full sized wings. The server even gave us a little history on the building!"

Roofers Union

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (496) • $$

"The drinks are high quality, the bartenders are fun and interactive, and nothing beats the rooftop view of Admo"