Sandwiches have to be one of the most convenient lunches on the planet. A portable vessel housing one or more ingredients on or between slices of bread (or a variation of bread). Ask any New Yorker what their favorite sandwich is and you may be there a while as they go into detailed descriptions of their favorite fillings, type of bread, to grill or not to grill…the list of preferences and procedures goes on!
They’re so loved in fact; one astronaut couldn’t tear himself away from them to journey into outer space. This week marks the 50th anniversary of the first and the only contraband sandwich was taken into space. This prank was carried out on a NASA flight mission called Gemini 3 on March 23rd 1965 by astronaut John Young. Surprising his co-pilot Gus Grissom, Young pulled out the smuggled corned beef on rye about two hours into the voyage—but the joke was on him, with the sandwich disintegrating into crumbs as soon as he bit into it.
But where does the beloved sandwich come from? Legend has it, that the sandwich was first discovered in London in 1762. An English nobleman, John Montagu (the fourth Earl of a town, Sandwich) was so busy gambling at the card table that he couldn’t tear himself away to eat. He ordered a waiter to bring him some meat wrapped in two slices of bread so he could continue his gambling spree. There was a method to his madness—the roast-beef was coated in bread so he wouldn’t get his fingers greasy and make the cards grubby.
So with all this sandwich talk, let us introduce you to some of Zerocater’s favorite sandwich slingers…
NEW YORK
At the top of the list is some delicious twists on the classic in the Big Apple.
Xe May Sandwich Shop
Alan Woo and Davis Ngo love street food. After extensive worldly exploration, they’ve opened Xe May, one of the best Vietnamese street food shops in NY.
Lamazou
For over a decade, this gem of a cheese shop has been combining delicious fresh breads and quality ingredients to make mouthwatering sandwiches.
Sergimmo Salumeria
Two Sicilian brothers specializing in traditional Italian cured meats and new Italian cuisine. Pair these together and you’ve got some pretty tasty sandwich offerings.
CHICAGO
The windy city, our newest Zerocater location, has some pretty great sandwich spots too.
Wicker Basket Cafe
Enjoy this family owned deli and cafe in Wicker Park serving gourmet sandwiches and homemade foods made from the freshest ingredients.
Chop Shop
A hybrid eatery, butcher shop, and salumeria serving meat-oriented and seasonal American fare with Italian twists.
GROW
GROW sources local and fresh ingredients as possible, providing unique sandwiches and salads that are both nourishing AND flavorful.
SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco home of the sourdough bread serves up a mean sandwich on this delicious bread in a true San Francisco fashion.
AK Subs
AK Subs was started in 1994 by two friends and has since created a sub-institution in the city.
Eat on Monday
Eat On Monday’s food truck impresses South Bay eaters day after day with their innovative take on classic American sandwiches.
American Grilled Cheese Kitchen
Classic (and not-so-classic) grilled cheeses, salads, and mac and cheese!
