Few dishes capture culinary imagination like the humble sandwich. From peanut-butter-and-jelly staples to gourmet paninis, sandwiches have become a global canvas for flavor. It’s the filling that gives each one its personality - savory or sweet, hot or cold, meaty or vegetarian, fiery or mild - the possibilities are endless. 

 Most food historians agree the sandwich was born of convenience, though its precise origins remain debated. The term itself first appeared in the 18th century, inspired by John Montagu, the Fourth Earl of Sandwich, who famously asked for meat between two slices of bread so he could eat without leaving his gaming table. 

 Another theory credits the sandwich to hardworking lunchers: piling leftovers between bread made for a quick, portable meal that kept them on the job rather than trekking home at midday. 

 There’s evidence that sandwiches were enjoyed in English, French, and Italian societies centuries ago. Their simple assembly and grab-and-go convenience have since made them a staple in nearly every cuisine. 

 In Europe, you’ll find dainty rounds of bread topped with cucumber and smoked-salmon mousse, the classic croque-monsieur (or croque-madame), and rustic Italian loaves overflowing with regional meats and cheeses. The concept crossed the Atlantic to America with immigrants, who adapted it using local ingredients. 

 In the U.S., sandwiches appear everywhere - from gourmet creations at high-end restaurants to piled-high classics at neighborhood delis and quick-serve options at drive-through windows. Versatile and universally loved, the sandwich continues to evolve in flavor and form. 

 

 Sandwich shops have been a mainstream part of American dining since the 1960s, when two entrepreneurs in Bridgeport, Connecticut founded Subway in 1965. What began as a small venture soon grew into the world’s largest single-brand restaurant chain, now with more than 37,000 locations spanning over 100 countries. 

 Fast-forward to the 1980s, Jimmy John’s opened its first store in Charleston, Illinois in 1983 and quickly gained popularity for its fast, door-to-door sandwich delivery service. 

 Other successful American sandwich chains emerged in the following decades, including Jersey Mike’s, Firehouse Subs, Panera Bread, and Quiznos - all proof that this once humble meal continues to thrive across every tier of the U.S. culinary landscape. 

 Nearly half of Americans over age 20 eat a sandwich every day, with younger individuals and men leading the trend. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches remain a childhood staple - most Americans will have devoured about 1,500 of them by the time they graduate high school. 

 Grilled cheese reigns as the country’s most popular sandwich, with an estimated 2.2 billion eaten annually - roughly 36 per person. Chicken sandwiches follow closely, reflecting the U.S.’s top-tier chicken consumption, much of it tucked between buns. 

 Paninis, a pressed cousin of grilled cheese, offer endless variations with specialty meats and cheeses. While exact figures are elusive, the U.S. panini market was valued at $1.84 billion in 2023, with projections reaching $2.5 billion by 2032. That suggests hundreds of millions of paninis are likely sold each year. 

 And while Philadelphia may have birthed the cheesesteak in the 1930s, this beefy classic has long transcended city limits to become a nationwide favorite. 

 Po’ boy and muffuletta sandwiches are beloved staples along the Gulf Coast, with Galveston eateries offering their own hearty variations. The po’ boy originated in 1929 during a New Orleans streetcar strike, when Bennie and Clovis Martin served free sandwiches to striking workers. 

 The muffuletta, tied to New Orleans’ Italian immigrant community and reportedly first created in the early 20th century, features Italian meats, cheeses, and a signature olive relish layered on a sesame-topped round loaf. 

 August is National Sandwich Month, and Galveston Monthly is celebrating with a flavorful mix of staff picks and reader favorites. Here’s our roundup of crave-worthy creations that locals and visitors alike swear by. 

 Gypsy Joynt With psychedelic murals, mismatched furniture, and a menu that defies convention, Gypsy Joynt marches to the beat of its own culinary drum. This family-run café is a Galveston icon for adventurous eaters, known for blending bold flavors with a bohemian atmosphere that’s equal parts lounge and comfort food haven. 

 Their sandwich lineup includes hits like the spicy jalapeño bacon grilled cheese, the loaded Al Capone, and a funky riff on the classic muffuletta - all served with soul and swagger. 

 Our standout recommendation? The I Love Lucy sandwich. It's a savory symphony of ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard tucked into a homemade bun. Smoky, tangy, and unapologetically stacked, it’s everything you want from a sandwich and nothing you expected - much like Gypsy Joynt itself. 

 Maceo Spice & Import Co. A fixture of Galveston’s culinary landscape since 1944, Maceo Spice & Import Co. is more than a deli - it’s a time-honored destination where bold flavors and old-world charm meet. Originally known for its hand-packed spices and Italian imports, this family-run spice house and eatery has become a go-to for muffulettas, po’ boys, and specialty sandwiches layered with authenticity and heart. 

 For a truly satisfying bite, we recommend their standout Meatball Sub. Served on house made po’ boy bread, the sandwich features two generously sized, hand-rolled meatballs stuffed with fresh mozzarella, finished with rich tomato gravy and melted provolone. It’s a sandwich that balances tradition with indulgence - rustic, comforting, and unmistakably Maceo. 

 MarMo Café & Lounge Modern, relaxed, and full of flavor, MarMo Café & Lounge brings fresh perspective to Galveston’s sandwich scene. With a menu built on casual indulgence and smart pairings, this eatery offers inventive options like the chopped Italian sandwich, the ever-popular three-cheese grilled cheese, and standout chicken creations - air-fried or slow-roasted, depending on your mood. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a late bite with a laid-back vibe, MarMo hits the mark. 

 Our top recommendation: the Shoulder BLT. This satisfying twist on the classic features smoked pork shoulder layered with romaine lettuce, tomato, and creamy aioli, finished with mozzarella, and served on fresh sourdough bread. Rich and smoky with balanced texture and tang, it’s a sandwich that feels both comforting and contemporary - making it one of MarMo’s most crave-worthy creations. 

 Old Moon Deli & Pies Tucked into the heart of Galveston’s historic district, Old Moon Deli & Pies exudes the kind of charm that only a locally beloved spot can muster. Its whimsical name hints at the creative flair inside - where the menu bridges hearty comfort with playful twists. 

 The deli showcases favorites like steaming pastrami melts, classic Cubans, Reubens stacked with house-prepared ingredients, and vegan-friendly offerings that satisfy a range of tastes. Fresh-baked bread and bold flavor combinations elevate each sandwich beyond the ordinary. 

 For a standout bite, we recommend their unforgettable Monte Cristo. It's a decadent balance of savory and sweet, made with thick-cut French toast layered with turkey, ham, and Gouda, then dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with local island honey. A side of raspberry jam adds a touch of tangy brightness to this indulgent favorite. 

 Shrimp ‘N Stuff No name says “Galveston comfort seafood” quite like Shrimp ‘N Stuff. With three locations across the island - including the original spot on 39th Street, a downtown eatery at 25th Street, and a food truck in Jamaica Beach - this local favorite has built its reputation on fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a casual, welcoming vibe. 

 

 The po’ boy menu alone is worth the visit, offering crispy shrimp, fish, oysters, catfish, crab balls, and even a customizable combo option for those who can’t choose just one. 

 Our top recommendation is the Crawfish Tail Po’ Boy. Served on a classic New Orleans-style French roll with a crisp crust and fluffy interior, it’s piled high with golden fried crawfish tails, lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce. Decadent and perfectly seasoned, this sandwich captures the essence of Gulf Coast flavor in every bite. 

 Shykatz Café A Galveston favorite for breakfast and lunch, Shykatz Café pairs its homey atmosphere with crowd-pleasing sandwiches and warm hospitality. Located just off the beaten path, this charming spot is known for hearty portions and comforting classics like chicken salad croissants, turkey bacon ranch melts, and a top-tier Reuben. Everything is made with care - from fresh breads to house-seasoned ingredients - and locals love it as much for the friendly service as the flavorful fare. 

 Our top recommendation: the Kickin’ Chicken Kordon Klub. This bold sandwich layers fried or grilled chicken with country-fried ham, crispy bacon, Swiss cheese, grilled onions, and a smoky chipotle sauce - all served on jalapeño bread with just the right amount of heat. It’s rich, satisfying, and unmistakably Shykatz. 

 Star Drug Store Step back in time at Star Drug Store, the oldest drug store in Texas and a beloved Galveston landmark. With its retro soda fountain, checkered floors, and nostalgic charm, this spot offers more than atmosphere - it delivers satisfying comfort food that locals return to again and again. 

 The sandwich lineup includes standouts like the classic club, kicked-up tuna melt, bacon avocado turkey, and a patty melt grilled to golden perfection. Everything arrives with a side of chips or salad, and hearty hospitality. 

 Our top pick? The Reuben. Stacked with pastrami, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, it’s finished with thousand island dressing and served on homemade rye. It’s a timeless deli classic done right - rich, balanced, and deeply satisfying. 

 Sugar & Rye Modern and elevated with a nod to Gulf Coast tradition, Sugar & Rye offers an upscale take on classic coastal-inspired comfort food - and sandwiches are no exception. Nestled in Galveston's vibrant downtown dining scene, this stylish eatery features thoughtfully composed options like the Crabcake Sandwich, the Church Street Chicken Sandwich, and the Avocado BLT stacked with house-cured bacon. The atmosphere is polished but welcoming, perfect for a leisurely lunch or casual evening out. 

 For a standout indulgence, we recommend the Prime Rib Sandwich. Served on a fresh baguette, it layers tender prime rib with arugula, caramelized onions, and blue cheese crumbles, all brought together with a rich balsamic glaze. Bold, savory, and expertly balanced, it’s a sandwich that commands attention and satisfies deeply - just like Sugar & Rye itself. 

 Sunflower Bakery & Café Beloved by both locals and weekend visitors, Sunflower Bakery & Café blends homestyle comfort with artisanal flair in the heart of Galveston’s East End. The cozy, sunlit dining room and welcoming patio set the stage for a menu anchored by house-made breads and fresh, flavorful ingredients. 

 With over a dozen hot and cold sandwiches to choose from - including standouts like the Italian Combination, Turkey Bacon Avocado, Chicken Salad, and Salmon BLT - the café makes it easy to settle in and savor. 

 Our top recommendation? The Cuban Sandwich. Crafted with layers of pork roast, ham, Havarti cheese, pickles, and tangy mustard, this hefty favorite is served on a warm, freshly baked po’ boy bun. It’s satisfyingly bold, perfectly balanced, and built to fuel your afternoon one delicious bite at a time. 

 Yaga’s Café A mainstay on The Strand, Yaga’s Café blends laid-back vibes with bold flavors in a space that’s as colorful and creative as its menu. Yaga’s offers a diverse selection of satisfying sandwiches - favorites include the savory Cuban Panini, the towering Da’ Pounder Po’ Boy, and a standout Grilled Salmon Sandwich. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch or winding down after browsing nearby shops, it’s the perfect place to refuel. 

 Our top pick for sandwich lovers? The Chicken Parm Sandwich - a new menu addition served exclusively on Mondays. It features crispy chicken topped with marinara and melted mozzarella, tucked into a toasted hoagie roll. Rich, savory, and classically satisfying, this sandwich channels old-school Italian comfort with Yaga’s signature twist.