Finding Arlington’s perfect sandwich—whether you crave a classic hoagie or an artisanal creation—can overwhelm with so many worthy contenders. Let this list guide you. These 13 shops will have you chasing down the ultimate banh mi, savoring muffulettas on park benches, and debating roast beef supremacy long after lunch.
Potbelly
$ | (703) 807-4100 | WEBSITE
Potbelly is a bustling sandwich shop that’s perfect for grabbing a quick lunch during a busy workday or picking up catering for a casual office event. The whole menu delivers solid options, but the real standout here is the tuna melt on a foot-long baguette. I can’t stop thinking about that sandwich—it comes perfectly toasted with creamy tuna salad and melted cheese that hits just right.
Potbelly’s team handles the constant lines with impressive speed, so you’re in and out fast even during peak hours. While the atmosphere can get hectic and cleanliness varies, the food quality makes it worth the visit.
Mike’s Cafe
$ | (703) 312-7371 | WEBSITE
When we discover a neighborhood spot as reliable as Mike’s Cafe, it’s tempting to keep it as our little secret for those quick work lunches. But when this friendly bodega near the Metro started serving everything from that delicious garden salad with tuna salad to the saucy, slightly spicy KBBQ sandwich with pickled veggies, we knew we had to spread the word (it’s our duty).
Since Mike’s Cafe gets quite busy during peak hours, plan accordingly, and consider ordering ahead since you’ll almost certainly save a few dollars compared to those online prices.
Poppyseed Rye
$ | (571) 503-6230 | WEBSITE
Similar to its charming Arlington vibe, Poppyseed Rye serves great, affordable sandwiches in a space that’s cozy enough to drop by with a few friends on a weekday afternoon. We love the Reuben, tasty Capicola, Ham, Salami stacked with fresh ingredients, and all the gluten-free options, which are simple but have great flavor and quality. It’s a lovely spot for a casual lunch, especially since the atmosphere stays welcoming throughout the day.
Come for the perfect Turkey on Gluten Free Multigrain, fair-priced coffee drinks, and an impressive variety of fresh-baked breads. There’s probably going to be artificial flowers hanging from the ceiling, and someone might even browse the small shop selling third-party items near the metro station. Either way, you’ll be savoring every last bite of that perfectly proportioned sandwich on your plate.
Hot Lola’s Rosslyn
$ | (571) 257-5707 | WEBSITE
People love to douse things. A lot of people order a stack of waffle fries just to drown them in sauce, and we love to smother our chicken sandwiches in spicy Korean or Indian-inspired flavors. Hot Lola’s Rosslyn takes the saucing game to the next level–they pack their halal chicken sandwiches with well-seasoned, tender chicken, and then top it all with flavorful, generous portions of sauce.
Come to this local spot after you’ve had a long day and need a satisfying meal of delicious chicken sandwiches, crispy waffle fries, and a unique strawberry and watermelon beverage. It’s easy to get your order quickly as well, so the only thing standing between you and rounds of top-notch service is deciding if you want the Korean or Indian spice version.
Taylor Gourmet
$ | (703) 417-2145 | WEBSITE
Arlington is known for many things–the Pentagon, passionate sports fans, and some scenes from political thrillers. But we think grabbing an incredible gluten-free wrap at Taylor Gourmet should be next on the list. The turkey and vinaigrette is perfectly fresh and each bite is topped with flavorful ingredients.
And even though it’s a bit pricey like finding a good cheesesteak elsewhere, the friendly service from owners like Flore and Judith is perfect for a quick lunch or group order when you also want to feel welcomed and hospitable without breaking the bank.
Charleys Cheesesteaks
$ | (833) 230-2930 | WEBSITE
Charleys Cheesesteaks is a bustling kiosk in the Pentagon City Mall, and it’s one of our go-tos for great cheesesteaks and even better fries. Everything here is made with fast service—from the Philly Chicken Cheesesteak that’s a highlight on the menu, to the kiosk ordering system that makes customization easy. And while you might find cheesesteaks and fries on lots of menus, Charleys also serves great prices and friendly staff, making it an above-average option in the food court.
Superette
$ | (571) 312-0204 | WEBSITE
Right in the heart of Ballston Quarter Market, this sandwich shop serves a terrific Californian sandwich for lunch, a deeeelicious short rib sandwich for a hearty meal, and a highly recommended steak sandwich for dinner. The atmosphere is cute and casual–it’s a little spot in the mall with seating for eating there or easy takeout.
Since the service is kind and prompt, you can get in a couple rounds of crispy waffle fries and refreshing sangrias before heading back to work, or maybe just stay for one of their fire cocktails and consider extending your break a bit longer.
Ahra Cafe & Sandwich
$ | (703) 522-2224 | WEBSITE
We’ve been searching for our go-to sandwich spot in Arlington, and at Ahra Cafe & Sandwich, we’ve definitely found it. The menu offers plenty of options, but everything we’ve sampled has been fantastic–from the classic steak and cheese packed with tender meat to the delicious breakfast burrito and fresh salads.
Grab lunch with coworkers and share a massive wrap or enjoy a cold sandwich on their patio near the metro, or savor the aroma of freshly made sandwiches while watching the efficient staff work their magic inside.
Earl’s Sandwiches
$ | (703) 248-0150 | WEBSITE
Sometimes, we suspect the reason our family and friends come to visit us is just to eat at Earl’s Sandwiches (don’t worry, we get it). They make the best sandwiches in the city—still. Choose from roast beef, pork loin, or salmon BLT on whole grain bread, sweet potato fries, and specials like half sandwiches with fries. It’s a popular spot with both locals and regulars, so show up before the lunch rush if you don’t want to wait for a table.
Paramount Café
$ | (240) 797-3857 | WEBSITE
This cozy and welcoming sandwich shop has seating for nearly every mood—there’s bar seating for a solo coffee and sandwich, a few snug tables for casual catch-ups, and the whole place feels like a neighborhood secret, perfect for pretending you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem when the owner greets you by name. Stick to the lunch classics, like the delicious tuna bacon club, the flavorful Thanksgiving Morning Sandwich, or a simple coffee and snack from the convenience shelves.
If you want the full experience, grab a sandwich, a bag of chips, and maybe even drop off your dry cleaning. Toss in the friendly, one-person service and reasonable prices, and you have a truly satisfying stop (even when you’re just popping in for a quick bite between errands).
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (571) 317-2511 | WEBSITE
Generous portions, hot subs, and great prices is the trifecta we never knew we needed. This Arlington spot should be your go-to for the Big Kahuna piled high with meats and toppings, cheesesteaks with just the right spice, and $10 sandwiches. Whether you’re hungry for THE ORIGINAL ITALIAN loaded with good amounts of meats and toppings or just want to grab a quick and fresh meal, this is a friendly and professional place to do it.
Crystal Bowl
$ | (703) 843-3674 | WEBSITE
Don’t let the unassuming strip-mall location fool you—Arlington’s Crystal Bowl is warm and welcoming, even if the exterior is modest. The Korean-American fusion dishes are more satisfying than the casual counter-service setup might suggest. In addition to the reliably tasty staples—the bulgogi rice bowl, California wrap, and Korean chicken are all must orders—they also have surprises like the massive breakfast burrito and honeydew boba tea that you’ll be craving long after you’ve finished.
Grab a friend, an iced Korean coffee, and try as much of the menu as you can.
Georgetown Market
$ | (703) 417-1830 | WEBSITE
There are few things that get us out of bed when we’d rather be sleeping: a fire alarm because our apartment neighbor can’t make toast, avoiding a long line at the carwash, and a three cheese and tomato panini from Georgetown Market. Packed with melted goodness, each sandwich comes layered with creamy cheeses, fresh tomatoes, and a perfectly pressed crust.
Besides that, their menu offers staples like the avocado, mozzarella, and tomato toast, a hot and fresh breakfast panini, and an unforgettable Peet’s coffee served piping hot. The staff is generally polite and helpful, providing an extremely amazing service, with manager Marcellus attentive and courteous, making customers feel valued. While the ordering process can be confusing and the seating is limited, Georgetown Market provides a satisfactory dining experience that keeps us coming back.