There are few things in life more satisfying than a good sandwich. For most of us, they come together in the kitchen during lunch or late nights when we’re craving something quick and satisfying. For others, the sandwich is a midday staple to be enjoyed at restaurants and delis. Below are some of the best sandwiches in St. Louis on a budget. The choices include tried-and-true favorites and sandwiches that are flying under the radar (for now).
1. Hot salami at Gioia’s Deli
The hot salami at Gioia’s (pictured above) is a celebrity in its own right. The sandwich has garnered lots of attention since last year, when Gioia’s won an award from the James Beard Foundation. Lucky for St. Louisans, the deli’s famous hot salami sandwich is still available at the same price. Stop by Gioia’s locations on The Hill, downtown, Creve Coeur, and get the sandwich for $9 before tax. This year, the sandwich is available at Busch Stadium (behind home plate near section 151) for a few dollars more.
2. The lunch sandwich at Rise Coffee House
Rise is known for its coffee concoctions and delicious lunch fare, and the “lunch sandwich” is one of its standout dishes. Vegetarians will love the sandwich, which includes spicy giardiniera, or Italian relish, cucumber, arugula, and cheddar spread layered between two slices of grilled Union Loafers bread. The dish comes to $9 before tax and tip.
3. Breakfast sandwich at Bolyard’s Meat & Provisions
You may have stopped by Bolyard’s for fresh cuts of meat, but perhaps you’ve missed the shop’s signature breakfast sandwich. It's only served on Saturday and comes on a house-made buttermilk biscuit. Flavors rotate often, but the sandwich I had featured thick slices of mortadella and spicy relish. The sandwich is $6 before tax.
4. The Beast at Parker’s Table
One of the best lunch deals in town is the sandwich special at Parker’s Table. The store offers hungry lunch-goers a sandwich that comes with a choice of chips and a beverage. One sandwich, “The Beast,” includes Salume Beddu salsiccia, spicy peperonata spread, and grain mustard, layered between two slices of fresh, crusty bread. The sandwich combo comes to $9.27 with tax.
5. The Hangover Club at Nora’s
Nora’s takes sandwiches to a new level. The Dogtown shop offers some of the most unique combos in town, served either hot or cold. One of my favorites is The Hangover Club, a hot sandwich with smoked turkey, genoa salami, bacon, provolone, and country mustard. The tally is $8.49 before tax and comes with a pickle and your choice of a side.