America's Signature Sandwiches (and Where to Find Them)
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Sure, other countries may have invented the sandwich, but Americans have perfected it. Several sandwich creations have been invented in the U.S., and they're so good that they've gained cult-like followings.
Whether you're in the mood for a lobster roll or Philly cheesesteak, we've ranked America's best signature sandwiches and recommend where you should try one next time you're traveling through the birthplace of one of these culinary icons.
7. Oyster Po' Boy
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Louisiana is home to some of America's best cuisine, but when it comes to sandwiches, you can't beat a classic po' boy.
When in New Orleans, do as the locals do by ordering one with fried oysters. Or if you're feeling extra wild, go for a half-shrimp, half-oyster filling.
Where to try it:Domilise's in New Orleans, Louisiana
6. Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich
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This classic sandwich of battered and fried steak is popular in several states, but it's been part of the official Oklahoma state meal (along with black-eyed peas, fried okra and cornbread) since 1988.
An especially good chicken fried steak is one that's tenderized in-house before being battered and fried atop a housemade bun.
Where to try it:Del Rancho at several locations throughout Oklahoma
5. French Dip
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Did you know that the French Dip sandwich hails from sunny California? Don't worry. Neither did we.
Two Los Angeles restaurants claim to have invented the beef sandwich: Philippe the Original and Coles. However, Philippe the Original takes it a step further with its Beef Double-Dip in which the sandwich's bread is dipped in jus before being filled with tender roast beef. Yes, please!
Where to try it: Philippe the Original and Coles
4. Philly Cheesesteak
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The Philly cheesesteak is not only a Pennsylvania staple but also a national icon, and it's the source of great debate among Philadelphia locals.
John's Roast Pork is often a household favorite for its seasoned beef loin that's grilled to order, piled into scooped rolls and topped with either provolone or American cheese. But others believe Cheez Whiz is the staple of a true cheesesteak, and these people go to Tony Luke's. Not only does this hotspot use the famous cheese ingredient, but it also uses sliced rib-eye steak and rolls that are baked onsite for a truly delicious crispy crust.
Where to try it:John's Roast Pork and Tony Luke's (and you be the judge!)
3. Lobster Roll
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The lobster roll is a sandwich with serious New England roots. Where it originated exactly is up for debate, but many believe the sandwich was invented by a man named Harry at Perry's restaurant in Milford, Connecticut. He created it for a traveling liquor salesman who needed a quick lobster sandwich that he could take with him on the road. Needles to say, the recipe grew from there.
Just note: A classic Connecticut lobster roll is served with dripping butter, while one from Maine is served like a cold lobster salad with mayo.
Where to try it:Clam Shack in Kennebunk, Maine (which serves up both versions)
2. Reuben
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Here's another sandwich with a debated origin story. As you might assume, one claim to the sandwich's invention is Arnold Reuben, a German-Jewish owner of Reuben's Delicatessen in New York City, which opened in 1908. However, another more surprising claim to the sandwich is by Lithuanian immigrant Reuben Kulakofsky, who claims to have invented it at Blackstone Hotel in none other than Omaha, Nebraska, in the 1920s.
However it came to be, we're just happy that the corned beef sandwich (served with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and thousand island dressing on marbled rye) is now an American staple.
Where to try it:Katz's Delicatessen in New York
1. Burnt End Sandwich
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If you're in the mood for good barbecue, head to Kansas City (Kansas or Missouri). While you'll certainly find ribs and brisket in this barbecue mecca, the local specialty is actually burnt ends.
This sandwich includes charred, fattier ends from the brisket's point section that are chopped up into finer pieces to create a flavorful crunch. We recommend slathering it with lots of sauce, as is the Kansas City way.
Where to try it:Gates Bar-B-Q at several locations throughout the Kansas City metro area
For more of America's best sandwiches, check out "Best Sandwich in Every U.S. State."