Best Upscale Sandwich in Austin | Top 3 Upscale Spots

22 restaurants in Best Upscale Sandwich in Austin | Top 3 Upscale Spots

• Hoody's Subs — American · rated 5/5: Hoody’s Subs captures the timeless charm of a neighborhood deli, where the rhythmic hum of the slicer and the savory scent of cured meats create an atmosphere of hungry anticipation. Each sandwich is a masterclass in balance, layering ribbons of spicy cappicola, zesty Italian cold cuts, or classic club fixings between pillows of fresh bread that soak up every drop of oil and vinegar. Whether you opt for a modest small or a towering large, every bite delivers a nostalgic, soul-satisfying crunch that honors the simple, enduring art of the perfect sub.
• Hayley Cakes & Cookies — American · rated 4/5: This whimsical bakery serves as a vibrant gallery of edible art, where sugar and flour are masterfully transformed into hyper-realistic illusions ranging from frothy beer mugs to savory-looking ramen bowls. Each meticulously decorated confection captures a sense of playful wonder, turning every celebration into a sweet spectacle that delights the eyes as much as the palate.
• The Hive — American · rated 4/5: The Hive hums with a vibrant, communal energy that shifts effortlessly from the morning’s first aromatic espresso pull to the sophisticated clink of evening cocktail glasses. Hearty, soul-warming plates like spiced Cajun sandwiches and slow-simmered red beans and rice anchor a menu that celebrates bold flavors, while the sun-drenched space welcomes everyone from latte-sipping locals to four-legged friends enjoying a treat on the patio.
• Hayley Cakes & Cookies — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant boutique bakery invites guests into a world of edible art, where the sweet perfume of freshly baked sugar cookies and rich buttercream fills a space bursting with color and creativity. Masterfully decorated treats range from whimsical beer-mug cakes to delicate, hand-painted cookie sets, each piece showcasing a playful marriage of meticulous craftsmanship and nostalgic flavor. From the bite-sized joy of a mini cupcake dozen to inclusive gluten-free delights, the experience is a celebration of whimsical indulgence designed to turn any ordinary day into a festive occasion.
• Happy Chicks — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant, high-energy eatery hums with the irresistible aroma of golden-fried comfort, inviting guests into a space where hand-breaded chicken is elevated to an art form. From towering, crispy sandwiches to garden-fresh salads bursting with local flavor, every dish balances an indulgent crunch with bright, wholesome ingredients for a soulful dining experience that feels both nostalgic and modern.
• Unbarlievable — American · rated 3/5: This high-energy social hub pulses with a whimsical spirit, inviting guests to lose themselves in a kaleidoscope of playful decor and lively conversation. The air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling burgers and golden-fried delights, where shareable plates like firecracker shrimp and crispy pickles provide a spicy, crunch-filled backdrop to an evening of pure indulgence. It’s a place where elevated comfort food meets a carnival atmosphere, turning every meal into a spirited celebration of bold flavors and good times.
• Bill Miller Bar-B-Q — American · rated 3/5: Steeped in Texas tradition, this bustling gathering spot welcomes diners with the savory perfume of slow-smoked meats and the refreshing clink of ice in their signature oversized tea buckets. From hearty barbecue platters and stacked poorboy sandwiches to the rich, comforting warmth of carne guisada, every dish serves as a soulful, no-frills tribute to the state’s diverse culinary heritage.
• Nagoya Steak & Sushi — Japanese · rated 3/5: Nagoya Steak & Sushi invites diners into a vibrant atmosphere where the sizzle of the grill meets the delicate artistry of hand-crafted appetizers. The kitchen turns out a parade of sensory delights, from the golden crunch of chicken katsu and zesty jalapeño poppers to the savory warmth of steamed shumai and tender, flame-kissed baby octopus. It is a lively destination where bold textures and shared plates create a communal feast, perfect for those seeking a spirited journey through contemporary Japanese-inspired cuisine.
• Happy Chicks — American: This vibrant, high-energy eatery hums with the irresistible aroma of golden-fried chicken and freshly tossed greens, offering a cheerful sanctuary for lovers of classic comfort food. Guests can tuck into everything from towering, crispy sandwiches and hand-breaded nuggets to bright, farm-fresh salads that bring a touch of local flair to every bite. It is a playful, welcoming space where the simple joy of a perfectly seasoned meal creates an effortless dining experience for families and quick-bite seekers alike.
• Franklin Barbecue — American: The air around this legendary Austin smokehouse thickens with the intoxicating perfume of slow-burning post oak, drawing a dedicated crowd that waits in eager anticipation for a taste of Texas barbecue perfection. Inside, butcher-paper-lined trays groan under the weight of jiggly, salt-and-pepper crusted brisket and snap-skinned jalapeño cheddar sausages that release a savory, spicy steam with every slice. Each bite of the tender, smoke-kissed ribs and towering brisket sandwiches captures the soul of the pitmaster’s craft, turning a simple meal into a rich celebration of fire and patience.
• FlyRite Chicken — American: Golden-brown crusts shatter with a satisfying crunch at this modern chicken outpost, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of perfectly seasoned poultry and toasted brioche. From towering sandwiches layered with smoky sauces and crisp greens to vibrant garden bowls and plant-based strips, the kitchen balances indulgent comfort with a fresh, contemporary energy that elevates the classic roadside meal into a gourmet experience.
• Meat & Bread — American: The rhythmic thud of a chef’s knife against a wooden block sets the tempo in this minimalist haven, where the aroma of slow-roasted pork and toasted artisan loaves fills the air. Golden-crusted porchetta is carved to order and piled high with vibrant salsa verde, while indulgent bacon slabs and zesty buffalo chicken offer a bold, soul-warming take on the classic sandwich. Whether you’re dipping a decadent grilled cheese into velvety tomato soup or savoring a crisp kale Caesar, the experience is a celebration of honest ingredients and perfectly executed comfort.
• Tumble22 — American: This high-energy eatery pulses with the irresistible aroma of golden, spice-dusted poultry and the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried crusts. Towering sandwiches like the Tupelo honey-drizzled O.G. balance fiery heat with floral sweetness, while indulgent sides like loaded "dirty" fries and creamy deviled eggs round out the bold, soul-satisfying experience. Whether diving into a basket of heat-infused tenders or savoring a vibrant Szechuan-inspired creation, diners are treated to a spirited and flavorful celebration of modern comfort food.
• Fukumoto — Japanese: Step into a spirited sanctuary where the sizzle of crispy river shrimp and the briny snap of house-made pickles set the stage for a communal feast of authentic Japanese small plates. From the delicate steam of miso soup to the adventurous heat of wasabi-marinated octopus, every dish invites guests to linger over drinks in a warm, soulful atmosphere that captures the vibrant energy of a traditional Tokyo izakaya.
• 85°C — Chinese: This bustling bakery-cafe invites guests into a world of aromatic indulgence, where the scent of warm walnut cinnamon rolls and buttery chocolate almond crisps wafts from overflowing display cases. Savory cravings find their match in artisanal sandwiches like the herb-infused pesto chicken, all perfectly paired with signature sea salt coffees that crown rich brews with a velvety, savory-sweet foam. It is a vibrant, modern hub where the artistry of fresh baking meets innovative drink craft, offering a sensory escape for a quick midday bite or a decadent afternoon treat.
• Hunt Dining Hall — American: Sunlight streams into this bustling culinary crossroads, where the day begins with the refreshing chill of layered yogurt parfaits and wholesome, fruit-topped overnight oats. The kitchen hums with creative energy as it bridges global flavors, offering everything from delicate, hand-rolled sushi and vibrant garden salads to the toasted warmth of artisanal paninis and savory, spice-filled burritos. The comforting aroma of golden, house-made breads and decadent cakes lingers in the air, inviting guests to settle into a welcoming space that celebrates fresh, handcrafted variety at every turn.
• Mr Sandwich — American: The air at Mr Sandwich is thick with the savory perfume of slow-smoked brisket and the irresistible sizzle of gourmet burgers hitting a hot flame. This vibrant neighborhood spot transforms the casual meal into a feast of textures, where towering Surf and Turf creations share the table with crispy fried green plantains and golden, flaky pastelitos. Every bite offers a bold celebration of hearty comfort, served in a lively atmosphere that captures the soulful essence of a modern urban grill.
• Swim Club — American: Breezy and sun-drenched, Swim Club centers around the primal glow of a wood-fired oven that infuses everything from delicate oysters to hearty cauliflower "burnt ends" with a deep, smoky soul. The kitchen masterfully balances the intensity of coal-roasted beets and smoked brisket with the vibrant, cooling crunch of garden-fresh bowls, creating a dining experience that feels like a sophisticated, fire-kissed celebration of the seasons.
• Krispy Krunchy Chicken — American: The air here is thick with the savory perfume of secret spices and hot oil, drawing in those seeking the ultimate comfort of perfectly seasoned, hand-breaded chicken. Each bite delivers a signature, shatteringly crisp crunch that reveals succulent meat within, while the sweet, golden glaze of honey butter shrimp offers a playful contrast to the salty satisfaction of classic wings and fries. It is a bustling haven of quick-service indulgence where the simple joy of a golden-fried meal takes center stage.
• Barley Bean — American: Sun-drenched and inviting, this neighborhood gem greets the morning with the comforting aroma of buttery, golden-brown biscuits and vibrant, topping-heavy toasts. Diners can settle into the bright, bustling space to enjoy everything from spicy jalapeño cheddar biscuits to nourishing hash bowls that balance bold, savory flavors with artisanal flair. It is a soulful sanctuary where the simple pleasure of a flaky croissant sandwich or a creamy avocado toast transforms the start of the day into a celebrated ritual.
• Mission Burger Co. — American: Morning at Mission Burger Co. begins with the comforting aroma of griddled pancakes and savory breakfast tacos, drawing neighbors into a bright, welcoming space for a soulful start to the day. As the afternoon unfolds, the kitchen transforms into a destination for indulgence where towering burgers—crowned with everything from smoky brisket to peppery pastrami—deliver a symphony of bold, juicy flavors that celebrate the heart of classic comfort food.
• Habana Restaurant and Bar — Spanish: Stepping into Habana Restaurant and Bar feels like a sun-drenched escape to the Caribbean, where the air is thick with the savory scent of slow-roasted lechon and the rhythmic energy of a bustling island kitchen. Vibrant plates of zesty ceviche and golden-fried tostones celebrate the soulful traditions of Cuban cooking, while the signature seafood paella and pressed sandwiches offer a rich, spice-kissed journey through authentic tropical flavors.