Best Upscale Sandwich in New York City | Top 9 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Sandwich in New York City | Top 9 Upscale Spots

• & Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: This high-energy urban haunt pulses with a modern, industrial edge, inviting guests to watch as fresh dough is transformed into signature oblong pies right before their eyes. Bold flavor profiles take center stage, where the sweet heat of hot honey meets savory meats and inventive toppings like zesty mambo sauce create a vibrant, customizable feast. Every bite delivers a perfectly charred crust and a rebellious spirit, making it a destination for those who crave a fast-paced yet artisanal approach to the classic slice.
• Natoli's Deli — Italian · rated 5/5: Natoli’s Deli captures the heart of a classic neighborhood haunt, where the morning air is filled with the savory aroma of sizzling Taylor ham and golden-brown home fries. The counter hums with energy as the kitchen turns out everything from hearty, overstuffed egg sandwiches to crispy, sauce-laden rice balls and tender mussels marinara, offering a comforting sanctuary of authentic, soul-warming flavors.
• Giovanni's Italian Deli — Italian · rated 5/5: This bustling neighborhood deli invites guests into a space filled with the vibrant colors of garden-fresh greens and the comforting, savory steam of slow-simmered lentil and chicken orzo soups. Crisp, artfully composed salads take center stage, ranging from zesty buffalo chicken and classic antipasto to delicate bocconcini and house-made tri-color pasta tossed in bright, herb-infused dressings. Every bowl captures the essence of a traditional Italian kitchen, offering a wholesome and flavorful escape where simple, high-quality ingredients are transformed into satisfying midday feasts.
• Bite — American · rated 5/5: Bite serves as a vibrant sanctuary where the morning air is perfumed with the aroma of freshly baked pita and the earthy warmth of Middle Eastern spices. Guests gather over colorful mezze plates and bubbling pans of shakshooka, while golden-fried Moroccan cigars and velvety hummus platters bring a sun-soaked Mediterranean spirit to every table. It is a place where the simple joy of a perfectly crafted egg sandwich or a flaky, buttery mallawach transforms a casual meal into a rich, sensory journey.
• Landmark Tavern — American · rated 5/5: Stepping into this historic gathering place feels like a warm embrace, where the timeless charm of a traditional tavern meets a refined culinary spirit. The kitchen artfully balances rustic comfort with elegant flair, serving up everything from golden-crusted Scotch eggs and hearty shepherd’s pie to delicate pan-seared scallops and rich duck confit. Whether you are seeking the nostalgia of classic fish and chips or the indulgence of buttery lobster ravioli, every meal is a celebration of soulful, time-honored hospitality.
• Peckish — American · rated 5/5: This bustling neighborhood gem hums with the energy of a busy morning, drawing guests in with the irresistible scent of griddled eggs and toasted artisan bread. Here, the humble breakfast sandwich is elevated to an art form, layering everything from zesty New Mexican chiles to savory shakshuka into bold, handheld creations that turn a quick bite into a flavorful, sun-drenched ritual.
• Shelsky's of Brooklyn — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: This vibrant Brooklyn landmark captures the soul of a classic appetizing shop, where the salty-sweet aroma of premium smoked fish and slow-cured deli meats fills the air. Guests can indulge in towering platters of jewel-toned lox and velvety salmon or dive into hefty, hand-carved sandwiches piled high with peppery pastrami and tender corned beef. Every bite offers a nostalgic journey through New York’s culinary heritage, blending time-honored curing techniques with a contemporary passion for artisanal quality.
• Radio Bakery — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood hub where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of caramelized sugar and toasted butter. Masterfully laminated pastries take center stage, from the shatteringly crisp layers of pistachio and triple chocolate croissants to fragrant morning buns infused with the delicate notes of Earl Grey and Darjeeling cardamom. Each visit offers a sensory journey through jewel-toned passionfruit tarts and spiced stollen buns, making it a destination where artisanal technique meets pure, flaky indulgence.
• Fancy Free — American · rated 5/5: Fancy Free captures a spirited, carefree energy where the irresistible aroma of golden, crisp-fried delights and zesty spices fills the air. The kitchen elevates social dining with a vibrant array of shareable plates, from the earthy decadence of truffle parmesan fries and creamy deviled eggs to wings glazed in a symphony of sweet pineapple and fiery buffalo heat. It is a lively neighborhood haunt where bold flavors and a playful atmosphere invite guests to linger over every crunchy, savory bite.
• White Oak Tavern — American · rated 5/5: White Oak Tavern invites guests into a warm, wood-accented sanctuary where the convivial hum of a neighborhood gathering spot meets the refined flavors of elevated comfort fare. The kitchen transforms classic tavern staples into artisanal delights, pairing the smoky depth of house-made fish dip and tender, glazed baby back ribs with the crispy, truffle-scented allure of golden arancini. This inviting space balances rustic charm and sophisticated small plates, making it an ideal destination for sharing creamy burrata or warm, salt-dusted pretzels over spirited conversation.
• Gnarly Eats — American · rated 5/5: Gnarly Eats pulses with the energy of a modern urban hangout, where the irresistible scent of flame-seared beef and slow-smoked brisket draws a hungry crowd. Towering burgers—from crispy buttermilk fried chicken to earthy portobello stacks—arrive piled high with fresh ingredients, offering a messy, soul-satisfying symphony of textures and bold flavors. It is a vibrant destination that celebrates the art of the sandwich, inviting guests to roll up their sleeves and indulge in a menu where every bite feels like a decadent celebration of comfort food.
• Pavé — French · rated 5/5: The air at Pavé is thick with the comforting scent of toasted grain and warm yeast, drawing guests into a space where the humble baguette is elevated to a crisp, golden art form. Hand-stretched loaves with crackling crusts serve as the foundation for elegant pairings, from simple slathers of rich butter and aged Comté to sophisticated sandwiches layered with silken smoked salmon or the delicate crunch of fresh apple and creamy brie.
• Orchard Grocer — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem reimagines the classic deli experience, where the nostalgic aroma of toasted bagels and savory schmear mingles with the sun-drenched energy of a bustling morning. Towering, inventive sandwiches like the Miles and the Bowery offer a satisfying harmony of textures and bold flavors, while the signature breakfast burrito provides a warm, hearty embrace for the soul. Whether you’re grabbing a crisp Orchard Cobb to go or lingering over a perfectly pressed roll, it’s a charming corner where modern culinary creativity meets the timeless spirit of the city.
• The Wren — American · rated 5/5: Bathed in a warm, convivial glow, this spirited gathering spot invites guests to linger over a vibrant array of elevated snacks and shareable plates designed for social dining. The air hums with energy as tables fill with charred shishito peppers, smoky brisket croquettes, and velvety whipped ricotta, each bite celebrating bold textures and communal flavors. Whether diving into a golden-fried chicken sandwich or sampling colorful vegetable dips, diners find a welcoming retreat where sophisticated comfort food takes center stage.
• Fish Tales — Seafood · rated 5/5: This breezy seafood sanctuary captures the essence of a coastal getaway, where the air is seasoned with the savory aroma of toasted herbs and briny, ocean-fresh treasures. Guests linger over chilled platters of zesty calamari salad and golden-crusted clams oreganata, or find comfort in steaming, velvety bowls of chowder that taste of the salt-sprayed Atlantic. From the delicate sear of premium tuna to the crisp, citrusy brightness of shrimp and avocado, every plate serves as a vibrant tribute to the ocean’s timeless bounty.
• Dulce De Leche Bakery — Spanish · rated 5/5: A warm, bustling sanctuary where the scent of buttery pastry and sweet caramel fills the air, drawing guests toward counters overflowing with golden empanadas and flaky ham and cheese croissants. The experience balances savory comfort with pure indulgence, offering delicate sandwiches de miga alongside a dazzling array of artisanal desserts and masterfully crafted specialty cakes that turn any visit into a celebration.
• Frenchy Cafe — French · rated 5/5: Frenchy Cafe captures the effortless charm of a Parisian sidewalk haunt, where the rich, nutty aroma of freshly pulled espresso fills a space designed for both quiet contemplation and lively morning rituals. Skilled baristas craft everything from velvety flat whites with delicate micro-foam to bold, soul-warming cafe au laits, turning each cup into a refined celebration of European coffee culture.
• Dog Day Afternoon — American · rated 5/5: Step into a high-energy tribute to Windy City street food, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of spiced Italian beef and the nostalgic sizzle of the flat-top grill. The kitchen celebrates the art of the snap and the crunch, serving up everything from neon-topped Chicago dogs and hearty Polish kielbasa to golden-fried pork schnitzel and crispy oyster mushroom sandwiches. It is a soulful, inclusive destination where every bite—whether a messy chili cheese dog or a full "Tour of Chicago"—delivers a masterclass in bold, unpretentious comfort.
• Evalyn's Tap House — American · rated 5/5: Evalyn’s Tap House reimagines the classic social hub by blending the conviviality of a neighborhood pub with the intricate, steaming artistry of a traditional dim sum parlor. Guests gather around communal tables to share everything from salty, blistered shishito peppers and beer-brined brisket sliders to delicate, hand-pleated soup dumplings that burst with savory broth. The atmosphere hums with a relaxed energy, offering a unique sensory journey where the crisp snap of spicy wings meets the tender elegance of shrimp har gow, all perfectly paired with a cold pint.
• Naks — Filipino · rated 5/5: This vibrant destination pulses with the soulful energy of Filipino street culture, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of charcoal-grilled liempo and garlic-laced adobo rice. Diners feast on a playful evolution of tradition, from the satisfying crunch of golden kanto fried chicken to the delicate, citrus-cured brightness of fresh kinilaw, all culminating in the tropical sweetness of charred mango skewers.
• The Hugh — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant culinary destination pulses with the energy of a global marketplace, inviting guests into a sleek, sun-drenched space where the world’s most iconic flavors converge. The air is a fragrant tapestry of sizzling Pakistani seekh kebabs, zesty Caribbean spices, and the delicate scent of fresh-pressed sushi hand rolls. From the hearty crunch of a Berliner döner kebab to the comforting steam of a rich ramen bowl, every corner offers a new discovery for the adventurous palate.
• The Three Monkeys — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant social haunt hums with energy, drawing guests into a space where the aroma of spicy buffalo chicken and sizzling salt-and-pepper bites sets the stage for a spirited evening. The kitchen turns out an eclectic array of shareable delights, from crispy brussels sprouts to delicate dumplings and molten mac and cheese, all designed to be enjoyed amidst the clinking of glasses and lively conversation. It is a destination where global comfort food meets a playful, communal atmosphere, making every visit feel like a festive gathering of friends.
• Hutch Astoria — American · rated 5/5: Hutch Astoria pulses with the energy of a modern neighborhood haunt, where the comforting scent of grilled meats and bubbling pasta sauces fills a space designed for easy socializing. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between elevated American comfort and international flair, serving up everything from golden, honey-drizzled chicken sandwiches and juicy burgers to smoky, traditional cevapi. It is a welcoming retreat where casual elegance meets hearty, soul-satisfying plates, making it the perfect backdrop for a relaxed weeknight dinner or a lively weekend gathering.
• Pecking House — Chinese · rated 5/5: Pecking House reimagines the classic fried chicken joint as a vibrant crossroads of Southern comfort and bold Sichuan heat, where the air hums with the aromatic scent of toasted chilies and sizzling poultry. Diners dive into shatteringly crisp chili chicken and spice-dusted wings that pair perfectly with smoky turkey bacon fried rice and the refreshing, charred crunch of wok-fried lettuce. From the fiery kick of handmade wontons to the savory depth of their signature sandwiches, every bite offers a masterclass in texture and a soulful celebration of cross-cultural flavors.
• Sōrate — Japanese · rated 5/5: Sōrate invites guests into a tranquil, minimalist sanctuary where the ancient ritual of Japanese tea is performed with modern elegance and quiet precision. Vibrant clouds of emerald matcha are whisked to a delicate froth in ceramic bowls, while the nutty aroma of roasted hojicha and the deep, oceanic notes of superior gyokuro fill the air. Whether exploring a flight of rare shade-grown powders or savoring a steaming pot of sencha, the experience is a sensory immersion into the refined soul of traditional tea culture.
• Rosetta — Italian · rated 5/5: The scent of golden, oven-fresh dough fills this vibrant artisanal space, where the craft of the Italian bakery is elevated through a stunning array of hand-stretched focaccias and crisp, airy pizza in teglia. From the paper-thin, cheese-filled layers of traditional Recco-style crusts to wholesome sandwiches tucked into vibrant turmeric and multi-grain breads, every bite celebrates a harmony of rustic textures and contemporary flair. It is a sun-drenched haven for bread lovers, offering a sophisticated yet soulful journey through the diverse landscapes of Mediterranean flour and fire.
• Golda — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: Golda radiates a sun-drenched, neighborhood charm where the morning air is thick with the scent of toasted brioche and vibrant, aromatic spices. The kitchen reimagines all-day staples through a creative lens, turning out silky eggplant shakshuka and golden-hued frittatas alongside indulgent fried chicken sandwiches served on pillowy buns. It is a bright, welcoming sanctuary where every dish—from the delicate yuzu parfait to the hearty, signature egg sandwiches—is crafted with an eye for both soulful comfort and contemporary flair.
• Vanilla Gorilla Cafe — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood hub hums with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible scent of golden-toasted bread and bubbling mozzarella. The kitchen elevates the humble sandwich into a gourmet experience, layering premium ingredients into everything from the hearty Ultimate Breakfast to the crisp, savory Chicken Parm. Each bite, whether a signature flaky Pastrino or a zestful Poseidon Tuna, offers a masterclass in comfort, making it a sanctuary for those seeking bold, handheld flavors in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
• Russ & Daughters — Seafood · rated 5/5: Step into a living piece of New York history where the gleam of white-tiled walls and the rhythmic precision of master slicers create a timeless sanctuary for the city’s finest "appetizing" traditions. Translucent ribbons of Gaspe Nova and buttery Scottish smoked salmon are hand-carved to order, offering a sensory journey through delicate brines, rich wood-smoke aromas, and the peppery bite of pastrami-cured lox. Every plate celebrates a century of craftsmanship, inviting guests to savor the soulful, bustling energy of a landmark where the art of the cure is elevated to a masterpiece.
• The Meat Hook — American · rated 5/5: This bustling neighborhood hub celebrates the art of the butcher, where the aroma of seared grass-fed beef and freshly baked bread fills a space dedicated to ethical, nose-to-tail sourcing. Towering sandwiches showcase the richness of heritage breed pork and pasture-raised lamb, layered with sharp New York State cheeses and vibrant organic produce for a meal that feels both ruggedly authentic and meticulously curated. A cold craft beer provides the perfect finish to this vibrant celebration of local agriculture and artisanal craft.