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13 Unique & Delicious Sandwiches To Eat In Tucson

13 Unique & Delicious Sandwiches To Eat In Tucson

Mar 3, 20165 min read

The formula for the perfect sandwich is simple. Two slices of bread, ideally baked in-house, a tasty sauce generously spread on each side, a protein-rich focal point, and a variety of complementary toppings.

Luckily, there are a number of exceptional sandwiches to eat in Tucson, from vegetarian specialities to every meat-lover’s dream.

Below is a roundup of unique and delicious options to try.

5 Points Market & Restaurant

756 S Stone Ave.
Caprese Sandwich from 5 Points Market & Restaurant (Credit: Adam Lehrman)
Caprese Sandwich from 5 Points Market & Restaurant (Credit: Adam Lehrman)

If you’re celebrating Meat Free Monday or opt to go meat free everyday, 5 Points has a delicious option in their Grilled Tempeh sandwich. The sandwich features grilled tempeh and carrot, soy sauce, thinly sliced jalapeño, sharp white cheddar, heirloom tomatoes, pickles, and Vegenaise on baguette.

Also, pictured above, the Caprese sandwich is another phenomenal vegetarian option.

For more information, visit 5pointstucson.com.

47 Scott

47 N Scott Ave.
(Credit: 47 Scott)
(Credit: 47 Scott)

The Grilled Cheese at 47 Scott stands out for a number of reasons. First, for the use of three different cheeses, including yellow cheddar, fontina and house-made mozzarella. And, second, for the unexpectedly tasty sweet and spicy dipping sauce it’s served with.

The Grilled Cheese is available during brunch, or as a stacked appetizer on the dinner menu and during happy hour.

For more information, visit 47scott.com.

Bison Witches

326 N Fourth Ave.
Wildcat sandwich at Bison Witches (Credit: Seth Benhaim)
Wildcat sandwich at Bison Witches (Credit: Seth Benhaim)

Bison Witches has been one of Fourth Avenue’s most popular sandwich destinations for years, likely due to the deli sandwiches’ monumental sizes and eclectic choices, as well as for the well-known soup in a bread bowl.

One of the top picks is the Beef & Brie. Imported Brie cheese is melted over the top of thinly sliced roast beef and served with tomatoes, sprouts, and honey-based spicy Russian mustard.

For more information, visit bisonwitches.com.

Bumsted’s

500 N Fourth Ave.
The "Play Ball" at Bumsted's
The “Play Ball” at Bumsted’s (Credit: Adam Lehrman)

Bumsted’s casual atmosphere and generous portions make it the ideal spot to enjoy a sandwich. Regulars recommend one of the meatloaf sandwich options, like the Dashboard Lights served with Sted’s meatloaf, loaf sauce, mayonnaise, fried egg, and peppered bacon.

Don’t forget to add a side of sweet potato fries.

For more information, visit bumstedstucson.com.

Dickman’s Meat & Deli

7955 E. Broadway Blvd. & 6472 N. Oracle Rd.
(Credit: Dickman's)
(Credit: Dickman’s)

If you frequent one of Dickman’s Tucson locations, then you’ve likely tried one of their most popular cuts of meat, the “ugly steak.” The 8-ounce cut, which is found somewhere in the lower sirloin region, certainly isn’t as pretty as a ribeye or porterhouse, but the taste has built quite the following.

Dickman’s adds the Ugly Steak Sandwich Special to its lineup of deli sandwiches every Monday at their Oracle location.

For more information, visit Dickman’s on Facebook.

Feast

Grilled Cheese at Feast (Credit: Theresa Delaney)
Grilled Cheese at Feast (Credit: Theresa Delaney)

It’s no surprise that the Feast grilled cheese is unlike any cheese sandwich you’ve seen before.

Seared Halloumi cheese is paired with honey-roasted eggplant, tomato and red onion on a French roll. The Halloumi, rather than melting into the gooey consistency we often expect in a grilled cheese, softens in the middle and develops a textural crunchy exterior, perfect for biting into.

For more information, visit eatatfeast.com.

Maynards Market & Kitchen

400 N Toole Ave.
Gluten FREE-Style at Maynards Market
(Credit: Lacey & Suede)

Maynards Market sandwich selection may leave you stumped, with plenty of enticing options to choose from.

One original option is the Gila Monster, a unique southwestern meatloaf sandwich served with corn, green chili, poblano mayo, caramelized onions, and white cheddar on sourdough.

For more information, visit maynardstucson.com.

Nico’s Taco Shop

Various Locations
Carnitas Torta at Nico's Taco Shop (Credit: Theresa Delaney)
Carnitas Torta at Nico’s Taco Shop (Credit: Theresa Delaney)

Perhaps one of the most underrated specialities in town, the Mexican torta is an art form all its own. While they’re not uncommon at taco shops and stands across town, one of the best is at local chain Nico’s.

The classic bolillo roll comes piled with carnitas, lettuce, guacamole and pico de gallo.

Roma Imports

627 S Vine Ave.
The Roma Stallion at Roma Imports (Credit: Adam Lehrman)
The Roma Stallion at Roma Imports (Credit: Adam Lehrman)

Roma Imports, a hidden gem located in an industrial area south of Broadway on Vine, offers a menu (and freezers) full of authentic Italian home-style cuisine. And the sandwiches do not disappoint.

Try the Roma Stallion with porchetta, slow roasted rolled pork shoulder with wine and herbs, served with mild or hot Giardiniera.

Also, check out our full feature on Roma, Roma Imports: Italian Charm Just South of Broadway.

For more information, visit romaimports.com.

Serial Grillers

5737 E Speedway Blvd.
Kalifornia Sandwich (Credit: Serial Grillers)
Kalifornia Sandwich (Credit: Serial Grillers)

If the menu of sandwiches named after real and fictional serial killers doesn’t intimidate you, you’re in for an indulgent treat at Serial Grillers.

A popular sandwich option is the Psycho Ribeye Cheesesteak, served with ribeye, grilled onions, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro mayo, tomatoes and pepperjack cheese.

For more information, visit serialgrillersaz.com.

Time Market

444 E University Blvd.
Chicken & Tamal from Time Market (Credit: Adam Lehrman)
Chicken & Tamal from Time Market (Credit: Adam Lehrman)

Any sandwich that starts with Time Market’s signature bread is going to be delicious.

If you simply can’t decide, go with the Roasted Chicken & Tamal for its unique and local flavors. The sandwich, served on pain levain, includes house-made green corn tamal, sliced wood-fired chicken breast, cheddar cheese, avocado, and salsa.

For more information, visit timemarket.xyz.

Vina Baguette

1540 E Broadway Blvd.
Banh Mi at Vina Baguette (Credit: Mark Whittaker)
Banh Mi at Vina Baguette (Credit: Mark Whittaker)

If you’re looking to step out of the traditional American sandwich lineup, venture over to Vina Baguette. The Banh Mi Dac Biet, or “Vietnamese Special Sandwich”, features a combination of red pork, ham, pate, butter, carrot, cucumber, daikon, cilantro, and jalapeños. FYI, it’s a food truck.

For more information, visit vinabaguette.com.

Wilko

943 E University Blvd.
Tagliata Sandwich at Wilko (Credit: Julie Ray)
Tagliata Sandwich at Wilko (Credit: Julie Ray)

There’s that Time Market bread again.

Wilko’s sandwich game truly shines on their lunch menu, with options like the AB&B, a decadent combination of apple, warm brie and basil. You won’t miss meat for a second while enjoying this gooey, crunchy treat.

For more information, visit barwilko.com.

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Article written by:

Theresa Delaney

Theresa Delaney

More about Theresa
Theresa is a copywriter, food explorer and pursuer of all things creative. Find her at theresadelaney.com.

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José Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57.

The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org.

Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉

Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com

#tucsonaz #tucsonnewsJosé Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57. The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org. Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉 Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonaz #tucsonnewsItalian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her.

Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her. Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝

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More details in bio!Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝 Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August. 🎉 Week 5 Winners • Libby: $50 North Italia gift card • Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets • arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes • Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card • Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply. 🏆 This Week’s Prizes • $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card • $100 Visa gift card • $75 @carusositalian gift card • $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card • $50 @miramontetucson gift card • $50 @localetucson gift card • @desertmuseum passes More details in bio!The Mercado District is one of Tucson’s best places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll, all in one stop.🐶❤️

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MSA ANNEX:
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Share your favorite stops with us!
More details on Tucsonfoodie.com 

#tucson #tucsonfoodieThe Mercado District is one of Tucson’s best places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll, all in one stop.🐶❤️ Home to Mercado San Agustín, the MSA Annex, The Monier, and the upcoming Bautista development, there’s always something new to explore. Grab a bite, browse local shops, enjoy the open-air courtyards (they’re dog-friendly!), or hop on the free Sun Link streetcar, which stops right at the Mercado. MERCADO SAN AGUSTÍN: @agustinkitchen @seiskitchen @prestacoffee @laestrella_tucson @dolcepastellocakes @zumitosjuicebar @santacruzriverfm MSA ANNEX: @decibelcoffeeworks @kukai___ @bosburger__ @hidden_hearth @rolliestucson @westbound_tapandbottle THE MONIER: @wholeslvcepizza @81barbersofficial Share your favorite stops with us! More details on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucson #tucsonfoodieTwo days at @Hiltonelcon felt like the ultimate staycation. Between the pools, hot spring and cold plunge, water slide, yoga, live music, complimentary bike rentals, and their nostalgic “Summer Rewind” experience, there was always something to do. We never left the resort. 

The highlight at their on-site restaurant, Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, was the Pollo Con Rajas - perfectly cooked chicken over a rich creamed poblano, onion, and corn mestizaje. And if you’re at their Sundance Café for breakfast, get the pozole. It’s made from a family recipe that became such a guest favorite it earned a permanent spot on the menu. 

Although El Conquistador licenses the Hilton brand, it’s owned and operated by a local company. The culinary team sources much of its meat and produce from Arizona. 

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#tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieTwo days at @Hiltonelcon felt like the ultimate staycation. Between the pools, hot spring and cold plunge, water slide, yoga, live music, complimentary bike rentals, and their nostalgic “Summer Rewind” experience, there was always something to do. We never left the resort. The highlight at their on-site restaurant, Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, was the Pollo Con Rajas - perfectly cooked chicken over a rich creamed poblano, onion, and corn mestizaje. And if you’re at their Sundance Café for breakfast, get the pozole. It’s made from a family recipe that became such a guest favorite it earned a permanent spot on the menu. Although El Conquistador licenses the Hilton brand, it’s owned and operated by a local company. The culinary team sources much of its meat and produce from Arizona. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for an incredible dinner with Catalina Mountain views, this spot is worth adding to your list. 🌵🌞 #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieHow many receipts have you sent in for NEW-TO-ME week?💛

From July 6 through July 12, upload your receipt from ANY local business at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and earn entries toward the 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer grand prize drawing at the end of August. 🔗 in bio. 

ANY LOCAL SPOT COUNTS. 

WEEK 6 WINNERS
Here are the winners from Happy Hour Week:
* Libby wins a $50 gift card to North Italia
* Keely wins a ticket to America’s Best Mexican Food Festival
* arts_primacy_2c wins a four-pack of passes to Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
* donita3000 wins a $20 gift card to Ghini’s French Caffe
* Nancy wins a $100 Visa gift card
* Gabriella wins a $100 Visa gift card 

PRIZES
This week’s prize pool includes:
* Salsa, Taco, and Tequila Challenge tickets
* $100 Visa gift card
* @eljefecatcafe pass
* $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe 
* @desertmuseum passes

Presenting sponsor: @visittucson
Presented by: @bbb_so_az • @510southtucson • @azwinecollectiveHow many receipts have you sent in for NEW-TO-ME week?💛 From July 6 through July 12, upload your receipt from ANY local business at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and earn entries toward the 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer grand prize drawing at the end of August. 🔗 in bio. ANY LOCAL SPOT COUNTS. WEEK 6 WINNERS Here are the winners from Happy Hour Week: * Libby wins a $50 gift card to North Italia * Keely wins a ticket to America’s Best Mexican Food Festival * arts_primacy_2c wins a four-pack of passes to Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum * donita3000 wins a $20 gift card to Ghini’s French Caffe * Nancy wins a $100 Visa gift card * Gabriella wins a $100 Visa gift card PRIZES This week’s prize pool includes: * Salsa, Taco, and Tequila Challenge tickets * $100 Visa gift card * @eljefecatcafe pass * $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe * @desertmuseum passes Presenting sponsor: @visittucson Presented by: @bbb_so_az • @510southtucson • @azwinecollective

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