When John Montagu, Earl of Sandwich, in 1762 introduced the concept of placing meat between two slices of bread, this English gentleman had no idea his invention would be destined for viral immortality.
Sandwiches first appeared in American cookbooks around 1815. Their popularity grew, especially during the Industrial Revolution, when busy workers lacked the time to eat traditional sit-down meals. Thus, the popularity of peanut butter and jelly, Po-Boys, Reubens, French Dips, Clubs, and a myriad of other variations was created.
As my wife can attest, I am a certified sandwich addict. Not even a 12-step program could likely cure me of this pedestrian culinary habit. Despite the temptations of Subway, Jimmy John’s, Jersey Mike’s, Mr. Pickles, and other franchises, I have come to prefer local eateries that make unique sandwiches to suit my sometimes discerning palate.
Here in the 925, these are the best spots.
1. Jack’s Urban Eats
For the last decade, this small café at the Safeway Shopping Center at Ygnacio and Oak Grove has pleased its loyal clientele with the best Black Angus, Utah-sourced tri-tip and roasted whole turkey sandwiches in town.
They par-bake their lean meat in the oven and finish it on the BBQ. Jack’s limited menu is enhanced by great fries, mashed potatoes, build-your-own salads, and delicious fresh fruit drinks.
2. Spicy Joi Banh Mi
Specializing in what is called Lao street food, owner-chef Joi Simmali has created unique cuisine that, for me, goes beyond flavors found in neighboring Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and China.
They have an extensive menu featuring ingredients including chili, lemongrass, and padaek fish sauce.
My favorite banh mi sandwich is graced by Simmali’s homemade sausage served on a French roll. It is covered with a mixture of mayo, butter, cilantro, cucumber, jalapeño, carrots, daikon, and pickled onions. At a cost of about 10 bucks, Spicy Joi’s sandwiches are a bargain for such high-quality cuisine.
3. Canesa’s Brooklyn Heroes
Located next to the bocce ball courts in Clayton, New York native John Canesa has brought the sandwiches of his youth west. Especially noteworthy is the Cool Hand Luke hot pastrami creation served on a fresh-baked Italian roll. The stromboli, Italian sausage, and meatball combos are also excellent.
The sandwiches are a bit pricey but, in many cases, can be split between two patrons. The New York–like atmosphere, created by John’s unique personality, makes one nostalgic for the days when the Brooklyn Dodgers once reigned supreme.
4. Luigi’s Deli
Located across the street from Concord BART, this local institution has been around for over 40 years. I will always have fond memories of this eatery, which has featured Luigi’s mom’s salad recipes plus awesome Italian sandwiches.
Prior to the founder’s retirement, I had the pleasure of tasting our homemade wines at his Concord residence. How I got home after these sessions is best forgotten. Luigi was an iconic, once-in-a-generation character who is still sorely missed today.
5. Rosie’s, 4666 Clayton Road, Concord
In discussing the best in local sandwich fare, we would be remiss not to mention this local gem. Featuring premium Wedemeyer’s breads sourced from South San Francisco, each of their sandwiches is delicious. While their club creation is top-notch, I am partial to the hot pastrami and Swiss on rye. But wait—there’s more! This weekend, Rosie’s proprietors, Selina and Leon Marx, will be welcoming a new baby boy to their family.
6. Morucci’s Deli, 1218 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek
When my late mom lived around the corner in assisted living, I frequently took her to this popular spot for lunch.
No one seems to mind the long lines or the lack of seating outside. Fresh roasted turkey covered with cranberry relish, hot coppa, prosciutto with mozzarella, and Italian subs are among their delights. Morucci’s house-made salads are also great. Those who miss the closed Genova Deli in Walnut Creek can find refuge there.
7. Parma Deli
This little hole-in-the-wall lunch spot, found at the El Monte Shopping Center in Concord, has been serving excellent Italian food for over 30 years.
Mary and her son Sammy create sandwiches loaded with abundant meat and fixings. I venture there when I have a craving for their homemade meatballs or their tri-tip sandwiches, served on Wednesdays and Fridays.
8. Jack’s Restaurant and Bar, Downtown Pleasant Hill
Although sandwich fare is a small part of Jack’s extensive menu, their French dips have always been a magnet for my lunch cravings. Thin-sliced, high-quality sirloin steak served on a freshly baked roll with a ramekin of (non–soup-base-sourced) au jus is a dish emanating from heaven.
Throw in creamy horseradish and a side of fries or onion rings, and it makes Jack’s French dips the best in the area since the Hungry Hunter closed on Pleasant Hill Road more than a decade ago.
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