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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Jose

Authentic sandwich spots

You want a sandwich where the quality of the bread and the assembly of the ingredients are treated as a craft.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
MaMa House Sandwiches & Deli image 1
MaMa House Sandwiches & Deli image 2
MaMa House Sandwiches & Deli image 3
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Vietnamese sandwich shop offers crispy, fresh bread baked on-site and generous, flavorful fillings with authentic ingredients. The atmosphere is takeout-only with no seating, suited for quick stops or picnics. Customers find variety in prepared dishes and some delicacies imported directly from Vietnam.

Noodles and broth deliver authentic Vietnamese-style flavors that feel comforting. Viet foods here stay true to traditional tastes.

Sandwiches feature fresh ingredients and generous meat portions. The Vietnamese ham and hot ham and cheese sandwiches stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are packed with fresh, hearty fillings and crispy bread."

"The Vietnamese flavors here taste so authentic and comforting."

"I became obsessed with the calamansi tea; it's so refreshing."

Good to know

1

The deli is takeout only, with no seating available inside.

2

Customers should bring cash for a discount on their orders.

3

Credit card payments incur a 3.75% fee on all purchases.

02
WOWMIA PIZZA image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with tight table spacing and Persian music sets a cozy, relaxed vibe. Friendly atmosphere feels welcoming, enhanced by visible pizza-making and a large salad bar. Offers authentic Persian-style pizza with a unique flavor not found elsewhere.

Pizza offers an authentic Persian-style taste with rich, cheesy, and perfectly spiced flavors. Varieties like the Makhlot and E-roni pizzas capture the true Iranian taste found in Iran.

Persian-style sandwiches stand out with options like the Øģ؈ØģیØģ ØŠŲ†ŲˆØąÛŒ sandwich that bring authentic flavors. These sandwiches pair well with their pizzas and offer a unique taste experience.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Persian pizza, just like in Iran."

"You have to try their sandwiches; they're the best I've ever had."

"I found authentic Persian-style pizza with that Iranian taste."

Good to know

1

Each Iranian-style pizza could easily feed 3 to 4 people.

2

The salad bar costs around $8 for two people, which is reasonable.

3

The owners explained that the shelf life of their pizza is only about 20 minutes.

03
Duc Huong Sandwiches image 1

Sandwich shop operates as a take-out only spot with no seating and a pickup window for orders. Lines often stretch outside, creating a busy, crowded atmosphere with a steady flow of sandwich lovers. Known for best banh mi, it draws consistent crowds despite a run-down appearance.

Sandwiches here deliver authentic Vietnamese flavors with fresh ingredients and traditional preparation. The menu focuses on classic recipes that capture the true taste of Vietnam.

Vietnamese sandwiches stand out for their fresh bread that never cuts the mouth and large size. Options like grilled chicken and pork come fresh and tasty, with deals making them affordable.

People are saying

"I thought the banh mi sandwiches were the best I'd had."

"The cold cuts here are packed with flavorful meats and great pate."

"I found the Vietnamese sandwiches here to be the most authentic."

Good to know

1

They have a buy 4 get 1 free promotion.

2

The restaurant is take out only.

3

Expect long lines on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

04
Mazala Pizza San Jose image 1
Pizza restaurant

Outdoor seating creates a cozy, lively atmosphere with casual, welcoming energy. Vibrant red pizza boxes feature interactive designs that add a playful touch. The place stands out for its unique Indian-flavored thin crust pizzas and family-owned, small business vibe.

Flavors deliver a rich, authentic Indian taste with a unique twist on pizza. Toppings include tikka sauce, crisp bell peppers, onions, cheese, and cilantro lime drizzle on a thin crust.

Chicken sandwiches offer unique flavors not typical for that type of sandwich. Paneer sandwiches, especially the fried paneer tikka, stand out as well.

People are saying

"I found the unique Indian flavors here to be a delicious fusion."

"I found the authentic Indian flavors here to be a delicious fusion."

"I thought the paneer tikka and chicken tikka sandwiches were really good."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays offer 50% off on all orders.

2

Mazala Pizza is pick-up only with no seating available.

3

The restaurant is open until 3:30 AM for late-night cravings.

05
Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages image 1

Old-school Italian deli with 117-year family history and original 1920s decor creates a strong sense of tradition and community. Atmosphere feels like a step back in time with vintage photos and family memorabilia lining the walls. Quiet and unpretentious, it draws those seeking authentic, longstanding neighborhood flavor.

Sandwiches feature authentic Italian sausage and ingredients. The deli shop feels like a real Italian deli from the early 1900s with authentic Italian sandwiches throughout.

Large sandwiches come on soft sourdough rolls with authentic Italian cold cuts and meats. Options like the Pepper Steak with steak sauce and the Italian Sausage sandwich offer bold, flavorful tastes from well-spiced meats and sauces.

People are saying

"This old-school Italian deli has been family-owned for over 100 years."

"This old-school Italian deli feels like it's from the early 1900s."

"I found the Italian sandwiches and deli to be so authentic."

Good to know

1

Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages has been family-owned since 1908, making it the oldest deli in the area.

2

The deli offers both indoor and outdoor seating, though outdoor seating is limited.

3

Sandwiches are reasonably priced, with options starting around $13.

06
B3Boyz Dhaba image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Small modern Indian restaurant serves food on traditional banana leaves, creating an authentic dining experience. Atmosphere is pleasant and clean but can feel cold. Popular for authentic Tamilian dishes and flavorful biriyani, with many takeout orders limiting seating.

Biryani here matches the Ambur Style and Thalapakatti flavors from Bangalore closely. Dishes like Kizhi Parotta, Onam Sadya, and Appam with mild chicken curry keep the South Indian taste authentic.

Sliced egg sandwiches stand out with their simple, fresh taste. Sandwiches and wraps come with great flavor and pair well with tomato soup.

People are saying

"The fish fry here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

"I found the biryani here to be very authentic and flavorful."

"I loved the biryani here; it's authentic and tasty."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they offer buffets in the morning with lots of options.

2

The restaurant offers unlimited meals during the buffet.

3

Parking can be challenging; you may need to park across the street.

07
Bertucelli's La Villa Gourmet image 1

Small Italian deli with tight space and a busy atmosphere filled with classic Italian charm and New York swag. Crowded during peak hours, it offers mostly takeout with a few outdoor tables and a ticket roll system. The vibe blends authentic Italian deli feel with a friendly, lively energy.

Authentic Italian deli vibe fills the space with fresh Italian sandwiches, perfectly cooked ravioli, and classic dishes like lasagna and arancini. Every item tastes true to traditional Italian flavors.

Fresh, soft bread forms the base for cold cut sandwiches that stand out for their flavor. Hot options like roast beef come on very fresh sliced sourdough, making each sandwich consistently delicious.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were made with care."

"I thought their meatballs were excellent and the best I ever had."

"The ravioli here is perfectly cooked and authentic."

Good to know

1

Customers have to get a numbered ticket and wait in line.

2

Expect a long line around lunchtime, but it moves quickly.

3

Parking in their lot is sometimes difficult due to its downtown location.

08
Thanh Huong Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers authentic banh mi sandwiches with fresh bread and generous portions. Interior feels cozy and casual, with separate lines for sandwiches and a-la-carte dishes. Space is small and can get crowded, with some areas feeling cluttered but reflecting a genuine atmosphere.

Vietnamese dishes and soup dishes come with authentic flavors. Banh Mi sandwiches and Vietnamese coffee keep it traditional and simple.

Pork banh mi sandwiches stand out with their large size and generous fillings like BBQ pork and pate. Options like #1, #2, #4, and #17 offer good value and satisfy with their hearty portions and flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the banh mi here was the best I ever had."

"I found the pork banh mi sandwich to be the best I ever had."

"I found the pho and spring rolls to be authentic and amazing."

Good to know

1

Thanh Huong Restaurant accepts cards, unlike many other banh mi places.

2

Parking is available, but it can be tight during peak hours.

3

Prices increase after 6 PM, but value remains decent compared to other restaurants.

09
Rice Junky Katsu image 1

Small, clean restaurant with modern decor and traditional murals creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Low lighting and a cheerful vibe make dining feel like dinner and a show. Special eating challenges add a fun, engaging energy that brings people together.

Korean food here tastes very authentic and comes at a fair price. The gimbap and other bites deliver genuine flavors true to Korean cuisine.

Korean street-style sandwiches feature melt-in-your-mouth bulgogi and crispy toast for a great texture contrast. Options include gimbap, toasts, and tteokbokki flavors at affordable prices.

People are saying

"I thought the Korean food tasted exactly like what I'd find in Seoul."

"These Korean street-style sandwiches taste just like back home."

"The Korean food here tastes exactly like what I'd find in Seoul."

Good to know

1

The prices at Rice Junky Katsu are under $15-20 for most items.

2

Free parking is available in downtown San Jose.

3

The menu offers a wide range of Korean street food options.

10
DESI EXPRESS (Inside SoFA Market) image 1

Indian street food spot inside a food court offers authentic chaats and sandwiches with excellent chicken tikka masala and flavorful chutneys. Cozy setup supports a casual lunch atmosphere popular with office crowds. Location is somewhat hidden at the market's end but provides adequate seating and a home-style vibe.

Dishes feature authentic spices and fresh ingredients that capture true Indian flavors. Chaats and sandwiches stand out for their genuine Indian taste.

Bombay grilled sandwich stands out with authentic flavors and a tasty profile. Options like Paneer tikka Sandwich and Aloo tikki Sandwich offer variety, and the staff will heat sandwiches on request.

People are saying

"I thought the Bombay sandwich was the best in the Bay Area."

"I craved authentic Indian flavors that reminded me of home."

"The desserts here are exotic and have a unique blend."

Good to know

1

DESI EXPRESS is located inside a food court in downtown San Jose.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of chaat options.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to other places for similar dishes.

11
Phin Cafe - Blossom Hill Road | San Jose image 1

Small cafe with wood accents and real plants creates a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Space feels cozy and mellow, attracting people looking for a peaceful spot to relax or meet. Seating is ample, supporting casual visits despite occasional crowding.

Coffee features authentic Vietnamese style with Coconut Coffee and Egg Coffee offering the right sweetness. Sandwiches and food maintain an authentic flavor throughout.

Vietnamese sandwiches feature authentic flavors with options like shredded pork and fried egg, cold cut, and BBQ pork packed with meat. Toasted bread holds very flavorful fillings that satisfy hunger for hours.

People are saying

"Their unique coffee flavors like ube and egg coffee are delicious."

"The banh mi sandwiches here are flavorful and fresh."

"I loved the authentic Vietnamese coffee, it had the right sweetness."

Good to know

1

It gets busy around 10am on Sundays.

2

The wait time is about 30 to 45 minutes.

3

Phin Cafe is laptop friendly with free wifi and ample outlets.

12
Poor House Bistro image 1
Cajun restaurant

Old Victorian house hosts a cozy shaded outdoor patio with live blues music and a friendly, lively atmosphere. Small dance area and ample outdoor seating invite casual gatherings. Popular spot for quick pre-event dinners near SAP Center.

Cuisine features authentic Cajun flavors with a focus on New Orleans-style dishes. Some dishes could benefit from stronger seasoning and spices to enhance authenticity.

Large choice of sandwiches includes po-boy catfish and Poor House Poor Boy with ham and roast beef. Bread for sandwiches is divine, and the drippin sandwich melts in the mouth.

People are saying

"The live music here is a great bonus with amazing players."

"The live music and festive courtyard atmosphere make this sandwich spot's sandwiches special."

"I loved the authentic Cajun flavors and seasoned fries."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait during busy hours, especially on event nights.

2

Parking is limited, especially when events are happening nearby.

3

The venue hosts live music from Wednesday to the weekend.

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San Jose, California

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