Texas is famous for brisket and barbecue, but some of the state’s best sandwiches hide in plain sight, tucked inside Italian grocers, gas stations, and neighborhood strips most tourists never see. These under-the-radar counters have been quietly perfecting their craft for decades, earning fierce loyalty from locals who guard them like delicious secrets. Whether you crave a towering Reuben, a crackling bánh mì, or a muffuletta that could feed three people, these eight spots deliver big flavor without the hype.
1. Carshon’s Deli — Fort Worth
Walking into Carshon’s feels like stepping back to 1928—because that’s exactly when this Fort Worth institution opened its doors. The cash-only policy, short hours (Monday through Saturday, 9am to 3pm), and no-frills vibe all add to the charm.
What keeps people coming back? Reubens piled so high you need both hands and a strategy. The corned beef is tender, the sauerkraut tangy, and the rye bread grilled to crispy perfection.
Try the Rebecca if you want something a little different, or stick with the classic Reuben if it’s your first visit. Either way, bring cash and arrive early—once they sell out, that’s it for the day.
2. Weinberger’s Deli — Grapevine (DFW)
Tucked along Historic Main Street in Grapevine, Weinberger’s is the kind of place where regulars know the staff by name and the menu by heart. With hundreds of sandwich combinations on offer, you could visit weekly for a year and never order the same thing twice…