Tri-tip is a California original, a cut of beef that Central Coast cooks helped make famous over open oak fires. When it lands inside a sandwich, sliced thin and piled on a roll, it turns into one of the best lunches in the state.
Across California, small shops and family spots have built loyal followings around this simple idea. Some smoke the meat low and slow, others grill it Santa Maria style with salt, pepper, and garlic.
The lines at lunch tell you everything you need to know. Here are eight sandwich shops worth knowing about if you love a good tri-tip sub, whether you are cruising Highway 101 or just hunting for a better midday meal near home.
1. The Hitching Post, Casmalia, California
Santa Maria barbecue has a birthplace, and Casmalia is close to the heart of it. The Hitching Post has been cooking tri-tip over red oak for generations, and the town itself is tiny, which makes the reputation even more impressive…