Unearth The Voyage
Nothing beats a good sandwich when hunger strikes, and Ohioans know this better than most. The Buckeye State boasts an impressive array of sandwich shops that combine quality ingredients with hometown pride. From rock-and-roll themed subs to roast beef classics, these nine chains have earned loyal followings across Ohio for consistently delivering delicious handheld meals.
Dave’s Cosmic Subs: Rock & Roll Between Bread
Cleveland’s grooviest sandwich spot marries music memorabilia with massive Italian-style subs that keep fans coming back. The walls plastered with rock legends set the perfect backdrop for their signature creations loaded with premium meats, cheeses, and that famous Cosmic sauce – a secret blend with just the right kick. Founded by Dave Lombardy in the 1990s, this psychedelic sandwich haven now boasts locations throughout Ohio. Their generous portions mean you’ll never leave hungry, while the quality ingredients ensure you’re getting more than just nostalgic vibes. Fun fact: Owner Dave Lombardy was actually a musician before becoming a sandwich artist, which explains the authentic rock atmosphere that makes eating here an experience beyond just great food.
Mr. Hero: Home of the Legendary Romanburger
Ask any native Ohioan about Mr. Hero, and watch their eyes light up at the mention of the Romanburger. This unique creation – not quite a burger, not quite a sub – features seasoned beef patties, Italian lunch meats, melted cheese, and that addictive special sauce all on a toasted bun. Since 1965, Mr. Hero has been satisfying cravings with hot buttery cheesesteaks and crispy waffle fries that complement their signature sandwiches perfectly. The regional chain maintains a fiercely loyal customer base who appreciate the consistent quality and generous portions. What makes Mr. Hero special isn’t fancy ingredients or trendy concepts – it’s the reliable comfort of knowing exactly what delicious sandwich awaits you every single time.
Rax Roast Beef: A Nostalgic Sandwich Revival
Remember when fast food felt special? Rax Roast Beef delivers that nostalgic experience with every thinly-sliced roast beef sandwich. Once rivaling Arby’s with hundreds of locations nationwide, this Ohio-born chain has returned to its roots with a smaller but passionate presence in the Buckeye State. The BBC (Beef, Bacon and Cheddar) remains the crown jewel – tender roast beef piled high, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar on a soft bun. Their extensive salad bar, once revolutionary in fast food, still offers fresh alternatives for lighter appetites. Longtime fans make special trips to the remaining locations, treating each visit like a pilgrimage to taste a beloved piece of Ohio’s fast-food history that refuses to disappear.
Tony Packo’s Cafe: Toledo’s Hungarian Sandwich Legend
“M*A*S*H” star Jamie Farr put Tony Packo’s on the national map when his character Klinger repeatedly mentioned this Toledo institution on the hit TV show. Their famous Hungarian hot dogs – more sandwich than traditional dog – feature specially-made sausages smothered in their secret-recipe chili sauce and toppings. The walls adorned with hot dog buns signed by celebrities tell stories of visitors drawn by the restaurant’s unique charm and flavor combinations. Founded in 1932 during the Great Depression, Tony Packo’s represents the immigrant experience through food that blends Hungarian traditions with American sandwich culture. Don’t miss their pickles and peppers, which complement the signature sandwiches perfectly. The restaurant bottles their famous sauce for fans who can’t make regular pilgrimages to this Ohio sandwich landmark.
Frisch’s Big Boy: More Than Just Burgers
The statue of the checkered-overall-wearing Big Boy might suggest burgers are the only star, but Frisch’s sandwich game deserves serious recognition. Their Buddie Boy sandwich – a close cousin to the Big Boy – delivers two beef patties, melted cheese, and tangy tartar sauce on a triple-decker bun that satisfies without being overwhelming. Morning visitors discover another hidden gem in their breakfast menu featuring hearty sandwiches that fuel busy Ohioans. The Swiss Miss – thinly-sliced ham topped with Swiss cheese on grilled rye – provides a welcome alternative when you’re craving something different. Generations of Ohio families have gathered around Frisch’s tables since 1939, creating traditions around these reliable comfort foods. Their strawberry pie might get the glory, but the sandwiches keep people coming back regularly.
Herb’n Twine Sandwich Co.: Craft Sandwiches with Cleveland Soul
Walking into Herb’n Twine feels like discovering a secret sandwich society. This Cleveland gem crafts each offering with meticulous attention – house-roasted meats, scratch-made spreads, and locally sourced produce elevate every bite beyond ordinary lunch fare. The Turkey & Avocado showcases their philosophy perfectly: herb-roasted turkey, fresh avocado, crisp vegetables, and house aioli on artisanal bread. Unlike chain operations, they prepare everything fresh daily, closing once they’ve sold out – a frequent occurrence that locals have learned to navigate by arriving early. Owner Brendan Messina developed his culinary skills in upscale restaurants before focusing his talents on perfecting the humble sandwich. This background explains the unexpected depth of flavor in seemingly simple combinations that have earned them spots on every “Best of Ohio” list.
Deli Ohio: Canton’s Community Sandwich Destination
Housed in a historic building in downtown Canton, Deli Ohio transforms sandwich-making into community building. Their chalkboard menu features classics with thoughtful twists – like the popular Italian with house-pickled vegetables that add brightness to traditional flavors. Owner Ryan Miller sources ingredients from local farms and producers whenever possible, creating a ripple effect that supports the regional economy. The warm, inviting space encourages lingering conversations over hearty sandwiches stacked with quality meats and cheeses on bread delivered fresh daily. Beyond great food, Deli Ohio hosts local art displays and community events that strengthen Canton’s cultural fabric. This commitment to being more than just a lunch spot has earned them fierce loyalty from customers who appreciate both the delicious sandwiches and the establishment’s role in neighborhood revitalization.
Penn Station East Coast Subs: Grilled Perfection
The sizzle of thinly sliced steak hitting the grill announces the Penn Station experience before you even reach the counter. This Cincinnati-born chain has expanded throughout Ohio and beyond while maintaining an unwavering commitment to fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation. Their Philly Cheesesteak remains the undisputed champion – tender steak, melted provolone, and grilled onions on a hearty Italian roll. What separates Penn Station from competitors is their insistence on grilling everything fresh while you watch, never using microwaves or heat lamps. Hand-cut fries cooked in peanut oil and freshly-squeezed lemonade complete the experience. Founded in 1985, they’ve maintained their quality standards through expansion, proving that growth doesn’t have to compromise the original vision of serving exceptional hot sandwiches.
PJ’s Sandwiches: Columbus’ Late-Night Sandwich Savior
When midnight cravings strike near Ohio State University, PJ’s Sandwiches answers the call with massive, creative concoctions that satisfy hungry students and locals alike. Their signature offering – The Dagwood – stacks multiple meats, cheeses, and toppings between thick-cut bread for a sandwich experience that requires both hands and plenty of napkins. Owner Patrick Daly started small but developed a cult following through word-of-mouth and social media buzz about his generous portions and quality ingredients. The tiny storefront belies the huge flavors inside, where sandwiches are assembled with artistic flair and a touch of irreverent humor. Late hours accommodate student schedules and night owls, making PJ’s an essential part of Columbus’ food culture. Though smaller than corporate chains, their local impact and sandwich craftsmanship have earned them regional fame.
