If you’re the type of person who is always on the hunt for the “perfect bite” – one with a little bit of everything – then a sandwich is the perfect choice. We’re not talking humble lunchbox fare. These sandwiches from restaurants across Missouri are in a league of their own. With smoked-to-perfection meats, spicy spreads, and ooey, gooey cheese, these flavorful combinations are sure to make your taste buds sing.
ST. LOUIS
The Heart Stopping BLT at Crown Candy Kitchen has long since transcended local popularity to capture nation-wide attention … for good reason. This sandwich couldn’t be more classic with Miracle Whip and juicy, sliced tomato, but the massive pile of thick-sliced bacon is what has earned it a place in the public eye.
Recently named the best sandwich in Missouri, the hot salami sandwich at Gioia’s Deli is a can’t-miss. This signature sandwich will completely redefine the way you think about salami. The meat is made in-house and sliced to order. Keep it simple and top it with cheese, or spice it up with pepperoncini and giardiniera.
KANSAS CITY
Kansas City is known as the home of some of the best barbecue in the world, and if that’s what you’re looking for, Char Bar has you covered. However, if you want to try something a little bit off the beaten path, try the Jackknife – piled high smoked jackfruit or turkey, fried jalapenos, avocado, and provolone. You won’t regret it.
Taking inspiration from Mexico, Cuba and Korea, The Bite is a great place to try tantalizing flavor fusions. The Alambre is a mouthwatering creation made with beef short ribs, charred onions, Chihuahua cheese, red pepper sauce, cilantro and candied jalapenos that add just the right amount of sweetness and spice.
COLUMBIA
If you’re not afraid of big flavors, head to Beet Box for the Black Garlic Biscuit Sandwich. This breakfast specialty is sure to start your day on a high note. The garlic-studded biscuit is stuffed with grilled sausage, a fried egg, Irish cheddar cheese, chili honey, fresh herbs and schug – a spicy Middle Eastern sauce that’ll wake you right up.
Gunter Hans has mastered the savory-sweet blend with their sandwich, The Monte. The savory: ham and melty cheese. The sweet: authentic European jam and made-from-scratch liege waffles that are used in place of bread. The bottom line: this updated Monte Cristo will tempt you to go back for it over and over again.
CAPE GIRARDEAU
Veggie lovers, this restaurant is for you. Trio is dedicated to creating delicious dishes that are 100% plant based. Their Buffalo Meet Chick’n sandwich features a fried “chicken” patty, buffalo sauce, house ranch dressing, coconut cheese, pickles and onions – a masterful mix of flavors and textures. It’s no wonder the sandwich has acquired a large fan base.
If you’re in the mood for comfort food, The Southerner by Tractorspairs interesting flavors with southern hospitality. Their Blackened Red Fish Poboy – an elevated version of a southern classic – is served on a French baguette with cilantro lime slaw, sweet and spicy pickles, tomato, and jalamango sauce.
SPRINGFIELD
Sampling this sandwich requires a bit of a hunt. Sugarfire Smoke House (home of the Cuban Reuben, another fantastic sandwich that you can sometimes catch as a daily special at Sugarfire locations across the state) operates a food truck in Springfield called MOchicken where you can grab the No Refunds!, a top-notch fried chicken sandwich with a kick of chile oil. Keep an eye on Springfield’s Sugarfire Facebook page to track down the truck.
You might think grilled cheese sandwiches are for kids, but you’ll change your tune when you try the Uncle Tatey – or any of the other 10 sandwiches – at Druff’s. Forget the individually-wrapped cheese slices – this sandwich is combines goat cheese, slightly spicy pork, fresh strawberries and balsamic strawberry reduction spread.
CHILLICOTHE
Since Chillicothe is the first place in the world to sell commercially sliced bread – it only makes sense to enjoy a sandwich in the town known as the “Home of Sliced Bread.” At the Boji Stone Café, try the Homemade Grilled Pimento Cheese with Bacon created with Vermont cheddar, roasted red peppers, bacon and sourdough bread.
SWEET SANDWICHES
What’s the best way to finish off a day of sandwich sampling? Digging into a dessert sandwich! Here are some irresistible options you can find in the Show-Me State:
Patty’s Cheesecakes, St. Louis – Cheesecake-filled brownie or cookie sandwiches
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream, Kansas City – Ice cream sandwiches
European Café, Springfield – Macarons (The cookie version of a sandwich, right?)
Sugar Chic Creamery, Cape Girardeau – The Irresistible Sugar Rush (a glazed donut filled with ice cream)
U Knead Sweets, Columbia – Macarons
Whisk STL, St. Louis – Whoopie pies