When you’re in the mood for a delicious sandwich, Salem’s got you covered. From cold cuts and classic deli creations to unique twists on your favorite flavors, these sandwich spots deliver in taste, quality, and creativity. Let’s explore some of the best local places to find a tasty sandwich in Salem, Oregon.
Valiant the Sandwich
Valiant the Sandwich on Court Street has quickly become a local favorite for their adventurous and inventive sandwiches, like the Coxstolsoy Cheesesteak and the Cubano But Like Tampa. Their menu focuses on bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and some of the most creative names on the block.
Cozzie’s NY Deli
Cozzie’s NY Deli brings authentic New York flavors to Salem with house-made sauces, deli salads, and fresh-sliced meats like corned beef, pastrami, salami, and roasted turkey. They serve up hearty East Coast-style wedges (sandwiches) like the Gabagool and Italian Chicken, and they also sell mouthwatering bagel sandwiches in the morning.
Little Lois Cafe
Little Lois Cafe is a charming spot in West Salem known for their fresh and flavorful sandwiches. With tasty cold sandwiches like the Ultimate Chicken Bacon Ranch, the Oregonian, and The Soprano, the cafe also has the option to build your own sando (with choice of bread, protein, cheese, toppings, and dressing).
Little Lois also offers group ordering and delivery for businesses and events, making it a popular lunchtime choice.
Bearwolf Catering and PNW Deli
Bearwolf Catering and PNW Deli (a Valiant the Sandwich project) offers Pacific Northwest-inspired sandwiches with house-made meats. With group catering options, house-made sides, and a salad bar, Bearwolf is competing to be your new favorite sandwich spot.
Keizer Sub Shop
Just a stone’s throw away in Keizer, Keizer Sub Shop has specialized in daily-sliced meats, fresh ingredients, and friendly service since 1987. You’ll find over 20 sub sandwich combinations—including popular signature subs and special subs of the month—along with a selection of soups and sides. Their dedicated customer base can attest—these subs are made with love.
The Easy Otter
The Easy Otter brings Southern-inspired flavors to Salem with a focus on chicken-based dishes that pack a punch. Their sandwiches transport you to a place of Southern comfort, combining crispy chicken with mouthwatering toppings and sauces.
P.S. Don’t miss out on their appetizers, sides, and beignets!
Black Sheep Cafe
Located in Salem’s airport-industrial district, Black Sheep Cafe serves an all-day breakfast and lunch menu that includes—you guessed it—sandwiches. Sandwich options range from your classic Ham & Swiss to locally-inspired flavors in the Cascadia Chicken Sandwich. The cafe offers dine-in, carry-out, and local delivery!
Better Than Mama’s
When you visit Better Than Mama’s, you’ll find their menu has a three step process:
1. Pick from popular bases like the Clubhouse, the Balsamic Caprese, or the Banh Mi Dip;
2. Make it a sandwich, wrap, or salad;
3. Add your protein of choice—and voila!
(Step 4 is optional: Make it a Meal)
BTM also has a variety of comforting soups, salads, sides, and seasonal specials that will have you saying, “It is better than Mama’s!”
Great Harvest Bread Co.
Great Harvest Bread Co. in South Salem combines their freshly baked bread with high-quality ingredients for a delicious sandwich experience. Known for their five-ingredient Honey Whole Wheat bread (and other favorites like Dakota and Cinnamon Chip), they have a variety of sandwiches on their menu—including turkey, ham, chicken salad, and veggie options. With a sandwich in one hand, you might also walk out with one of their specialty loaves, cookies, bars, scones, or gift baskets.
Ritter’s Housemade Foods
Ritter’s Housemade Foods in downtown Salem offers PNW-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Their menu includes a selection of hearty sandwiches, like their Reuben, Roasted Turkey & Bacon-Pepper Jam or Crab & Oregon Shrimp sandwiches.
Wild Pear Restaurant & Catering
Wild Pear Restaurant & Catering in Salem offers unique and delicious sandwiches with a Pacific Northwest twist. Known for their fresh, local ingredients, their menu includes creative options like the Pho Dip, Spicy Chicken Club, and Black Forest Ham & Brie. With a cozy indoor atmosphere and catering services, Wild Pear is a top choice for lunch or special events.
Isaac’s Downtown
Isaac’s Downtown serves up delicious coffee and food with a mission. As part of Isaac’s Room, they provide job training and mentoring for local youth. They have breakfast and lunch menus that are both served all day in a warm, community-focused setting.
Swing by for a yummy breakfast sandwich like the Farmhouse or the Breakfast at Tiffany’s, or make it a lunch date and choose from sandwiches like the Chipotle Turkey, Chicken Salad, or Grilled PB&J. They also have salads and bowls, pastas, and soups!
For those specific lunchtime cravings, Salem’s sandwich scene has the perfect mix of flavors. Next time you want a tasty sandwich in your hands, why not make a stop at one of these local places?
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Nov. 27th, 2023