La Lima Artisanal Sanguchería, Chicharron
Ever wondered if pork belly belongs between bread? La Lima in South End answers the question beautifully with their classic Peruvian “Chicharron” sandwich. Married between artisan Cristal bread is crispy pork belly, golden sweet potato and sarza criolla (onion, pepper and lime). Housemade carretillero sauce (a vibrant Peruvian sauce made with aji amarillo peppers) adds that extra kick that keeps this sandwich craveable bite after bite. Need a sip of something to cool things down? Try the “Chicha,” a refreshing drink made with purple corn, apple, pineapple, cinnamon and lime. LaLimaSangucheria.com.
Olivelli Deli, Oli Italiano
Olivelli Deli, the newly opened NoDa sandwich shop from the Tonidandel-Brown Restaurant Group, serves a selection of breakfast and lunch/dinner sandwiches on housemade benne seed rolls. An early favorite is the “Oli Italiano,” stacked with freshly shaved prosciutto, capicola, mortadella and salame, plus provolone, shredded cabbage, bathed in red onion, Castelvetrano olive tapenade, olive oil, vinegar and olive brine. Fun fact: the meats are imported from Italy! OlivelliDeli.com.
Rosemont, The Burger
Is a burger a sandwich? All signs point to yes. When you’re craving one, head to Rosemont in Elizabeth for, literally, “The Burger.” Theirs is a gooey variation with two smashed beef patties and classic American cheese. Griddled onions and pickles add that textured crunch, and the black pepper mayo on the potato bun takes things to the next level. Enjoy it at lunch with your side of choice (the house chips are a great pairing) or with shoestring fries at dinnertime. RoseMontCLT.com.
The Culture Shop, Caprese
No meat, no problem. “The Caprese” at The Culture Shop in the Belmont neighborhood is simply perfect with its fresh tomato, fresh mozzarella slices, local arugula, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze and the ever-important housemade basil pesto. What could make this vegetarian delight even better? It’s the housemade focaccia roll from local restaurant Pizza Baby. If you’re ever looking to branch out, keep an eye on their Instagram for the weekly featured sandwich. Their social media feed will keep you coming back for more. TheCultureShopCLT.com.
Bossy Beulah’s Chicken Shack, The Beaut
A delicious fried chicken sandwich is a must-mention in a sandwich conversation. Enter “The Beaut” from Bossy Beulah’s, featuring simple but carefully selected components. The chicken is all-natural, containing no pesticides, hormones, antibiotics or preservatives. The mayonnaise is the locally loved Duke’s brand, and the pickles are made in-house. The golden bun is baked right here in Charlotte by Bossy’s sister concept, Copain Bakery. Feel like mixing things up? Try the “Cheesy Beaut” (the original + baby Swiss) or the “Hot Thigh Sandwich,” the spicy version made with Beaut’s Hot Sauce. BossyBeulahs.com.