Charleston, SC, is kind of a sandwich lover’s playground. Whether you’re after a classic deli stack or something a little offbeat, this city’s got options that really lean into local flavor and fresh stuff. Residents and visitors both seem to have their go-to spots, and honestly, it’s hard to blame them.
The best sandwiches in Charleston blend quality ingredients and some pretty creative recipes. Let’s wander through a few places where you’ll find sandwiches worth talking about—maybe even dreaming about later.
1) Brown Dog Deli
Brown Dog Deli’s been a staple for lunch in Charleston for a while now. The vibe is a little quirky, with 1980s memorabilia scattered around, and there’s a courtyard out back that’s surprisingly peaceful for being in the city.
Chef Wes has a pretty wild résumé—he’s cooked everywhere from Georgia to the Painted Desert. He’s also got a soft spot for barbecue, which sneaks into the menu in all the right ways.
People come for the fresh ingredients, sure, but also because it’s just a chill place to hang out. If you need catering, they’ve got you covered—seems like they do a bit of everything.
Location: 225 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
2) Legend Deli
Legend Deli’s got a bit of a cult following. Everything’s made fresh, and you can actually taste the difference. They’re not afraid to make stuff from scratch, which is rare these days.
It’s casual, friendly, and, honestly, not pretentious at all. Staff are always in a good mood, which is probably why folks keep coming back. You’ll find it right in the heart of Charleston, and if you ask around, people are quick to recommend it.
Location: 41-A George St, Charleston, SC 29401
3) The Pass
The Pass keeps things pretty simple—just good sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and a menu that doesn’t try too hard. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 to 3, and the hours kind of match the laid-back vibe.
You can eat in, grab takeout, or even get it delivered if you’re glued to your couch. They’re active on Instagram, so you’ll see what’s new or what’s sold out. The place just feels easygoing, and people seem to like that.
Location: 207-A St Philip St, Charleston, SC
4) Cold Shoulder Gourmet
Cold Shoulder Gourmet is one of those blink-and-you-miss-it places, but wow, their sandwiches are something else. They use focaccia that’s almost too good, then layer on local meats, cheeses, and whatever greens are freshest. No crazy frills—just solid, classic sandwiches.
They’re big on working with local farmers and bakers, and you can tell. The catch? They make a limited amount each day, so if you’re late, you might be out of luck. It’s mostly a grab-and-go spot, and the espresso’s not bad either.
Location: 1684 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
5) Millers All Day
Millers All Day is what happens when Southern comfort food meets a modern brunch spot. You’ll catch people here at all hours, grabbing breakfast, pie, a beer, or whatever feels right. The menu is Southern at heart but not stuck in the past.
Fresh baked goods and brunch classics keep people coming back. It’s not fussy, just good food done right. The space itself is relaxed, so you can take your time or get in and out—totally up to you.
Location: 120 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
6) Circe’s Grotto
Circe’s Grotto is a little gem tucked away in Charleston, making sandwiches, panini, wraps, and salads to order. They’re picky about using fresh, local stuff, and it really shows. There’s a friendly, almost neighborhood feel—maybe it’s the way people linger over lunch, or just the staff remembering your name.
Everything’s made with care, nothing fancy, just clean flavors and solid sandwiches. If you’re after something straightforward and tasty, this is your stop.
Location: 24901 85 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401
7) East Bay Deli – Downtown
East Bay Deli is a classic—sandwiches made to order, plus salads, baked potatoes, and even hot dogs. There’s a ton of variety, so you’re bound to find something, no matter what you’re craving.
They also do breakfast and desserts, which is handy if you’re indecisive or just hungry all day. Catering’s a big deal here, too—business lunches, parties, whatever. Ordering online is simple, which I’ll admit is a lifesaver on busy days.
Location: 334 E Bay St Ste H, Charleston, SC 29401
8) Rudy Royale
Rudy Royale is right in downtown Charleston and leans into Southern food, especially chicken cooked over a live-fire grill. The menu’s a mix of old-school and new ideas, and they’ve got a decent cocktail list if you’re in the mood.
The place feels lively but not overwhelming, making it a fun spot for dinner or just hanging out. They do private events too, so it’s good for groups or a special night out.
Location: 209 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
9) Alvin Ord’s Sandwich Shop – James Island
Alvin Ord’s Sandwich Shop has a bit of a cult classic vibe—people swear by the toasted sandwiches and that homemade bread (seriously, it’s baked fresh every day). The shop’s roots go back to a family recipe from the ’70s, and you can taste the history.
The Salvation sandwich is their claim to fame, but honestly, everything’s solid. They’ve got other locations now, but the James Island spot feels especially local. Catering’s an option if you’re feeding a crowd. It’s just a good, no-nonsense place for lunch or a quick bite.
Location: 1291 Folly Rd #119, Charleston, SC 29412
10) Ted’s Butcherblock
Ted’s Butcherblock has been a familiar fixture in Charleston since 2005. You’ll find a mix of premium meats, fresh seafood, and a tempting spread of prepared foods. If you’re in the mood to linger, there are café tables, but grabbing something to go is just as easy.
The sandwiches here have won awards—probably thanks to the focus on quality ingredients. You’ll also spot shelves with gourmet groceries: cheeses, wines, and those specialty spices you never knew you needed. People seem to love Ted’s Signature Dry Rub, a seasoning blend that’s become a bit of a local staple for grilling.
Ted’s isn’t just a deli; it’s also a butcher shop and seafood market, which is honestly pretty convenient. There’s a clear emphasis on supporting local producers, which is always nice to see. Whether you want a quick bite or ingredients for dinner at home, this spot covers both.
Location: 334 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
What Makes a Great Sandwich in Charleston?
A truly great Charleston sandwich? It’s all about local ingredients and bold, balanced flavors. There’s usually a mix of old-school and new-school influences, which just seems to fit the city’s rich food culture. The best ones show a lot of care in what goes inside and how it’s put together.
Local Ingredients and Signature Flavors
You’ll notice Charleston sandwiches often feature things like shrimp, pork, and heirloom tomatoes—ingredients that just scream coastal South. The bread isn’t an afterthought either; anything from crusty rolls to pillowy brioche, often from local bakeries, makes an appearance.
Signature flavors? Think vinegar-based sauces, spicy mustard, and house-made pickles—they add that little spark, cutting through the richness of the meats. There’s a lot of smoked barbecue and seafood too, which keeps things interesting.
A lot of places actually source from nearby farms and fisheries, so you get that extra-fresh taste and, hey, you’re helping the local scene. Food just tastes better when it hasn’t traveled a thousand miles, right?
Traditional Versus Contemporary Sandwich Styles
Traditional Charleston sandwiches lean on slow-cooked barbecue or a classic oyster po’boy—simple, strong flavors, and techniques like roasting or smoking that take their sweet time.
But if you’re after something different, there’s no shortage of global mashups: spicy banh mi, creative lobster rolls, or Southern staples with a twist, like pickled veggies or artisan sauces. It’s a fun mix, honestly, and great if you like surprises.
Both approaches care about quality, not size. The main difference? Traditional sandwiches stick to their roots, while the newer ones aren’t afraid to mix things up.
Insider Tips for Enjoying Charleston’s Sandwich Scene
Getting the most out of Charleston’s sandwich scene is partly about timing and knowing what goes best with your order. Sometimes, just a small tweak can turn a good meal into a great one.
Best Times to Visit Popular Sandwich Spots
Most popular sandwich shops hit their peak around lunch, especially from noon to 2 pm. If you’re not a fan of lines, showing up right when they open or later in the afternoon is usually a safer bet.
A lot of places close for a bit in the afternoon and then reopen for dinner, so it’s worth double-checking hours. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends—makes sense, since both locals and tourists pile in on Saturdays.
For spots known for hot sandwiches (Fig & Pig comes to mind), going early is your best shot at something fresh and warm. Dodging the lunch rush can really save you some time.
Pairings: Sides and Drinks
Sides like crispy fries, tangy slaw, or a crunchy pickle spear are pretty much the norm in Charleston’s sandwich joints. Pickles or slaws especially work wonders with richer sandwiches.
Drink-wise, it’s hard to beat a local craft soda or some sweet tea, though a lot of places have a decent beer list too—great if you’re ordering something hearty, like roast beef or pulled pork.
Mixing up textures and flavors—say, pairing a soft sandwich with a crispy side—makes the whole meal pop. If you’re not sure what to get, just ask the staff. They usually have solid pairing ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Charleston’s got a handful of sandwich shops that really stand out, each with their own vibe, menu, and quirks.
What are the top-rated sandwich shops in downtown Charleston?
Downtown Charleston has a few favorites—Legend Deli and The Pass are both known for fresh ingredients and creative sandwiches.
Which sandwich places in Mount Pleasant come highly recommended?
Brown Dog Deli is a local go-to in Mount Pleasant. They serve up classic sandwiches with ingredients sourced nearby, so it’s no wonder people keep coming back.
Are there any sandwich shops in Charleston that are known for their unique offerings?
Cold Shoulder Gourmet gets a lot of buzz for its inventive sandwiches that blend classic and modern flavors. Their menu’s definitely not your average deli lineup.
Where can I find gourmet sandwiches in Charleston, SC?
Millers All Day is a solid pick for gourmet sandwiches—expect high-quality meats and house-made sauces. They’ve got a knack for making the familiar feel a little fancy.
Which establishments offer the best sandwich delivery options in Charleston?
Legend Deli and Brown Dog Deli both offer delivery, and people seem pretty happy with how their food is packaged and how quickly it arrives.
What are some must-try sandwiches at Charleston’s popular eateries?
If you find yourself at Legend Deli, people can’t stop talking about the roast beef sandwich—it’s got that classic, satisfying thing going on. Over at Brown Dog Deli, the club sandwich is a bit of a local legend in its own right, stacked and messy in the best way. And then there’s Cold Shoulder Gourmet, where the turkey and brie combo somehow just works—it’s a little unexpected, but honestly, pretty delightful.
