These Grocery Store Sandwiches Are So Good People Fly Across the Country for Them

In a world where restaurant-quality sandwiches often come with a hefty price tag, a surprising hero has emerged — the humble grocery store deli counter. All across the United States, major supermarket chains are earning near-religious followings for their freshly made, customizable, and shockingly delicious sandwiches.

At the heart of this sandwich craze is Publix, the Southeastern grocery chain whose Pub Subs have become the stuff of legends. Loyal fans line up daily for the famous Buffalo Chicken Tender Sub, made with crispy chicken tenders tossed in buffalo sauce and layered on your bread of choice. Priced at $11.99 for a whole and $8.39 for a half, this sandwich has become a destination meal — with some TikTok users claiming they’ve flown across the country just to get one. With millions of views under the hashtag #pubsub, Publix has elevated the grocery sandwich into a full-blown cultural phenomenon.

But Publix isn’t the only chain turning deli counters into gourmet stops. Whole Foods Market, owned by Amazon, has quietly earned a fanbase for its build-your-own sandwich bars, which feature premium bread choices like ciabatta and marbled rye, alongside high-quality proteins like roast beef, pastrami, and turkey. At just under $10, the price varies depending on ingredients, but the attention to detail — think sun-dried tomato spread, avocado, and pickled onions — makes every bite feel indulgent.

Then there’s Sprouts Farmers Market, where affordability meets freshness. For just $4.99, customers can create a sandwich loaded with deli meats, cheeses, and toppings on breads like sourdough or multigrain. Want a full meal? Add chips and water for an extra dollar. Social media has been buzzing over the value Sprouts offers — and for good reason. Where else can you eat this well without breaking the $5 mark?

Not to be overlooked is Wegmans, the East Coast giant known for its gourmet-level prepared foods. Sandwich lovers can choose from signature options like Danny’s Favorite (salami, capicola, spicy ham, provolone, lettuce, tomato) for $8.99, or build their own with unique ingredients like portobello mushrooms, hot banana peppers, and pulled chicken. Many fans swear by Wegmans’ Meals2Go app for quick ordering, and the in-store experience is just as smooth.

Safeway has also entered the sandwich chat with its Signature Cafes offering custom hot or cold subs for as low as $7 to $8.99, depending on location. While the chain may not have the viral fame of its competitors, those in the know have dubbed Safeway’s sandwich counter a “hidden gem.” With toasted options, fresh veggies, and generous portions, the value is hard to beat.

Whether you’re craving spicy chicken, classic Italian combos, or veggie-packed creations, these grocery store sandwiches are redefining what it means to eat well on the go. They’re affordable, satisfying, and fully customizable — and, if the internet is any proof, worth traveling for.

So the next time you’re at the supermarket, skip the rotisserie chicken and head straight to the sandwich counter. You just might find your new favorite lunch — and become one of the many fans spreading the gospel of the grocery store sub.