In a celebration of global culinary diversity, CNN has unveiled its definitive ranking of the 25 best sandwiches from around the world, showcasing everything from humble British classics to exotic street food favourites that are worth travelling thousands of miles to experience.
Global Sandwich Excellence and Unexpected Controversy
The comprehensive list highlights how different cultures have put their unique spin on the simple combination of bread and fillings. While internationally recognised creations like the American Reuben and BLT feature prominently, the ranking also introduces lesser-known regional specialities that might surprise even the most adventurous food enthusiasts.
However, one celebrated sandwich finds itself at the centre of an unfortunate controversy. Vietnam's beloved bánh mì, which combines shredded pork, chicken or other proteins with crusty rolls, fresh vegetables and tangy sauce, has been linked to a significant food poisoning outbreak in Ho Chi Minh City. Recent reports indicate that more than 300 people have been hospitalised, sparking serious debates about food safety standards for this popular street food.
British Classics Make Their Mark
The United Kingdom claims two spots on this prestigious list with sandwiches that represent opposite ends of the culinary spectrum. The elegant cucumber sandwich, often served with cream cheese on crustless bread during afternoon tea, showcases British tradition at its most refined. Meanwhile, the humble chip butty – essentially chips served between bread slices, often with ketchup – demonstrates the nation's comfort food preferences in all their straightforward glory.
Other notable British-influenced entries include Italy's tramezzino, which was designed in 1925 as a creative spin-off from the classic English tea sandwich, demonstrating how culinary ideas travel and evolve across borders.
Global Sandwich Diversity from Mexico to Japan
The ranking showcases remarkable international variety, from Mexico's torta ahogada ('drowned submarine sandwich') soaked in spicy sauce to Japan's katsu sando made with breaded cutlets between milk bread slices. France contributes both the pan bagnat from Nice – essentially a salade Niçoise in sandwich form – and the classic croque monsieur, while Denmark's smørrebrød represents the open-faced sandwich tradition.
Middle Eastern flavours shine through shawarma and falafel options, while South Africa's spatlo offers a substantial meal of meat and chips stuffed into a bread roll. The United States features multiple entries including New Orleans' po'boy and muffaletta, Philadelphia's cheesesteak, and the iconic Reuben sandwich.
Each entry tells a story of cultural heritage and culinary innovation, proving that the humble sandwich continues to evolve while maintaining its fundamental appeal as one of the world's most accessible and adaptable food formats.
