Nothing hits the spot like a fresh, well-crafted sandwich—especially when you have so many excellent local options to choose from. This part of Central Florida is home to specialty delis, cozy cafes, and waterfront grills that make sandwich cravings worth satisfying.
Let’s get to it.
Chop House at Lake Sumter
Tucked away on the shores of Lake Sumter, Chop House at Lake Sumter serves up classic steakhouse fare with a Florida flair. Their standout ribeye sandwich features thinly shaved USDA beef, kissed by the wood fire, then piled high with cheddar, mushrooms and those irresistible fried onions.
They haven’t forgotten lighter appetites either. The Polynesian chicken sandwich arrives glazed in teriyaki, topped with grilled pineapple and Swiss cheese, all on a perfectly toasted brioche bun. If you’re skipping steak, try the wagyu Chop House burger crowned with house-made bacon jam, or opt for the plant-based burger that even meat lovers praise.
Generous portions mean most sandwiches run $15 to $19 and come with a hearty side. The kitchen leans on premium USDA Certified meats, seasonal local produce when available, and careful wood-fired prep.
Inside, white-linen tables set a leisurely tone, and a creek-side patio offers a serene spot for lunch or dinner. Whether dining in, grabbing curbside, or hosting a private event, Chop House at Lake Sumter delivers dependable, delicious fare every time.
Prima Italian Steakhouse
On a sunny afternoon in Brownwood Paddock Square, Prima Italian Steakhouse is the perfect place to slow down and savor a well-crafted lunch. Since opening in 2021, this spot has built its reputation on house-made classics. Think garlic-buttered hoagie rolls piled with tender meatballs, or hand-breaded chicken Parmesan pressed between ciabatta for an extra-crispy bite.
Sandwich lovers will also enjoy the prime rib dip and the gorgonzola mushroom burger—both creative twists on casual steakhouse favorites. Vegetarians won’t feel left out thanks to a Caprese panini, seasonal salads, and even cauliflower-crust pizza.
Most lunch items fall between $13 and $17, and portions invite you to bring your appetite. The dining room is relaxed but refined, with a sunny patio for lingering over a full bar drink. Though curbside pickup and delivery are available, Prima makes it clear that the best experience is seated at a table, napkin in lap and time to truly unwind.
Reveille Cafe The Villages
Bright and welcoming in Magnolia Plaza, Reveille Cafe The Villages caters to breakfast and lunch crowds with cheerful efficiency. This counter-service café opened in March 2022 but already feels like a neighborhood favorite.
Sandwich options take cues from around the globe. The Copper Mug Club layers turkey, ham, white cheddar, crisp veggies and honey-Dijon vinaigrette between slices of raisin bread for a familiar yet fresh twist. On the toastier side, the Santa Fe Chicken Grill shows up on a pretzel roll with Cajun spice and a scoop of guacamole. Nearly every sandwich arrives with crispy tater tots, though you can swap in fruit, soup or salad.
Vegetarian friends can choose an Impossible Burger, a hearty Impossible Breakfast Sandwich or classic avocado toast. Gluten-friendly bread and egg-white swaps make dietary accommodations simple. Don’t miss the chunky house-made chicken salad loaded with apples, grapes and pecans. With robust takeout, fresh-squeezed orange juice and hours from dawn to afternoon, Reveille balances contemporary flair with classic café comforts.
Sawgrass Tavern
Step into Sawgrass Tavern and you’ll find a charming Celtic-inspired pub atmosphere paired with hearty sandwiches and entrees. The Reuben steals the show, built on slow-cooked brisket corned beef and toasted rye bread for a satisfying, stick-to-your-ribs lunch.
If you prefer something lighter, try the Chopped Turkey Sub on a toasted hoagie or the Tavern Chicken Sandwich—grilled, blackened or fried, depending on your mood. The Rachel switch-up is equally tempting if you want to venture beyond the usual. Classics like sausage and peppers or a crispy Haddock Sandwich round out the menu, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
Vegetarians can choose a veggie burger, fresh salads or a whole-wheat tortilla tuna wrap. Inside, you’ll find a cozy Celtic-themed dining room, a lively bar and a comfortable patio tucked into Sawgrass Grove at 810 Marilee Place. It’s an unpretentious spot that never overreaches, yet always delivers a memorable meal.
Lil Bits Cafe
On the north side of The Villages, Lil Bits Cafe has become a go-to spot for a well-made breakfast or hearty lunch sandwich. The counter-order system keeps service friendly and efficient, while art prints on the walls lend a cozy, bistro feel.
Breakfast ranges from fluffy egg scrambles to thick-cut French toast, thanks to homemade breads and freshly baked English muffins. Lunch steals most of the spotlight, especially the Lil Bits Club: a towering triple-decker layered with roasted turkey and ham, both sliced in-house. The kitchen also whips up chicken and tuna salad from scratch and bakes all breads daily.
Sandwiches ride on grilled kaiser rolls, rye or Texas toast, and the half-pound burgers are every bit as substantial as they sound. Veggie options like Greek salads or grilled cheese on Texas toast keep plant-based diners happy. On Friday evenings, owners Caroline and Terry add a few French bistro specials that regulars look forward to. With takeout and delivery options, you’ll never leave hungry or waiting long.
Redsauce American – Italian Restaurant
Nestled on Lake Sumter Landing’s town square, Redsauce American – Italian Restaurant draws diners with its heated outdoor patio and live music. The sandwich lineup is a highlight: the Chicken Parmigiano arrives hot and crisp on a soft brioche bun, while meatball and sausage hoagies sit on sturdy toasted rolls. Fans of pressed Italian panini can’t get enough of the salami and capicola version. You’ll also spot paper-thin roast beef in the Italian Dip, and even the appetizers come served on grilled panini bread. Everything tastes authentic thanks to house-made meatballs and scratch-made sauce prepared fresh each day.
Prices feel right, with most sandwiches just over twelve dollars and mains ranging from pasta dishes to steakhouse options. Gluten-free and vegan items are clearly marked, and the chef takes care to clean the line before cooking for special diets. The atmosphere stays easygoing yet lively thanks to an eight-year family-run tradition. Dine-in really shines here, especially on Sunday brunch when bottomless mimosas appear and guests tend to linger a little longer.
Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille
Perched on the boardwalk at Lake Sumter Landing, Lighthouse Point Bar and Grille offers waterfront dining with a focus on hot seafood and classic deli-style sandwiches. The Lobster Roll leads the premium menu, while the Shrimp Po’ Boy, Classic Haddock, and Seaside Roll provide authentic New England flavor. Each comes on the perfect bread—grilled rolls, pretzel buns, or rosemary olive oil loaves. Land lovers can choose a Reuben or a fun Gobbler sandwich, which layers smoked turkey, stuffing, and cranberry mayo.
Vegetarian and vegan options hold their own, too. The house-made Veggie Burger features avocado and mushrooms, plus salads and a peach-ginger arugula veggie sandwich. Sandwiches generally run $9 to $14, complete with fries or slaw and a pickle spear, though a full lobster roll climbs to $23. Patio seats overlook the lake, and happy hour runs from 3 to 6 daily. There’s no dress code—just casual dockside seating and takeout if you’d rather enjoy your meal at home.
Cane Garden Country Club
At Cane Garden Country Club on Bailey Trail, this clubhouse restaurant has become one of The Villages’ dependable go-to spots. Sandwiches steal the show—especially the classic Cane Garden Club stacked high with roasted turkey, deli ham, and Applewood bacon on your choice of marble rye or thick-cut sourdough. If you want extra melty comfort, the Philly cheesesteak overflows with ribeye, and the fried whitefish comes crisp without greasiness. The Reuben is a standout, too, offering proper corned beef and sauerkraut.
Health-minded diners can opt for the Ambrosia Chicken Salad Wrap or choose a lettuce wrap with plenty of gluten-free swaps. Sides go beyond the usual fries, with buffalo chips, sweet potato fries, and a refreshing fruit cup. Overlooking the golf courses, the patio delivers a relaxed vibe whether you stop in after 18 holes or for an early dinner. Regulars have counted on Cane Garden for more than a decade, enjoying dine-in, takeout, or even catering for special events.
