From freshly baked local breads to creative flavor combinations, Nashville is home to a delightful range of sandwich shops that offer more than just a quick lunch. Whether you enjoy a casual weekday meal or a thoughtful sit-down with friends, these welcoming delis and bakeries provide memorable experiences for every palate.
Let’s get to it.
Music City Sandwich Co
At Music City Sandwich Co, you’ll find East Tennessee–style steamed hoagies in the heart of Inglewood. The highlight here is the build-your-own system. You grab a paper menu, tick off your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and classic toppings, and watch as everything gets steamed on pillowy bread from Charpier’s Bakery.
The white and pumpernickel rye loaves arrive soft and warm, piled high with premium ingredients inspired by Knoxville deli traditions. Portions are generous, and prices are budget-friendly. There’s no gluten-free or keto bread yet, but vegetarians can get creative with endless veggie and sauce combinations.
Inside, the vibe is cozy and relaxed. Communal tables encourage conversation, and friendly staff make it easy to linger over lunch. You’ll appreciate the free parking, wheelchair access, and pet-friendly policy. Open Monday through Friday from 11 to 3, it’s strictly a weekday lunch spot. If you’re tired of the same old chains and want hot sandwiches with local flair, Music City Sandwich Co should be on your Nashville lunch shortlist.
FatBelly Pretzel Bakery & Deli
When you visit FatBelly Pretzel Bakery & Deli, you’ll notice the house-made pretzel buns first. They balance a chewy crust with an airy inside, setting the tone for every sandwich. The menu runs the gamut from a loaded Cuban to the standout Hamma Mia!—ham, salami, mozzarella, artichoke cream, and a subtle hit of chili crisp.
Roast beef is roasted and sliced fresh daily, and nearly every bread and roll comes straight from the oven. Vegetarians and vegans will appreciate the all-vegan pretzel flavors and rotating plant-based deli options. Most sandwiches are large enough to split into two meals. Prices range from $6 for a kid’s cheese sandwich to $15 for the heartiest specialty.
Counter service, local art, and a casual, lively atmosphere give the space real character. Seating is limited, so it’s smart to plan for takeout or arrive early if you want a table. With breakfast and lunch hours, FatBelly is ideal for daytime outings, small gatherings, or a grab-and-go treat that never cuts corners on quality.
The Southern Engine Deli
At The Southern Engine Deli in historic Marathon Village, sandwiches are taken seriously. The S.E.C., stacked with applewood-smoked ham, oven-roasted turkey, bacon, and creamy Havarti on sourdough, sets a high bar. Classics like the Reuben and Hot Pastrami feature meats sliced fresh every morning.
You’ll find everything from pillowy sourdough to flaky butter croissants on the bread menu. Portions are generous and prices fair, with half-sizes and combo deals making it easy to customize. Vegetarian and vegan diners aren’t left out thanks to crisp veggie sandwiches and build-your-own salads.
The railroad-inspired space offers indoor seating plus a shaded patio under the Marathon water tower. It’s a nod to Nashville history without feeling kitschy. Lunch hours focus on midday breaks, and online ordering makes grab-and-go a breeze. For an independent deli that feels both inviting and a touch special, The Southern Engine Deli hits all the right notes.
Rae’s Sandwich Shoppe
Inside Rae’s Sandwich Shoppe on Union Street, you’ll discover a downtown lunch retreat. This family-run spot uses New Orleans–style baguettes or classic wheat to build sandwiches that are fresh and flavorful. Portions are generous without veering into overeating territory.
Signature picks like Rae’s Reuben and the Monte Cristo stand out for their balanced flavors. Those weekday daily specials add variety—think Shrimp Poboy or Friday’s BLT-A. Homemade sides like potato salad and desserts such as banana pudding and brownies round out the meal.
With only a handful of tables and a warm, community-focused vibe, Rae’s fills up during the noon rush. Order at the counter, then settle in among friendly regulars. Prices stay reasonable, and there are veggie-friendly options, though strict gluten-free or vegan diets may find limited choices. For a straightforward, satisfying lunch with genuine local charm, Rae’s Sandwich Shoppe is a downtown staple.
Bill’s Sandwich Palace
Bill’s Sandwich Palace in East Nashville stands out with an ever-changing sandwich lineup and top-notch ingredients. The menu rotates every two weeks, usually featuring about ten creative sandwiches. House-roasted meats mingle with local produce, crisp slaws, and inventive sauces, so each visit feels fresh.
Bread options include garlic-butter-toasted French loaves, bolillo rolls, or soft seeded buns from a nearby bakery. Dietary needs are covered too, with gluten-free breads and vegetarian or vegan-friendly salads showcasing summer produce. Most sandwiches run between $11 and $14, and the servings are hearty.
Seating consists of counter stools and shaded outdoor benches, making it a relaxed spot for a quick lunch that doesn’t feel rushed. Bill’s operates Thursday through Sunday at lunchtime only, so plan your visit accordingly. Online ordering is simple. There’s no catering, because the focus here is on perfecting your lunch. For anyone who cares about what goes between the bread, Bill’s Sandwich Palace is a one-location gem.
Mitchell Delicatessen
At Mitchell Delicatessen in East Nashville, quality shows up in every ingredient. The menu lists more than twenty artisan sandwiches, each generously filled with house-cured meats, hand-roasted beef, and Benton’s bacon served on locally sourced breads like ciabatta, rye, and whole wheat. Even familiar choices such as the Turkey Avocado & Bacon feel special, and vegetarian and vegan options get the same level of attention.
Paninis and melts get similar care. The caprese features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato, and house-made pesto, while the seitan Reuben layers tangy sauerkraut on Russian wheat. Daily rotating soups—tomato bisque or roasted carrot ginger, for example—and seasonal grain or green salads round out the lineup.
Mornings bring a steady breakfast crowd to the self-serve bar. Bagels with cream cheese or lox, fresh pastries, and strong coffee are available all day. Service at the counter stays friendly and efficient. You can dine inside or grab a seat on the shaded patio. Parking is easy, gluten-free bread comes at no extra cost, and most sandwiches stay under $15. For a quick lunch or a relaxed weekend treat, Mitchell Delicatessen balances comfort with thoughtful, honest ingredients.
Big Al’s Deli
Germantown’s Big Al’s Deli delivers Southern comfort from a converted house among brick sidewalks. Each dish goes from scratch—never reheated—and portions run generous. The breakfast menu shines with biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, and crispy fried catfish served with hot sauce on the side.
Sandwiches and burgers rival the brunch offerings. The fried chicken sandwich comes piled high with bacon and coleslaw on a soft brioche bun. House-ground beef makes the burgers juicy, and the pulled pork sandwich features tangy vinegar sauce. Chicken and waffles arrive hot off the griddle with maple syrup for dipping.
Inside, mismatched chairs and vintage signs create a homey vibe. Counter service moves quickly and staff greet regulars by name. Most entrees cost under $12, making shared plates easy on the wallet. Vegan and vegetarian guests can order a Beyond Burger or quinoa salad. Iced tea and house-made lemonade round out the beverage list. Takeout travels well in clearly labeled containers. For genuine Nashville hospitality at any hour, Big Al’s Deli keeps things real.
TY’S Soups And Sandwiches
In downtown Nashville, TY’S Soups And Sandwiches has become a weekday lunch staple for office workers and visitors. The menu lists scratch-made soups—creamy broccoli cheddar, roasted tomato bisque, and rotating chowders—paired with a build-your-own sandwich bar.
Choose from breads like Russian Wheat, jalapeño cheddar, or olive loaf. Proteins range from smoked turkey and honey ham to house-roasted beef and Nashville Hot Chicken. Classics also shine: the Reuben layers corned beef and sauerkraut on toasted rye, while the club stacks bacon, lettuce, and tomato between three slices of sourdough.
Most sandwiches run under $12, and soups fall between $4 and $6. A handful of stools inside means many guests grab a sidewalk table on lively 4th Avenue. Beverages include iced tea and bottled sodas from a self-serve fridge. Takeout orders travel well in sealed containers.
Staff handle gluten-free bread or dairy-free soup bases and note special instructions without slowing the line. If you need a fast, filling lunch in the heart of downtown, TY’S delivers fresh flavors and reliable service every day.
Tower Market and Deli
On Gallatin Avenue in East Nashville, Tower Market and Deli combines a full-service cafe with a neighborhood market. This family-run spot makes sandwiches with in-house sliced meats and cheeses alongside local ingredients. The Philly Cheese arrives loaded with tender ribeye and caramelized onions, while the Southern fried-bologna melt layers sweet pickles and cheddar on toasted white.
Every order includes house-made chips or sweet potato tots, and coffee from local Bongo Java brews strong. A small produce section offers organic apples, leafy greens, and seasonal fruit. You can order at the counter, use the self-serve kiosk, or place an online pick-up order.
Vegan and gluten-free diets are well supported. The falafel wrap comes with tahini sauce and crisp vegetables. A dedicated gluten-free menu covers bread, salads, and a rotating soup of the day. Most sandwiches cost under $14, and the market stocks pantry basics like pasta, local honey, and canned goods.
Seating includes a few indoor stools and two-top tables by the window. Catering options cover boxed lunches and snack platters for gatherings. If you want casual deli charm combined with modern convenience, Tower Market and Deli delivers on both fronts.
