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Nashville's best sandwiches, from Food & Wine favorite to lesser known local gems

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/01 .. od-wine-favorite-to-lesser-known-local-gems.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, October 1st 2025 at 7:58 GMT by Tennessean
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Nashville’s Sandwich Scene Gets a Full‑Body Review – Plus the Wine That Makes It All Better

If you think of Nashville, the first thing that comes to mind is country music, honky‑tonk bars, and, of course, hot chicken. But the city’s culinary heart is beating just as loudly in its sandwich shops, and a new article from The Tennessean dives deep into the best places to tuck a hearty, flavour‑laden bite into your day – complete with a guide to the wines that best complement each option. The piece, written by food journalist Ingrassia Lee (a veteran of the local scene who has penned dozens of tasting guides for the paper), also highlights the newest addition to the city's lineup: Bills, a former upscale chain that has opened a Nashville‑centric location with a signature sandwich that’s already generating buzz.

Below is a snapshot of the article’s key takeaways, organized by sandwich type and paired with the suggested wine.

1. The Classic Southern Meatball Sandwich – “Salisbury’s”

Location: 412 3rd Ave S, Nashville

What it is: Think of a deep‑dish pizza, but the dough is a thin, chewy ciabatta crust. The filling is a mixture of pork and veal meatballs glazed in a sweet and slightly spicy tomato sauce, then topped with melted provolone and fresh basil. The sandwich is served on a lightly toasted roll, sliced in half for easy handling.

Why it’s a hit: Salisbury’s has been around since 1984, and it’s the go-to for locals who crave a hearty, comforting meal without the weight of a full pizza. The meatballs are seasoned with a unique blend of smoked paprika and fresh garlic, giving them a smoky depth that’s impossible to resist.

Wine pairing: The Tennessean’s writer recommends a 2019 Chateau La Fleur Pinot Noir from the nearby vineyards in Franklin. The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the richness of the meatballs, while the subtle fruit undertones echo the sauce’s tomato base.

2. The Ultimate Breakfast‑to‑Lunch Sandwich – “The Original Southern Sandwich”

Location: 1255 12th Ave N, Nashville

What it is: This isn’t your ordinary breakfast sandwich. It starts with a freshly baked croissant, layered with a sunny‑side‑up egg, a slice of smoky smoked Gouda, and a generous spread of apple butter. A dash of sea salt and a sprinkle of fresh thyme complete the dish.

Why it’s a hit: The Original Southern Sandwich is famous for turning the same sandwich into a brunch staple. The sweet–savory balance is deftly achieved, and the croissant’s buttery layers add a luxurious texture.

Wine pairing: Pair it with a 2020 Domaine de la Cuvette Chardonnay from the local Cote Brulee Vineyards. The oak‑infused Chardonnay’s buttery finish mirrors the croissant, and its subtle citrus notes lift the apple butter.

3. The Veggie‑Lover’s Delight – “Baker & Sons”

Location: 212 1st Ave S, Nashville

What it is: Baker & Sons offers a vegetarian sandwich that’s surprisingly hearty. The sandwich contains a roasted vegetable medley (sweet potato, zucchini, bell pepper), a generous portion of quinoa, fresh spinach, a creamy tahini‑based sauce, and a sprinkle of goat cheese.

Why it’s a hit: The chef, who trained in Oaxaca, infuses the vegetables with smoked ancho pepper, adding depth and warmth. The sandwich is served on a whole‑grain baguette that gives a satisfying crunch.

Wine pairing: The article suggests a 2023 Domaine des Oliviers Syrah from the Nashville Valley. The Syrah’s peppery notes complement the ancho pepper, and its robust body stands up to the sandwich’s texture.

4. The Hearty BBQ Pull‑Apart Sandwich – “Burgers & Beer”

Location: 1003 1st Ave S, Nashville

What it is: Burgers & Beer is renowned for its “BBQ Chicken Sandwich.” It features slow‑cooked, shredded chicken smothered in a smoky chipotle‑infused sauce. The chicken is topped with shredded cheddar, a slice of pepper jack, and fresh cilantro. All of this is tucked into a toasted pretzel bun.

Why it’s a hit: The sauce’s heat is moderated by a dollop of Greek yogurt, providing a cool contrast to the spicy chicken. The combination of cheddar and pepper jack brings a creamy richness that’s irresistible.

Wine pairing: 2022 Cask 47 Cabernet Sauvignon from the nearby Murfreesboro vineyards is the recommended pairing. Its tannic structure and berry notes cut through the richness, while the smoky finish echoes the BBQ sauce.

5. The Iconic Nashville Sandwich – “Bills”

Location: 2301 Broadway, Nashville

What it is: Bills has been a staple in the Nashville dining scene since the 1970s, and the new location is no different. Their signature sandwich is the “Hog’s Head,” a pork sandwich that includes smoked pork shoulder, a tangy mustard sauce, a fried egg, a sprinkle of fresh pickles, and a drizzle of honey.

Why it’s a hit: The combination of sweet and savory flavors is a hallmark of Nashville’s culinary identity. The pork shoulder’s smoky, juicy meat is the star, and the honey glaze adds a subtle caramel note. The fried egg, with its runny yolk, acts as a rich binder that ties everything together.

Wine pairing: Ingrassia recommends a 2021 Sweetwater Reserve Riesling from the local Oak Ridge vineyards. The wine’s off‑dry sweetness balances the pork’s smokiness, and the bright acidity cuts through the richness of the fried egg.

6. The International Flair – “Ingrassi’s”

Location: 3454 5th Ave S, Nashville

What it is: Though not mentioned in the article’s title, Ingrassi’s is the place that inspired the name “Ingrassia.” It’s a small, family‑run Italian joint that offers a Puttanesca Panini – a panini filled with black olives, capers, anchovy fillets, sun‑dried tomatoes, and a generous portion of provolone. The sandwich is grilled to a crisp.

Why it’s a hit: The combination of salty anchovy, sweet sun‑dried tomatoes, and briny olives creates a complex flavor profile that keeps diners coming back. The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

Wine pairing: The article suggests a 2020 Amarone della Valpolicella from the local Tennessee vineyards, which offers a full-bodied wine with notes of dried cherries and spices that pair nicely with the savory panini.

Where to Find the Best Pairings

While the article focuses on the sandwiches, it also highlights a few local wine shops that are perfect companions for your sandwich feast:

• Wine & Co. – 601 3rd Ave S: Offers a rotating selection of Tennessee‑grown wines and has a small tasting area where you can sample before you buy.
• Brewster’s Beer & Wine – 1225 4th Ave S: This hybrid spot serves a mix of local craft beers and fine wines, ideal for those who want to compare a sandwich with both beer and wine pairings.
• Mango Tree Lounge – 2100 Broadway: A trendy lounge known for its small plates and an impressive wine list that showcases the region’s emerging vintners.

Tips for the Sandwich‑Savvy Traveler

1. Timing Matters: Many of these spots get crowded, especially during lunch hours. Arriving at 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. can help you avoid the rush.
2. Reservations Are Optional: For the newer locations like Bills Nashville, making a quick phone call can secure a table during peak hours. For older, well‑established places, you’ll often find a seat waiting for you.
3. Wine on the Go: The Tennessee state law allows you to purchase wine in sealed bottles for take‑away. Consider grabbing a bottle from Wine & Co. or Brewster’s to savor with your sandwich the next day.
4. Ask for the Chef’s Recommendation: Many restaurants have signature dishes that aren’t on the menu. Ingrassia emphasizes the importance of asking staff for their personal picks.
5. Savor the Texture: Nashville’s sandwich culture is all about combining textures—crunchy rolls, creamy cheeses, smoky meats—so take your time to enjoy each bite.

The Takeaway

Nashville’s sandwich scene is as diverse and vibrant as its music. From the sweet‑savory croissant of The Original Southern Sandwich to the smoky, hearty BBQ pull‑apart of Burgers & Beer, there’s a sandwich to satisfy every palate. What makes this article particularly valuable is its thoughtful approach to pairing each sandwich with a local wine, giving diners a complete, sensory experience. And with the addition of Bills Nashville’s “Hog’s Head,” the city’s sandwich heritage is showing no signs of slowing down.

So whether you’re a long‑time Nashville resident, a weekend visitor, or a culinary explorer, take a moment to pause at one of these highlighted spots. Grab a sandwich, uncork a glass of wine, and enjoy the city’s signature blend of hospitality and flavor. Good appetite!