Sandy's

SF takes sandwiches seriously—as seriously as we take the fog, dog parks, and complaining about new transplants. So checking out a sandwich spot is a momentous occasion. Will this one be a one-night stand or firmly in situationship territory? Sandy's in the Haight is the dream date, the quintessential sandwich spot. Their heavenly sandwiches will turn you into a muffuletta devotee. 

There are two muffuletta options here—a meaty original and a mushroom—and they’re both awe-inducing and not exactly typical of the New Orleans classic. For one, Sandy’s uses mayonnaise—a big no-no to purists—but the Duke’s mayo adds an essential layer of eggy fat that takes the sandwich to the next level. More importantly, their sesame bread is specially made for them by Firebrand Artisan Breads over in Oakland. And it’s coated with a thick swath of spicy olive spread that has us under its fermented cauliflower and carrot giardiniera spell. They’ll suggest you make your sandwich toasted (another controversial move), and we do too—if you want maximum melted cheese satisfaction.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

As juicy as the original is, piled high with imported soppressata, mortadella, prosciutto, and provolone piccante, the vegetarian muffuletta is actually Sandy’s best sandwich. It’s also one of the best vegetarian sandwiches we’ve had ever, and well worth any journey. The roasted cremini mushrooms and scallions bring a rich earthy flavor to each bite.

But the true sleeper hit at Sandy’s isn’t a muffuletta at all—it’s the fermented egg salad sandwich. It’s light and chunky egg salad on pillowy sourdough bread, which is then coated with Zapp’s potato chips. This one will take you back to your potato-chip-sandwich-stuffing middle school days.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

While this counter-service place is designed for takeout, we always prefer to live life at a slower pace and stay for a while. The space is full of light, and the staff is welcoming, to the point that we feel like a member of Sandy’s extended family every time we leave. So whenever it’s a tough day, or just because you feel like you need one of the city's best sandwiches, run to Sandy’s.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Muffuletta

This is the namesake, the all-star, the MVP. This delight of a sandwich is why you’re here. Get the eighth size, so you can order the pickled egg sandwich, too.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Pickled Egg Salad Sandy

Our deity. Literally makes us squeal, bite after bite. We jump for joy like the sea lions at Pier 39 thanks to this creamy mishmash of pickled egg, garlic, celery, and chive, topped with Zapp’s potato chips. If you have any doubts about this sandwich, throw them away now. Get it on your table.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Roasted Mushroom Muffuletta

Better than the original, and, yes, please put your pitchforks down. The roasted mushroom and scallion filling gives us all the rich umami of the meat muffuletta, but without the heaviness.

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie

Overwhelmed by the delicious savoriness of your meal? Make sure to order this cookie to help provide the sweet contrast that you—and your sweet tooth—need. Thick sea salt flakes amplify the sugary brown butter and chocolate.