This Is The Best Sandwich Joint In Connecticut, New List Says

CONNECTICUT — There are times when any old sandwich will do, and other occasions when the scrumptious concoction between two pieces of bread is worth a drive. In Connecticut, that means a road trip to Farmington, according to a recent list of the best sandwich shops in every state.

The 50 Best sandwich shops list compiled by Only In Your State, a digital travel and lifestyle website, says Nardelli’s Grinder Shoppe doesn’t hold back on flavor or portion size.

"The bread is sturdy, the fillings are plentiful, and every sandwich feels like a meal," the foodie editors raved. "It’s a classic grinder joint that knows exactly what it’s doing."

And what it's been doing is turning out big, bold hot pressed sandwiches and generous cold subs from an otherwise limited menu (It's just a sandwich shop, after all) since 1922.

“From no-frills neighborhood delis and legacy counter spots to modern shops reinventing the classics, great sandwiches tell the story of the places and people behind them,” the site said. “They reflect regional flavors, immigrant influences, and the kind of care that turns bread, meat, cheese, and condiments into something unforgettable.”

The sandwich joints on the list are “places that locals swear by, road-trippers detour for, and first-time visitors immediately add to their must-return list,” the site said, adding that some places on the list have been perfecting a signature sandwich for decades, while others innovate with bold combinations and unexpected twists.

Only In Your State said it based its selection on reviews, awards, and reader nominations reflecting what diners value: high-quality ingredients, flavor and freshness, along with accessibility, inclusivity, affordability, hours, and overall value. The list also highlighted innovation and creativity, rewarding spots that deliver something distinctive while honoring their culinary roots.