Sandwiches From Around the World: Club, Banh Mi, Panini, Croque Monsieur

Tap a sandwich to see its origin and character.

Club Sandwich (United States)

A classic American sandwich made by layering chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomato between three slices of bread, cut into triangles.

Banh Mi (Vietnam)

A sandwich blending French and Vietnamese culture — a crispy baguette filled with pork, pickled vegetables, and cilantro.

Panini (Italy)

A warm Italian sandwich made by filling Italian bread like ciabatta and pressing it on a grill.

Reuben Sandwich (United States)

A classic American deli sandwich made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese grilled between slices of rye bread.

Croque Monsieur (France)

A classic French cafe dish made by topping ham-and-cheese bread with béchamel sauce and baking it.

Bocadillo (Spain)

A simply filled Spanish sandwich, typically baguette-style bread with jamón or chorizo.

Muffuletta (United States, New Orleans)

A signature New Orleans sandwich made by piling various cured meats, cheese, and olive salad onto round Italian-style bread.

What Goes Between the Bread Reveals a Country

It's a simple combination of bread and filling, but the type of bread and ingredients favored varies by country, producing sandwiches with completely different personalities. Trying the sandwiches locals enjoy while traveling is also a great way to experience a country's food culture.

Curious About World Street Food Too?

If you're curious about other foods enjoyed on the street, check out our World Street Food guide as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the club sandwich cut into triangles?

The exact origin isn't entirely clear, but the tradition is believed to have developed from securing the thick, triple-stacked sandwich with toothpicks and cutting it diagonally to make it easier to eat.

What does it mean that banh mi blends French and Vietnamese culture?

It's a fusion food combining the baguette introduced during French colonial rule with Vietnam's own pickled vegetables and spices.