You're going to thank me for this one. We all love a good sandwich - from leftover turkey the day after Thanksgiving to fresh tomato and cucumber in the summer. But a truly gourmet sandwich, I mean the kind that you can't stop thinking about, that can border on a religious experience. These 15 places in Virginia serve up just that kind of sandwich...and once you try them, you'll be back for sure.
1. Earl’s Sandwiches, Arlington (Ballston and Clarendon)
What makes Earl’s Sandwiches the best? They only use freshly roasted beef, pork and turkey – no deli meats for these sammies. Try their signature pork and fries sandwich – roasted pork loin, chipotle mayo, french fries, roasted red peppers, sweet pickles and chopped onion on grilled ciabatta. It might just change your life.
With sandwiches so big they have to be called battleships instead of subs, it’s no wonder The Black Sheep is a Richmond favorite. In 2012, the Travel Channel’s Adam Richmans named the "CSS Virginia" one of the Best Sandwiches in America. Measuring 2-feet long and featuring fried chicken livers, shredded cabbage, green onions, granny smith apples and remoulade sauce on a toasted french baguette, this sandwich is aptly placed under the menu heading "War of Northern Ingestion."
Tucked away in an antiques and gift boutique in Virginia Beach, the Leaping Lizard Café has been featured on Food Network’s "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" where Guy Fieri fell in love with the Chicken Salad Panini. With homemade bread, shredded chicken, peach chutney, curry yogurt, fresh tomatoes and mixed greens – how could you not?
Take It Away has been a Charlottesville "Corner" classic since they opened in 1992. Inauspiciously hidden down a side street, this shop is well worth the hunt when you can walk away with the perfect sandwich made from fresh meats, veggies, cheeses and breads.
5. Grilled Cheese Mania, Harrisonburg (Wolfe St. and South High St.)
This food truck claims to offer "simple comfort food" and after one taste of something like the Port Ruby (sauteed portabella mushroom, sauerkraut grilled with sweet onions, Thousand Island dressing, swiss cheese on butter-grilled rye bread), I don’t think anyone would argue. Voted the Shenandoah Valley’s #1 food truck, Grilled Cheese Mania serves up deliciousness in 2 locations.
Winner of the Best Sandwich in Richmond in 2012, Chiocca’s deli is still holding strong. Serving up classic hot and cold options, like the reuben with corned beef, swiss, sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing and Dijon mustard on rye, Ciocca’s has been a Richmond fave since 1952.
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7. Basilico Italian Market and New York Deli, Fredericksburg
Even if you’re not especially into Italian food, this is one place you won’t want to miss. Already featured in our Best Pizzas in Virginia article, we’re now back for sandwiches. And with options like the Italian Roast pork with grilled onion relish on toasted focaccia, you’ll be back, too.
Fresh food fast – this is what Cutting Edge promises, but what they forgot to mention is that it is also incredibly delicious food. Cutting Edge bakes their own artisanal breads daily, then using ingredients from local farms and suppliers, they dish up delicacies like soft shell crab with apple beet slaw, charred orange aioli and fresh herbs on a Kaiser roll. With plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, everyone goes away happy.
9. Our Daily Bread Bakery and Bistro, Blacksburg and Roanoke
If you can manage to tear yourself away from the bakery case at the front of this shop, just sit down for something like the Capicola Sandwich with fresh mozzarella, basil, pesto and olive spread served on homemade bread, and you’ll be glad you did. I say that only because dessert will still be waiting for you when you’re done.
A self-proclaimed "bakery, coffee house, deli and take out", this little shop in historic Old Town Leesburg is definitely doing something right. After 10 years, South Street Under is one of the busiest lunch spots in town, serving amazing sandwiches like this House-Cooked Rare Roast Beef Sandwich with Swiss horseradish mayo on black-olive rosemary bread.
The Cheese Shop on Gloucester Street hasn’t only earned the praise of locals – even Frommer’s Travel Guide recognizes their tasty sandwiches, dishing up a 5-star rating for their premium meats, cheeses and fresh baked breads. One look at this smoked turkey with cheddar and sprouts on rye and it’s easy to see why.
Organic is the key to this café’s success. Named as the Shenandoah’s Best Lunch in Virginia Living’s 2014 reader poll, Kind Roots earned their rank by using only locally sourced, preservative free ingredients to make amazing creations like their Sweet Potato BLT (roasted sweet potato salad, bacon, greens, tomato, cilantro basil aioli on flatbread) or the chicken and apple slaw sandwich shown here. Located inside a YMCA building, it can be tricky to find, so just be sure to look for the green awning – you’re welcome!
While featuring a full-service menu, Wildflour gets rave reviews for its sandwiches and wraps made from freshly baked bread, whole wheat tortillas and premium ingredients. The Lucky Loaf, shown here, is house-made meatloaf, served hot with lettuce, tomato, red onion, banana peppers, mustard, mayo, provolone cheese and Italian dressing. Also known for veggie and vegan options, their Millet Grain Burger has long been a favorite of the non-meat-eating crowd.
14. No Forks CheeseSteaks and More, Virginia Beach
If you love a good cheesesteak (and who doesn’t?), then you won’t want to miss No Forks. Try their signature JoJo – ribeye steak and melted provolone on a toasted roll, topped with Cajun seasoned fries and warm Cheez Whiz. It's amazing. You may not believe me now, but you’ll thank me later.
This Danville-based deli and bakery has gotten a pretty big taste of success. In just the last 2 years, they have expanded out of their original 3 locations in Danville and Brosville to now include Tightsqueeze, Lynchburg, Smith Mountain Lake and Roxboro, NC. The secret is the freshest ingredients, homemade yeast rolls and great prices. Try their signature chicken salad, bbq or White Vermont Cheddar Pimento Cheese and see if you can pick a favorite…
I'm sure we've left a few off the list, so be sure to let us know your favorite sandwiches, subs and wraps in Virginia. Tell us what and where in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
This Massive Flea Market in Virginia Has Its Very Own Coffee Shop
Shop 'til you drop and sip while you thrift at Flipping Flea Marketplace and the Sipping Flea Coffeeshop, all housed in one incredible retail space in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Thrift shopping is always an adventure, especially here in Virginia. But browsing countless aisles of vendor booths and loading your finds into your car trunk can be a bit tiring, to say the least. Fortunately, places like the Flipping Flea Marketplace in Williamsburg have thought of the perfect solution: an on-site coffee shop with locally sourced drinks and delightful donuts.
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Scott Hackenburg / Google Reviews
When you visit the Flipping Flea Market in Williamsburg, you can plan on spending an entire day there. With 113 vendor booths to choose from, the selection is top-notch. The store includes three unique locations, all of which are found in the same shopping plaza along Richmond Road in Williamsburg. But first thing's first: you'll want to fuel up with some quality coffee, which is where the Sipping Flea comes into play.
The Sipping Flea / Facebook
The Sipping Flea is a destination in and of itself: a hometown coffee shop that's an ideal spot to grab a quick jolt of caffeine or sit and stay awhile. Animal enthusiasts will appreciate that the shop is dog-themed, with cute and cozy decor that's as inviting as it is functional. In fact, you can even order a homemade dog treat for your four-legged friend!
And speaking of unique finds, the Sipping Flea is also known for its mini donuts. These artfully-designed snacks are so popular, in fact, that they tend to sell out quickly. So you'll probably want to stock up on half a dozen or so before your shopping extravaganza begins.
The Sipping Flea / Facebook
These colorful creations are bound to put a pep in your step, and they set the stage perfectly for all the unique thrifting finds to come.
Flipping Flea Marketplace / Facebook
Exploring the flea market is a bit like venturing into a maze, as there are rows upon rows of unique vendors, and an assortment of finds in every nook and cranny of the space. Of course, this all adds to the fun! If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, someone from the staff will be delighted to assist you. From prom dresses to vintage furniture, unique signage, whimsical jewelry, and that perfect t-shirt, there really is something for everyone here.
Flipping Flea Marketplace / Facebook
One thing we really appreciate about the space is that it's well-organized, clean, and the prices are just right. When describing the helpful team that works here, visitors agree that they'll go above and beyond to help you find just the thing you were looking for (and probably a handful of things you didn't even know you needed).
