Not just stacked bread slices — but a complete world in a single bite!

Let’s not deny the fact that sandwiches don’t always get the credit they deserve. Quite often, people choose sandwiches when in a hurry, as a go-to meal to satisfy their appetite. But let’s take a break and recall the memory of eating a grilled sandwich: the aroma, the gooey cheese, the perfectly grilled and sliced meat, some refreshing greens, and the saucy magic, all stacked within toasted bread slices.

That’s right! It leads us to ponder once again the fact that a sandwich is only an on-the-go eating option. It is so much more than just two slices of bread with stuff in between.

So, in this article, we’re diving into 7 different types of sandwiches that can transform the way you look at sandwiches. These aren’t just basic sandwich variations; instead, they’re completely different categories, each with its unique flavor, style, and personality. All the following sandwich categories are available in the best places to eat in Lahore.

Sandwich Construction

Before beginning with the types of sandwiches, let’s first understand the basic construction of a sandwich. 

• Bread: Can be sliced white or whole grain, baguettes, buns, bagels, or flatbread, depending on the sandwich type.
• Spread: Often includes mayonnaise, mustard, hummus, pesto, butter, or specialty sauces that add flavor and moisture.
• Stuffing: The main component, mostly meats (like turkey, ham, or chicken), cheese, eggs, or plant-based proteins.
• Garnish/Toppings: Optional layers such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, pickles, or olives for added crunch and freshness.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, herbs, or spices may be added to enhance the overall taste. 

Different Types of Sandwiches

Feeling hungry? Without further ado, let’s dive in to explore the 7 different types of sandwiches.

1. Cold Sandwiches: Classic, Fresh, and Always Ready 

No lunchbox, picnic, or deli counter around the world ever missed this universal classic. These sandwiches use fresh, uncooked ingredients, such as: 

• Deli meats 
• Boiled eggs 
• Cheese 
• Fresh veggies 
• Sandwich spreads like mayo or mustard (or any other, per an individual’s taste). 

These ingredients are neatly layered between bread slices (white or brown). No cooking is required — simply grab the ingredients from your pantry and refrigerator and prepare your sandwich in just about 5 minutes.

The beauty of these sandwiches lies in their simplicity and freshness, with a perfect balance of flavors that make cold sandwiches a classic favorite of many. These cold sandwiches are perfect for summer lunches, road trips, or days when you don’t feel like cooking on the stove.

Example: some examples of cold sandwiches include: 

• Club sandwiches — layers of turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato.  
• BLT—bacon, lettuce, tomato on toasted bread with a swipe of mayo. 
• Open-faced — a single bread slice topped with ingredients like smoked salmon, cream cheese, or vegetables.  
• Pin-wheel – Thinly sliced bread rolled with fillings, often cut into pinwheel shapes. 
• Tea sandwiches — crustless bread and various fillings like cucumber or egg salad. 

2. Hot Sandwiches: Toasted Delicacies  

Not such a big fan of cold savory food? No worries, the hot sandwiches are here to cater to your taste buds. These sandwiches are like a comfort zone that gives a warm hug to your palate. Hot sandwiches often feature the following ingredients: 

• Melted cheese 
• Warm eggs 
• Sun-dried tomatoes 
• Warm meats 
• Toasty bread (adding an extra level of flavor and satisfaction) 

Whether grilled, toasted, or baked, these sandwiches are made to satisfy your needs.

Example: Some of the most iconic sandwiches in the world belong in this category:  

• Classic grilled cheese — crunchy and toasty bread enclosing gooey cheese in the middle. 
• Philly cheesesteak — packed with tender beef, grilled onion, and melted provolone. 
• Reuben — corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye. 
• Panini — Italian-style pressed sandwich often filled with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. 
• Cuban — toasted meats, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, pressed on Cuban bread. 

3. Open-Faced: Minimal Bread, Maximum Flavor 

Do sandwiches always need a top? Well, no! 

Open-faced sandwiches are built on a single slice of bread with all the toppings exposed. These sandwiches are very popular in different parts of Europe, especially Scandinavia, where they are commonly known as Smørrebrød in Danish and Smörgås in Swedish.

Despite being open-faced, these sandwiches are slightly refined and often served with a knife and a fork. But don’t be deceived by their looks — these sandwiches are equally fulfilling and tasty. The single bread slice is decorated with:

• Meats 
• Eggs (both soft-boiled and gooey fried eggs) 
• Fish 
• Herbs 

Examples: More than just a fancy fare, these sandwiches include some of the healthy delicacies, such as: 

• Open-Face Grilled Eggplant Sandwiches. 
• Avocado toast, often topped with cream and extras like eggs, tomatoes, or even smoked salmon. 
• Tomato, prosciutto, and Gruyère sandwiches. 
• Greek and chickpea salad sandwiches. 

4. Wraps and Rolled Sandwiches – Portable, Packed, and Flavorful 

Filling stacked in two bread slices is what makes a normal sandwich, but it’s entirely not the case. Some variations don’t even involve the stacking of fillings yet fall under the umbrella of sandwiches. We are talking about wraps and rolled sandwiches.

Wraps are especially popular in Middle Eastern, Mexican, and Mediterranean cuisines. These feature a modern twist, with flatbread like tortillas, pita, or lavash holding everything together. These rolled-up beauties are often stuffed with: 

• Grilled meats 
• Fresh veggies 
• Sauces 
• Herbs 
• Cheese  

In Southeast Asian countries, there are desi-style wraps, popularly known as Shawarma. A common street-food favorite, a shawarma features: 

• Slow-cooked meat 
• Garlic sauce 
• Pickled veggies 

Then there’s the chicken Caesar wrap, which takes all the flavor of a salad and wraps it up for easy eating. They’re light yet filling, perfect for lunch, picnics, or on-the-go meals. 

5. Submarine or Hoagie Sandwiches – Big and Bold 

Tired of the usual square/triangular sandwiches? Well, say hello to the oval and elongated submarine/Hoagie sandwiches. These long sandwiches are all about filling and size. Mostly, they are served in their shape, i.e., a long roll, and stacked with ingredients like: 

• Meats 
• Cheese 
• Veggies 
• Condiments  

The sheer volume, the signature elongated shape are what sets them apart from other sandwiches. So, you don’t just eat a sub, you literally dig into one.

The Italian sub is a classic, often filled with: 

• Salami 
• Ham/any meat 
• Provolone 
• Lettuce 
• Tomato 
• Dressing 

Meanwhile, meatball subs smother meatballs in marinara and melted mozzarella, making them a hot and hearty option. 

6. Breakfast Sandwiches: Morning Meals 

Why wait till midday or evening when you can enjoy a delicious sandwich right in the morning? 

Breakfast sandwiches are quick, full of energy, and hearty meals.  The following ingredients are all neatly tucked inside a bagel, croissant, or an English muffin: 

• Eggs 
• Cheese 
• Some form of meat (bacon, chicken, sausage) 

Both homemade and cafe versions of these sandwiches are popular among the population. What’s exciting is the versatility of these sandwiches. You can make meatless sandwiches, or load them with greens, or utilize your dinner leftovers and turn them into yummy breakfast bites. 

7. Dessert Sandwiches: Sweet Treats with a Twist 

How can we forget about desserts, right? Let’s flip the sandwich and transform it into sweet delights. 

Dessert sandwiches are a sweet twist on the classic savory favorites. They are indulgent and perfect to satisfy your sweet tooth. Dessert sandwiches celebrate good popularity — both as homemade versions and as desserts (worldwide and in some of the best coffee places in Lahore).

Examples: Some common and much-loved variations include: 

• Ice cream sandwiches, where soft cookies hug a slab of creamy ice cream. 
• Nutella and banana sandwiches, featuring fruit and Nutella between two slices of brioche. 

The Final Bite

Sandwiches are one of the most versatile foods on the planet. Whether you’re in the mood for something hot, cold, sweet, or savory—there’s a type of sandwich that fits the moment. The article lists 7 categories of sandwiches. While these barely scratch the surface, they offer a delicious start for anyone just planning on enjoying their first sandwich meal. 

So, the next time you’re hungry and can’t decide on what to eat, skip the boring snacks. Try a new sandwich instead. Pair it with some fries and cappuccino coffee, and indulge in the magical delight of every bite.

Not sure where to go for your first meal? Head out to Padel Cafe and enjoy your favorite bite from the sandwich variety available there.