EARL’s Top Tips to Find the Best Sandwich Shop in Honolulu
Justin (owner of EARL) talking all things sandwiches outside EARL Kakaako in Honolulu
When it comes to satisfying your sandwich cravings on Oahu, finding the perfect spot can make all the difference. Whether you're in search of classic favorites or innovative creations, knowing where to go is key. As a top sandwich shop in Honolulu, we at EARL have got you covered.
We’ll let you in on the secrets to finding Honolulu sandwich gems that bring together quality ingredients, mouthwatering flavors, and impeccable sandwich craftsmanship. From casual neighborhood sandwich shops to trendy lunch hot spots (we like to think we’re a bit of both), we’ll clue you in on how to handpick Hawaii sandwich establishments that take the art of sandwich-making to a whole new level.
Ready your taste buds for artisan breads, premium meats, gourmet spreads, and inventive toppings. Whether you're a sandwich nerd or just seeking a satisfying and quick lunch in Honolulu, join us in sniffing out the best subs around. Get ready to take a bite out of the best gourmet sandwiches in Honolulu — and if you’re looking for a delicious lunch near you in Kaimuki or casual restaurant in Kakaako, stop by EARL to try the best of the best.
What makes a great sandwich shop in Honolulu?
A great sandwich shop goes beyond merely slapping ingredients between slices of bread. For Hawaii tourists, transplants, and locals alike who want to get real sandwiches not from generic chains, the search can be difficult. It's about a well-balanced blend of flavors, quality ingredients, and attention to detail. And while Hawaii is known for many delicious foods, sandwiches aren’t exactly at the top of the list. That’s why EARL is committed to bringing the best East Coast sandwiches, burgers, and chicken to Oahu sandwich lovers who are craving creative American classics.
EARL’s Cheesesteak features USDA Prime Top Sirloin, white American cheese, provolone, spicy mayo, grilled onions, and sweet peppers. It's our take on a classic favorite that never disappoints.
The best sandwich shops in Honolulu balance the classic and familiar — like Philly Cheesesteaks and Turkey Clubs — with innovative creations. Good bread can be hard to come by in Hawaii, so look at pictures before you go. We’ll take toasted bread that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside over soft, white, and soggy bread any day. In addition to the ingredients, the craftsmanship that goes into making each sandwich is crucial. Striking the right ratio of bread to fillings and spreads is key to ensure each mouthful is the perfect bite.
All these qualities and more shine at EARL. With a delectable menu featuring tried-and-true favorites and bangin’ new specials, we serve both hardcore sandwich enthusiasts and casual lunch seekers looking for a sandwich near them in Honolulu. Our commitment to sandwich excellence is evident in every bite, from our expertly crafted staples like the Italian sub to exciting collabs and bangin’ limited specials you can find on our Instagram. For a truly exceptional sandwich experience, EARL is the go-to Hawaii sandwich destination that seamlessly marries taste and innovation.
Top 5 factors to consider to find the best sandwich shop in Honolulu
When deciding which sandwich shop in Honolulu best suits your tastes, there are a few factors to keep in mind. There’s a big difference between a cold, pre-made sandwich that’s been sitting for hours in a display case versus hot and fresh, made-to-order subs from sandwich pros who care (cough cough).
EARL serves up fresh, fast, quality sandwiches in Honolulu at our Kakaako (pictured) and Kaimuki locations
You should consider these 5 factors:
1. Freshness: Opt for places that offer made-to-order subs using fresh ingredients rather than pre-made sandwiches. Freshness and quality are paramount at EARL, as we meticulously source our ingredients to ensure a top-tier sandwich experience.
2. Variety: Look for a diverse menu with options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. EARL takes pride in offering a diverse menu that includes vegetarian and kiddie options. We also offer weekly specials that spice up the menu and offer new opportunities to try flavorful creations. In addition to our delicious sandwiches, EARL also offers a range of yummy waffle fries sides and refreshing beverages to complement your meal.
3. Quality: Choose establishments that prioritize quality ingredients and culinary expertise in sandwich making. We’ve been in the Hawaii sandwich game since 2014 for a reason — EARL serves up delicious, quality sandwiches and quick eats that have earned us a place among the best lunch spots on Oahu.
4. Reviews: Check online reviews and recommendations from friends to gauge the reputation and quality of a sandwich shop. We’re lucky to have lots of loyal customers and new EARL fans writing in all the time about our sandwiches, and we appreciate all the love we get as well as feedback to continue improving. Check out our awesome reviews on Yelp, Google, DoorDash, and UberEats — and prepare to order online when they make your stomach rumble.
5. Location: Consider the location and accessibility of the sandwich shop for convenience. EARL has two central locations conveniently located in Honolulu: one in Kaimuki and one in Kakaako. We’re also opening a third Kapolei location in June 2024 to serve our West Oahu ohana.
At EARL, these key sandwich shop elements are woven into our DNA. With an enticing range of made-to-order East Coast sandwiches, burgers, and fried chicken options, EARL ticks every box and then some when it comes to satisfying your Honolulu fast casual restaurant needs. We’re the go-to spot among discerning sandwich connoisseurs and casual diners alike for a delicious and quick meal in Honolulu (and soon, Kapolei)!
Look out for unique and tasty specials at the best Honolulu sandwich spots
While we all love familiar, tried-and-true classic subs, the best sandwich shops in Honolulu don’t stick around by recycling the oldies forever. Look for innovative menus that switch it up with the creative sandwich specials of your dreams, and you might just find your new favorite Honolulu lunch spot. Variety is the spice of life, and a sandwich shop that knows how to keep your taste buds tingling will keep you coming back week after week. With any luck, you’ll never have to pack a sad brown bag lunch ever again.
Top Honolulu sandwich shops like EARL feature creative weekly specials, like this Baked Ziti Chicken Vodka Parm
One of the highlights of the sandwich menu at EARL in Honolulu is our weekly selection of unique sandwich specials, from local collabs like the Smoked Ahi Melt to indulgent creations like the Baked Ziti Chicken Vodka Parm. We keep it fresh and interesting for Oahu sandwich insiders by announcing twice weekly specials to our email and text message subscribers. Real pros searching for the best lunch in Honolulu will keep an eye out for EARL’s flavors of the week, for both new sandwich creations and returning fan favorites like the Cubano Italiano. The only downside? You’ve got to keep tabs and order while the special’s running — you never know when it’ll be back or taken out of rotation for good!
Keep in mind: the best Honolulu sandwich shops feature quick service and friendly staff
While flavor and quality are always important, service can make or break your sandwich shop experience. The food industry is fast-paced and requires staff who can keep up with customer demands while maintaining a welcoming ambiance. With staff turnovers and and busy lunch rushes, it's easy for some shops to prioritize speed over genuine interaction.
Look for a place where the staff:
Acknowledges you promptly: It’s simple but often overlooked — a friendly “Aloha!” or greeting when you walk through the door or reach the counter sets the tone for your entire experience.
Is knowledgeable about the menu: They should be able to answer questions about ingredients, portion sizes, and recommendations to help you with your order.
Works efficiently: Nobody wants to wait forever for a sandwich, even if it is a masterpiece.
Provides friendly service: A smile and a genuine interaction go a long way to keep you coming back for more than just the food.
Accepts responsibility: Even the best sandwich shops occasionally have long wait times or make mistakes. How they handle those situations and take ownership is what counts.
EARL has and always will be for the people, and our customers are the people who help us be the best Honolulu sandwich shop we can be
At EARL, our staff is passionate about creating a positive experience for every customer. They're well-versed in our menu and happy to answer any questions you might have. We also aim to prioritize efficiency without sacrificing genuine hospitality. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, we want you to feel welcome and valued from the moment you enter our doors.
The Final Bite: Why EARL is Your Go-To Sandwich Shop in Honolulu
Finding the perfect sandwich shop in Honolulu is all about striking a balance. You want fresh, high-quality ingredients, innovative and delicious options, and a welcoming environment that makes you feel like more than just another customer.
At EARL, we believe we've got the recipe for sandwich success:
Fresh, high-quality ingredients: We source our ingredients locally whenever possible, ensuring peak flavor and freshness.
Variety that keeps things exciting: From classic favorites to creative weekly specials, our menu offers something for everyone.
Quick and friendly service: Our staff is passionate about providing a positive dining experience for every customer.
Convenient locations: With well-established spots in Kaimuki and Kakaako, we're easy to find and perfect for a quick and delicious lunch in Honolulu (and soon Kapolei!).
So next time you're craving a satisfying sandwich in town, skip the generic mainland chains and head to an EARL sandwich shop near you. We're confident we'll become your new favorite Oahu sandwich spot for East Coast-inspired goodness, minus the pricey plane ticket. Score ahead of time and get $5 off by joining our loyalty program, then skip the line when you order online! We can’t wait to serve you, and we’ll see you soon.
PS. Want to give the gift of great taste? Pick up an EARL gift card at Costco for 20% off or buy one here.