Joburg's best sandwich shops

30 Sep 2025

Can't go wrong with the classics. Photo: @vidaecaffe_official.

All hail the sandwich. Photo: @slapssandos.

Pre-packed sandwiches for ideal grab and gos. Photo: @pret_southafrica.

Sandwiches are having a moment – and we completely get why. They're like a flavour-packed, carb-loaded hug that rarely disappoints. While Johannesburg offers many variations on the theme, we've scoured the city to put together our list of to-to sandwich stops that hit all the right notes. From deli-style classics to creative pop-ups, these are some of our favourite sandwiches in the city – and where to get them.

1. Lady Day Food x Zulu Astronauts Eatery pop-up

A pop-up sandwich bar by Lady Day Food and Zulu Astronauts Eatery is serving stellar sandwiches every Friday from 09:00 – 17:00 at Mamakashaka and Friends (until end Sep, 2025). The Vryheid Cheesesteak (a medley of steak, melted cheese, sweet pepper relish, caramelised onions, and wild rocket on sourdough focaccia) sounds sensational. What's more, every order supports the Zulu Astronauts Eatery's dream to open a food truck.

2. Cremelat

The holy moly of cheeses at Cremelat in Hyde Square Shopping Centre. Photo: @cremalatcheese.

Cremelat in Hyde Square Shopping Centre is one of those authentic Italian delis that just get it right. If it's sandwiches you're after, it's a win every time – custom-made with your pick of fillings and bread. When you're stocking up on Cremelat's signature cheeses for home, it's the perfect opportunity to grab something tasty. Our pick? We love the Emmentaler, artichoke, and roast veg sandwich on freshly baked panini (crispy on the outside, unbelievably soft inside).

3. SLAPS

The delicious looking pulled lamb sando at SLAPS in Parkhurst. Photo: @slapssandos.

Following a sister branch in Fourways, SLAPS is a trendy new takeaway spot along Parkhurst's 4th Avenue (opened Sep 2025) serving up food that actually slaps. It's all about "sandos" or sandwiches here, with quick and satisfying offerings like milk buns with pulled lamb leg or crumbed chicken slaw aioli. On the sweet side, the walnut parfait sando – a mix of two oat biscuits, walnuts, honey, vanilla, and chocolate swirls – sounds delectable. Behind the tuck-shop style facade, there's a cosy nook for sit-down meals, or get your sarmie to-go.

4. Pret A Manger

Think sashimi, but in sandwich form at Pret A Manger. Photo: Johannesburg In Your Pocket.

Pret A Manger is the cult-classic sandwich shop from the UK, and caused quite a buzz among locals and expats alike when it landed in Joburg in early 2025. First, with a store in Melrose, and our favourite branch, at The Zone @ Rosebank. A short walk from our team's offices, it's an easy hit for a lunchtime pick-me-up. One of our writers feels very strongly that the best thing on their menu is the smoked trout sandwich with cream cheese, lemon juice, and dill – but you can be the judge of that. It's halaal-friendly too.

5. Vida e Caffè

Definitely an OG in the game – the club sandwich from Vida e Caffè, which has branches all around Joburg, is a firm favourite. It’s a hearty sandwich built with layers of chicken mayo, bacon (or macon for a halaal option), and mozzarella cheese. These ingredients are stacked between slices of rooibos and rye bread. Pair with a strawberry iced matcha latte, and you're golden.

6. Troy's Cafe

You'll be all smiles after a visit to Troy's Cafe. Photo: Johannesburg In Your Pocket.

In a pickle in Joburg's City Centre? We stumbled upon a really affordable pastrami, pickle, and mustard sandwich from the newly opened Troy’s Café (of The Troyeville and Casa Das Natas fame) across the road from the historic Rand Club. The coffee here is delicious, and the pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) are a must-try.