Sandwich Flair

Sandwiches are designed for convenience, but that’s no reason to neglect culinary flair and flavor (The origin of the sandwich is generally credited to the 4th Earl of Sandwich, John Montagu by name, who did not want to interrupt the hunt by having to sit down to a repast). Providing that in abundance, these are our favorites for virtually any time of day (hours of operation vary, with Zooks open earliest at 7 a.m. and Even Stevens open latest at 8 p.m., even 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).

Even Stevens

This craft-casual restaurant serves sandwiches, salads, bites and local craft fair unique to each of its stores. By offering new takes on classic recipes, the brand honors tradition while leaving an open door for creativity. And, with every sandwich purchase, a sandwich is donated to a local nonprofit partner.

11 W. Boston St., Chandler
21 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix
1015 S. Rural Rd., Tempe 

WM Sacks 

WM Sacks Art of Sandwicherie is just that — a virtual sandwich factory that is all about making the best combinations of breads, meats, vegetables and condiments, plus original recipe soups and inventive salads. Offering everything fresh and from scratch, Sacks promises no reheating, no “nuking” and no preservatives.

4247 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix
231 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix
839 W. University Dr., Tempe
35 E. 9th St., Tempe

Zookz

Offering sandwiches for breakfast, lunch and dessert, this locally owned and operated restaurant is the first of its kind to serve up round, pressed, toasted sandwiches stuffed with fillings like meats, cheeses, eggs and fruit. The sealed edges keep fillings from falling out.

One N. 1st St., Phoenix
100 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix