A Tour of Famous Sandwiches: Iconic Creations from Around the World
Why Sandwiches Mean So Much – Across Cultures
Sandwiches from around the world show how universal the concept really is. They tell stories of migration, culture, thrift, and creativity. A few slices of bread – plus herbs, spice, protein, fresh veg – can travel seas and decades. At 19 Cleveland, our menu pays homage to that global heritage while staying true to our Mediterranean‑meets‑SoHo identity.
Here are some world‑famous sandwiches and – down below – how our versions compare.
Iconic Sandwiches From Around the World
🇻🇳 Bánh Mì (Vietnam)
A crispy baguette filled with pâté or pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and jalapeños – a perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy.
🇫🇷 Croque Monsieur (France)
Café‑classic: thin bread grilled with ham and cheese (often Gruyère), sometimes topped with béchamel – warm, cheesy, and comforting. Add an egg and it becomes Croque Madame.
🇩🇰 Smørrebrød (Denmark)
Open‑faced rye bread topped with smoked fish or cold cuts, spreads, and fresh garnishes. Clean, bold, balanced – ideal for a light but flavourful lunch.
🇺🇸 Reuben (USA)
Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and pickles on rye – grilled until the cheese melts. Rich, hearty, and a classic New‑York deli staple.
🇮🇹 Tramezzino (Italy)
Soft, crustless white‑bread sandwich, often filled with tuna, ham, egg salad or vegetables – delicate, portable, and perfect with a drink.
🇦🇷 Choripán (Argentina)
Grilled chorizo on crusty bread, topped with chimichurri or spicy salsa – smoky, juicy, bold; a street‑food icon.
🌱 Falafel Sandwich (Middle East)
Crispy falafel, tahini, fresh herbs and salad – wrapped in pita or lafa. Vegetarian, satisfying, and bursting with spice and freshness.
How 19 Cleveland Brings the World to SoHo: Our Sandwich Line‑Up
At 19 Cleveland, we bring global spirit home with a lineup of sandwiches that honour Mediterranean traditions and modern NYC tastes.
| Sandwich | What’s Inside | Why It’s Worth Trying |
|---|---|---|
| Falafel Sandwich | Falafel, hummus, tahini, fried eggplant, fresh veggies, optional harissa | A crunchy‑meets‑soft, vegetarian staple – flavourful and filling |
| Sabich Sandwich | Fried eggplant, hard‑boiled egg, amba, tahini, cabbage slaw | A classic Mid‑East flavour combo – hearty, tangy, layered |
| Spicy Falafel Burger | Falafel patty, avocado, jalapeño mayo, Boston lettuce, brioche bun + fries/salad | A more substantial, modern take on falafel – perfect for lunch or casual dinner |
| Avocado Toast | Sunny‑side egg, za’atar, harissa, feta, tahini on grilled sourdough + Arab salad | Light, bright, full of Mediterranean seasonings – great for brunch or a light meal |
| Schnitzel Sandwich | Crispy chicken schnitzel, hummus, spicy schug sauce, market veggies | Crispy, bold, satisfying – blends Eastern‑Mediterranean street‑food spirit with NYC heart |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Grilled chicken, avocado, jalapeño mayo, Boston lettuce, brioche bun + fries/salad | Classic and familiar – a go‑to for a balanced, flavour‑packed meal |
| 19 Hamburger | 19‑house beef blend, “Awesome Sauce,” truffle fries or salad | Our signature burger – comfort food meets Mediterranean flair |
Why 19 Cleveland’s Sandwiches Work
- Inspired by Tel Aviv, built for NYC – Our menu reflects the global fusion at the heart of contemporary Mediterranean cooking.
- From humble pita to brioche to rye‑inspired buns – We mix bread types and fillings to give every sandwich its own identity.
- Chef‑driven, ingredient‑first approach – Every sandwich is layered with robust flavours that honour tradition but feel modern and accessible.
- All‑day, all‑occasion vibe – Whether it’s a midday lunch, late dinner, or take‑out picnic, our sandwiches fit the moment.
- SoHo energy meets Mediterranean warmth – Casual enough for a quick bite, refined enough for a full dining experience.
Taste the World – The 19 Cleveland Way
Sandwiches from around the world prove that simple ingredients can transcend borders. At 19 Cleveland, we honour that global tradition – and then add a splash of Mediterranean soul, street‑food energy, and NYC charm.
Contact us if you’re craving a crunchy falafel sandwich, a hearty schnitzel in brioche, or a bright sabich to go with a spritz – we’ve got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these sandwiches available for takeout?
Yes – everything listed above can be ordered to go, with sauces on the side and bread wrapped fresh.
Are there vegetarian options?
Definitely. The Falafel Sandwich, Avocado Toast, and Spicy Falafel Burger are all vegetarian (vegan‑adaptable on request).
Do sandwiches come with sides?
Some – like the Spicy Falafel Burger, the Grilled Chicken Sandwich, and the 19 Hamburger – come with fries or salad. Others are perfect with a side salad or mezze plate for sharing.
About the Author
Eyal Hen, Founder
Born in Tel Aviv, raised in a family kitchen, and now bringing that Mediterranean heritage and warm hospitality to SoHo. With 20+ years of culinary and restaurant experience, Eyal builds a menu where global flavours meet community energy.
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📍 19 Cleveland Place, New York, NY 10012
Mon–Sun: 11 AM – 11 PM | (646) 823‑9227 | info@19cleveland.com