The Hands-Down Best Italian Sub You Can Find In New York

Italian subs may have been created in Maine, but many would argue that they were perfected in New York. The hearty combination of cured meats, cheese, and fresh veggies, loaded into crusty, light-yet-sturdy Italian bread, is a staple at delis and sub shops across the Empire State. While there are plenty of good Italian subs to be had in New York, one stands out as the hands-down best. We read thousands of reviews to find the best Italian sub in every state, and New York has a clear winner: The Bomb at Sal, Kris, & Charlie's Deli.

The Bomb is the crown jewel of the menu at this Queens institution, which has been slinging sandwiches in Astoria since 1940. The local-legend sub is perfectly overstuffed with myriad deli meats, provolone and American cheese, and all the fixings: lettuce, tomato, onions, mayo, oil, vinegar, and a generous smattering of hot and sweet peppers. Reviews praise The Bomb for its impressive quantity and variety of cured meats, high-quality ingredients, and fully-loaded nature.

"Fresh ingredients, perfect balance of cold cuts, sauce, spicy peppers, and bread. It's messy, overstuffed, and incredibly satisfying," one person gushed on Google Maps. Despite the over-the-top appearance, tasters attest the flavor is well balanced. Another Google Maps reviewer raved, "Hands down the best hero sandwich I have ever had ... Everything they put in the sandwich paired together perfectly and nothing was overpowering."

Italian deli darling The Bomb embodies its name in multiple ways — not only is it an explosion of flavor, but it's also enormous. It typically comes sliced into four sections, because even a half would likely be too cumbersome to hold. As one Google Maps review put it, "This thing is MASSIVE ... It honestly feeds a family." As such, it's best to come hungry and bring a few friends to share it with, especially if you want to save room for a side (spoiler alert, you do). Sal, Kris, & Charlie's offers a range of great-tasting deli counter classics made fresh daily. The creamy potato salad pairs particularly well with the spicy saltiness of this sandwich.

While The Bomb receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, this wouldn't be a healthy New York deli if there weren't a few critics. Some people complain about the price, which has increased in recent years (at the time of writing, it costs $24). Paying over $20 for a sandwich is a bit hard to swallow, but as many reviewers point out, considering the gigantic portion and superlative flavor, it's a pretty reasonable value. Some customers also note that the line can get substantial, but it moves fast and is worth the wait (or even a large detour), as this sandwich truly lives up to the hype. No matter how you slice it, if you're craving an Italian sub in New York, The Bomb at Sal, Kris, & Charlie's Deli leaves no crumbs.