Philadelphia, PA - Named for its primary ingredients, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. You can make the BLT Sandwich with varying recipes according to personal preference. From local Bistros to Old-school taverns, it's not hard to find a great BLT in Philadelphia, and we have compiled a list of some of the best places to pick up yours in Philly.
The Crispy, Smoky, Fresh Dozen: Philadelphia's Best BLT Sandwiches
The BLT sandwich – a seemingly simple symphony of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato, often nestled between toasted bread – is a timeless classic. But in Philadelphia, a city renowned for its sandwich prowess, the BLT transcends basic and reaches new heights of deliciousness. From classic deli interpretations to elevated diner versions, finding the perfect balance of salty, savory, fresh, and creamy is an art form. We've scoured the city to bring you over a dozen standout spots where the BLT is given the star treatment it deserves.
Center City & Beyond: Downtown Delights
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Middle Child (248 S 11th St): A beloved modern deli, Middle Child consistently delivers on exceptional sandwiches, and their BLT is no exception. Praised for their fresh ingredients and ability to accommodate dietary needs (like celiac-friendly options), it’s a must-try for a thoughtfully crafted sandwich.
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Jay's Deli (1228 Spruce St): A classic neighborhood spot, Jay's Deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches that are consistently good and budget-friendly. Their BLT is a testament to solid, no-frills execution of a beloved staple.
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Jean's Cafe (1334 Walnut St): For a tasty and efficiently served sandwich, Jean's Cafe is a popular choice. Their BLT comes out fresh, hot, and fast, making it a perfect lunch stop in the heart of the city.
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Sam's Fresh Spot (135 S 10th St): This spot earns high marks for good sandwiches at a good price, served quickly. Sam's Fresh Spot is ideal for a satisfying BLT when you need a quick and delicious bite.
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Good Day Deli (37 S 20th St): Offering good-sized sandwiches for the price, Good Day Deli is a reliable choice for breakfast and lunch. Their BLT is a solid option for those looking for value and taste in the bustling Rittenhouse area.
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Coventry Deli (2000 Market St): Located conveniently in a busy business district, Coventry Deli consistently delivers freshly made, satisfying sandwiches. Their BLT is a strong contender for a delicious and quick lunch.
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Jake & Max's Delicatessen (1701 John F Kennedy Blvd): A well-regarded deli offering generously portioned sandwiches. While known for other deli classics, their BLT is prepared with care and served in convenient packaging.
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Bill's Breakfast & Lunch (1312 Sansom St): A long-standing favorite for breakfast and lunch, Bill's consistently serves up excellent sandwiches. While the corned beef is a highlight, their BLT is made with the same dedication to quality ingredients and fresh preparation.
Beyond Center City: Neighborhood Gems
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Stockyard Sandwich Co (1541 Spring Garden St): This sandwich shop garners rave reviews for its quality ingredients, with customers specifically noting the "perfectly crisp" bacon and "soft bun" on their sandwiches. A BLT here promises a harmonious texture and flavor experience.
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Parkway Corner Deli (2201 Pennsylvania Ave): Praised for its fresh ingredients and tender meats, Parkway Corner Deli offers a fantastic BLT experience. Customers highlight the "soft and fresh bread," which is crucial for a great BLT.
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Sandwich Corner Market (1945 Poplar St): Earning exceptionally high marks, Sandwich Corner Market is celebrated for sandwiches that are "beyond delicious, fresh and unique." Their BLT is likely to be a creative and incredibly satisfying take on the classic.
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Mini Mighty Grub (514 N 10th St): With a perfect rating, Mini Mighty Grub specifically highlights their BLT sandwiches on their menu, indicating it's a specialty not to be missed for those seeking a dedicated, quality version of the classic.
Reading Terminal Market Stars
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Hershel's East Side Deli (Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch St): While famous for their pastrami and corned beef, Hershel's commitment to great sandwiches extends to their BLT. Expect quality ingredients served quickly and at a reasonable price within the bustling market.
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Hatville Deli (Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch St): Another highly-rated deli within the iconic Reading Terminal Market, Hatville Deli is known for its "GREAT sandwiches at a Fair Price!!" Their BLT is sure to be a satisfying and fresh choice amidst the market's vast offerings.
From the quintessential deli experience to modern takes with premium ingredients, Philadelphia's love affair with the sandwich ensures that the BLT is never just a simple meal. Head to any of these fantastic establishments to discover your next favorite crispy, smoky, and utterly delicious BLT.
Bill Zimmerman