For all its simplicity, the humble sandwich can spark fervor.
Last year, customers revolted after Rossi’s Rosticceria Deli, an institution in the town of Poughkeepsie, dared to change its menu. The response was so overwhelming that the deli adjusted its changes in response.
In 2019, the popularity and subsequent scarcity of Popeye’s famous chicken sandwich resulted in limited operations and drive-thru lines spanning the thoroughfare at the only Dutchess County location.
Where to find a good bowl of soup:10 Dutchess County restaurants for fall
Golden Corral:International Buffet to replace chain restaurant in Poughkeepsie
Restoration assistance:Dutchess restaurants received $ 20 million in financial assistance. See where, how it could be used.
In theory, the sandwich is a simple creation – two slices of bread and various meats, cheeses and other toppings in between. Still, it’s clear the Hudson Valley takes this staple very seriously.
Roberto and Antonietta Golia, co-owners of Roma Deli in the town of Wappinger, say that passion stems from the quality of a sandwich. Antonietta Golia attributes their success to “home cooking”.
“We sell premium deli meats and we make everything in-house,†said Antonietta Golia. “Everything is family-owned and everything is made with love. It’s our bread and butter, so we have passion for what we do.”
In Dutchess County, there are other sandwich makers who would likely claim the same, benefiting hungry residents. Here are 10 of the best delis, restaurants, and boutiques that can turn any simple lunch into a dining experience.
Rosticceria Deli by Rossi
While the changes at Rossi’s proved controversial last year, the town of Poughkeepsie Deli remains one of the region’s best lunch spots. The deli has been serving sandwiches and paninis for 40 years, with a wide selection of imported foods and ingredients. Customers can choose from Rossi’s selection of sandwiches or order a sandwich customized to their exact specifications.
Go: 45 S. Clover St., Poughkeepsie; 845-471-0654; rossideli.com
Lola’s coffee
A staple of the lunch rush in town at the foot of the Hudson Footbridge, Lola’s Café offers a selection of mouth-watering sandwiches. Even the most basic menu option is high and a rotation of daily specials ensures that there is always something exciting. A highlight is the turkey and brie, a panini served on ciabatta bread and topped with young shoots and a berry compote. Or try the Po ‘Town Ground Cheese, made with half a pound of ground beef, spicy pepper relish, grilled onions, cheddar jack and garlic aioli.
Go: 131 Washington St., Poughkeepsie; 845-471-8555; lolascafeandcatering.com
The Poughkeepsie grind
While the Poughkeepsie Grind is best known for its killer coffee and phenomenal waffles, don’t sleep on its sandwiches. The town spot serves customizable breakfast sandwiches and wraps, as well as several classic lunch options. Fried chicken stands out, especially when served on a waffle. But for lunch, the crispy chicken wrap is a perfect filling option for the person on the go.
Go: 107 Main Street, Poughkeepsie; 845-345-9588; caféilluminé.com
Roma Deli
With over 50 sandwiches among its signature options, Roma Deli is sure to have something for everyone. This delicatessen has served the town of Wappinger since 1987 and has a dedicated clientele, highlighted by an intense rush for lunch. For a hearty meal, try the Italian stallion, made with capicola ham, provolone, pepperoni, mortadella, prosciutto, lettuce, sundried tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and roasted red peppers.
Go: 237 Myers Corners Road, Wappingers Falls; 845-297-1200; romadeli1.com
The Daily Beacon
The Beacon Daily refuses to be boxed. This isn’t a statement about how the restaurant packs their food – rather, the menu touches on so many different cuisines that it can be difficult to settle for just one sandwich. You’ll find everything from chicken parm and bánh mì to fried tandoori chicken, all deliciously executed. If your friends can’t decide what to eat, this might be the place for you.
Go: 29 Teller Ave., Beacon, 845-831-5274, thebeacondaily.com
The Matchbox Café
Just outside the village boundary in Rhinebeck, the Matchbox Café is a cozy spot with an all day menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Expect to find hearty portions and tasty dishes. Consider trying the homemade chicken salad sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato and avocado with a side of potato chips.
Go: 6242 Route 9, Rhinebeck; 845-876-3911; thematchboxcafe.com
Rhinbeck Bagels
If you think a breakfast sandwich can’t surprise you, you haven’t tried Rhinebeck Bagels. This restaurant offers a selection of signature egg sandwiches that outperform other deli lunch options in terms of creativity. The GWB, for example, includes sausage, cheddar, hot sauce, and scallion cream cheese, and the Snyder includes sausage, Swiss, and mustard with the option to order it on a pretzel bun. .
Go: 31 W. Market St., Rhinebeck; 845-876-8025; rhinebeckbagels.com
Renny’s Store and Deli
Renny’s has served the Dover Plains community for 50 years now, since it opened on October 8, 1971, and if they keep doing what they do, they might be there for 50 more. servings, high quality ingredients and rotating specials. For a no-frills, quality lunch, few places do better.
Go: 3379 Route 22, Dover Plains; 845-877-6331; rennysstore.com
The bagel store
The Bagel Shoppe is more than just a bagel, but it can be hard to see past these fresh, mushy delicacies. Customers can choose from a variety of bagels, such as asago or French toast, as well as homemade cream cheese spreads with flavors such as garlic, strawberry, and jalapeño. Or you can order a fried egg sandwich or opt for one of the many breakfast options to serve on a bagel.
Go: 986 Main Street, Fishkill; 845-896-3823; thebagelshoppefishkill.com
Hudson’s Sandwich Company
With 15 signature sandwiches on the menu, Hudson Sandwich Company is making lunchtime delicacy its own. Each special does something to elevate the sandwich, adding a unique dressing or loading it with high quality ingredients. Hudson-style pulled pork, for example, includes braised pork, barbecue sauce, macaroni and cheese, and bacon.
Go: 1004 Main Street, Fishkill; 845-765-2126; hudsonsandwichcompany.com
