Three Maryland eateries, all located in Montgomery County, have been recognized by Eater DC on their list of “Best Sandwiches Around DC Right Now.” While there are many wonderful sandwiches across the county, Wheaton, Takoma Park, and Bethesda are now firmly on the map for serious sandwich enthusiasts.
Filippo’s Italian Specialties (Wheaton): Located at 11224 Triangle Ln. in Wheaton, Filippo’s Italian Specialties has been a cherished institution for decades, serving up authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality. Filippo’s, which operated as Marchone’s until 2014, opened in 1955. Previous owner Filippo Leo worked at the deli for over 35 years and took over ownership back in 2012, a year after founder Thomas Marchone passed away. In 2020, Filippo’s won the TasteMoCo tournament for “Best Deli” in Montgomery County, beating out 31 other delis that were nominated by readers of the MoCoShow to win the award. The deli is known for its high-quality imported Italian goods, freshly prepared foods, and, of course, its incredible sandwiches.
SOKO Butcher (Takoma Park): SOKO butcher at 7306 Carroll Ave. in Takoma Park has quickly become a local favorite, not just for its premium cuts of meat, but for its expertly crafted sandwiches that showcase their butchery skills. It’s a relatively newer establishment, but it has rapidly made a name for itself since opening in 2021. It’s a modern, full-service butcher shop focusing on sustainably sourced, high-quality meats. Beyond offering exceptional cuts for home cooking, SOKO has carved out a niche for its prepared foods and, notably, its stellar sandwich program. Its cheesesteak was named the “Best in the DMV” by our very own Mr. MoCo.
Vace Italian Delicatessen (Bethesda): For those in Bethesda and beyond, Vace Italian Delicatessen at 4705 Miller Ave. is synonymous with authentic Italian groceries and some of the best pizzas and subs around. Vace’s history stretches back decades, with its original location opening in Washington D.C. in 1976, followed by the Bethesda outpost. It was founded by the Calcagno family, who brought with them traditional Italian recipes and a commitment to quality. Vace quickly became a beloved neighborhood spot, known for its imported Italian products, fresh pasta, homemade sauces, and its incredibly popular New York-style pizzas and subs.
Dining and Cooking