News Summary
Two North Carolina restaurants, The Half in Wilmington and Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market in Nags Head, have been recognized among the nation’s best sandwich shops by Yelp. The Half secured the 56th position, showcasing innovative sandwiches and local partnerships that enhance the dining experience. Waveriders, known for its extensive breakfast and lunch offerings, garnered the 92nd spot despite a temporary closure. This recognition highlights North Carolina’s growing reputation in the culinary sandwich scene, demonstrating the state’s commitment to quality and creativity.
Wilmington, NC – Two North Carolina restaurants have earned recognition as some of the nation’s best sandwich shops, according to a recent list published by Yelp on July 29. The Half, located in Wilmington, secured the 56th spot on the list, while Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market in Nags Head claimed the 92nd position. The list demonstrates the growing appeal and variety within the sandwich subculture across America.
Yelp’s ranking was based on a combination of total review volume and the overall ratings from users. Diners have shown a particular appreciation for the innovative offerings at these restaurants, highlighting the trend toward house-made aiolis, chutneys, pâtés, and sauces that have recently become commonplace in sandwich preparation. Unique toppings such as pickled vegetables and olive tapenade, combined with an array of artisanal breads—like fresh ciabatta, garlic bread, and pretzel buns—have been praised by customers.
The Half Sandwich Shop
The Half in Wilmington is celebrated for its globally inspired sandwiches, offering a diverse range of options from traditional ham and Swiss to vegan selections. The eatery has a 4.5-star rating on Yelp, indicating a strong customer satisfaction level. In addition to its sandwich menu, The Half places an emphasis on local culture by partnering with nearby breweries for its craft beer selections, enhancing the dining experience for patrons.
Menu Variety and Unique Offerings
The menu at The Half is designed to appeal to a wide audience of diners, with its commitment to diverse flavors being a key feature. Regulars commend the creativity and quality that goes into every sandwich, reflecting a passion for both culinary art and the local community. This blend of unique flavors and local partnerships is contributing to a growing reputation that may lead to even more accolades in the future.
Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market
Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market, located in the Outer Banks, also received accolades in the annual Yelp list, previously earning the title of the No. 1 place to eat a sandwich in North Carolina last year. Currently, Waveriders is undergoing a temporary closure until July 30 for a staff break, but its reputation remains strong among locals and tourists alike.
Breakfast and Lunch Sandwiches
Waveriders specializes in breakfast and lunch sandwiches, with a vast menu that features all-day breakfast options alongside its lunch items. Diners highly recommend the “Eddie V,” a vegetarian panini-pressed bagel sandwich loaded with egg, smoked gouda, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and providing a menu that meets a variety of tastes.
National Recognition
While The Half and Waveriders have made their mark within North Carolina, the top ranking for America’s best sandwich shop went to Franky’s Deli Warehouse in Hialeah, Florida, located near Miami. This recognition places the state of North Carolina among the culinary elite in the sandwich arena, showcasing the talent and creativity of its local establishments. As the sandwich scene continues to evolve, the emphasis on quality ingredients and inventive recipes appears to be a direct path to success.
North Carolina’s presence in Yelp’s list underscores the state’s culinary diversity and its ability to adapt to modern tastes. The combined efforts of restaurants like The Half and Waveriders highlight a growing commitment to excellent service and quality that food enthusiasts are sure to appreciate.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- The News & Observer
- Guinness World Records
- Southern Things
- WNCT
- iHeart Radio
- Wikipedia: Sandwich
- Google Search: Sandwich History
- Google Scholar: Culinary Arts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sandwich
- Google News: Sandwich Restaurants North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
