August is National Sandwich Month, a perfect time to celebrate one of America's most beloved and versatile meals. To mark the occasion, we explore which sandwich chains are topping the rankings this year and explore the elements that make a truly great sandwich. From the bread to the condiments, we'll break down what sets these tasty creations apart.Given their versatility and variety, around half of Americans eat sandwiches daily. To find the best sandwich spots, USA TODAY 10Best collaborated with editors and sandwich experts to nominate top sandwich shops across the country. Readers then voted for their favorites.

The top 10 sandwich chains include:

PrimoHoagies - Known for Italian specialty sandwiches.Subway - A global phenomenon with a vast range of options.Potbelly Sandwich Works - Famous for its toasted sandwiches.Capriotti's - Offers a wide variety of subs, including plant-based options.Earl of Sandwich - Offers royal-inspired sandwiches.Firehouse Subs - Specializes in hot subs with a charitable focus.Jersey Mike's Subs - Offers both cold and hot subs with customizable options.Newk's Eatery - Known for its delightful sandwiches and other menu items.Mendocino Farms - Renowned for its decadent sandwiches and salads.Jason's Deli - Offers a variety of sandwiches, along with other menu options.These chains are celebrated for their quality, variety, and unique offerings, which they bring to sandwich lovers across the U.S.

Pickle Sandwich

Seven Brothers Gourmet, an Italian deli on Long Island, has gained massive popularity on TikTok for its unique pickle "bun" sandwiches. Although the deli began serving these sandwiches in January, they only took off in May after a viral TikTok video, which now has over 6 million views. The video has attracted customers from all over, with some even calling from as far as California, despite the deli not offering shipping. The sandwiches have become so popular that Seven Brothers serves around 250 pickle sandwiches daily, and they even created a dedicated line to handle the influx of customers. The trend of pickle sandwiches has been around for a while, as other delis like Yaphank Deli and New Jersey's Elsie's have also seen similar viral success​.

What Makes a Sandwich Delicious, Exactly?

Sandwiches are beloved for their versatility. Despite their simplicity, even basic sandwiches like PB&J or grilled cheese can go wrong. To perfect the sandwich, experts recommend starting with high-quality bread, which can be enhanced through toasting or griddling. The right bread should balance texture and flavor with the sandwich's ingredients.Condiments are crucial, not just for moisture but also for flavor. Using spreads like mayo or butter can prevent sogginess while adding taste. Vegetables should be fresh and well-seasoned, and proteins can benefit from being heated to enhance their flavors. Proper layering is essential to avoid structural issues and ensure that each ingredient complements the others without overpowering them.Ultimately, the best sandwich is the one that suits your taste, encouraging experimentation with different flavors and textures.Sources:10best.usatoday.comseriouseats.comwthn.comopenai.com