It's official: Frank's New York Style Deli, sitting unassumingly off 23rd Avenue in Phoenix, now boasts what many believe is the best sandwich in Arizona. The deli, a no-frills bastion of sandwich making since 1982, has been given the Yelp seal of approval with its Italian sub, The Tony, leading the charge. The venerable eatery earned a stellar 4.8 stars from 472 reviewers, confirming its spot at the pinnacle of the state's sandwich game. Patrons hungry for the signature sub that sparked such acclaim can find Frank's at 2301 W. Orange Dr., Phoenix, according to the Phoenix New Times.
While Frank's has consistently been a hit with the local blue-collar crowd, the recent Yelp ranking seems to significantly broaden its fan base. These latest accolades don’t come lightly, with Yelp meticulously considering countless restaurants to hand-pick the crème de la crème based solely on ratings, volume, and location. The deli's offering ranges widely, from cold cut classics to hot subs like roast beef and pastrami—a diversity that reflects why it's been a staple in local eats for over four decades. If you ever get a chance to stop by, make sure to not only grab The Tony, but also try to resist other temptations like corned beef, roast beef, and steak sandwiches that round out the robust menu, AZ Central reports.
The Tony is an Italian sub that clearly stands out, stuffed with an indulgent mix of genoa salami, pepperoni, and hot capicola, complemented by mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, Italian dressing, and provolone cheese. In a city rich with dining options, Frank's manages to maintain its old-school vibe while serving up something that captivates the contemporary palate. As the Phoenix New Times describes, "The sandwich, which costs $14.99, is enormous. A large bread roll is filled to its bursting point with layers of cold cuts which rest atop shredded lettuce bathed in an herby Italian dressing.," making it a formidable challenge to conquer in one seating.
Moreover, it's not just sandwiches that have people talking; the deli is also known for its sides. The potato salad comes recommended, noted for its creamy yet tangy taste and apt textural balance of smashed and cubed potatoes. To close off a hearty meal, one can indulge in either a cannoli or New York-style cheesecake amid décor that captures the essence of NYC, with framed photos of its iconic landmarks and a vibrant mural of the Statue of Liberty. What used to be a well-kept secret has quickly become to be known as a not-to-be-missed destination for sandwich lovers far and wide, something iterated by both local customers and the buzzing Yelp community, the New Times illustrated.
While trendsetting can be a fickle game in the culinary world, places like Frank's prove that a consistently good product can stand the test of time—and in this case, turn heads on platforms like Yelp. If you're out to grab more than just a meal, but a slice of Arizona's sandwich history, be sure to follow them on Instagram @frankssubsaz and get updates on their latest creations that continue to draw lines of devoted foodies and first-time visitors alike, suggests AZ Central.
