The best thing since sliced bread — your Wellington sandwich list

The simple sandwich gets a makeover at Fred’s.

The Cuba Street spot serves elevated sandwiches seven days a week. In a rush? Grab one of the takeaway options from the counter and head on your way. If you’ve got time, order from the menu and pull up a seat. The bright orange and white interior is the perfect backdrop for your sammie selfie.

Fred’s bread is always fresh, coming from local bakeries. The menu has a roster of classics done well (the chicken is a local favourite). Weekly specials allow the team to get creative. Whatever you order, Fred’s is always fresh, filling, and packed full of flavour.

Coffee and sammies are an iconic duo for a reason. Head to Newtown to see them in action at a spot dedicated to the cause, Good Boy. 

The café and sandwich spot is owned by a couple of local lads, Al and James. The pair upgraded to their current location from humble beginnings as a hole in the wall. There’s space to sit and watch Newtown bustle by and admire your sandwich of choice. You’ll have three or four options to choose from, with the menu changing weekly. The team bakes the bread in-house and fills it with local produce and creative flavours. Paired with a coffee from local supplier Rich Roasters, it’s a very Wellington way to start your day.

Freshly made each morning, you’re spoilt for choice for sandwiches at Myrtle. The small-batch bakery has a cabinet full-to-bursting with a range of sandwiches and rolls. 

The bakery offers frequently changing flavours, with some popular staples kept on the menu for regulars. Famed for its take-home loaves, the bread is a star. Focaccia, sourdough, ciabatta, and more, it's all fresh as can be. Vegetarians are catered to with delicious plant-based fillings. Teamed with some of Myrtle’s pastries and sweet treats, you're set for a delicious lunchtime feast.

Shelly Bay Baker has been quietly loafing around Miramar since 2017. It has been supplying cafés with bagels, baguettes, and other fresh bread creations and takeaway baked goods from its Miramar store. You can now visit it in its inner-city café.

Owner Sam Forbes has taken over the space of the former Leeds Street Bakery, so the lure of fresh bread will continue to hang over Hannah’s Laneway. Shelly Bay Baker ships its bread to the Leeds Street spot every morning, fresh out of the ovens of its Miramar warehouse and bakery (complete with its own flour mill). Sam is keeping several old favourites on the menu, including the beloved salted caramel cookies and polenta cake. There’s a fresh sandwich menu and of course, you’ll be able to pick up your favourite Shelly Bay sourdough.

Masters of all things dough (it’s in the name), Lombard Lane’s Dough Bakery offers sandwiches, loaves, and baked goods galore.

Start your day with a breakfast sandwich, or go for a classic egg salad. Meat eaters can get a pastrami or BBQ chicken sammies. If you’re more inclined towards something hot, there are pies in the warmer ready to be taken away. Paired with delicious doughnuts and a fresh coffee, Dough is a one-stop shop for a daytime refuel.

You can also take away fresh loaves and pickled goods, courtesy of Dough’s sister café next door, Pickle & Pie.

Known for its bright yellow interior, this popular spot has earned a reputation for its delicious sandwiches. The menu centres around made-to-order sandwiches packed with fresh local ingredients. Pick your fillings or choose from a pre-set menu. There are simple and gourmet options, with filled rolls and a range of grilled cheese. House-made savouries, salads, and sweet treats are also available. Peoples Coffee is the blend of choice, along with a selection of cold drinks. While most people order to-go, there is a small amount of seating if you want to dine in.