Okay, let’s just settle this once and for all: we’re not getting into the whole “is a burger a sandwich” debate, because honestly, we’d rather focus on the important stuff. That’s why we’re calling them handhelds—because whether it’s a sandwich, burger, or just something that fits neatly between two pieces of bread, we’re all about the stuff you can grab with your hands.
Here are some secretly amazing places around Chattanooga where you wouldn't think to go for a sandwich (or handheld), but trust us, you'll thank us later.
1. Purple Daisy's Rainbow Sandwich
If you've never thought of Purple Daisy as a sandwich spot, you're seriously missing out. They’ve got this wild creation called the Rainbow Sandwich—and we mean wild in a good way. It’s a three-layered masterpiece with homemade chicken salad, pimento cheese, and cucumber spread all stacked between crustless white and wheat bread. The chicken salad is made with smoked chicken (hello, flavor), the cucumbers add a refreshing crunch, and the homemade pimento cheese is like a cheesy, tangy dream.
Pro tip: Switch out the chips for their hashbrown casserole or potato salad. You’re welcome.
2. Old Gilman Grill's BLT
Get ready to have your mind blown by the Gilman BLT at Old Gilman Grill. We’re talking bacon, blistered tomato jam, crispy onions, shredded iceberg lettuce, avocado, mayo, and a fried egg all piled high on Niedlov’s (a local Chattanooga bakery) multigrain loaf. Every bite is a flavor explosion. Just fair warning: After eating this BLT, the bar you set for all future BLTs will be way too high.
3. SideTrack's Burger
SideTrack is known for its Wood-Grilled Bear Creek Farms Burger with gruyere, onion, dijonnaise, and house pickles. It's a total game-changer. The wood grill gives it that deep, smoky flavor, while the creamy gruyere and tangy dijonnaise really bring it home. It’s simple but oh-so-satisfying.
5. Han Mi's Steak Sandwich
You might not immediately think of grabbing a sandwich at Han Mi, especially with their Korean BBQ and ramen taking the spotlight. We get it, but trust us, their steak sandwich deserves some serious attention. The tender steak, melted cheese, and perfectly crispy bread come together in a satisfying, no-frills combination that’s both simple and absolutely delicious. It’s the kind of sandwich you’d look past on the menu, but once you’ve had it, you’ll be hooked.
6. State of Confusion's Fried Bolognese Sandwich
Next time you’re at State of Confusion, you have to try their fried bologna sandwich. We're talking house-made bologna, sharp cheddar sauce, and a fried egg all sandwiched between soft, pillowy bread. It tastes like childhood…but way fancier.
7. Tony’s Italian Panini
When visiting Tony’s Pasta Shop, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the large variety of delicious pasta options. We’ll make it easier on you, skip the pasta and get their Classic Italian Panini. Pepperoni, salami, ham, tomato, onion, Italian dressing, mozzarella cheese, and house-made focaccia—basically everything that’s right in the world. And don't even get us started on the French fries they serve it with. Yeah, you’ll want those.
Honorary Mentions: Not Exactly Sandwiches, But Totally Handheld
Bitter Alibi's Wonton Nachos
Okay, so this isn’t exactly a sandwich, but it is handheld and delicious. Bitter Alibi's Wonton Nachos are fried wontons topped with your choice of protein, queso, shredded lettuce, green onions, sesame seeds, pickled onion, and carrot, all drizzled with “Boombox sauce” and sriracha mayo. These crunchy, salty, spicy nachos are so good, they’ll have you wondering why you ever bothered with regular chips.
Elsie's Daughter's Chilaquiles
We know you probably think of chilaquiles as a breakfast dish, but trust us, these are worth picking up with your hands. Elsie’s Chilaquiles come topped with green chile salsa, a fried egg, pickled onions, crema, and chili oil—everything you need to start (or finish) your day on the right note.
So, there you have it: a roundup of some of Chattanooga’s hidden handhelds. These are the spots you wouldn’t normally think to hit for a sandwich, but they’ve got some of the best handhelds in town—whether it's a burger, a panini, or something entirely unique. Don’t sleep on these. Your taste buds will thank you.