Legend has it the humble sandwich was born at a card game in the 1700s when the 4th Earl of Sandwich asked for meat tucked between slices of bread, so he wouldn’t have to leave the table. Now that’s what I call dedication… and a culinary revolution!
Whether you’re looking for a classic grilled cheese or craving something special — a sandwich always delivers. It’s a blank canvas for condiment devotion, flavor exploration, and creative expression between two slices of bread. And don’t forget the pickles!
Bread Winners
With grab-and-go in full swing for back-to-school season, and handhelds dominating fall menus (coming so soon!), it’s the perfect time to level up your sandwich game with bigger, and fluffier, bread.
Notably, Nature’s Own®, now available for foodservice, delivers three new oval-shaped loaves: Butterbread, Honey Wheat, and Hawaiian Loaf — all crafted larger than their retail counterparts to provide superior plate coverage and hold up heartier builds.
These breads can perform across all dayparts and require minimal prep, just thaw and serve. With wholesome appeal and a soft, stack-friendly texture, these bread options offer endless versatility and deliver consistent quality that guests (and menus) can count on. Whether grilled, chilled, stuffed, or stacked, they’re always ready to rise to the occasion.
Loaf at First Bite
The end of summer-into-fall season is prime time for handheld hits. With students and professionals alike on the go, sandwiches remain a top-performing menu item — appearing on 67.4% of U.S. restaurant menus, according to Datassential*. With endless combinations, sandwiches are the handheld hub for stacking, layering, and revamping classics. Consider a twist on the BLT with crispy bacon, heirloom tomatoes, and peppery arugula topped with whipped feta and FLAVORSMITH® Sweet Heat Hot Honey on Butterbread.
Make My Day (part)
In the morning, breakfast sammies with a side of loaded toasts make the routine look easy. Start the day strong with options like toasted Honey Wheat slices piled with scrambled eggs, roasted veggies, and a swipe of Sriracha mayo — or go sweet with ricotta, berry compote, and crushed pistachios.
Personally, I am a big fan of a breakfast grilled cheese: melty Muenster, tangy apples, and maple sausage between buttery Butterbread slices can help boost my mood and start my day on a high note.
For lunch, classics like a club never go out of style. Elevate this traditional fan-favorite by balancing crispy prosciutto, sun-dried tomato aioli, or arugula for peppery crunch on Honey Wheat or style as a triple-decker with turkey, avocado, bacon, and Tomato Jam on Hawaiian for that sweet-savory combo.
When it comes to condiments, reliable sauces are key: mayo, mustard, ketchup (does this mean burgers are sandwiches?), and BBQ sauce top the list of the most-used sandwich condiments, according to data. But there’s room to experiment — try blending your own signature sauce or tap into trending flavors like hot honey, gochujang, garlic, or truffle for a fresh take.
Always Cool for School
Back-to-school season is all about speed, simplicity, and satisfying options. Consumers already know and love Nature’s Own, since the bread is a staple in kids’ lunchboxes — and now you can bring that same flavor and familiarity to your menu. A display of grab-and-go selections makes it easier than ever to win over busy families and weekday crowds.
Nature’s Own is a better-for-you bread solution, too. Made without artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and never with high fructose corn syrup, it’s got the soft, fluffy texture kids love, but with the consistency and performance your BOH needs.
Whether you're crafting classic deli builds or toasty melt sensations, new sandwich menu options deliver versatility and crave-worthy flavor, fit for sandwich royalty. After all, if a card game sparked a centuries-long love affair with handhelds, imagine what you can create with the right bread in your kitchen.
*Datassential, 2025
Content provided in partnership with Flowers Foods®.