World's Best Sandwich Isn't Vada Pav? See Where India's Favourite Street Food Really Ranked!

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If there's one global comfort food that sparks fierce loyalty and heated debates, it's the humble sandwich. Whether it's packed with sizzling meat, tangy pickles, or spicy chutney, this universal staple brings together cultures, cravings, and creativity. Now, the latest rankings from TasteAtlas have set the food world buzzing - and not without controversy.

In its July 2025 update, the popular food and travel guide TasteAtlas has unveiled its list of the 100 Best Sandwiches in the World, based on 16,551 audience ratings. The surprise winner? Shawarma - a juicy, meaty wrap popular across the Middle East. But wait, India's beloved Vada Pav has also made its mark - ranking 26th globally, climbing up 13 spots from earlier this year.

Here's why it's more than just food - it's about pride, identity, and global recognition.

Shawarma Wins Big - But Is It Really A Sandwich?

It may not come between two slices of traditional bread, but shawarma has claimed the No. 1 spot. Originating from Lebanon and popular across West Asia and beyond, this wrap is filled with slow-roasted, juicy meat-lamb, beef, chicken, or turkey-carved right from a rotating spit. It's hearty, flavourful, and incredibly adaptable.

But the debate remains: Is shawarma truly a sandwich?
While purists may say no, TasteAtlas puts it in the same category as Banh Mi, Tortas, and yes-our very own Vada Pav. And the audience clearly agrees: shawarma isn't just trending-it's topping.

Vietnam Dominates The Top 10 - And That's No Accident

While Shawarma took gold, Vietnam claimed silver, bronze, and even more spots in the top 10 with variations of Banh Mi. The classic Vietnamese sandwich-made with a crispy French baguette, pickled veggies, fresh herbs, and a medley of meats-has become an international sensation. From roasted pork belly (Banh Mi Heo Quay) to cold cuts (Banh Mi Thit), Vietnam proves its sandwich game is unmatched.
With three Banh Mi entries in the top 5, it's clear Vietnam's street food has global love - and technical precision to back it up.

Vada Pav Climbs Up - And Desi Street Food Gets Its Moment

The most exciting news for Indian food lovers? Vada Pav is now ranked 26th, moving up from 39th earlier this year. Often referred to as the "Indian burger," this Mumbai street food classic is a spicy potato fritter stuffed between a pav, served with dry garlic chutney and fried green chillies. It's affordable, fiery, and full of attitude - just like the city it was born in.

It's also one of the only vegetarian sandwiches to make it this high up the list.

So while it didn't crack the top 10, its upward climb is a sign of global desi street food recognition-one bite at a time.

Top 10 Sandwiches in the World, As Per TasteAtlas (July 2025)

1. Shawarma (Lebanon and wider Middle East)
2. Banh Mi (Vietnam)
3. Tombik Doner (Turkiye)
4. Meat and Cold Cuts Banh Mi (Vietnam)
5. Roasted Pork Belly Banh Mi (Vietnam)
6. Panino col Polpo (Italy)
7. Tortas (Mexico)
8. Lobster Roll (USA)
9. Butifarra (Peru)
10. Sandwich de Lomo (Argentina)

Food Rankings Or Cultural Approval? What This List Really Means

Food lists like these are often more than just rankings - they stir national pride, challenge perceptions, and reflect global food trends. While shawarma and Banh Mi may rule 2025's TasteAtlas rankings, India's Vada Pav is making a slow but steady climb into the international conversation.

With more Indian flavours gaining global appeal-from butter chicken pizza to masala fries-it's only a matter of time before Vada Pav and its spicy siblings rise even higher.

So if you're a sandwich lover, a street food loyalist, or just someone with strong opinions about what goes between bread, this list is your moment to dig in, defend your favourite, and maybe try something new.