Embarking on a culinary adventure through the diverse menu offerings of Arby’s, I transitioned from a skeptic to a true fan. Join me as I explore and rank 15 of their iconic sandwiches, detailing my impressions, surprises, and occasional disappointments. This journey showcases the unique flavors and textures that each sandwich brings to the table, painting a vivid picture of Arby’s culinary landscape.
15. Fish ’N Cheddar Sandwich
Amid the sea of Arby’s offerings, the Fish ’N Cheddar Sandwich stands as a quirky experiment. The union of fish and cheddar sauce creates an unexpected clash of flavors. While the crispy fish fillet holds promise, the cheddar cheese introduces a bold tang that doesn’t quite gel with the seafood. This combination, while innovative, results in a curious but disappointing execution. The bun, soft and slightly sweet, does its best to harmonize the mix, yet the overall taste journey remains unfulfilling. Still, it holds a charm for those looking for an unconventional taste experience.
14. Buffalo Chicken Slider
The Buffalo Chicken Slider might be small in stature, but it promises big flavors. Sadly, the reality doesn’t match the expectation. The buffalo sauce, intended to be fiery and invigorating, is surprisingly mild. This, paired with a soggy bread-to-meat ratio, results in a less-than-exciting bite. The chicken, though tender, lacks the crunch that could elevate this snack. An item that could be more vibrant falls short, yet it intrigues those who fancy a milder take on the classic buffalo flavor.
13. Classic Crispy Fish Sandwich
The Classic Crispy Fish Sandwich is Arby’s take on a seafood staple. At first glance, the crispy fish appears inviting, with its golden-brown coating. However, the wilted lettuce and inconsistent tartar sauce present a challenge. These components, though essential, fail to uphold the structural integrity of the sandwich. The fish itself delivers on texture but is left wanting more in terms of complementary flavors. A sandwich with potential, it leaves room for improvement in its overall composition. Still, a viable option for fans of fish sandwiches seeking a quick meal.
12. Jalapeño Roast Beef Slider
Sized for a snack, the Jalapeño Roast Beef Slider promises a fiery kick that doesn’t quite deliver. Despite the presence of jalapeños, the spice is muted, leaving the roast beef to do most of the heavy lifting. The beef, while decent, doesn’t stand out enough to make this slider a standout. The small size further compounds the issue, making it less satisfying than it could be. Nevertheless, this slider offers a mild taste of spice, catering to those who prefer a gentler heat in their meal.
11. Roast Turkey Ranch & Bacon
In theory, the Roast Turkey Ranch & Bacon sandwich should be a hit. Turkey, bacon, and ranch are a trio made in sandwich heaven. However, the execution falls short with overcooked bacon and limp veggies. The turkey provides a solid base, but the supporting cast fails to elevate the experience. The ranch dressing offers a creamy counterpoint, attempting to tie the elements together. Despite its shortcomings, the concept remains appealing for those who cherish a turkey-bacon-ranch combo.
10. Crispy Chicken Sandwich
The Crispy Chicken Sandwich should be a staple in any fast-food lineup. Arby’s version, however, struggles with consistency. The chicken, generously sauced with mayo, can at times be overbattered and mushy, detracting from the ideal crunch. Lettuce and tomato add little to the overall structure, feeling more like an afterthought. Despite these hurdles, the sandwich remains a decent option for those craving a chicken fix. Its simplicity can be its strength, appealing to those who prefer a straightforward taste without too many frills.
9. Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich aims to bring the heat but treads lightly. Its sauce, expected to pack a punch, is surprisingly mild, making it indistinguishable from its non-buffalo counterpart. The chicken, though adequately cooked, doesn’t exude the boldness often associated with buffalo-style dishes. Despite its lack of distinction, it serves as a gentle introduction for those hesitant about spicy foods. The sandwich manages to provide a pleasant eating experience, albeit one that could benefit from a more adventurous approach.
8. Greek Gyro
Arby’s take on the Greek Gyro brings a taste of the Mediterranean to their menu. The sandwich, though competent, doesn’t quite reach the heights of traditional gyros. The meat, a blend that leaves some uncertainty, pairs with a flatbread that can be chewy at times. Tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing touch, but the overall experience lacks the punch of authentic flavors. It’s a respectable attempt, offering a hint of Greek cuisine for those seeking variety in their fast-food choices. For gyro enthusiasts, it provides a quick fix.
7. Loaded Italian
The Loaded Italian sandwich brings together a symphony of meats to tantalize the taste buds. Pepperoni, salami, and smoked ham form a flavorful medley, promising a robust experience. However, the bread doesn’t quite match the meats’ enthusiasm, often falling short in texture. Despite this, the sandwich delivers a satisfying taste journey. The combination of flavors caters to those who appreciate a hearty Italian-inspired meal. With minor tweaks, this could easily elevate itself to a fan favorite, showcasing the potential of Arby’s meat selections.
6. French Dip & Swiss
The French Dip & Swiss offers a classic pairing that resonates with many sandwich aficionados. Arby’s version captures the essence of a roast beef dip, yet the bread struggles to maintain its structure when dipped. The beef portion, though flavorful, feels a tad stingy, leaving one craving more. Swiss cheese adds a touch of creaminess, enhancing the overall taste profile. This sandwich offers a nostalgic nod to a beloved classic, ideal for those seeking a comforting and familiar bite.
5. Smokehouse Brisket
Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket brings a touch of barbecue to its menu, surprising with its smokiness. The brisket, while imbued with a rich flavor, can be dry at times, relying on the BBQ sauce to compensate. Onion strings, intended to add texture, fall short in delivering the desired crunch. Despite these challenges, the sandwich holds a certain appeal for fans of smoked meats. Its bold flavors make it a noteworthy option for those seeking a fast-food barbecue experience without leaving the comfort of Arby’s familiar offerings.
4. Classic Roast Beef
The Classic Roast Beef sandwich is a testament to simplicity done right. Thinly sliced roast beef takes center stage, showcasing its natural flavors. While the sandwich may suffer from slight dryness, it compensates with the quality of its meat. This straightforward offering remains a reliable choice for those who appreciate the basics. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less truly is more. For roast beef enthusiasts, this sandwich delivers a satisfying and uncomplicated meal, standing as a cornerstone of Arby’s menu.
3. Classic Beef ’n Cheddar
The Classic Beef ’n Cheddar transforms the basic roast beef sandwich into something special. An onion roll provides a distinct base, supporting the gooey cheese sauce that envelops the beef. This combination offers a crunchy, tangy, and satisfying experience. The cheddar cheese, melted to perfection, adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the standard roast beef. This sandwich resonates with those who seek a bit more excitement in their meal, making it a favorite among Arby’s fans for its unique take on a classic.
2. Smokehouse Brisket (new version)
The updated Smokehouse Brisket has redefined Arby’s barbecue offerings. This version features tender, richly smoked meat that melts in the mouth. Accompanied by flavorful pickles and sauces, it creates a harmonious blend that satisfies the palate. The brisket’s smoky essence stands out, making this a new fan favorite. It’s an homage to classic barbecue, yet uniquely Arby’s in execution. This iteration promises to please both longtime barbecue lovers and newcomers alike, cementing its place as a must-try item on the menu.
1. Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben Sandwich unexpectedly steals the spotlight with its rich and balanced flavors. Thinly sliced corned beef melds seamlessly with tangy sauerkraut and creamy Thousand Island dressing. Served on marble rye, it offers a bold taste that defies expectations. This sandwich is a testament to Arby’s ability to deliver quality in unexpected places. For those who enjoy a robust, hearty meal, the Reuben stands as a delightful surprise. Its harmonious blend of ingredients showcases the potential for innovation within the confines of fast-food tradition.
