Arby’s may be famous for its “we have the meats” slogan, but when it comes to sandwiches, not all meats are created equal. With a menu that ranges from smoky brisket to zesty buffalo chicken, Arby’s offers a surprisingly wide variety of options for a fast-food joint. But which sandwiches truly deliver the flavor—and which ones fall flat under all that hype?
To find out, I rolled up my sleeves (and prepared my appetite) to taste-test 10 of Arby’s most popular sandwiches. Some were melt-in-your-mouth masterpieces I’d order again in a heartbeat. Others? Well, let’s just say there were a few bites I immediately regretted. From classic roast beef nostalgia to overhyped Italian wannabes, this menu is a rollercoaster of textures, sauces, and bold claims.
If you’re wondering whether the Classic Roast Beef still holds up, if the Smokehouse Brisket is really worth the price, or if that Buffalo Chicken sandwich is more mess than meal, I’ve got you covered. I rated each sandwich based on taste, texture, value, and overall satisfaction—so you know what’s worth your money (and what’s worth skipping).
Whether you’re a longtime Arby’s fan or just craving something different than burgers and nuggets, this list will guide you through the hits and misses. Spoiler alert: bacon lovers are in for a treat, but sandwich traditionalists might want to steer clear of certain soggy disappointments.
10. Loaded Italian
Despite promising a flavor-packed Italian experience, this sandwich disappoints on multiple levels. The meats (pepperoni, salami, and ham) lack quality and taste distinctly processed rather than deli-fresh.
The vegetables should provide fresh contrast but often arrive wilted and sad. The banana peppers deliver some tang, but can’t save the overall bland flavor profile. The red wine vinaigrette and garlic aioli fight each other rather than complement.
The sub roll itself tends to be either too soft or too tough. At one of the highest price points on the menu, this sandwich represents poor value. Authentic Italian sandwich lovers will find this attempt particularly offensive – skip this one entirely.
9. Buffalo Chicken
Heat seekers will appreciate the genuine spice level of Arby’s Buffalo Chicken sandwich. The crispy chicken gets tossed in buffalo sauce that delivers actual heat rather than just empty promises of spiciness.
Unfortunately, structural issues plague this otherwise tasty option. The buffalo sauce quickly turns the bun soggy, creating a messy eating experience. The ranch dressing helps cool the heat but adds to the overall wetness.
Shredded lettuce and parmesan peppercorn ranch try to balance the buffalo kick, but often get lost in the sauce. A good sandwich in theory that suffers in execution. If you don’t mind sticky fingers and potential shirt stains, the flavor might be worth the mess.
8. Corned Beef Reuben
Arby’s attempt at a classic Reuben sandwich falls short of deli standards. The corned beef lacks the proper texture and flavor depth you’d expect from a good Reuben.
The sandwich components – Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on marble rye – are all present but somehow don’t come together harmoniously. The sauerkraut often seems either too mild or unevenly distributed, while the dressing can make the whole thing soggy.
At one of the higher price points on the menu, this sandwich promises more than it delivers. True Reuben fans will likely feel letdown. If you’re craving a real Reuben, you might be better off finding a local deli.
7. Chicken Bacon Swiss
Crispy chicken, Swiss cheese, and bacon create a reliable sandwich that rarely disappoints but rarely amazes. The honey mustard adds a sweet tang that balances the savory elements nicely.
The chicken itself stays juicy inside its crispy coating, while the bacon brings that smoky crunch everyone loves. Swiss cheese melts perfectly, adding a mild creaminess that ties everything together.
This sandwich represents Arby’s playing it safe – offering familiar flavors executed well. Nothing groundbreaking happens here, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want. For picky eaters or those wanting something beyond beef without taking risks, this sandwich delivers consistent satisfaction.
6. Roast Turkey Ranch & Bacon
Surprisingly fresh-tasting for fast food, this sandwich features sliced turkey that actually resembles real roasted turkey rather than processed meat. The pepper bacon adds smoky crunch while the Swiss cheese melts perfectly into the meat.
What really makes this sandwich shine is the balance of vegetables – tomatoes, lettuce, and red onions add freshness and texture. The honey mustard and ranch dressing create a creamy-tangy combo that ties everything together without overwhelming.
Served on honey wheat bread, this sandwich feels almost like something you’d make at home after Thanksgiving. For those seeking a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, this ranks among Arby’s best offerings.
5. French Dip & Swiss
Hot roast beef and melted Swiss cheese on a toasted sub roll come with a side of warm au jus for dipping. This interactive eating experience sets it apart from other menu options.
The sandwich itself is relatively simple, letting the quality of the thinly sliced beef shine. But dunking each bite into the savory beef broth transforms it into something special. The bread soaks up just enough juice without falling apart.
Surprisingly filling despite its straightforward ingredients, this sandwich offers excellent value. The French Dip proves that sometimes the magic happens not in complex toppings but in simple execution with a twist. A true comfort food option on Arby’s menu.
4. Triple Thick Brown Sugar Bacon BLT
Bacon takes center stage in this indulgent sandwich that doesn’t try to hide its decadence. The brown sugar bacon delivers a perfect sweet-savory balance with impressive thickness and crispiness rarely found in fast food.
Fresh vegetables provide necessary contrast – the lettuce adds crunch while tomatoes bring juiciness and acidity. Mayo binds everything together on toasted honey wheat bread that stands up well to the hefty filling.
Despite its seemingly simple concept, this BLT outperforms many more complex options on Arby’s menu. The attention to bacon quality makes all the difference. For those who consider bacon a food group rather than merely a topping, this sandwich delivers pure satisfaction.
3. Smokehouse Brisket
Smoked for at least 13 hours, the brisket in this sandwich immediately sets it apart from typical fast food fare. The meat carries authentic smokehouse flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy onions and smoky BBQ sauce.
Gouda cheese adds a creamy, slightly nutty element that elevates the entire experience. The star ingredient here is definitely the brisket itself – tender, flavorful, and genuinely impressive for a drive-thru restaurant.
Price-wise, this sits at the higher end of Arby’s menu, but the quality justifies the cost. The attention to detail shows Arby’s commitment to offering something beyond the usual fast food options. For BBQ lovers, this sandwich delivers serious satisfaction.
2. Beef ‘n Cheddar
The Beef ‘n Cheddar takes Arby’s roast beef to new heights with its gooey cheddar cheese sauce and red ranch dressing. Served on an onion roll instead of the standard bun, this sandwich brings more flavor complexity to the table.
Each bite delivers a perfect blend of savory meat, tangy sauce, and rich cheese. The onion roll adds a subtle sweetness that ties everything together beautifully.
Ranking consistently among Arby’s best-sellers, this sandwich strikes the perfect balance between the simplicity of the classic and the more adventurous menu options. For just a small price increase over the original, you get significantly more flavor impact.
1. Classic Roast Beef: The Sandwich That Started It All
Simplicity shines with Arby’s original creation. Thin-sliced roast beef stacked generously on a soft, toasted sesame seed bun with just a touch of their tangy Arby’s sauce.
What makes this sandwich special is how the warm, tender meat melts in your mouth. The mild flavor lets the quality of the beef speak for itself without fancy toppings getting in the way.
While basic compared to Arby’s more loaded options, this sandwich deserves respect for its straightforward approach. Sometimes the classics remain popular for good reason – this sandwich delivers consistent satisfaction that has kept customers coming back for decades.
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