When it comes to sandwiches ordered away from home, the difference between a one-time order and a repeat visit often comes down to one thing: the meat. According to new research from Smithfield Culinary, meat quality and portion size aren’t just preferences, they’re primary drivers of satisfaction, perceived value and, ultimately, restaurant recommendations.

The survey, conducted among 2,000 US consumers who dine away from home, reveals that while bread, toppings and sauces matter, the meat defines the sandwich experience. In fact, 87% of patrons agree that the quality of deli meat can make or break a sandwich.

Key findings

Size matters – and so does quality:

• 78% of patrons are annoyed when restaurants skimp on meat
• 87% of patrons agree the quality of deli meat can make or break a sandwich
• Nearly nine in 10 patrons (88%) say meat quality is a key factor when choosing a sandwich
• 65% of patrons say meat quality signals value.

Great sandwiches drive advocacy (but hard to replicate at home):

• Three in four patrons (75%) have recommended a restaurant specifically for an outstanding sandwich
• 58% of patrons have tried – and failed – to recreate a favorite restaurant sandwich at home.

How flavor and style stack up:

• Patrons favor hand-carved meats (61%) and deli-sliced meats (60%) for sandwiches
• Sandwich flavor preferences lean savory (55%) and smoky (46%), with spicy also resonating (38%).

“The data underscores a clear opportunity for operators to rethink sandwich strategy, starting with the quality of the meat,” said Lauren Talbert, senior director, marketing for Smithfield Culinary. “These findings highlight the opportunity to elevate sandwich menus. When operators prioritize expertly prepared meats and pair them with their own culinary point of view, they create distinct experiences that drive customer loyalty and repeat business.”

Kretschmar, maker of premium deli meats and cheeses since 1883, is a Smithfield Culinary brand that serves both retail and foodservice segments.

For more information on Smithfield Culinary and Guest Check surveys, which provide consumer insights that help operators optimize opportunities to better serve their patrons, visit smithfieldculinary.com/patron-research/.

Survey methodology

Research was conducted through an online survey of 2,000 US adults between April 4-7, 2026. The margin of error is plus or minus 2 percentage points, with a 95% confidence level.

Source: Smithfield Culinary