SILVER SPRING, Md. – When The Washington Post set out to discover the best sandwiches in the D.C. area, they turned to the people who know best—local food lovers. Among 11 sandwich categories, the Reuben emerged as a favorite, and the top honor went to Parkway Deli, a beloved old-school deli located in Montgomery County, Maryland.
A Reuben Worth the Hype
Parkway Deli, located at 8317 Grubb Road in Silver Spring, was crowned the Best Reuben Sandwich in the D.C. region by Washington Post readers. The popular eatery, just steps away from Chevy Chase and nestled near Rock Creek Park, is a familiar name to many who crave hearty, traditional deli fare. Known for its New York-style menu, Parkway Deli has long been a neighborhood favorite—but this recognition has taken its Reuben to regional fame.
The winning sandwich beat out other notable competitors in a highly competitive field of nominees. Readers highlighted Parkway’s perfect balance of corned beef, sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy Russian dressing—all stacked between slices of grilled rye bread.
How the Contest Worked
In early March, the Washington Post launched a regional search for the best sandwiches, asking readers to submit their favorites along with the reasons why they stood out. Nearly 150 responses poured in, which the newspaper then categorized into 11 sandwich styles, including:
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Best Philly Cheesesteak
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Best Gyro
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Best Italian
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Best Reuben
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And several others
From there, readers cast over 730 votes across the categories to select the top contenders. Washington Post staff then visited the winners personally to taste-test each sandwich and verify their quality before officially announcing the results.
A Family Legacy Three Generations Strong
Parkway Deli is more than just a popular lunch spot—it’s a family-run institution with deep roots in the community.
The deli was founded in 1963 by Lou Gurewitz, along with his sister Rose and her husband Mike. The name “Parkway” was chosen due to its close proximity to Rock Creek Park, a landmark that still defines the area today.
Lou’s son Stuart Gurewitz took the reins in 1974, dedicating over three decades to building the deli into one of Maryland’s most beloved eateries. When Stuart retired, the family business continued into its third generation with his sons Danny and Gary, who now manage day-to-day operations.
Under their leadership, Parkway Deli continues to serve classic deli dishes, including breakfast platters, sandwiches, soups, salads—and, of course, their award-winning Reuben. One of the deli’s most popular features is its famous pickle bar, a hit among customers who enjoy unlimited pickles with their meals.
More Than Just a Sandwich
Parkway’s Reuben is more than a sandwich—it’s a culinary tradition served with history, heart, and hospitality. The warm, welcoming atmosphere, consistency in quality, and attention to tradition have made it a community cornerstone for over 60 years.
Whether you’re a Reuben purist or new to the sandwich scene, a visit to Parkway Deli might just be your next favorite food experience in the D.C. area.
Parkway Deli is located at 8317 Grubb Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Open daily for dine-in and takeout.
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