This Hackensack Hole-in-the-Wall Just Ranked as the Best Sandwich Shop in New Jersey
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, In a state where the sandwich is practically a religion, standing out is no easy feat. You don’t need a white tablecloth or a celebrity chef to create a masterpiece—sometimes, you just need three decades of tradition and a perfect ball of fresh mozzarella.
Foodie authority Chowhound recently released its annual ranking of the “50 Best Hole-in-the-Wall Sandwich Shops” in America, and for 2026, the crown for New Jersey belongs to a local legend: Cosmo’s Italian Salumeria in Hackensack.
What Makes Cosmo’s “Legit”?
Located at 705 Main Street, Cosmo’s isn’t about flashy marketing; it’s about the art of the salumeria (a shop dedicated to cured meats like prosciutto, capicola, and salami).
Chowhound’s editors praised the shop for its “unforgettable flavors” and commitment to simple, high-quality ingredients. The standout? Their house-made fresh mozzarella, which anchors nearly every fan-favorite order.
“I appreciate seeing all these good things that people talk about,” said owner Cosmo DePinto, who has been serving the Hackensack community for over 30 years. “We’ve been here 30 years.”
The Must-Order Menu Items
If you’re planning a trip to this Bergen County staple, here is what the locals (and the critics) recommend:
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The “Number One”: A masterclass in Italian deli meats, featuring salami, ham, soppressata, capicola, lettuce, sweet peppers, and that famous fresh mozzarella.
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The Chicken Cutlet: Often paired with prosciutto, roasted peppers, and mozzarella.
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The Classic Prosciutto: Simple, salty, and elevated by the creaminess of the cheese.
The “Hole-in-the-Wall” Charm
Chowhound defines these winners as places where “tradition and simple care yield unforgettable flavors.” Cosmo’s fits the bill perfectly—a no-frills destination that focuses entirely on the quality of the bread and the freshness of the slice.
Pro-Tip for Visitors: Cosmo’s keeps traditional hours. They typically close around 4:00 PM, so make sure to get your lunch order in early!
Plan Your Visit
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Location: 705 Main St., Hackensack, NJ
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Specialty: Italian Salumeria & Fresh Mozzarella
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Experience: 30+ Years of Service
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Tags: #BergenCountyEats #NJFoodie #HackensackNJ #BestSandwich #ItalianDeli #LocalGem #NewJerseyEat
