The piled-high, foot-long sub gets all the attention, but I've always been partial to the more manageable sandwiches of my youth: grilled cheese, bacon-and-egg, tuna, etc. Happily, I've discovered several spots that serve these homey lunch treats on a take-out basis.

Vine Street Pub has become my go-to place for grilled cheese. Taking advantage of the make-your-own grilled cheese menu, I typically add tomato and bacon to the stack, but pesto, avocado, and veggies are also available. A few blocks away, the perennially popular Steuben's delivers a killer bacon-and-egg sandwich on grilled Texas toast directly to your car through the curbside take-out service. (Bolster your order with a side of thin and crispy, skin-on fries.) Finally, across town in Cherry Creek North, Zaidy's Deli serves a classic, hearty tuna melt (pictured) on rye with albacore tuna, tomato slices, and sweet grilled onion.

Call ahead and your sandwich will be ready when you arrive.

Vine Street Pub, 1700 Vine St., 303-388-2337

Steuben's, 523 E. 17th Ave., 303-830-1001

Zaidy's Deli, 121 Adams St., 303-333-5336