North Yorkshire sandwich shop by the sea is heaven on a plate

Mary’s Sandwich Shop in Sandsend near Whitby was once just a horsebox on the beach, but in the last few years, this foodie spot has taken off on another level.

It focuses on handcrafted sandwiches, LA-style smashburgers, and of course, stunning sea views of the coastal village, which was recently hailed for having one of the UK’s best beaches to visit in autumn, by the outdoor experts Millets.

In 2021, Mary’s Sandwich Shop, ran by brothers Cam and Gabe alongside their friend Jack, began life as “Mad Mary’s”.

Now, customers believe “hand on heart” the team makes the “best sandwiches they have ever had”.

North Yorkshire sandwich shop by the sea is ‘worth every star’

Its website explains: “It was simple: great burgers, stunning sea views, and a passion for quality ingredients.

“The trio built a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. The casual, unpretentious vibe combined with exceptional food made Mad Mary’s a beloved fixture on the North Yorkshire coast.”

Mary’s Sandwich Shop continued: “In October 2023, an opportunity arose that would change everything: the former village shop, Sandsend Stores, became available. It was the perfect chance to expand and evolve while staying true to the neighbourhood roots.

“Mary’s Sandwich Shop was born – a dual concept that honours both the Mad Mary’s heritage and the new possibilities. During the day, we serve handcrafted sandwiches on homemade focaccia. On Friday and Saturday evenings, we bring back the original smashburgers that started it all.

“Today, Mary’s Sandwich Shop is exactly what we set out to create: your neighbourhood sandwich shop. We’re still in that stunning coastal village of Sandsend, still serving food we’re proud of, and still keeping things simple.

“From the converted horsebox to the former village shop, the mission hasn’t changed: small menu, done exceptionally well, with ingredients from local suppliers we trust.”

Just some of the sarnie menu highlights served on house-made bread suitable for vegans (with gluten-free options available on request) include The Paulie, made of panko fried chicken, house pesto, rocket, basil, mozzarella, nduja mayo and vodka sauce.

The Korean and The Buffalo are just some of the tasty smashburgers available at Mary’s Sandwich Shop (Image: Tripadvisor)

There is also The French Dip, consisting of roast beef, caramelised onions, Swiss cheese, horseradish mayo and au jus.

But that’s not all as Mary’s Sandwich Shop also offers a variety of unique smashburgers too, all served on a toasted brioche bun (with vegan and gluten-free options available on request) such as:

• The Korean – buttermilk fried chicken, Korean BBQ sauce, lime-pickled cabbage, coriander, spring onion, sesame seeds, pickled chillies and gochujang mayo
• The Mary’s Burger – two smashed patties, American cheese, crispy bacon, caramelised onion, house pickles and roast garlic mayo
• The Buffalo – buttermilk fried chicken, honey Buffalo sauce, shrettuce, house pickles and blue cheese mayo

However, if you’re looking for something to kick start your day, you might want to check out Mary’s Sandwich Shop’s breakfast additions (offered from 10am-11.30am), such as The Bacon, Egg ‘N’ Cheese and The Sausage, Egg ‘N’ Cheese.

Similar to the iconic smashburgers, they are all served on a toasted brioche bun with a choice of house ketchup, brown sauce, sriracha, or smoked jalapeno mayo.

But what do customers think of this handcrafted sandwich shop? It currently has an “excellent” rating over on Tripadvisor.

A recent visitor wrote: “What an amazing place, first visit but definitely not the last. Great atmosphere, great food, great service. What’s not to love. We had the Mush-which and the Paulie. Hand on heart best sandwich I have ever had. Will be back soon!”

Another shared: “Best sandwich I’ve ever had. Fresh, generous, and full of flavor. Mary’s makes food that feels crafted with care — it’s not just a sandwich, it’s an experience.”

A third commented: “I think the best sandwiches we have ever had. Heaven on a plate according to my teenager. Fresh focaccia, super generous and interesting fillings, fabulous flavours. Worth every star.”

Make sure you check Mary’s Sandwich Shop’s opening hours via its website before you visit.