The Most Legendary Breakfast Sandwich in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin

Breakfast is no joke, and a serious must-have for many people daily. Honestly, I am the odd one here, as I often skip breakfast and down 2 massive cups of black coffee instead. Now, don't get me wrong, I like breakfast foods. Personally, I have always been a fan of the "breakfast burrito." Some people love pancakes or waffles. Maybe you prefer hashbrowns or eggs? No matter your proclivity to breakfast foods, few things beat shoving them together to form the ultimate breakfast sandwich.

My all-time favorite breakfast sandwich is actually a local staple at the Dubuque Farmers Market. Most people who have attended at some point have seen, smelled, or eaten the delicious combination of glazed donut, bacon, egg, and cheese.

This sandwich is a must-have (at least once) for anyone visiting the Dubuque Farmers Market this spring, summer, or fall. But I digress. I only bring this up because a list on Cheapism seems to have announced each state's most legendary breakfast sandwich. I'm going to lay out the chosen best from Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin, and we'll see if they did our Tri-State area justice. Honestly, at these locations, breakfast time is just a suggestion, as these sandwiches are good anytime of the day! Here we go...

Chicago, Illinois: The Vera Cruz at Do-Rite Donuts

First up, Illinois brings the sweet with Do-Rite Donuts in Chicago. Now, I know what you’re thinking—"Isn’t that just a donut shop?" Yes, but also no. While they're famous for their donuts, their breakfast sandwiches have a bit of a cult following. Their standout? The Vera Cruz. It’s got jack cheese, avocado, jalapeño, crispy tortilla strips, and mayo. It’s creamy, spicy, crunchy! Basically, everything you didn’t know you needed at 8 AM. And just when you think it can't get any more indulgent, you add the sweet! Yup just like in Dubuque at the local farmers market, you can slap all of that goodness between a donut instead of a regular bun for just $1 more. It sounds to me like this one might ruin you for all future breakfasts in the best way possible.

Iowa City, Iowa: Nodo Classic at Nodo Iowa City

How could you pick just one? Iowa steps up with Nodo, a laid-back sandwich haven in Iowa City. They serve sandwiches all day, so no stress if you're not the early bird type (perfect for me). Nodo’s breakfast classic comes in at just $4, make sure to add your choice of meat for an extra $2. But what's really eye-catching is their more creative takes. Try their grilled banana and peanut butter sandwich, a ham & mango, or a housemade banh mi with tamari-marinated pulled pork. No thta's an interesting flavor combo.

Madison, Wisconsin: Casetta at Casetta Kitchen and Counter

Rounding out the Tri-State tour is Casetta in Madison, Wisconsin. They keep it simple, but that’s where the magic lies. Their signature sandwich is stacked with mortadella, provolone, egg, and deli mustard, all on house-baked bread. No frills, just solid ingredients doing their thing. In fact, all of their sandwiches look amazing, it's probably a stop I'm going to have to make next time I'm in Madison.

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So, Did They Get It Right?

Honestly? Not bad at all. Each sandwich shop brings its own vibe and personality to the table. That said, I still think the Dubuque Farmers Market creation holds its own,  especially for anyone with a soft spot for that classic donut-bun combo (and it's close to home). If you’re ever road-tripping through the Midwest or just want to spice up your breakfast game, these spots are worth the detour. And hey, a list of sandwiches like this may get me eating breakfast again... just maybe.