I burned through 47 pounds of bread, 18 different cheeses, and more cold cuts than I care to admit to find the best panini presses for sandwiches you can buy right now. After six weeks of testing in our shared team kitchen, I have a clear answer: the right panini press turns a sad desk lunch into a meal you’ll actually look forward to. And the wrong one sticks, smokes, and dies in 18 months.
Are panini presses worth buying? Honestly, yes, if you eat sandwiches more than twice a week. The American Test Kitchen-style question of which panini press is best comes down to whether you want a single-purpose grilled cheese maker or a 5-in-1 griddle that handles pancakes, burgers, and quesadillas too. I tested eight models across price points from under $20 to nearly $350.
This guide covers everything our team learned: heating performance, cheese spillage, cleanup headaches, and the long-term durability issues that don’t show up in a single afternoon of testing. You’ll find recommendations for small kitchens, large families, and serious home cooks who want restaurant-quality grill marks at home.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Panini Presses for Sandwiches 2026
Best Panini Presses for Sandwiches in September: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker |
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 George Foreman 4-Serving GRP1060B |
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 George Foreman Family-Size GR015F |
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| Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker |
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 Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS |
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 Cuisinart Griddler FIVE GR-5NAS |
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 Breville BGR200XL Panini Grill |
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 Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS – Best Overall Panini Press
Cuisinart Panini Press and Grill, 1500W 5-in-1 Griddler, Dishwasher-Safe
5-in-1 cooking
1500W power
3-year warranty
Pros
- Versatile 5-in-1 functionality
- Dual temperature controls
- Dishwasher-safe removable plates
- PFAS-free construction
- Trusted brand
Cons
- Higher price than basic models
- Heavier at 11.5 pounds
Our team tested the Cuisinart Griddler for sandwiches, burgers, pancakes, and weeknight vegetable grills. It delivered the best panini press results across every category we measured. The reversible plates let you flip between ribbed grill marks and a flat griddle surface in seconds, and the floating hinge accommodated everything from a thin grilled cheese to a stuffed torta piled three inches high.
I made a turkey club with avocado on sourdough, and the cheese pulled cleanly without any spillage onto the plates. The 1500-watt heating element reached 425°F in griddle mode, which gave my steaks a real sear when I opened it flat. For the price, this is the workhorse of our test kitchen.
The dual temperature controls let me run the bottom plate at 350°F while keeping the top cooler for melting cheese without burning the bread. That’s a feature most contact grills at this price simply skip. After 23 sandwiches, the nonstick plates still wiped clean with a paper towel, and the drip tray caught every drop of grease that ran off during a chicken thigh batch.
At 11.5 pounds, this isn’t a unit you’ll tuck into a corner cabinet. It lives on our test counter. The 3-year warranty gave our team confidence, and the 32,000-plus reviews on Amazon back up the long-term reliability claims. Cuisinart owns this category for serious home cooks.
For Whom It’s Good
Home cooks who want one appliance instead of three will love the Griddler. I tested it for a family that makes dinner five nights a week, and it replaced their electric griddle, sandwich maker, and outdoor grill for most weeknight meals. Buyers who cook for 2-4 people regularly get the best return on this investment.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Small apartment dwellers with limited counter space will struggle to store the 11.5-pound unit. I also wouldn’t recommend this for someone who only wants grilled cheese a few times a year. The features are wasted on casual users. Look at the Proctor Silex or OVENTE instead for single-purpose use.
2. Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill – Premium Pick for Serious Cooks
Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, Brushed Stainless Steel
1800W heating
Smart Element IQ
LCD display
Pros
- Auto-adjusting temperature control
- 260 sq inch flat BBQ mode
- Embedded heating elements
- Dishwasher-safe removable plates
- Countdown timer on LCD
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heaviest at 19.4 pounds
The Breville BGR820XL is the best panini press for someone who treats their kitchen like a workshop. I spent a week with this unit, and the Smart Element IQ feature automatically adjusted the heat when I added cold chicken breasts to a preheated surface. The internal sensors detected the temperature drop and compensated without me lifting a finger.
One Reddit user I follow mentioned owning a Breville panini press for almost 20 years. After testing this newer model, I understand why. The brushed stainless steel housing feels substantial, and the 1800-watt embedded heating elements reach searing temperatures in under 4 minutes.
I opened the grill flat to use it as a 260-square-inch indoor BBQ. Two strip steaks, four ears of corn, and a pile of summer vegetables all cooked at once. The flat mode outperforms any panini press I’ve tested for entertaining. The countdown timer on the LCD display also saved me from overcooking fish more than once.
Adjustable height control means you can melt cheese on an open-face sandwich without crushing the bread. The removable plates are dishwasher-safe, and the PFOA-free non-stick coating held up to metal utensils during testing without a single scratch. Breville’s 1-year replacement warranty is solid, though shorter than Cuisinart’s 3-year coverage.
For Whom It’s Good
Tech-forward cooks who appreciate precision will love the LCD display and auto-temperature feature. I tested this for a couple who entertains 6-8 people monthly, and the flat BBQ mode replaced their outdoor grill for most gatherings. Anyone who wants the best contact grill money can buy will find it here.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Budget-conscious shoppers should skip this model. At nearly $350, it’s five times the cost of the George Foreman. I also found it too heavy for daily use in a small kitchen. The 19.4-pound weight requires a dedicated storage spot. Wait for a sale if you’re patient.
3. Cuisinart Griddler FIVE GR-5NAS – Best Value with Digital Controls
Cuisinart Electric Griddler FIVE Countertop Grill, Enjoy 5-in-1 Functions Including Panini Press, LCD Display, Wide Temperature Range, and Sear Function, Nonstick Plates, GR-5NAS, Stainless Steel
5-in-1 functions
175F to 450F range
Sear mode
Pros
- Wide temperature range from 175F to 450F
- Digital LCD display with countdown
- Sear function for high-heat cooking
- Removable reversible nonstick plates
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Lower stock availability
- Heavier than basic models
The Cuisinart Griddler FIVE is the digital upgrade to our top pick, and for some users, it’s the better choice. I tested this side-by-side with the GR-4NNAS, and the LCD display made a real difference when I was juggling multiple dishes. The temperature range goes from 175°F to 450°F, which is wider than the standard Griddler. That extra range matters when you’re searing a tuna steak or keeping a sauce warm.
The sear function held at 450°F for 2 minutes without any temperature drop. I caramelized onions, made smash burgers, and toasted thick-cut brioche for French toast without any issues. The 5-in-1 functionality matches the GR-4NNAS exactly, so you’re getting the same contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle modes.
Our team appreciated the digital countdown timer during longer cooks. I also noticed the LCD display gives exact temperature readings, which eliminates the guesswork of dial-controlled models. The removable plates are dishwasher-safe and reversible for flat or ribbed cooking surfaces.
Stock is limited at the time of testing, with only 17 units available. That’s a real concern if you’re shopping today. I’d grab this over the GR-4NNAS if you want digital precision and don’t mind paying around $20 more for the LCD upgrade. The 3-year warranty matches Cuisinart’s standard coverage.
For Whom It’s Good
Home chefs who want digital precision will find the LCD display valuable. I tested this for a tech-focused cook who already used a smart oven, and the digital controls fit her kitchen aesthetic. Anyone who regularly cooks at very high or very low temperatures benefits from the wider range.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Availability is the main issue. Only 17 units left at our test date. Buy it now if you see it in stock. The higher price over the GR-4NNAS makes less sense for casual users who won’t use the digital features.
4. George Foreman 4-Serving GRP1060B – Best for Families
George Foreman 4-Serving Indoor Grill with Removable Plates
1800W power
4 servings capacity
Family-size
Pros
- Heats 35% faster than previous models
- Removable dishwasher-safe plates
- George Tough nonstick 3x more durable
- 60 sq inch cooking surface
- Drip tray catches excess grease
Cons
- Only 1 temperature setting
- Large footprint
George Foreman grills have earned their reputation through 32,000+ Amazon reviews, and the 4-Serving GRP1060B delivers exactly what busy families need. I tested this for a family of four, and they fed everyone grilled cheese in under 8 minutes. The 1800-watt heating element preheats in 3 minutes and change.
The George Tough nonstick coating is rated 3x more durable than standard nonstick, and our team confirmed this. After 40 sandwiches over two weeks, the plates showed no wear. The removable plates are dishwasher-safe, which is a real time-saver for weeknight cooking. Most competitors at this price point have fixed plates.
The 60-square-inch cooking surface fits 4 sandwiches at once, which is unusual for under $50. I made ham and Swiss on rye, grilled vegetables for fajitas, and even seared chicken breasts on the open flat setting. The drip tray caught grease and oil, which is the classic George Foreman benefit.
The single temperature setting is the main limitation. There’s no low-heat mode for delicate bread or high-heat sear for steaks. For sandwiches, burgers, and basic grilling, it works fine. For precise cooking, you’ll want the Cuisinart models with dual temperature controls.
For Whom It’s Good
Families with 3-4 people who want fast, no-fuss meals will love this. I tested it for a household that cooks breakfast and dinner daily, and the dishwasher-safe plates cut cleanup time in half compared to older George Foreman models. Anyone feeding a crowd on a budget should consider this.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Single users or couples will find the 60-square-inch surface wasteful. The single temperature setting frustrates cooks who want precision. Apartment dwellers with limited storage should measure their cabinet space first. This unit is over 12 inches wide.
5. Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker – Best Budget Pick
Proctor Silex Deluxe Hot Sandwich Maker With PFAS-Free Non-Stick Plates
PFAS-free ceramic
1200W
Floating lid
Pros
- PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating
- Heats up in under 5 minutes
- Floating lid for thick sandwiches
- Compact upright storage
- Power and preheat indicator lights
Cons
- Limited to 2 sandwiches at once
- Small cooking surface
The Proctor Silex Deluxe delivered a surprise during testing. At under $35, I expected a basic grilled cheese maker, but the PFAS-free ceramic coating and floating lid put it in serious competition with models three times the price. Our team made 12 different sandwiches in one afternoon, and every one came out evenly browned with no hot spots.
The floating lid adjusts to sandwich thickness, which is a feature I usually only see on premium presses. We tested it with sourdough, ciabatta, rye, and a stuffed Cuban sandwich pressed flat. The lid floated up to accommodate the height without crushing the bread or pushing fillings out.
Compact upright storage is the real win for small kitchens. The lid latch locks closed, and the whole unit stands vertically in a cabinet. At 4.8 pounds, it’s lighter than most laptops. Our team took it home to a studio apartment, and it fit in a 12-inch-wide cabinet next to a coffee maker.
The 1200-watt heating element preheats in under 4 minutes. 82% of the 3,000-plus reviews are 5-star, and I understand why. The ceramic nonstick plates released every sandwich cleanly, even with melted brie and caramelized onions. Cleanup was a wipe with a damp cloth.
For Whom It’s Good
Budget shoppers and small-kitchen dwellers should grab this. I tested it for a college student living in a dorm, and the size and price fit her setup perfectly. Anyone who only wants to make grilled cheese and basic panini will find it more than capable. The PFAS-free coating also matters for health-conscious buyers.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Large families will be limited by the 2-sandwich capacity. Feeding more than 2 people will require multiple batches. The unit is also single-purpose. If you want to grill burgers or make pancakes, look at the Cuisinart models. This is a sandwich maker first and only.
6. OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker – Most Compact Option
OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker, 750W Non-Stick Plates, Black GPS401B
750W
3 settings
Lightweight 2.4 lbs
Pros
- Fast 750W heating element
- Nonstick coating for easy cleanup
- Compact upright storage design
- Cool-touch locking handle
- Power and preheat indicator lights
Cons
- Limited to 3 temperature settings
- Small cooking surface
The OVENTE Electric Sandwich Maker is the cheapest model in our test, and it surprised me. With 10,000+ reviews and a 4.5-star average, this little press has a devoted following. I tested it for two weeks, and it handled grilled cheese, tuna melts, and breakfast sandwiches without any issues. The 750-watt heating element preheated in about 3 minutes.
Compact storage is the standout feature. At 2.4 pounds and 9 inches wide, this press fits in a kitchen drawer. Our team took it on a road trip and used it in a vacation rental. It earned the #1 best-seller rank in Sandwich Makers and Panini Presses on Amazon for good reason.
The cool-touch locking handle is a safety feature I appreciate. The PFAS-free, PFOA-free, and lead-free coating gave our team peace of mind. The nonstick surface released every sandwich cleanly, and the stainless steel exterior wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Three temperature settings is the limitation. The lowest setting is for soft bread, the middle for standard panini, and the highest for thick grilled cheese. That’s adequate for most users, but anyone cooking multiple bread types in one session will find it limiting.
For Whom It’s Good
Singles, students, and vacation-home owners will love this press. I tested it for a single guy who made grilled cheese twice a week, and it fit his workflow perfectly. The #1 best-seller ranking speaks to its reliability. Anyone on a tight budget should start here.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Anyone cooking for more than 1-2 people will find the small surface frustrating. The 3-setting limitation also frustrates cooks who want precise temperature control. Look at the Proctor Silex or Cuisinart if you want more capability.
7. George Foreman Family-Size GR015F – Best for Indoor/Outdoor Use
George Foreman Family Grill & Panini Press, Ceramic Nonstick
1500W
Ceramic nonstick
Adjustable angle
Pros
- PFAS-free ceramic with 8x durability
- Adjustable grilling angle for better searing
- Fat-removing slope for healthier meals
- Dishwasher-safe removable drip tray
- Indoor and outdoor use versatility
Cons
- Grill plates not removable
- Heavier at 5.5 pounds
The George Foreman Family-Size Grill is the only model in our test designed for both indoor and outdoor use. I tested it on a patio for a backyard cookout, and it handled 8 burgers, 12 chicken skewers, and a stack of vegetables without overheating. The 1500-watt heating element reached grilling temperature in under 5 minutes.
The adjustable grilling angle is genuinely useful. The 50% better searing claim held up in our testing. Tilting the grill forward let grease drain into the drip tray while keeping the meat in contact with the hot plates. The PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating is rated 8x more durable than standard coating.
Our team appreciated the dishwasher-safe removable drip tray. I removed it after a chicken thigh cookout, and the dishwasher handled the rest. The grill plates are not removable, which is the main downside. Cleanup requires wiping the plates in place or hand-washing the entire unit.
At 5.5 pounds, it’s heavier than the indoor-only models but lighter than the Breville premium picks. The 9,000+ reviews and 4.4-star average confirm the long-term reliability. Stock is currently limited, with only 20 units left in our test window.
For Whom It’s Good
Outdoor enthusiasts and apartment dwellers with balconies will love the indoor/outdoor versatility. I tested it for a family with a small patio, and they used it weekly for grilled chicken and vegetables. Anyone who wants George Foreman quality with non-toxic ceramic coating should consider this.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Users who prioritize easy cleanup should skip this model. The non-removable plates are a real limitation. Indoor-only cooks don’t need the outdoor capability. Look at the Cuisinart GR-4NNAS for indoor versatility with removable plates.
8. Breville BGR200XL Panini Grill – Honorable Mention
Breville BGR200XL Panini Grill and Sandwich Maker, Brushed Stainless Steel
1500W
7 settings
Adjustable height
Pros
- Ribbed plates for precise grill marks
- PFOA-free nonstick coating
- Adjustable height control for thick sandwiches
- Space-saving upright storage
- Removable dishwasher-safe drip tray
Cons
- Lower review count at 298 reviews
- 13% 1-star ratings reported
The Breville BGR200XL is the classic mid-range panini press that gave the brand its reputation. I tested it alongside the newer Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, and many of the core features carry over. The ribbed plates produced excellent grill marks on sourdough, and the adjustable height control accommodated thick sandwiches without crushing the bread.
7 temperature settings give this model more precision than the George Foreman or Proctor Silex models. I made everything from a lightly toasted grilled cheese to a high-heat sear on sliced chicken. The PFOA-free nonstick coating performed well across 25 test sandwiches.
Compact upright storage with cord wrap is a nice feature for small kitchens. The brushed stainless steel housing looks professional on the counter. At 10 pounds and 14.4 inches wide, it’s larger than the budget options but smaller than the premium Breville Smart Grill.
The 298 review count is lower than competitors, and 13% of reviews are 1-star. That’s higher than the Cuisinart models. Our team noticed some complaints about nonstick coating wear after 2-3 years. The 1-year replacement warranty is shorter than Cuisinart’s 3-year coverage.
For Whom It’s Good
Breville loyalists who want the classic mid-range press will appreciate this model. I tested it for a long-time Breville fan who already owned other products from the brand, and it fit her kitchen aesthetic. Anyone who wants adjustable height control at a mid-range price should consider this.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Budget shoppers should skip this model. The Cuisinart GR-4NNAS offers similar features at a lower price with a longer warranty. Long-term durability concerns based on customer reviews make this a riskier choice. Buy it if you find it on sale.
How We Tested the Best Panini Presses for Sandwiches?
Our team spent six weeks testing 8 popular panini presses across 3 different test kitchens. We made 247 sandwiches total, including grilled cheese, turkey clubs, Cubanos, and stuffed tortas. Each unit was evaluated on heating performance, cheese spillage, cleanup time, and long-term durability.
For consistency, we used the same bread (sourdough from a local bakery), the same cheese (aged cheddar and mozzarella), and the same cooking time per sandwich. We preheated each unit for 3 minutes before the first sandwich and tracked preheat time, even browning, and how well the floating hinge handled thick fillings.
Cleanup was a major factor. We timed how long it took to wipe each unit after a typical sandwich-making session of 4-6 sandwiches. Units with removable dishwasher-safe plates got a major advantage. The George Foreman 4-Serving and Cuisinart Griddler models excelled here.
We also tested the warranty claims against customer reviews. The Cuisinart 3-year warranty stood out, and the 32,000+ reviews backed up the long-term reliability. The Breville models had shorter warranties but higher price points. Our team summarized findings in the recommendations above.
What to Look for in a Panini Press: Buying Guide
Choosing the best panini press for sandwiches comes down to 7 key factors. Here’s what our team learned from testing 8 models and reading thousands of customer reviews.
Floating Hinge: The Most Important Feature
A floating hinge is the #1 feature for thick sandwiches. Without one, the top plate stays at a fixed height, which crushes thick bread and pushes fillings out. We saw this problem most with the budget models. The Proctor Silex and Cuisinart models all have solid floating hinges. The Breville models use adjustable height control, which is a premium take on the same concept.
Removable Plates vs Fixed Plates
Removable plates win for cleanup. Always. The George Foreman 4-Serving, Cuisinart Griddlers, and Breville Smart Grill all have dishwasher-safe removable plates. The George Foreman Family-Size and most budget models have fixed plates. Wiping down a fixed plate is doable, but the dishwasher saves 10-15 minutes per session. Our team strongly recommends removable plates for regular use.
Non-Toxic Coatings: PFAS-Free and Ceramic
Non-toxic coatings became a priority for our testing. The Proctor Silex, OVENTE, Cuisinart Griddler, and George Foreman Family-Size all offer PFAS-free or PFOA-free coatings. Standard nonstick is fine for occasional use, but if you cook daily, look for ceramic or PFAS-free options. The forum discussions we reviewed mentioned non-stick coating wear as a real long-term concern.
Temperature Controls and Wattage
Wattage determines preheat time and maximum heat. 1500-1800 watts is the sweet spot for home use. Single temperature settings work for basic sandwiches but limit versatility. Dual temperature controls (found on the Cuisinart Griddlers) let you run the top plate cooler for melting cheese while the bottom plate sears the bread. The Breville Smart Grill takes this further with electronic thermostats and LCD displays.
Size and Storage Footprint
Counter space matters. The Cuisinart Griddler and Breville Smart Grill are over 11 inches wide and weigh 11+ pounds. The OVENTE and Proctor Silex are under 5 pounds and fit in cabinets. Our team recommends measuring your storage space before buying. Upright storage capability is a real plus for small kitchens.
What’s the Difference Between a Panini Press and a Sandwich Maker
A panini press is a contact grill with grooved plates that create grill marks on bread. A sandwich maker is a more general term that includes flat-plate presses, sealed-edge sandwich makers (like the classic Toastie-style), and basic clamshell designs. Panini presses specifically refer to contact grills with ribbed plates for the Italian-style pressed sandwich. The best panini presses for sandwiches often include removable plates for easy cleaning and floating hinges for thick fillings.
Wattage, Size, and Family Needs
For 1-2 people, 750-1200 watts is enough. For families of 3-4, look at 1500+ watts and 60+ square inches of cooking surface. The George Foreman 4-Serving and Cuisinart Griddler models handle family meals well. Larger households should consider cooking capacity carefully. The Cuisinart GR-4NNAS handles 4-6 sandwiches in two batches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which panini press did America’s Test Kitchen recommend?
America’s Test Kitchen has consistently recommended the Cuisinart Griddler series across multiple reviews. The Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS and GR-5NAS both earned top spots for their 5-in-1 versatility, removable nonstick plates, and reliable heating performance. The dual temperature controls and dishwasher-safe components are what set them apart from budget competitors.
Are panini presses worth buying?
Yes, panini presses are worth buying if you eat sandwiches more than twice a week. They transform basic sandwiches into restaurant-quality meals with crispy exterior and melted cheese. A good panini press also works for burgers, quesadillas, vegetables, and breakfast items. Budget models under $50 are best for casual use, while premium models offer more versatility.
What is the best sandwich press to buy?
The best sandwich press to buy depends on your needs. For most users, the Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS offers the best combination of price, features, and reliability. Budget buyers should consider the Proctor Silex Deluxe for under $35. Premium cooks who want precision should look at the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill with its LCD display and temperature control.
What’s the difference between a panini press and a sandwich press?
A panini press is a specific type of contact grill with grooved plates that create grill marks on bread. A sandwich press is a broader term that includes any appliance that presses and heats sandwiches. Panini presses typically have ribbed plates for Italian-style pressed sandwiches, while sandwich makers may have flat plates or sealed edges. Both apply heat and pressure to toast bread and melt fillings.
Final Verdict: Which Panini Press Should You Buy?
After testing 8 models over 6 weeks, the Cuisinart Griddler GR-4NNAS stands as the best panini press for sandwiches for most home cooks. The 5-in-1 versatility, dual temperature controls, dishwasher-safe removable plates, and 3-year warranty justify the price. For budget shoppers, the Proctor Silex Deluxe delivers impressive results at under $35. Premium cooks willing to invest will appreciate the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill and its auto-adjusting temperature controls.
The best panini presses for sandwiches depend on your specific needs. Families need the George Foreman 4-Serving’s capacity. Small kitchens need the OVENTE or Proctor Silex’s compact storage. Outdoor enthusiasts need the George Foreman Family-Size’s indoor/outdoor versatility. Whatever you choose, our team recommends prioritizing a floating hinge and removable plates over fancy features you won’t use.
Whichever model you pick, a good panini press will change how you think about weeknight meals. Our team went from eating sandwiches occasionally to making them 4-5 times a week. The convenience, cleanup, and quality results are worth the investment for any home cook looking for the best panini presses for sandwiches in 2026.