Philadelphia, PA
- A Hoagie is Philadelphia's version of a sub sandwich, except better. It's like an old-fashioned antipasto salad on a roll with Italian meats, cheese, vegetables, and peppers. In Philly, The Hoagie is how we eat lunch; it’s the city's version of the everyday sandwich. Below are a few of our staff picks for The Best Hoagies in Philadelphia.
Beyond the Cheesesteak: Your Guide to Finding Philadelphia's Best Hoagies
While the cheesesteak often hogs the spotlight, Philadelphia's other iconic sandwich, the hoagie, holds an equally dear place in the city's culinary heart. This masterpiece built on a long Italian roll, layered with quality meats, cheeses, and the perfect balance of toppings, is a true art form. From legendary South Philly delis to modern sandwich shops, the quest for the perfect hoagie is a delicious adventure. Here’s a guide to 11 essential stops serving some of the best hoagies in Philadelphia.
South Philly Hoagie Havens:
This neighborhood is ground zero for classic hoagie artistry:
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Tony's Food Market (South Philly)
- Vibe: A true old-school, family-run mom-and-pop market, delivering groceries and fantastic hoagies for decades. A beloved neighborhood staple.
- Hoagie Highlight: Known for their "Old School Hoagies" featuring meats sliced fresh to order at the deli counter. Everything is fresh, from the rolls to the meats.
- Location: 2655 S Jessup St, Philadelphia, PA 19148
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Ricci's Hoagies (South Philly)
- Vibe: A snug, family-operated sandwich shop with roots stretching back to the 1920s. A true piece of Philly history.
- Hoagie Highlight: Famous for classic hoagies made fresh daily with quality ingredients. Simple, delicious, and authentic. (They're also known for cheesesteaks).
- Location: 1165 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA
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Angelo's Pizzeria (South Philly)
- Vibe: Primarily known for its destination-worthy pizza, this simple parlor also crafts some of the city's most sought-after sandwiches and hoagies. Expect lines.
- Hoagie Highlight: Their ITALIAN (Genoa salami, cotegina, hot capicola, imported ham, mild provolone) is a masterclass in balancing classic flavors.
- Location: 736 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA
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Antonio's Deli (South Philly)
- Vibe: A small, essential neighborhood deli on Federal Street packing big flavor.
- Hoagie Highlight: Served on the legendary, fresh-baked Sarcone's Bread, their Italian (Genoa Salami, Coteghino, Mortadella, Provolone) dressed traditionally is a local favorite.
- Location: 1014 Federal St, Philadelphia, PA
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Cosmi's Deli (South Philly)
- Vibe: A low-key setting belying its reputation as a top contender in many "best of" lists, known for quality bread and generous portions.
- Hoagie Highlight: While their Italian is excellent, try the unique Antipasto Hoagie featuring roasted peppers, green and black olives, sharp provolone, EVOO, and aged balsamic.
- Location: 1501 S 8th St, Philadelphia, PA
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Dolores’ (South Philly)
- Vibe: A beloved small neighborhood deli serving up classic vibes and creative sandwiches.
- Hoagie Highlight: Famous for the unique "Pooh Bear" – a sweet and savory mix of American Cheese, Honey Turkey, Honey Ham, lettuce, tomato, fried pickles, honey mustard mayo, and seasoning (SPO).
- Location: 1841 S 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
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P&S Ravioli Company (South Philly)
- Vibe: Primarily a venerable destination for homemade pasta, sauces, and Italian specialties, but their deli counter crafts outstanding hoagies.
- Hoagie Highlight: The Spicy Italian (Hot Sopressata, sharp provolone, hot capicola) packs a flavorful punch.
- Location: 1722 W Oregon Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Exploring Hoagies Across Philly:
Great hoagies aren't confined to South Philly:
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Liberty Kitchen (Fishtown/Kensington)
- Vibe: A modern market and deli with a focus on quality ingredients and a rewarding "Hoagie Club" card.
- Hoagie Highlight: The Della Casa, their house specialty, features artisanal 1732 Meats, fresh mozzarella, arugula with Calabrian Chili Oil, and house balsamic.
- Location: 1244 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA
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Lennies Hoagies (Roxborough)
- Vibe: A neighborhood favorite in Roxborough known for consistency and quality.
- Hoagie Highlight: Features homemade rolls, generous portions of quality meat. The classic Italiano (Imported ham, Genoa salami, capicola, provolone) dressed traditionally is a standout.
- Location: 6141 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA
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Woodrow's Sandwich Shop (South Street)
- Vibe: An intimate, urban sandwich bar known for creative, hearty sandwiches and often featuring outdoor seating on bustling South Street.
- Hoagie Highlight: Their elevated Italian includes truffle mortadella, fennel salami, spicy soppressata, prosciutto cotto, provolone, herb mayo, oil & vinegar, LTO, arugula, and cherry peppers.
- Location: 630 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
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Dattilo's Delicatessen (Northeast Philly)
- Vibe: A family-run Italian deli offering a wide range of fresh and cooked meats, cheeses, groceries, and, of course, hearty sandwiches.
- Hoagie Highlight: Dattilo's Main Event is a complex and flavorful creation with Tangy Provolone, Hot Capicola, Pepperoni, DiLusso Genoa Salami, Marinated Artichoke Hearts, and Homemade Roasted Peppers.
- Location: 8000 Horrocks St, Philadelphia, PA
The hoagie is deeply woven into Philadelphia's identity. From generations-old delis slicing meat to order onto crusty rolls in South Philly to modern shops putting gourmet spins on the classics in Fishtown and beyond, the perfect hoagie is always waiting to be discovered. Use this list as a starting point, but the real adventure lies in exploring the neighborhoods and finding your personal favorite. Happy hoagie hunting!
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.
