Food & Drink

Mamma Mia! Philly’s 18 Must-Try Spots for Italian Hoagies!

If you're a fan of hoagies, then you know that nothing beats a classic Italian hoagie. And if you're in Philadelphia, you're in luck because this city is home to some of the best Italian hoagies in the country.

But with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start your search.

Thankfully, we've done the research for you and have compiled a list of the best places for Italian hoagies in Philadelphia.

From the bread to the meats to the toppings, we've taken everything into consideration to make sure that the hoagies on this list are truly the best of the best.

Whether you're a local or just visiting Philadelphia, you won't want to miss out on these mouthwatering hoagies.

So, get ready to take a bite out of some of the most delicious Italian hoagies you've ever tasted, and get ready to discover what makes Philadelphia's hoagie scene so special.

1. Gran Caffe L'Aquila

Gran Caffe L'aquila
1716 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Google Maps)

Gran Caffe L'Aquila is a must-visit for anyone in the mood for authentic Italian hoagie.

This cozy cafe offers a robust menu with a variety of Italian sandwiches, pastries, and gelato. The food is fresh, delicious, and reasonably priced.

The cafe also has a huge coffee selection, wines, and outdoor seating. The service is friendly and knowledgeable, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, Gran Caffe L'Aquila is definitely worth a visit.

2. Dattilo's Delicatessen

Dattilo's Delicatessen
8000 Horrocks St, Philadelphia, PA 19152 (Google Maps)

Dattilo's Delicatessen offers a wide variety of Italian delicacies, including world-class hoagies.

The deli has a friendly and efficient staff that provides high-quality items at good prices. The cheese steaks are made with real sirloin and delicious seeded rolls.

The bread is fresh and the ingredients are top-notch. The tomato pie and everything Italian are excellent.

The homemade meatballs, rolls & bread, and extra sharp provolone cheese are a must-try. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. Dattilo's Delicatessen is the go-to spot for any Italian deli.

3. Ricci's Hoagies

Ricci's Hoagies
1165 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Google Maps)

Ricci's Hoagies is a classic Philly hoagie and deli shop that serves up some of the city's finest Italian hoagies.

Their hoagies are made with high-quality ingredients and fresh bread, which are prepared right in front of you.

The shop is known for its fast service and excellent prices. Due to the pandemic, only four people are allowed in the store at a time.

Ricci's Hoagies is a must-visit for anyone looking for a genuine South Philadelphia Italian deli experience.

4. Lil Nick's Deli

Lil Nick's Deli
1311 W Moyamensing Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148 (Google Maps)

Lil Nick's Deli is a top-notch sandwich shop that serves some of the best Italian hoagies in town.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, and they always make sure to prepare the sandwich to the customer's liking. The deli is spotlessly clean, and the lunch meats are always cut to perfection.

The long rolls are seeded and fresh, and the ingredients are of the highest quality. The chicken cutlet special with broccoli rabe and provolone is a must-try, as is the Prosciutto Special.

Lil Nick's Deli is a gem of a place, and anyone who loves a good hoagie should definitely check it out.

5. Rocco's

Rocco's
1491 S Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148 (Google Maps)

Rocco's is a hidden gem for those craving an authentic Italian hoagie. Tucked away in an unexpected location, this small eatery offers some of the best sausage sandwiches and cheesesteaks in the city.

The staff are friendly and the service is quick, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.

While there is no seating available, the food is worth the trip.

Don't miss out on the Rocco special, a mixed half and half chopped sausage and cheesesteak sandwich that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

6. Castellino's Italian Market

Castellino's Italian Market
1255 E Palmer St, Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Google Maps)

Castellino's Italian Market is a hidden gem for hoagie lovers.

Their signature hoagie is fresh and flavorful, making it one of the best in Philly. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service.

They also offer unique groceries and homemade soups and desserts.

This small market and deli is a must-visit for anyone who wants a delicious and authentic Italian hoagie experience.

7. Pastificio Deli

Pastificio Deli
1528 Packer Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for the best Italian hoagie in town, look no further than Pastificio Deli. Their hoagie is simply unbeatable.

The roll is crunchy on the outside and perfectly soft on the inside, while the meats and cheese are top quality. The lettuce and tomatoes are fresh and the shredded lettuce is just right.

The bread to meat ratio could be slightly better, but that's just a minor issue. The staff is always friendly and efficient no matter how busy the place is.

The deli also offers a nice selection of salads, sandwiches, and fresh pasta. If you're in the mood for Italian food, Pastificio Deli is the place to go.

8. Paesano's

Paesano's
943 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Google Maps)

Paesano's is a must-visit spot for anyone in search of a delicious Italian hoagie.

This no-frills sandwich shop is located in the heart of the Italian market and offers a variety of gourmet hoagies with unique fillings like housemade lamb sausage and classic Italian deli meats.

Their sandwiches are made with high-quality ingredients and are prepared with excellent execution. The portions are enormous, and the prices are reasonable.

Paesano's is a cash-only establishment and BYOB, so be sure to come prepared. The seating area is simple, but the focus is on the food, which is why this place is always packed with locals and tourists alike.

9. L. Mancuso & Son

L. Mancuso & Son
1902 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148 (Google Maps)

L. Mancuso & Son is a family-owned Italian grocery store that specializes in making delicious hoagies.

They have a wide selection of Italian meats and cheeses, and their homemade mozzarella is a must-try. The store is small, but it's clean and well-stocked.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the products they sell. The hoagies are made fresh to order, and the bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. If you're looking for a tasty Italian hoagie, L. Mancuso & Son is the place to go.

10. Mi Pal's Deli

Mi Pal's Deli
2300 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (Google Maps)

Mi Pal's Deli offers some of the best Italian hoagies in town. Their signature specialties are a must-try for any hoagie fan.

The deli also serves a variety of appetizers and sandwiches, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite.

The staff is friendly and efficient, and the prices are reasonable. The deli is clean and well-maintained, and the take-out menu is extensive.

If you're in the mood for a delicious hoagie, Mi Pal's Deli is the place to go.

11. Finks Hoagies

Finks Hoagies
4633 Princeton Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19135 (Google Maps)

Finks Hoagies is a great local spot for delicious Italian hoagies.

Their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and perfect bread. The service is fantastic and the staff is friendly.

They also offer catering services, making it a great option for events and parties. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or catering for a large group, Finks Hoagies is definitely worth checking out.

12. Antonio's Deli

Antonio's Deli
1014 Federal St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Google Maps)

Antonio's Deli is a must-visit if you're looking for a delicious Italian hoagie. They offer custom-made sandwiches at a reasonable price that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

The deli has a clean and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to grab a quick bite to eat.

The hoagies are outstanding and some of the best in the area. Customers rave about the Crispy Tomato with sharp cheese and the Don Tuna.

The staff is friendly and provides excellent service. Don't miss out on this gem of a deli!

13. Little Italy Pizza & Trattoria

Little Italy Pizza & Trattoria
342 Queen St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Google Maps)

Little Italy Pizza & Trattoria is a cozy counter-serve pizzeria that offers much more than just pizza.

They serve up some of the best Italian hoagies in the city, packed with fresh meats and vegetables. The bread is soft and chewy, perfectly complimenting the savory fillings.

Their friendly service and speedy delivery make it a go-to spot for locals who crave a delicious sandwich. If you're in the mood for something different, their salads and hot entrees are also worth a try.

Little Italy Pizza & Trattoria is a true gem in the heart of the city for anyone who loves a good Italian hoagie.

14. Lamberti Pizza & Market

Lamberti Pizza & Market
707 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Google Maps)

Lamberti Pizza & Market is a one-stop-shop for delicious Italian hoagies. With a vast selection of sandwiches and pizza, customers are spoilt for choice.

The salads are fresh and the customer service is top-notch. The market also offers dried pastas and desserts.

The pizza is piping hot with the perfect crust-sauce-cheese ratio. There is ample seating both downstairs and upstairs.

The chicken parmesan platter is a must-try. Lamberti Pizza & Market is a neighborhood gem that should not be missed.

15. Matt & Marie's Logan Square

Matt & Marie's Logan Square
100 N 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Google Maps)

Matt & Marie's Logan Square is a must-visit for anyone in search of a delicious Italian hoagie. Their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and the bread is simply outstanding.

The menu offers a great variety of sandwiches and salads, and the brown bag special is a fantastic deal for lunch.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring quick service even during busy times. The casual atmosphere and comfortable seating make it a great spot for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to try one of the best hoagies in town at Matt & Marie's Logan Square.

16. Cosmi's Deli

Cosmi's Deli
1501 S 8th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Google Maps)

Cosmi's Deli is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in an authentic Italian hoagie.

This sandwich shop is known for its hearty portions of meat and other toppings, all served on local bread. The low-key setting adds to the charm of this South Philly classic.

The staff is friendly and the store is clean. The menu has a great variety of deli options for any meal of the day.

Whether you choose to pick up or have it delivered, Cosmi's Deli is a super-legit option for any hoagie lover.

17. Celebre's Pizzeria

Celebre's Pizzeria
1536 Packer Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (Google Maps)

Celebre's Pizzeria is a great spot for Italian hoagies.

The sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and have a great flavor. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.

The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. The pizzeria also offers other Italian classics, sandwiches, and specialty pies.

If you're in the mood for a delicious hoagie, Celebre's Pizzeria is definitely worth a try.

18. Lennies Hoagies

Lennies Hoagies
6141 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for an authentic Italian hoagie, look no further than Lennies Hoagies.

The rolls are packed with high-quality ingredients, and one sandwich is enough to feed two people. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the sandwiches are made fresh to order.

The tuna hoagie is a standout, and the meatball sandwich is a must-try. The menu is extensive, and the prices are reasonable.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Lennies Hoagies is a great choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.