While Philadelphia is best known for cheesesteaks, hoagies — with their endless variations — are a close second in the city’s sandwich hierarchy, writes Robert DiGiacomo for Food & Wine.
There is no shortage of eateries crafting excellent hoagies across Philadelphia. However, a few rise above the rest.
Farina Di Vita in Queen Village uses rolls from longtime local brick oven bakery Cacia’s to create true hoagie magic, including the Papale sandwich, with a choice of pepper turkey, roast beef, or ham, along with Cooper Sharp, lettuce, and red onion.
Middle Child, a beloved breakfast-lunch spot in Washington Square West, offers unique hoagie riffs like the Asian-inspired Phoagie, made with hoisin eggplant, fresh and frizzled onions, cilantro, and pho sauce.
The Kale Caesar Cutlet is the undisputed king at Liberty Kitchen, with locations in Fishtown, West Philadelphia, and Chestnut Hill. This viral TikTok sensation comes on a seeded Liscio’s roll and features housemade Caesar dressing, three cutlets, kale tossed in the same dressing, fried onions, and Locatelli Romano cheese.
Paesano’s in Northern Liberties, known for its “more is more” philosophy, creates true flavor bombs using bold and unexpected ingredients, such as a combination of fried chicken liver and salami.
Read more about where to get some of the best hoagies in Philadelphia in Food & Wine.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on PHILADELPHIA Today in April 2025.
