No matter where you come from in the U.S., Italian subs remain a universally loved staple. Packed with layers of flavorful cold cuts, creamy cheese, and briny toppings all hugged by a crusty loaf, this sandwich is a timeless favorite. Whether you’re grabbing one for a quick lunch, fueling up for a road trip, or bringing a show-stopping meal to the beach, a great Italian sub always delivers.
While the East Coast is often hailed as the home of the best Italian sandwiches—thanks to the waves of Italian immigrants who settled there in the late 19th and early 20th centuries—the reality is that phenomenal subs can be found nationwide. Across delis, markets, and sandwich shops, family traditions and authentic ingredients come together to craft some of the best subs in the country. After scouring the nation for these masterpieces, here are 15 must-try Italian subs that stand out among the rest.
From coast to coast, these 15 Italian subs stand as proof that incredible sandwiches can be found all across America. Whether you’re craving a classic, a regional specialty, or something with a little twist, these delis and sandwich shops have got you covered.
Mr. G at J.P. Graziano – Chicago
A Chicago institution, J.P. Graziano’s has been perfecting sandwiches since 1937, and the Mr. G is its crown jewel. This sub is a carefully crafted masterpiece featuring Genoa salami, hot soppressata, prosciutto di Parma, and provolone, layered precisely to maintain balance in every bite. What sets it apart? The marinated artichokes, hot oil, and a distinctive truffle mustard balsamic vinaigrette that elevate the flavors to new heights. According to Chicagoans, it’s the gold standard for Italian sandwiches.
The Milano at The Italian Store – Arlington, Virginia
This beloved Arlington spot has been serving up top-notch sandwiches since the ‘80s, thanks to its dedication to authentic ingredients from Brooklyn and Italy. The Milano combines Genoa salami, two types of Italian ham, and provolone, all piled onto a fresh Italian roll with shredded lettuce and zesty condiments. Regulars swear by ordering it on a hard roll with peppers for the ultimate bite.
Hot Salami Sandwich at Gioia’s Deli – St. Louis
St. Louis’ famous Gioia’s Deli has been crafting its renowned Hot Salami Sandwich for over 100 years. Unlike the thinly sliced salami most are used to, this version uses a thick, sausage-like hot salami that Food & Wine compared to a rustic country paté. Served on fresh-baked bread from Fazio’s Bakery and often ordered with melted cheese and mustard, this sandwich has become a legendary part of St. Louis food culture.
The Real Italian at DiPasquale’s Marketplace – Baltimore
This century-old Baltimore market is a destination for anyone seeking an authentic Italian sub. The Real Italian is an indulgent combination of pepper ham, mortadella, salami, capicola, and provolone, topped with fresh condiments that make every bite unforgettable. DiPasquale’s also offers a variety of specialty goods, so it’s worth taking some extra time to browse the shelves after savoring this legendary sandwich.
Molinari Special at Molinari Delicatessen – San Francisco
San Francisco’s North Beach district is home to Molinari Delicatessen, a shop that has been crafting authentic Italian subs for generations. The Molinari Special is the ultimate example of what makes their sandwiches legendary. Built with expertly sliced cold cuts, cheese, and tangy pickled toppings, it’s held together by a sturdy roll—though locals insist that getting it on Dutch crunch bread is an absolute must.
The Italian Stallion at Sugar Hill Sub Shop – Atlantic City
Though Atlantic City’s White House Subs often steals the limelight, Sugar Hill Sub Shop in Mays Landing has been building a loyal following with its top-tier sandwiches. The Italian Stallion, a half-sized Atlantic City roll packed with black pepper ham, imported cold cuts, and provolone, is a fan favorite. Finished with fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, and a choice of oil and vinegar or mayo, it’s a prime contender for the best Italian sub in the area.
The Godmother at Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery – Santa Monica
Few sandwiches reach the legendary status of The Godmother. A must-try in Santa Monica, this stacked sub features a mouthwatering combination of prosciutto, ham, capicola, mortadella, and salami, layered with provolone cheese and “the works.” Despite the long lines and old-school ticket system, its flavor is well worth the wait. For those in a hurry, pre-wrapped versions are available to grab and go.
White House Special at White House Sub Shop – Atlantic City
This Atlantic City icon has been crafting massive heroes for nearly 80 years, feeding everyone from high rollers to The Beatles. The White House Special boasts salami, ham, and capicola, plus a fresh layer of lettuce and tomato, all packed into a roll so big that a whole sub can easily serve two.
Bub’s Italian Hoagie at Bub & Pop’s – Washington, D.C
Located in Dupont Circle, Bub & Pop’s brings Philadelphia-style sandwich-making to D.C. The Italian Hoagie features razor-thin cuts of pepperoni and hot and sweet capicola, plus provolone, Pecorino Romano cheese, and Bub’s signature vinaigrette. As hefty as it is flavorful, many diners find half a sandwich is more than enough to satisfy.
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Italian Combo at Sal, Kris, & Charlie’s Deli – Queens
This Queens deli, known as the “Sandwich King of Astoria,” has earned a devoted following for its generously stuffed subs. The Italian Combo, featuring soppressata, pepperoni, salami, mortadella, and prosciutto with provolone, is a fan favorite. Pro tip: Bring cash, as it’s the preferred payment method here.
Pepper Steak Sub at Giamela’s – Los Angeles
Known for its East Coast-style sandwiches, Giamela’s has been a California favorite since the 1960s. While it offers a variety of deli classics, its Pepper Steak Sub is the standout. Stuffed with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, pickles, onions, and diced bell peppers, it’s a hearty and satisfying alternative to a traditional cold-cut sub.
Alyssa Milano Hero at Lioni’s Italian Heroes – Brooklyn
With a menu boasting over 100 sandwiches named after famous Italians, Lioni’s is a Brooklyn institution. The Alyssa Milano Hero is a standout, featuring breaded chicken cutlet, prosciutto di Parma, homemade pesto, and some of the creamiest mozzarella you’ll find anywhere.
Real Italian at Amato’s – Portland, Maine
This Maine classic originated with Giovanni Amato in 1902 and remains a regional staple today. The Real Italian swaps traditional salami and provolone for deli ham and American cheese, topped with a blend of green bell pepper, tomato, pickles, onion, and olives. It’s a unique spin on the Italian sub and a must-try for visitors to New England.
Italian Sub at Bari – Chicago
Bari has been serving up Italian staples in Chicago since 1973, and its Italian Sub is a longtime favorite. Featuring capicola, salami, prosciutto, and mortadella with provolone and briny giardiniera, this sub is available in sizes ranging from a manageable 9-inch to a monstrous 3-foot-long loaf.
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