NYC Hotspots For National Hoagie Day

National Hoagie Day on May 5 puts the spotlight on one of the region’s most iconic sandwiches, with delis and sandwich shops across New York City serving up Italian classics stacked with meats, cheeses and fresh bread.

What Is A Hoagie?

A hoagie is a long Italian-style sandwich built on a split roll and layered with meats, cheeses and toppings like lettuce, tomatoes and peppers. The term is most closely associated with Philadelphia, where it refers specifically to sandwiches made on crusty rolls and stacked with high-quality deli ingredients, often finished with oil and vinegar.

How Did The Hoagie Make Its Way To NYC?

The hoagie spread beyond Philadelphia through Italian American communities in the early 20th century, particularly as families moved and opened delis across the Northeast.

In New York City, similar sandwiches were already popular under names like “hero” and “sub,” but the styles blended over time, with many shops adopting Philadelphia-style techniques like seeded bread and carefully layered meats.

Here are some of the best sandwich shops to grab a hoagie (or, albeit, a hero):

Manhattan

Faicco's Italian Specialties
260 Bleecker St, West Village
A historic Italian deli known for massive, flavor-packed sandwiches stacked with fresh mozzarella and house-made specialties. Expect long lines and portions big enough for two meals.

Parisi Bakery
198 Mott St, Nolita
This century-old bakery turns out crusty bread and oversized sandwiches layered with chicken cutlet, prosciutto, and mozzarella. It’s a classic stop for a hearty, no-frills lunch.

Milano Market
2892 Broadway, Morningside Heights
A go-to for Columbia students, this market serves huge sandwiches with endless combinations of Italian meats and toppings. Most are big enough to stretch into multiple meals.

Pisillo Italian Panini
Multiple locations (FiDi, Chelsea, Times Square)
Pisillo specializes in large, tightly packed panini filled with imported meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The menu offers dozens of Italian-inspired combinations with bold flavors.

Brooklyn

Defonte's Sandwich Shop
379 Columbia St, Red Hook
A classic, cash-only Italian sandwich shop serving hefty heroes piled high with meats and fried eggplant. It’s a neighborhood institution with a loyal following.

Lioni Italian Heroes
7803 15th Ave, Bensonhurst
This spot offers an extensive menu of Italian heroes with fresh mozzarella, cured meats, and flavorful toppings. The sandwiches are known for their crisp bread and generous portions.

Brancaccio's Food Shop
3011 Fort Hamilton Pkwy, Windsor Terrace
A small shop focused on high-quality ingredients and simple, well-executed sandwiches. Options like chicken with artichokes and prosciutto stand out.

Carmenta’s
50 Starr St, Bushwick
A neighborhood favorite serving creative Italian sandwiches, including standout eggplant and chicken parm options. It’s casual, with bold flavors and inventive combinations.

Anthony & Son Panini Shoppe
433 Graham Ave, East Williamsburg
Known for massive, indulgent sandwiches packed with multiple meats, cheeses, and toppings. The menu blends classic Italian flavors with over-the-top creations.

Jimmy’s Famous Heroes
1786 Sheepshead Bay Rd, Sheepshead Bay
A long-running sandwich shop famous for its hot heroes and classic chicken parm. It’s a reliable stop for a filling, traditional lunch.

The Original John’s Deli
2033 Stillwell Ave, Gravesend
Best known for roast beef sandwiches loaded with gravy, mozzarella, and onions. The menu also includes a wide range of hot Italian favorites.

Queens

Sorriso Italian Salumeria
4416 30th Ave, Astoria
A cash-only Italian deli with dozens of sandwich options built around fresh mozzarella and cured meats. It’s a neighborhood staple with a personal touch.

Sal, Kris & Charlie’s Deli
3312 23rd Ave, Astoria
Famous for oversized sandwiches packed with cold cuts and toppings. Portions are large enough to share, making it a go-to for groups.

Leo’s Latticini
4602 104th St, Corona
A historic deli known for its fresh mozzarella and simple, high-quality Italian sandwiches. The focus is on letting the ingredients shine.

Bronx

Joe’s Italian Deli
685 E 187th St, Belmont
A longtime Arthur Avenue favorite serving classic Italian sandwiches with house-made mozzarella. Both hot and cold options deliver bold, traditional flavors.

Casa Della Mozzarella
604 E 187th St, Belmont
A small shop specializing in fresh, house-made mozzarella used in simple, standout sandwiches. It’s a must-visit for cheese lovers.

G&R Deli
1928 Williamsbridge Rd, Morris Park
Known for hearty, meat-packed sandwiches and a loyal neighborhood crowd. Expect generous portions and classic deli flavors.

Staten Island

Anthony’s Paninoteca
3994 Amboy Rd, Great Kills
This spot rotates daily specials like pastrami and porchetta alongside creative Italian sandwiches. The menu keeps things fresh with something new each day.

Royal Crown Bakery
1350 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island
A bakery and deli hybrid serving standout sandwiches like vodka chicken parm. It’s a popular local stop with both dine-in and takeout options.