13 Pennsylvania Sandwich Counters Where Locals Keep The Line Quiet

Pennsylvania has sandwich culture sewn into its streets. From roast pork in Philly to hand-stacked pastrami and fries in Pittsburgh, these counters build community one hearty sandwich at a time. Locals know hours, preferred rolls, cheese type, and secret add-ons.

These spots range from family-run dives to larger neighborhood institutions. Many started mid-20th century or earlier, with recipes that changed little.

This list highlights thirteen counters beloved for authenticity, flavor, pride of ownership, and the loyalty of those who visit regularly.

1. John’s Roast Pork, Philadelphia

Grill smoke, warm hoagie rolls, and minimal décor greet guests at John’s. Seats are few; many stand or take food to go.

Since 1930, roast pork has been the signature: thin-sliced pork, sharp or mild provolone, sautéed spinach or long hots, all in a sesame-seed Carangi roll. The “Ultimate Cheesesteak” is also on offer.

Hours: Tue-Sat, roughly 10 AM-5 PM. Cash only. Expect line at lunch. Cooper Sharp cheese option added recently alongside the traditional cheeses. Awards include James Beard “American Classic” 2006.

2. Campo’s Deli, Philadelphia

Low ceilings, crowded counters, boards listing sandwich options cover walls. Order at counter, wait for name.

Founded in 1947, famous for cheesesteaks (wit/wo onions), chopped steak, and vivid flavor options. Roll type and cheese matter: provolone, American, Whiz. Meat quality and potato-bread rolls get praise.

Locations in Center City, near sports venues. Portions generous. Celebrated by Philly food writers. Regulars mention late-night options and strong loyalty.

3. Famous 4th Street Delicatessen, Philadelphia

Bright deli lights, menu boards full, cakes and pastries in display cases. Atmosphere feels like an old-school luncheonette.

Specialties include hearty corned beef, roast beef, Italian cold cuts. Rye or white bread. Sandwich components often piled tall. Homemade sides like cole slaw or potato salad appear.

Open for breakfast and lunch most days. Prices moderate. People mention the Reuben or “half pastrami” as standout orders.

4. DiNic’s Roast Pork, Philadelphia

Market storefront, aroma of roasted pork and fresh rolls greet visitors. Tourists mix with local regulars.

Roast pork sandwich is signature, often served with provolone and broccoli rabe on Amoroso roll. Also offer cheesesteak. Roasting is slow and sliced to order.

Located in Reading Terminal Market, open daily. Portions substantial. Lines form midday. Many say the roast pork here rivals other top Philly spots.

5. Primanti Bros., Pittsburgh (Strip District)

The space is bustling, casual, neon signage, large windows, lots of foot traffic. Sandwiches come loaded; scent of fries lingers.

Signature Primanti sandwich stacks include grilled meat (beef, pastrami, etc.), melted cheese, fresh tomato slices, coleslaw, and French fries tucked inside Italian bread. Heritage dates to 1933 as Strip District staple.

Open long hours, especially near campus or tourist seasons. Prices around US$11-$15 for loaded sandwiches. Regulars suggest coming early or off-peak. Multiple locations; Strip District original beloved.

6. Moio’s Italian Pastry Shop & Deli, Pittsburgh

Small bakery display up front, deli components behind glass, counter service. Pastries tempt while waiting.

Known for Italian hoagies, home-made sausages, cold cuts. Bread from local bakeries; meats sliced fresh. Cheesesteak options and custom builds common.

Hours morning through early evening. Prices typical of local delis. Regulars often pick up hoagies to take home. Ambiance cozy and unpretentious.

7. Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. (“Penn Mac”), Pittsburgh

Spacious interior, visible kitchen, sandwich line and pastry section. Atmosphere loud, energetic, lunch rush commences among coworkers.

Menu is broad: Italian hoagies, philly-style sandwiches, roast pork, and macaroni specialties. Ingredients include quality meats, sharp provolone, crisp vegetables. Rolls chewy.

Located downtown. Prices moderate to high depending on meat selection. Portions large. Popular for late night too; regulars appreciate flexible hours.

8. Labriola Italian Market, Pittsburgh

Italian market displays meats, cheeses, bread; café side serves custom sandwiches. Space feels communal.

Known for hoagies, fresh mozzarella, imported Italian meats. Also make paninis, specialty pressed sandwiches. Bread often baked locally. Flavor and texture elevated by quality ingredients.

Hours usually open morning through evening. Seating casual. Sandwiches often personalized. Locals mention Labriola when seeking gourmet twist on classic deli fare.

9. Stoke’s Grill, North Hills (Pittsburgh Area)

Well-worn décor, family photographs, counter order system. Grill sizzling visible behind order area.

Menu includes steak subs, chicken cheesesteaks, roast pork. Meats often grilled or charred. Cheese choices typical: provolone, American. Sides like fries.

Open lunch and dinner; shorter hours outside weekends. Prices fair. Regulars note fast service and consistent flavor.

10. Family Deli, Bethel Park (Pittsburgh Area)

Modest storefront, deli counter with meats sliced to order. Soft lighting, often filled with locals.

Hoagies, Italian combinations, turkey, roast beef, charged with house dressings. Bread choices classic. May offer specialty daily sandwich features.

Lunch hours busiest. Portions feel generous. Prices reflect neighborhood deli scale. Regulars often know staff and orders by name.

11. Old-School Sandwich Company, Allentown

Exterior unassuming, interior filled with photos and menu boards. Foot traffic from commuters visible.

Menu features Chicken Parmigiana, cold cuts, cheesesteaks, roast pork. Bread fresh, fillings generous. Sauce choices and extras important.

Open weekdays and weekends. Prices vary with meat choice. Regulars mention that their combo subs deliver high value.

12. Ricci’s Hoagies, Philadelphia

Counter service, hoagie rolls stacked behind glass, meats prepped fresh. Atmosphere carries neighborhood feel.

Specialties include classic hoagies: Italian, turkey, roast beef. Hoagies are filled generously with meats, cheese, fresh veggies. Bread often Amoroso or comparable.

Open most lunch hours. Prices on par with Philly delis. Locals mention that Ricci’s often matches bigger names in flavor but with less wait.

13. Hoagie Haven — State College

Bright signage and quick counter service shape the vibe. Fluorescent lights, wall-boards of menu options, and the scent of toasted bread hit as soon as guests enter. Seating is basic; many orders go to-go.

Hoagies are built with both cold cuts and hot fillings. Classic combos like ham/salami/provolone, cheesesteak, chicken cutlet, and specialty “Haven” creations appear.

Open mostly for lunch and early evening. Prices align with casual sandwich counters. Regulars often mention that certain hoagies, like cheesesteaks or specialty “Haven” style ones, are favorites.