14 Pennsylvania Sandwich Spots Where Locals Keep The Line A Secret
Pennsylvania is home to sandwich spots so good that locals treat them like a well-kept secret.
These restaurants serve creations stacked high with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and the kind of care that turns a simple sandwich into a meal worth remembering.
From classic deli-style favorites to inventive twists that surprise with every bite, these spots keep regulars coming back while outsiders wonder how the word hasn’t spread.
In Pennsylvania, a great sandwich is more than lunch; it is a community ritual, a midday escape, and a delicious secret passed along quietly from one local to the next.
1. Hershel’s East Side Deli — Philadelphia
Pastrami piled so high you need both hands to hold it is the signature move at this beloved deli inside Reading Terminal Market.
Located at 51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, this spot serves up old-school New York-style sandwiches with a side of city charm every day.
The interior feels like stepping into a classic deli from the 1950s, complete with vintage signage and a no-frills counter where orders are shouted and assembled with lightning speed.
Regulars swear by the hot pastrami on rye, which comes with a generous smear of mustard and enough meat to feed two hungry people.
Fun fact: the owner spent years perfecting the brine recipe, and it shows in every tender, flavorful bite. Lines form fast during lunch, but locals know to arrive early or call ahead.
The corned beef Reuben also earns raves for its tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss.
2. Middle Child — Philadelphia
Brunch meets sandwich heaven at this trendy spot where creativity and comfort collide in every bite.
Set at 248 South 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, Middle Child has become a go-to for locals craving inventive takes on classic sandwiches, especially on weekends when the line starts early outside.
The space is bright and modern, with subway tiles, hanging plants, and a bustling open kitchen that lets you watch the magic happen.
Their most famous creation is the Shopsin Club, a stacked deli-style sandwich that somehow works perfectly together.
Another crowd favorite is the breakfast sandwich, which elevates the standard bacon, egg, and cheese with crispy bacon and a fluffy sesame roll.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, with a soundtrack of indie tunes and a crowd that ranges from college students to business professionals.
Pro tip: the line moves quickly even when it wraps around the block, so don’t be intimidated by the crowd outside.
3. Paesano’s — Philadelphia
Roasted pork with sharp provolone and greens is the star player at this sandwich shop that has earned cult status among Philly food lovers. With its shop at 943 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, Paesano’s always brings Italian market flavors to every order.
The South 9th Street spot is small and cozy, with exposed brick walls and a chalkboard menu that changes with the seasons.
Locals rave about the Paesano sandwich, which features slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, broccoli rabe, and a drizzle of au jus on a crusty roll.
The Arista is another standout, loaded with roasted pork, roasted peppers, and aged provolone. Each sandwich is made to order, and the quality of the ingredients shines through in every bite.
Fun fact: the shop sources its rolls from a nearby bakery that delivers fresh bread twice daily. The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, with a loyal following that keeps coming back for more.
4. Liberty Kitchen — Philadelphia
Seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations make this sandwich spot a favorite among locals who appreciate a gourmet twist on everyday fare.
Found at 1400 North Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19125, in the Fishtown area today, Liberty Kitchen offers a menu that changes with the harvest.
The space is sleek and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the dining area with natural light and modern furnishings that invite you to linger.
Their turkey club reimagines the classic with applewood-smoked turkey, thick-cut bacon, avocado, and a house-made aioli that adds a tangy kick.
The roasted vegetable panini is equally impressive, featuring seasonal veggies, fresh mozzarella, and a balsamic glaze that ties everything together.
Each sandwich is crafted with care, and the presentation is Instagram-worthy without sacrificing substance.
Locals love the grab-and-go option for busy workdays, but the sit-down area is perfect for a leisurely lunch break.
5. Farina Di Vita — Philadelphia
Authentic Italian sandwiches made with house-baked bread are the calling card of this charming bakery and deli located at 250 Catharine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147.
The aroma of fresh-baked focaccia and ciabatta greets you the moment you step inside, and the rustic Italian decor makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a Tuscan village.
The prosciutto and mozzarella sandwich is a local favorite, featuring paper-thin slices of imported prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, arugula, and a drizzle of olive oil on warm focaccia.
The porchetta sandwich is another must-try, with slow-roasted pork, crispy skin, and a hint of rosemary that melts in your mouth.
Fun fact: the bakery bakes its bread fresh daily, which gives each loaf a distinct flavor and texture that you won’t find anywhere else.
The cozy interior has a few small tables, but most locals grab their sandwiches to go and enjoy them at a nearby park.
6. Antonio’s Deli — Philadelphia
Old-world Italian flavors and generous portions define this family-run deli that has been serving Philadelphia for decades right here.
Located at 1014 Federal Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, Antonio’s is a neighborhood institution where everyone knows your name and your sandwich order.
The shop has a classic deli setup with a long counter, hanging salamis, and shelves stocked with imported Italian goods.
Their Italian hoagie is legendary, piled high with capicola, prosciutto, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar on a fresh roll.
The meatball sandwich is another standout, featuring homemade meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and topped with melted provolone.
Regulars also love the roast beef and sharp provolone combo, which is simple but perfectly executed.
Fun fact: the deli still uses the same recipes passed down from the original owner, and the family takes pride in maintaining the traditions that made Antonio’s a local favorite.
7. Cosmi’s Deli — Philadelphia
Homemade hoagie rolls baked fresh every morning set this unassuming deli apart from the competition. Situated at 1501 South 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, Cosmi’s has been a South Philly staple since 1932, and locals guard this secret like a family heirloom.
The tiny storefront has a no-frills vibe, with a simple counter and a few stools where regulars chat while waiting for their orders.
The roast pork sandwich is the star, featuring tender, juicy pork topped with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe on one of those famous house-made rolls.
The Italian hoagie is equally beloved, stacked with cold cuts, cheese, and all the fixings.
What makes Cosmi’s special is the bread, which has a perfect crust and a soft, airy interior that soaks up all the flavors without falling apart.
Fun fact: the bakery still uses the original brick oven installed nearly a century ago, and you can see it glowing in the back of the shop.
8. Ishkabibble’s — Philadelphia
Late-night cravings meet cheesesteak perfection at this South Street institution that has been feeding hungry crowds since 1971.
Located at 337 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, Ishkabibble’s is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a favorite among night owls and late crowds.
The shop has a funky, eclectic vibe with colorful murals, neon signs, and a lively atmosphere that matches the energy of South Street.
Their chicken cheesesteak is the most famous item on the menu, featuring grilled chicken, melted cheese, and grilled onions on a soft roll.
The traditional beef cheesesteak is also top-notch, with thinly sliced ribeye and your choice of cheese whiz, American, or provolone.
Locals love the generous portions and the fact that the quality never dips, even during the busiest hours.
Fun fact: the name comes from a playful twist on the word shish kebab, and the shop has maintained its quirky personality for over five decades.
9. Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop — Philadelphia
Retro vibes and classic cheesesteaks come together at this beloved spot that feels like a trip back to the 1950s.
Located at 6030 Torresdale Avenue and 1 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, today, Joe’s combines old-school charm with top-tier sandwiches.
The Torresdale location features a vintage soda fountain, red vinyl booths, and black-and-white checkered floors that transport you to a simpler time.
Their cheesesteak is made with high-quality ribeye, grilled to perfection, and topped with your choice of cheese on a fresh Amoroso roll.
The roast pork sandwich is another crowd-pleaser, featuring tender pork, sharp provolone, and spinach. Locals also love the milkshakes, which are thick, creamy, and made with real ice cream.
Fun fact: Joe’s has been family-owned for generations, and the recipes have remained unchanged since the shop first opened. The friendly staff and nostalgic atmosphere make every visit feel like coming home.
10. Jim’s South St. — Philadelphia
Cheesesteak royalty reigns at this iconic corner spot that has been serving hungry crowds since 1939. Located at 400 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, Jim’s is often cited as one of the best cheesesteak joints in the city, and the lines that stretch down the block prove it.
The exterior is unmistakable, with bright yellow and red signage that beckons passersby to step inside.
The interior is simple and functional, with a long grill where cooks work with lightning speed to churn out sandwich after sandwich.
Their classic cheesesteak features thinly sliced ribeye, grilled onions, and your choice of cheese on a fresh roll.
The steak is cooked on a flat-top grill that has been seasoned over decades, giving it a unique flavor that regulars can spot in a blind taste test.
Fun fact: Jim’s has been featured in countless food shows and magazines, but locals still consider it their hidden gem because tourists often head to other well-known spots first.
11. Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies — Philadelphia
Neighborhood pride runs deep at this Roxborough gem that locals fiercely defend as the best cheesesteak in Philly.
Located at 600 Wendover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19128, Dalessandro’s has been family-owned since 1960 and shows no signs of slowing down.
The building is small and unassuming, with a simple counter and a few outdoor picnic tables where patrons devour their sandwiches.
The cheesesteak here is all about the meat, which is sliced thin, cooked to perfection, and piled high on a fresh roll with melted cheese and grilled onions.
The hoagies are also excellent, with generous portions of cold cuts and fresh toppings.
What sets Dalessandro’s apart is the consistency and the quality of the ingredients, which never wavers no matter how busy the shop gets.
Fun fact: the owner still works the grill most days, ensuring that every sandwich meets the high standards that have kept customers coming back for over sixty years. Cash only, so come prepared.
12. Tony Luke’s — Philadelphia
South Philly attitude and serious sandwiches collide at this legendary spot that started as a food stand and remains a local favorite for locals.
Located at 39 East Oregon Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19148, Tony and Nick’s keeps serving roast pork and cheesesteaks to hungry fans.
The building sits under the I-95 overpass, giving it a gritty, authentic South Philly vibe that matches the bold flavors on the menu.
The roast pork sandwich is the signature dish, featuring juicy, slow-roasted pork topped with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe on a fresh roll.
The cheesesteak is equally impressive, with high-quality ribeye and a generous amount of cheese. Locals also love the Italian roast beef, which is tender, flavorful, and served with au jus for dipping.
Fun fact: this corner has been on plenty of food lovers’ lists for years, and the Oregon Avenue spot remains the most beloved. The atmosphere is loud, lively, and unapologetically Philly.
13. Peppi’s Old Tyme Sandwich Shoppe — Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s Strip District comes alive at this bustling sandwich shop that has been a local favorite since 1983.
Located at 1721 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Peppi’s serves up hearty sandwiches that fuel the hardworking crowds who flock to the area.
The shop has a casual, no-frills setup with a counter where orders are taken and a small seating area that fills up fast during lunch.
Their hot sausage sandwich is legendary, featuring grilled Italian sausage topped with peppers, onions, and melted provolone on a fresh roll.
The steak hoagie is another standout, piled high with thinly sliced beef, cheese, and all the fixings.
Locals also rave about the meatball sandwich, which features homemade meatballs in marinara sauce with melted cheese.
Fun fact: Peppi’s is cash only, and the staff moves with impressive speed to keep the line moving.
The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with regulars who have been coming for decades and newcomers who quickly become converts.
14. Uncle Sam’s Sandwich Bar — Pittsburgh
Creative sandwiches and a laid-back vibe make this longtime favorite for Pittsburgh locals and students alike.
Located at 225 Summit Park Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15275, Uncle Sam’s has been serving up inventive sandwiches since 1978.
The interior is quirky and eclectic, with mismatched furniture, colorful artwork, and a menu board that lists dozens of sandwich options.
Their Uncle Sam sandwich is the most popular, featuring turkey, bacon, avocado, sprouts, and a tangy house-made dressing on whole wheat bread.
The Dagwood is another crowd-pleaser, stacked with multiple meats, cheeses, and veggies that create a towering masterpiece.
Locals love the vegetarian options, which are just as hearty and flavorful as the meat-based sandwiches.
Fun fact: the shop allows customers to build their own sandwiches from a long list of ingredients, making it easy to customize your order.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a loyal following that keeps the place buzzing from open to close.