If you reach for a sandwich at lunchtime most days, you’re not alone. A 2024 poll by Talker Research found that sandwiches make up about 30 percent of the average American diet, with most people eating them six times a week. It’s easy to see why. Sandwiches are quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. 

Jump to the hoagies

But depending on where you are in the US, your go-to sandwich might look a little different. In Chicago, Italian beef reigns supreme. In New York, it’s all about pastrami on rye. And in Philadelphia? Naturally, it’s the hoagie.

The history of the Philadelphia hoagie

The hoagie has been Philadelphia’s official sandwich since 1992, when then-mayor Ed Rendell gave it the title. But its roots go back much further. This beloved sandwich, typically built on a long Italian roll, has been part of the city’s food culture for decades. In fact, records show Philadelphians may have been using the term “hoagie” as early as the 1930s.

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As for its origin? That’s still up for debate. One theory traces the term to Italian workers on Hog Island during World War I, who brought hearty sandwiches to the job site, giving rise to the name “hoggy,” which turned into “hoagie.” Another widely accepted version credits musician Al DePalma. In 1936, after watching a friend devour a sandwich “like a hog,” he opened a sandwich shop and dubbed his creations “hoggies.” Again, the story goes that the name eventually morphed into “hoagies.”

Some say both stories are true: DePalma may have visited Hog Island and drawn inspiration directly from the workers there. Regardless of the details, one thing is clear: The hoagie has long been a Philadelphia staple.

What goes in a Philadelphia hoagie?

A classic Philly hoagie starts with a long, crusty Italian roll, piled high with Italian cold cuts, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, herbs, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. But like many iconic foods, the hoagie has evolved. Today, you’ll find plenty of creative variations, including plant-based takes. 

One vegan version, for instance, features breaded tofu, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan. While the original may have been meat-heavy, modern hoagies can suit just about any diet.

Where to find the best vegan hoagies in Philadelphia

Hungry? We’ve rounded up some of the best spots to grab a hoagie in Philly.

Middle Child

1Middle Child

At Middle Child in Center City, the Phoagie is a must-try. This inventive vegan sandwich features a seeded hoagie roll packed with hoisin-roasted eggplant, avocado, fresh and crispy onions, cilantro, and a flavorful pho-inspired sauce.
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Deli Luhv Food

2Luhv Vegan Deli

As you might expect from a spot called Luhv Vegan Deli, plant-based sandwich options are front and center. The menu, available at its three locations across Philadelphia, features four vegan hoagies to choose from: the plant-based turkey bacon hoagie, BLT hoagie, Italian hoagie, and tuna hoagie.
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Liberty Kitchen

3 Liberty Kitchen

Head to one of Liberty Kitchen’s three deli locations to try the Vegan Jawn hoagie. This flavorful sandwich features a savory blend of sun-dried tomato vegan mayo, sautéed broccoli rabe, marinated white beans, banana peppers, and fresh arugula.
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Papermill Fresh Asian Kitchen

4 Papermill Fresh Asian Kitchen

Papermill is a food truck and takeout spot blending Philadelphia flavors with Australian, Southeast Asian, and Korean influences, so you know you’re in for something special. Three of its hoagies, the House Classic, the Korean-style, and the spicy, can be made with tofu. Just be sure to specify that you want the vegan version when ordering.
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Monster Vegan

5Monster Vegan

At Monster Vegan, it’s Halloween every day. This playful, themed bar serves up inventive cocktails and a variety of creative vegan dishes. Currently, the menu features one hoagie: the General Tso’s cutlet hoagie, made with vegan fried chicken and crispy Brussels sprouts. Be sure to follow their social media for rotating specials; they’re known to switch things up often.
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