Where to Find Next-Level Hoagies, Grinders and All Kinds of Sandwiches in Delco

Here in Delco, we are blessed with sandwiches so stellar that people who move away dream of the classic Italian hoagies and gooey cheesesteaks they left behind. Nearly any corner deli, small cafe or gourmet market in our area easily outshines the best-rated spots in other states. Here in Delco, and of course our neighbors in Philly, we’re sandwich people and we’ve got a lot of greatness to enjoy.

From juicy roast beef to towering turkey clubs to extra-cheesy breakfast sandwiches, there is an incredible variety of deliciousness-between-bread in every community in Delaware County. By no means an exhaustive list, here are just some of the local spots that are taking the art of the sandwich to exciting heights:

 

Sangillo’s Farm Fresh Produce

This family-owned and operated produce stand and deli counter has been wowing locals for nearly 30 years with its expertly-constructed hoagies, made with fresh ingredients and high-quality deli meats. Fan favorites include the generously loaded classic turkey and Italian hoagie, which exemplify the nostalgic, no-frills vibe of this spot. Hot sandwiches, like chicken parm and meatball hoagies, are also on offer.  

3801 Garrett Rd., Drexel Hill, PA; (610) 284-5556

 

Centrella’s Deli

A classic mom-and-pop Italian deli on the charming Brookline Boulevard in Havertown, Centrella’s recently enjoyed a glow-up, with new signage and a sizable expansion into the space next door. That means a bigger selection of goods, like pastries from Isgrow’s, frozen pasta from P&S and cheese from DiBruno Bros. What hasn’t changed? A serious menu of top-notch sandwiches, including specialty hoagies (the spicy meatball sandwich is legendary), chicken cutlet sandwiches, steak sandwiches and more. Order pretty much any hoagie on a seeded roll, grab a bag of chips, and you’ve got a true Delco lunch experience.

10 Brookline Blvd., Havertown, PA; (610) 853-2466.

 

Pompei’s State Street Sandwiches

In a region so obsessed with cheesesteaks, we’re glad to see that there is also local appreciation for roast beef sandwiches. Pompei’s State Street Sandwiches is one of the best in the biz. The offerings here are stacked with thick slices of hand carved, slow-roasted top round on a fresh Kaiser roll. You can add cheese, but there is something so simple and pure about the classic two-ingredient sandwich! Other tasty menu items include a killer buffalo chicken sandwich, a proper Reuben and gourmet burgers. 

301 W. State St., Media, PA; (610) 566-9984.

 

Two J’s Sandwich Shop

The vintage sign hanging outside Two J’s dates this family-run establishment back to 1965! In all those decades, it’s perfected its sandwich offerings – there’s nothing fancy here, just classic flavors and affordable prices. The cheesesteak and classic Italian hoagie garner rave reviews, but there’s plenty more to choose from, including seven kinds of club sandwiches, dozens of hoagies and savory breakfast sandwiches, like scrapple, egg and cheese.

619 Highland Ave, Chester, PA; (610) 494-2255.

 

Sleepy Hollow Delly

It’s not an exaggeration to say that Sleepy Hollow Delly (the oldest family-owned and operated deli in Springfield) can make all of your sandwich dreams come true. With over 150 sandwiches on the menu, if you’ve got a specific craving, this is the place to go! We’re talking breakfast croissant sandwiches stuffed with eggs, cheese and veggies; tuna salad on rye; pepperoni pizza steaks on Liscio’s rolls; grilled chicken BLT with avocado; and the list goes on. Sleepy Hollow also has great options for gluten-free or keto diets, including low-carb lettuce wraps.

23 E. Springfield Rd., Springfield, PA; (610) 543-9651. 

 

Mike & Emma’s

There are a lot of multi-generational businesses in Delco, but it’s pretty rare to find spots dating back to the 1930s. Mike & Emmas goes back four-generations to 1931; during that 90+ year run, it’s been fully family-owned and operated, which is quite a feat! During its impressive run, this shop has been committed to serving sandwiches with the best quality, freshness and flavor. House specialties include the Italian Special (capocollo, provolone, ham, prosciutto and Genoa salami), the pepper and eggs breakfast sando and the Italian tuna hoagie. But, you can’t really go wrong with anything from its straightforward, curated menu.

601 MacDade Blvd., Folsom, PA; (610) 461-9194.

   

Rol-Lynn Deli

If you’re looking for a hoagie to feed a crowd, check out Rol-Lynn Deli, a cozy neighborhood spot that’s been doing its thing since 1965. Its signature sandwich is the 6-foot Godfather Hoagie, an impressive creation of Parma prosciutto, soppressata, dry capicola, pepper ham and sharp provolone, layered on a Liscio’s seeded roll. There’s plenty more to choose from besides massive party hoagies, too, like roast pork, chicken cutlet, tuna salad and eggplant parm. Note: Rol-Lynn is closed Mondays and Tuesdays!

3407 Edgmont Ave., Brookhaven, PA; (610) 872-9575.

 

Di Scala Deli and Specialty Foods

Gourmet food lovers, rejoice! Di Scala is your one-stop shop for Italian meats, cheese, sandwiches and groceries. Its sandwich menu is packed with familiar and creative options, ranging from classic American cheese hoagies to roast pork Abruzzese with sharp provolone, broccoli rabe and roasted peppers, to the Veggie Delight, with sharp provolone, grilled eggplant, grilled zucchini, roasted peppers and broccoli rabe. Specialty party trays are available for parties and catering needs.

4712 Pennell Rd., Aston; (610) 485-2224.

 

LaSpada’s Original

If you look closely at the menu at LaSpada’s, you’ll find little creative touches all over it. On the breakfast menu, you can choose to “tater” any of your sandwiches (add home fries); on the chicken cutlet section of the menu, there’s the Chicken Petal, with Texas petal sauce, sliced fried onions and pepper jack; and under “Hoagies and Grinders,” find The Nigerian, a combination of gourmet roast beef and roasted turkey breast with provolone. Check the chalkboard for daily specials to find a rotating list of more unique sandwich builds. 

391 Wilmington West Chester Pike, Ste. 13, Glen Mills, PA; (610) 459-1500.

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.

— Emily Kovach

 

Featured photo courtesy of Ro-Lynn Deli