The Philadelphia sandwich scene is legendary, with the "Philly Best Sandwich" being a constant topic of debate among locals and visitors alike. This culinary legend, often referred to as the "Philly Best" or simply the "best sandwich in Philadelphia," is more than just food; it's a symbol of the city's rich history and diverse food culture.
A true Philly Best Sandwich is a fusion of humble ingredients that transform into a symphony of flavors in your mouth. It's a testament to the city's working-class roots and its love for hearty, satisfying food. But what exactly makes a sandwich the "Philly Best"? Let's delve into the world of Philly's iconic sandwich and explore the debate that keeps food enthusiasts focused on the city's tastiest export.
The Anatomy of a Philly Best Sandwich
The Philly Best Sandwich is a classic hoagie, a submarine sandwich that's been a Philadelphia staple since the early 20th century. It's characterized by its big, soft Rollaza or Italian bread, the perfect vehicle for holding an abundance of fillings without losing its structure.
The key to a great Philly Best Sandwich lies in the balance of its components. The bread isn't just a vessel; it adds its own unique, slightly sweet flavor. The fillings, typically meats and cheeses, shouldn't overwhelm the bread but complement it.
The Perfect Bread
The bread is the foundation of a Philly Best Sandwich. The city's Italian immigrants introduced the long roll, and the rest is history. The ideal Philly hoagie bread is soft, yet sturdy enough to hold everything together. The slightly crispy exterior gives way to a tender, yielding bite.
Locals have their preferences, with some swearing by the locally baked Italian bread, while others insist on the soft, squishy Rollaza. Whatever your preference, the bread should never be an afterthought.
Meat and Cheese: The Heart of the Matter
The meats and cheeses are the heart of the Philly Best Sandwich. Traditionalists argue that ham, turkey, and provolone cheese are the only way to go. Beef and Genoa salami are also common additions, adding a slight spiciness that doesn't overwhelm the other ingredients.
Certain eateries in Philly have put their unique spin on the classic combination, adding roast pork, pastrami, or even buffalo chicken. While these sandwiches are delicious, they're not the classic Philly Best. The debate here is about authenticity, not just taste.
Iconic Spots Serving the Philly Best Sandwich
The quest for the perfect Philly Best Sandwich often leads intrepid food lovers to the city's iconic sandwich shops. Each has its loyalists, each claims to serve the "best" version of this iconic Philadelphia export.
Nobody does the classic ham, turkey, and cheese like DiNic's at the Reading Terminal Market. This iconic shop has been serving up giant hoagies since 1918, and its no-frills approach lets the quality of the ingredients speak for themselves.
DiNic's - The Original Philly Hoagie
DiNic's starts with a crusty Italian roll, piles it high with thinly sliced ham, turkey, and provolone, then tops it with a tangy NFL-approved pickled peppers. It's simple, it's classic, and it's everything a Philly Best Sandwich should be.
The line at DiNic's can be daunting, but it's a testament to the quality of their sandwiches. It's a Philly institution, and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the original Philly hoagie.
Pitruco - The Modern Philly Hoagie
For a more modern take on the classic Philly hoagie, head to Pitruco Pizzeria. This up-and-coming spot in Old City serving up serious sandwiches. Their pièce de résistance is the Max Brenner, a hoagie packed with Italian tuna, chillies, olives, and provolone on a soft Italian roll.
Pitruco's sandwiches are a creative twist on the classic Philly hoagie, perfect for those looking to expand their horizons beyond the tried-and-true ham, turkey, and cheese.
So, what makes a Philly Best Sandwich? The answer is subjective, like most things that are determined by taste. It's about great, fresh ingredients combined in just the right way. It's about tradition, and the debate over what that tradition should be. It's about the balance of flavors, the softness of the bread, and the satisfaction of a perfect bite. And ultimately, it's about loving the sandwich for what it is: a true Philadelphia classic.