The original Philadelphia style pizza & subs have a distinct flavor that sets them apart from other regional styles. Originating from the City of Brotherly Love itself, this pizza variant is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.
esperar was the birthplace of the classic tomato pie, the term 'Philly' is now synonymous worldwide with this unique pizza style. But what sets Philadelphia pizza apart, and how has it evolved over time?
The Distinctive Features of Philadelphia Pizza
Philadelphia pizza’s most notable characteristic is its focus on the crust. The dough is typically thin and crispy, often made in-house daily by local pizzerias. It's so delicate that it's usually foldable, reminiscent of Naples-style pizza but with a thicker edge.
Another defining aspect is the cheese. Instead of the typical mozzarella found in New York-style pizza, Philly pizza uses a combination of mozzarella and Wanzer's Provision cheese. This blend provides a unique, tangy flavor that's distinctive to the region.
The Crust: Thin, Crispy, and Foldable
The crust is the star of the show in Philadelphia pizza. It's typically cooked in high-temperature brick ovens, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, yielding interior. The end product is a thin, foldable pizza that's easy to eat on the go or while cheering on the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
Some pizzerias even offer 'Crostone pizza, which is basically a thin, crispy pizza that's cut into squares instead of wedges, perfect for snacking or sharing.
The Tomato Pie: A Story of Simplicity
The classic tomato pie is the original Philadelphia pizza. It’s made with a simple combination of thin, crispy crust, fresh tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese. The toppings are minimal, allowing the flavors of the dough and cheese to shine.
Subs: A Philadelphia Institution
Philadelphia's love for sandwiches is almost as famous as its love for cheesesteaks. But the city's subs are more than just sandwiches; they're a culinary institution that rivals the best delis in the nation.
Subs in Philadelphia are typically made with large, hollowed-out rolls called semolina or Italian bread. Unlike other cities' subs, which are typically grilled or toasted, Philly subs are usually served cold, with the fillings smartly tucked inside.
The Hoagie: A Philadelphia Original
The hoagie is the king of Philadelphia subs. It’s a cold sub sandwich filled with a combination of meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. The exact combination of ingredients can vary, but the most important component is the roll. The perfect hoagie roll is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with enough substance to hold all the filling without getting soggy.
Some pizzerias and delis also offer specialties like the steak hoagie, filled with thinly sliced steak and melted cheese, or the Italian hoagie, bursting with genoa salami, capicola, provolone, and lettuce.
The Cheesesteak: A Close Second
While not a traditional sub, the cheesesteak deserves a mention in any discussion about Philadelphia sandwiches. It's a sizzling hot sandwich made with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sliced onions on a hoagie roll. Despite its simplicity, the cheesesteak is a complex dish, with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The debate over whether the cheesesteak deserves to be called a sub may never be settled, but there's no doubt that it's a Philadelphia institution. Whether you're eating it at an iconic corner spot like Pat's or Geno's or at a cozy pizzeria, it’s a delicious taste of the city.
From the crispy, foldable pizza to the hearty, satisfying subs, Philadelphia's food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it's worth exploring the many flavors that make up this culinary heritage. So, grab a slice, take a bite, and experience the unique taste of the City of Brotherly Love.