Italian Sub Shops In Massachusetts That Stack Them Sky-High
Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a massive Italian sub packed with layers of meats, cheeses, and veggies. Massachusetts has perfected this handheld meal with shops that don’t skimp on portions.
From Boston to Springfield, these family-owned delis pile ingredients high, creating sandwiches that require both hands and plenty of napkins.
1. Monica’s Mercato in Boston’s North End
The moment you walk in, the aroma of imported Italian meats hits you like a welcome hug. Family-owned since 1995, this North End gem doesn’t mess around with their Italian subs.
Each sandwich comes loaded with at least four premium meats, provolone that’s aged just right, and a secret oil blend that locals can’t stop talking about. The bread has that perfect crunch-to-softness ratio that holds everything together.
2. Bob’s Italian Foods in Medford
Regular customers start lining up before noon at this no-frills deli that’s been a Medford institution since 1936. The magic happens when third-generation sandwich makers start layering imported capicola, mortadella, and salami.
What makes their subs legendary isn’t just size – it’s the balance. Every bite delivers the perfect ratio of meat, cheese, veggies, and their house-made hot pepper relish. You’ll need both hands and probably a fork for fallen ingredients.
3. Bricco Salumeria & Pasta Shop in Boston
Hidden down an alley in Boston’s North End, finding this place feels like discovering buried treasure. Their prosciutto is sliced so thin you can see through it, yet somehow they pile it mountain-high on fresh-baked bread.
The owner still uses recipes from the old country, including a special vinaigrette that soaks perfectly into the bread. After one bite, you’ll understand why locals keep this spot’s location somewhat secretive. The line moves slowly because each sandwich is crafted with meticulous care.
4. Al’s State Street Cafe in Boston
Financial district workers flock here daily, forming lines that stretch around the corner. Their signature Italian sub could feed two people, but nobody shares these beauties.
The sandwiches arrive wrapped in white paper that barely contains the mountain of imported meats and provolone. What separates Al’s from others is their hot pepper spread that packs serious heat without overwhelming the flavors. First-timers often stare in disbelief when handed their massive lunch.
5. Vinny’s Superette in Somerville
You’d walk right past this unassuming corner store if you didn’t know better. Inside, sandwich magic happens daily as locals crowd around the tiny deli counter where Vinny himself still makes each order.
Their Italian sub features a secret ingredient: homemade pickled vegetables that cut through the richness of the meats. The bread comes from a local bakery just blocks away, delivered fresh each morning. Old-school deli lovers appreciate that nothing has changed here in decades – including the surprisingly affordable prices.
6. Salumeria Italiana in Boston
Founded by Italian immigrants in 1962, this gourmet shop imports ingredients directly from Italy weekly. Their sandwich makers train for months before being allowed to construct their famous Italian subs.
Each creation features at least five different meats, including some rare varieties you won’t find elsewhere in Boston. The olive spread recipe remains a closely guarded family secret. Despite the upscale atmosphere, prices stay reasonable because the owners believe everyone deserves authentic Italian flavors.
7. Figaro’s Boston in Boston
College students spread the word about this hidden gem where the owner greets everyone with a booming “Ciao!” The sandwiches here require a strategic approach – they’re almost too big to bite.
What makes Figaro’s stand out is their house-roasted red peppers that get marinated overnight in garlic-infused oil. The meat-to-bread ratio defies physics, somehow staying together despite gravity’s best efforts. Many customers take photos before attempting to eat these architectural marvels of sandwich craftsmanship.
8. Tutto Italiano in Hyde Park
Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, this authentic Italian deli has locals keeping it a secret from outsiders. The owner still slices all meats to order using a hand-cranked slicer from the 1950s.
Their signature sub features no less than six varieties of Italian meats, with the thinnest possible slices creating maximum flavor. The homemade pesto adds a fragrant basil punch that elevates everything. Watching your sandwich being built becomes a mesmerizing performance art that’s worth the wait.
9. Wurst Haus in Cambridge
Despite the German-sounding name, this Cambridge spot serves some of the most authentic Italian subs around. Fourth-generation Italian-Americans run this place with recipes passed down through their Sicilian family.
Their signature touch? Hot capicola that’s spiced in-house and sliced thicker than most places dare. The sandwiches come wrapped in butcher paper with a warning: “Caution: May Require Unhinging Your Jaw.” Even half portions here leave customers satisfied and planning their next visit.
10. Virgilio’s Bakery & Deli in Gloucester
Fishing boats pull into Gloucester Harbor and crews head straight to this family-owned spot that’s been feeding hungry sailors since 1934. Their Italian subs achieve legendary status among locals and visitors alike.
The bread makes all the difference – baked hourly in brick ovens just behind the deli counter. Each sandwich gets dressed with their famous giardiniera that adds the perfect crunch and tang. Regulars know to come early because they often sell out before closing time despite making hundreds daily.
