15 Maryland Sub Shops That Could Rival The Legendary Crab Cake
Maryland has earned its place in food history with those famous crab cakes, golden and packed with sweet lump meat that locals and visitors crave year-round.
But tucked between the waterways and busy streets, another treasure waits on crusty rolls and soft hoagie bread – submarine sandwiches that deserve just as much applause.
From Italian cold cuts layered with sharp provolone to towering corned beef piled high on rye, these sub shops bring bold flavors, family recipes, and generations of care to every bite.
Here are the spots across Maryland where a sandwich can hold its own against even the most celebrated seafood.
1. DiPasquale’s Italian Market
Walking into this Highlandtown gem feels like stepping back more than a century, when Italian immigrants brought recipes and traditions that still flavor every sandwich today.
DiPasquale’s Italian Market opened its doors in 1914 at 3700 Toone Street, Baltimore, MD 21224, and the family behind the counter has kept the same devotion to quality ever since.
The Italian cold cut sub stands as the crown jewel here, stacked with Genoa salami, capicola, mortadella, and sharp provolone that bites back just enough.
Hot cherry peppers add a kick that wakes up the palate, while the crusty roll holds everything together without turning soggy halfway through.
Locals often stop by on weekends when the market hums with chatter and the smell of fresh bread drifts from the back.
Grab a number, browse the shelves of imported olive oil and pasta, and savor a sandwich that has fed Baltimore for generations.
2. Isabella’s Brick Oven
Brick-oven bread makes all the difference when building a memorable sub, and Isabella’s has perfected the art of baking loaves that emerge golden, crusty, and aromatic.
Located at 221 S High St, Baltimore, MD 21202, this spot blends old-world baking techniques with modern flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
The Italian combo sub showcases layers of prosciutto, soppressata, and fresh mozzarella, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze that adds a touch of sweetness.
Tomatoes and arugula provide freshness, while the house-made bread offers a satisfying chew that holds up beautifully.
Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, making it easier to snag a table and watch the brick oven work its magic on pizzas and bread alike.
Pair the sub with a simple side salad or a cup of soup, and leave with a full belly and a smile.
3. Attman’s Delicatessen
Since 1915, Attman’s has stood as a pillar of East Baltimore’s Jewish deli tradition, serving sandwiches that tower so high they require both hands and a hearty appetite.
Attman’s Delicatessen resides at 1019 East Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21202, where the scent of pickled cucumbers and smoked meats greets everyone who walks through the door.
The corned beef sandwich reigns supreme here, piled with tender, peppery slices of beef that have been cured and steamed to perfection.
Rye bread, slathered with spicy mustard, provides the classic foundation, while a side of coleslaw and a pickle spear complete the experience.
Weekend mornings can get busy, so arriving early or visiting during the week offers a more relaxed pace.
Take a moment to admire the vintage photos on the walls, each one telling a story of the families and traditions that have kept this deli thriving for over a century.
4. The Real Thing
Cheesesteaks may be Philadelphia’s pride, but The Real Thing has been proving since the 1980s that Maryland can hold its own when it comes to this iconic sandwich.
The Real Thing operates at 412 York Rd, Towson, MD 21204, and the menu focuses on delivering authentic flavors without unnecessary frills.
Thinly sliced ribeye sizzles on the grill, mixed with onions and topped with melted American cheese that drapes over every bite.
The roll, soft yet sturdy, soaks up just enough of the savory juices without becoming a soggy mess.
Regulars often add mushrooms or hot peppers to customize their order, and the staff happily accommodates most requests.
Lunch and dinner hours draw steady crowds, especially on weekends, so calling ahead for takeout can save time.
Pair the cheesesteak with crispy fries and a cold drink for a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
5. Pasta Mista
Chef-owned restaurants often bring a level of care and creativity that shines through in every dish, and Pasta Mista delivers exactly that with its subs, pizzas, and pasta.
Pasta Mista sits at 822 Dulaney Valley Rd, Towson, MD 21204, where the kitchen balances traditional Italian recipes with modern touches that keep things interesting.
The Italian cold cut sub features Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella, layered with provolone, lettuce, tomato, and a tangy vinaigrette that ties everything together.
Bread comes fresh daily, ensuring a soft interior and a crust that provides just enough texture.
Weekday lunches offer a quieter atmosphere, while weekend evenings bring a lively crowd eager to enjoy pizza and pasta alongside the subs.
Consider adding a side of house-made marinara for dipping, or try one of the seasonal salads that showcase local produce when available.
6. Philly Hoagie Factory
Baltimore may sit just north of Philadelphia, but Philly Hoagie Factory has been bringing the flavors of the City of Brotherly Love to Maryland since the 1990s.
Philly Hoagie Factory is located at 775 Washington Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21230, and the menu sticks to the classics – cheesesteaks, hoagies, and subs that honor Philadelphia’s sandwich heritage.
The cheesesteak arrives hot off the grill, with tender beef, melted cheese, and grilled onions that add a touch of sweetness.
Hoagies come loaded with cold cuts, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of oil and vinegar that soaks into the roll just right.
Lunch hours tend to be the busiest, so stopping by mid-afternoon or early evening can mean shorter waits and fresher ingredients.
The staff works quickly and efficiently, ensuring orders are accurate and ready in minutes, perfect for those grabbing a meal on the go.
7. Scittino’s Italian Market Place
Family-run markets often carry a warmth and authenticity that chain restaurants can never quite replicate, and Scittino’s has been proving that point since the 1970s.
Scittino’s Italian Market Place is found at 1701 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228, where shelves overflow with imported pasta, sauces, and cheeses that make home cooks smile.
The meatball sub stands out as a local favorite, featuring house-made meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and tucked into a soft roll with melted mozzarella on top.
The sausage sub offers a spicier alternative, with Italian sausage grilled until crispy on the edges and paired with peppers and onions.
Weekends bring a steady stream of customers, many of whom have been coming here for decades and know the staff by name.
Take time to browse the aisles after ordering, and stock up on ingredients to recreate a taste of Italy at home.
8. Chaps Pit Beef
Pit beef may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about subs, but Chaps has been serving this Baltimore specialty since 1987 with a loyal following that spans generations.
Chaps Pit Beef operates at 720 Mapleton Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, and the aroma of charcoal-grilled beef drifts across the parking lot, drawing hungry diners from miles around.
Beef is sliced thin, piled high on a Kaiser roll, and topped with tangy horseradish sauce or spicy tiger sauce for those who like a little heat.
The meat stays juicy and tender, with a smoky char that only comes from cooking over an open flame.
Lines can stretch long during lunch and dinner, but the wait moves quickly as the crew works with speed and precision.
Grab a side of fries or onion rings, find a spot at one of the outdoor picnic tables, and enjoy a true Baltimore original.
9. Venetian Italian Eatery
This italian eatery has been a gathering spot for families and friends in Edgewood for years, offering generous portions of Italian-American comfort food that never disappoints.
Venetian Italian Eatery is located at 1901 Tree Top Dr, Edgewood, MD 21040, and the cozy dining room welcomes guests with red-checkered tablecloths and the smell of garlic and tomatoes simmering in the kitchen.
The Italian sub here comes loaded with ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone, dressed with lettuce, tomato, onion, and a splash of Italian dressing that adds brightness.
Bread arrives fresh and soft, holding up well even when the sandwich is packed for takeout.
Lunch specials during the week offer great value, and the staff treats regulars like family, remembering orders and preferences with ease.
Pair the sub with a bowl of pasta fagioli or a simple side salad, and leave feeling satisfied and ready to return soon.
10. Jerry’s Subs & Pizza
Sometimes a local chain hits all the right notes, and Jerry’s has been doing just that since opening its first location in Maryland in 1954.
Jerry’s Subs & Pizza has multiple locations across the state, including one at 10290 Southern Maryland Blvd, Dunkirk, MD 20754, where the menu offers a wide variety of subs, pizzas, and cheesesteaks.
The cheesesteak sub features thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and grilled onions, served on a fresh roll that stays soft without getting soggy.
Cold subs come with a choice of meats and toppings, allowing diners to customize their order to match their preferences.
Weekday lunch hours can get busy, especially near office parks, so calling ahead for pickup can save time.
The consistent quality and reasonable prices have kept Jerry’s a favorite for decades, proving that sometimes simple and reliable beats fancy and complicated every time.
11. Trinacria
Few places in Baltimore can claim a history stretching back to 1908, but Trinacria has been feeding the city’s appetite for Sicilian-inspired subs since the early twentieth century.
Trinacria calls 406 North Paca Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 home, and stepping inside reveals shelves stocked with imported cheeses, cured meats, and olive oils that speak to its roots.
The sausage sub earns rave reviews for its juicy, seasoned filling that pairs beautifully with sweet peppers and onions grilled until caramelized.
Bread comes from local bakeries, ensuring a fresh, sturdy foundation that can handle the generous portions without falling apart.
Visit during lunch hours and expect a line, but the wait moves quickly as the staff works with practiced efficiency.
Grab a seat at one of the small tables or take the sandwich to go and enjoy it near the waterfront just a short walk away.
12. Ledo Pizza
This spot may be best known for its square pies and sweet sauce, but the subs here deserve just as much attention for their fresh ingredients and satisfying flavors.
Ledo Pizza has locations throughout Maryland, including one at 505 S Cherry Grove Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401, where families gather for pizza, pasta, and subs in a casual, comfortable setting.
The Italian cold cut sub comes stacked with ham, salami, and pepperoni, topped with provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a drizzle of Italian dressing.
Bread stays fresh and soft, and the portions are generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Lunch specials offer great value, and the dining room provides plenty of seating for groups of all sizes.
Consider pairing the sub with a side salad or a slice of pizza for a meal that covers all the bases and leaves everyone happy.
13. Sergio’s LCC
Tucked into Westminster, Sergio’s LCC has built a reputation for fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a menu that goes beyond the usual cold cuts.
Sergio’s Subs is located at 330 140 Village Rd, Westminster, MD 21157, and the small dining area fills quickly during lunch as office workers and locals line up for their favorite sandwiches.
The turkey and avocado sub stands out for its creamy slices of ripe avocado, tender turkey, and crisp lettuce, all tucked into a soft roll with a hint of mayo.
Hot subs, including meatball and chicken parmesan, arrive bubbling with melted cheese and marinara sauce that soaks into the bread just enough.
Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, making it easier to place an order and grab a seat without the rush.
The staff works quickly and keeps the ingredients fresh, ensuring every sandwich tastes as good as the last one.
14. Maggiano’s Little Italy
This restaurant has long been a destination for authentic Italian food, and carries on that tradition with subs that honor old-world recipes and techniques.
Maggiano’s Little Italy is found at 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy #3160, Columbia, MD 21044, where the dining room buzzes with energy and the kitchen turns out pizzas, pastas, and subs with equal care.
The Italian sub here features layers of prosciutto, salami, and capicola, topped with provolone, roasted red peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil that enhances every bite.
Bread comes from a local bakery, ensuring a fresh, crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior that holds up beautifully.
Weekend dinners bring crowds eager to explore Little Italy’s restaurants, so arriving early or visiting during the week offers a more relaxed experience.
Pair the sub with a glass of wine or a simple side salad, and soak in the neighborhood’s charm and history.
15. Johnny’s Sub Shop
On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Johnny’s Sub Shop has earned a loyal following for subs that live up to their name, with portions that satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Johnny’s Sub Shop is located at 1124 E Main St, Salisbury, MD 21804, and the menu offers a wide variety of hot and cold subs, each one made to order with fresh ingredients.
The Italian sub comes piled with ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone, dressed with lettuce, tomato, onion, and a splash of oil and vinegar that soaks into the roll.
Hot subs, including cheesesteaks and chicken parmesan, arrive steaming and loaded with melted cheese that adds richness to every bite.
Lunch hours can get busy, especially on weekdays, so arriving a bit early or calling ahead for pickup can save time.
The staff keeps things moving quickly, and the quality stays consistent, making Johnny’s a reliable choice for a satisfying meal on the Eastern Shore.
