Massachusetts’ Most Legendary Italian Sub Shops That Take Stacked To A New Level

A great Italian sub can stop you in your tracks, the kind that drips with oil and vinegar and crackles slightly when you take that first, glorious bite.

In Massachusetts, this sandwich takes on a life of its own, shaped by neighborhoods where tradition matters and deli counters operate with the precision of an art form.

From the bustle of the North End to quiet corners of small towns, shops pile on cold cuts, cheeses, and crisp vegetables with a confidence earned over decades.

Braided sesame rolls cradle layers of prosciutto, mortadella, salami, and sharp provolone as if built for greatness. Seasonings linger, flavors meld, and each creation feels rooted in local pride.

Mention the best Italian subs in Massachusetts to a native and watch their eyes light up – because here, this isn’t just lunch.

It’s a point of identity, a story passed through generations, and a bite that stays with you long after the paper wrapping is tossed aside.

Bob’s Italian Foods

Operating since 1936, this Medford institution has been feeding generations with its legendary Deluxe Imported Italian sub.

Located at 324 Main Street, Medford, MA 02155, this spot has earned its place in Massachusetts sub history.

The Deluxe features prosciutto di Parma, soppressata, capicola, mortadella, provolone, pickles, tomatoes, onions, hot cherry peppers, olive oil, and seasoning, all piled onto a distinctive braided sesame roll.

That braided roll is a signature detail – slightly sweet, perfectly chewy, and sturdy enough to hold the mountain of fillings without falling apart.

Regulars know to call ahead during peak hours because the line can stretch out the door, especially on weekends.

The shop also sells fresh pasta, homemade sauces, and Italian groceries, making it a one-stop destination for anyone craving authentic flavors.

Parking can be tricky on Main Street, so side streets might offer easier options.

New Deal Fruit

A fourth-generation family business, this Revere spot combines a produce market with a deli counter that turns out some of the area’s best Italian subs.

You’ll find it at 920 Broadway, Revere, MA 02151, where locals have been stopping by for decades.

The classic Italian sub here features mortadella, capicola, salami, provolone, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, and hot peppers, all finely cut and layered on fresh bread.

The thin slicing of the meats and vegetables creates a texture that’s easier to bite through, and every flavor gets its moment.

Beyond the subs, the produce section offers seasonal fruits and vegetables, often sourced locally, which adds to the market’s neighborhood charm.

Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, making it a good time to chat with the staff and ask about their favorite combinations.

The family atmosphere is genuine, and you might hear Italian spoken behind the counter.

Tutto Italiano

Founded in 1987, this Hyde Park favorite has built a loyal following with its commitment to freshly baked bread and quality imported meats.

The shop is located at 1889 River Street, Boston, MA 02136, in a neighborhood setting that feels like a true community hub.

Their Italian sub layers mortadella, salami, soppressata, provolone, and a selection of fresh vegetables on bread that comes out of the oven throughout the day.

That fresh-baked element makes a noticeable difference – the crust has just the right amount of crunch, and the inside stays soft and airy.

The shop also offers a selection of Italian pastries and cookies, perfect for rounding out a meal or bringing to a gathering.

Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the building, which is a convenience not every Boston-area deli can offer.

The staff is known for being friendly and efficient, even during the lunchtime rush.

Domenic’s Italian Bakery & Deli

This Waltham spot pairs a full-service bakery with a deli counter that serves up classic Italian subs on freshly baked ciabatta.

You’ll find Domenic’s at 987 Main St, Waltham, MA 02451, a location that’s easy to reach and surrounded by other local businesses.

The Italian sub here features mortadella, Genoa salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, and hot peppers, all stacked on ciabatta bread that’s baked in-house.

Ciabatta adds a slightly different texture than traditional sub rolls – it’s chewier and has larger air pockets, which soak up the olive oil and seasonings beautifully.

The bakery side of the business offers Italian pastries, cakes, and cookies, and the aroma of fresh bread fills the space from morning to afternoon.

Weekends can get crowded, so weekday visits might offer a more relaxed experience.

The deli counter staff is efficient and knowledgeable, and they’re happy to customize orders to suit dietary preferences.

DePasquale’s At Night Caps Corner

This Newton establishment offers a unique twist on the classic Italian sub with their Little Gino Brizz, a sandwich that’s become a local legend.

The address is 339 River St, Newton, MA 02465, in a charming corner location that’s easy to spot.

The Little Gino Brizz features salami, mortadella, sweet capicola, provolone, and all the traditional fixings on freshly baked bread.

Sweet capicola brings a slightly different flavor profile than the spicy version, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the other meats.

The shop has a cozy, neighborhood feel, and the staff often remembers regulars by name and order.

Parking along Walnut Street can be limited during peak hours, but there are municipal lots nearby.

The menu also includes a variety of other Italian specialties, from pasta dishes to salads, making it a versatile stop for lunch or dinner.

P&K Deli

Family-owned since 1952, this Somerville deli has been perfecting the Italian sub for over seven decades.

P&K Deli is located at 244 Beacon St, Somerville, MA 02143, in a residential neighborhood where it’s become a beloved fixture.

Their Italian sub is served on a braided sesame roll with a perfect ratio of ingredients – not too much meat, not too little, just the right balance of flavors and textures.

The braided sesame roll has a slightly sweet flavor and a texture that holds up well to the oil and vinegar without getting soggy.

The deli counter is small but efficient, and the staff works quickly to keep lines moving even during the busiest times.

Regulars often call ahead to place orders, especially for large gatherings or parties.

The shop also sells Italian groceries, including imported olive oils, pastas, and canned tomatoes, making it easy to pick up ingredients for a homemade meal.

Bricco Panetteria

Situated in Boston’s North End, this bakery and deli combines artisan bread-making with traditional Italian sub construction.

Bricco Panetteria is at 241 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113, right in the middle of the city’s most Italian neighborhood.

Their Italian sub includes mortadella, Genoa salami, soppressata, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, hot peppers, olive oil, vinegar, and oregano on freshly baked bread.

The bread here is the star – crusty on the outside, tender on the inside, and baked multiple times throughout the day to ensure freshness.

The bakery also offers a wide selection of Italian pastries, focaccia, and specialty breads that draw both locals and tourists.

The North End location means it’s often busy, especially on weekends and during the summer months when the neighborhood is packed with visitors.

Early morning or late afternoon visits might offer a quieter experience and the chance to see fresh bread coming out of the oven.

Al’s State Street Cafe

Boston’s Al’s State Street Cafe has earned a reputation for serving generous Italian subs that satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

The cafe is located at 114 State St, Boston, MA 02109, in a downtown area that’s easy to access and surrounded by local businesses.

Their Italian sub features layers of mortadella, capicola, salami, provolone, and all the classic toppings on a fresh sub roll.

Portion sizes here are notably generous, and even a small sub can be filling enough for a full meal.

The cafe has a casual, no-frills atmosphere where the focus is squarely on the food rather than fancy decor.

Lunchtime brings a steady stream of office workers and students, so ordering ahead by phone can save time.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, willing to adjust ingredients or portion sizes to suit individual preferences.

Street parking is available but can be competitive during peak hours, so arriving a bit early or late might be wise.

Nick’s Roast Beef & Pizza

Despite the name, this Beverly spot is just as famous for its Italian subs as it is for roast beef and pizza.

Nick’s is located at 207 Essex St, Beverly, MA 01915, in a busy area that sees steady traffic throughout the day.

The Italian sub here includes Genoa salami, mortadella, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and hot peppers on a soft yet sturdy sub roll.

The meats are sliced fresh to order, and the vegetables are prepped daily, ensuring everything tastes as fresh as possible.

The shop has a casual, family-friendly vibe, and the menu offers a wide variety of options beyond subs, including grilled items and seafood.

Parking is available in a small lot, though it can fill up during lunch and dinner rushes.

The staff works efficiently, and even when the place is packed, orders tend to come out quickly.

Locals often recommend trying the sub with extra hot peppers for an added kick.

Santarpio’s Pizza

While Santarpio’s is best known for its legendary pizza, the Italian subs here are equally impressive and often overlooked.

You’ll find this East Boston institution at 111 Chelsea Street, Boston, MA 02128, just a short distance from Logan Airport.

The Italian sub features salami, mortadella, provolone, and a simple but flavorful combination of toppings on a fresh sub roll.

What makes this sub special is the quality of the meats and the straightforward approach – no unnecessary extras, just high-quality ingredients prepared well.

The atmosphere is old-school Boston, with a no-frills interior and a menu that’s been largely unchanged for decades.

The shop can get crowded, especially on weekend evenings when locals and visitors alike come for the pizza.

Ordering a sub along with a pizza is a popular move, giving you a chance to sample two of the shop’s specialties in one visit.

Cash is preferred, so it’s a good idea to have some on hand before arriving.

Spinelli’s Function Facility & Ravioli Manufacturing

This Peabody establishment combines a ravioli manufacturing business with a deli counter that serves exceptional Italian subs.

Spinelli’s is located at 10 Newbury St, Peabody, MA 01960, in a spot that’s become a go-to for Italian specialty foods.

The Italian sub here features imported meats, including prosciutto, mortadella, and capicola, along with provolone and fresh toppings on a crusty Italian roll.

Because the business manufactures fresh pasta on-site, the focus on quality and authenticity extends to every item on the menu.

The shop also offers a wide selection of imported Italian groceries, cheeses, and prepared foods, making it a popular stop for home cooks.

The deli counter staff is knowledgeable and often offers suggestions based on what’s freshest or what’s been popular that week.

Parking is available in a lot adjacent to the building, which is helpful given the shop’s popularity.

Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, offering a more relaxed shopping and ordering experience.

Monica’s Mercato & Salumeria

Tucked into Boston’s legendary North End, this family-owned gem has been crafting some of the city’s finest Italian subs since 1995.

You’ll find it at 130 Salem Street, Boston, MA 02113, right in the heart of where Italian culinary tradition thrives.

The signature sandwich here stacks imported prosciutto, mortadella, Genoa salami, and provolone with lettuce, tomato, onion, olive oil, balsamic, hot peppers, and pickles on bread baked fresh daily.

What sets this spot apart is the attention to quality ingredients, sourced directly from Italy whenever possible.

The atmosphere feels authentically Old World, with shelves lined with imported olive oils, pastas, and cheeses that transport you straight to an Italian market.

Lunchtime tends to get busy, so arriving before noon or after 1:30 PM could mean shorter waits.

The staff knows their products inside and out and happily offers recommendations if you’re exploring beyond the classic sub.