11 North Carolina Italian Sub Shops That Take Sandwiches Seriously
A good Italian sub doesn’t just feed you – it stops you in your tracks.
Across North Carolina, sandwich makers treat the craft with real devotion, stacking layer after layer until each bite hits with flavor and nostalgia.
Shops from the coast to the mountains slice their meats paper-thin, melt provolone until it drapes like silk, and load rolls with enough crunch to echo through the room.
Every sub tells a story of local pride, family recipes, and the kind of no-nonsense comfort that keeps people coming back for the same order year after year.
In cities, small towns, and tucked-away corners of the state, these creators of the perfect Italian sub turn a simple sandwich into something unforgettable.
1. Giacomo’s Italian Market
Walking into this Greensboro gem feels like stepping into a family-run market straight from the old country.
Located at 2109 New Garden Rd, Greensboro, NC 27410, this spot has earned a stellar reputation with overstuffed sandwiches that make lunchtime feel like a celebration.
The cold veggie sub stands out with layers of fresh eggplant, roasted red peppers, and creamy mozzarella that practically melt together in every bite.
House-made sausages add an authentic touch that keeps regulars coming back week after week. Cannoli lovers should save room for dessert because these Italian pastries are baked with the same care and tradition as the sandwiches.
With nearly a thousand glowing reviews, this market proves that quality ingredients and generous portions never go out of style. The atmosphere buzzes with warmth and the scent of freshly baked bread, creating a cozy vibe that makes every visit memorable.
2. La Cucina Italiana Raleigh
Savory meats and zesty dressing come together beautifully at this Raleigh favorite that knows how to honor tradition.
Situated at 6552 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27612, this restaurant has built a loyal following with its commitment to classic Italian flavors and generous sandwich construction. Premium deli meats are piled high, then topped with melted cheese that gets perfectly gooey when toasted on a fresh roll.
Fresh veggies add crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of the meats and cheese in a way that feels just right. The Italian sub here is a customer favorite for good reason – every ingredient plays its part without overwhelming the others.
Prices hover between ten and twenty dollars, making it an affordable treat for anyone craving authentic Italian flavors. With over eighteen hundred positive reviews, this spot has clearly mastered the art of making sandwiches that satisfy both appetite and soul.
3. Toast
Downtown Durham gets a taste of Italy through this charming paninoteca concept that transports taste buds across the Atlantic.
Found at 345 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, this spot brings European flair to the local sandwich scene with Italian-inspired creations that feel both authentic and inventive.
Small plates complement the panini offerings, making it easy to turn lunch into a leisurely meal that feels special.
The atmosphere here is relaxed yet sophisticated, perfect for a casual date or a lunch break that feels like a mini vacation. Pressed sandwiches arrive warm and crispy, with fillings that range from classic Italian combinations to creative twists that surprise and delight.
Nearly six hundred reviews praise the quality and creativity that Toast brings to every plate. Prices remain reasonable, typically falling in the ten to twenty dollar range, so enjoying a little European escape doesn’t require breaking the bank.
4. Tony’s Pizza Hickory
Philly-style meets Italian tradition at this Hickory establishment that refuses to limit itself to just pizza.
Located at 1832 Catawba Valley Blvd SE, Hickory, NC 28602, this restaurant serves up a variety of subs that satisfy cravings for both Italian and American flavors.
The steak sub and chick-o-Philly are local favorites, loaded with tender meat, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions that add sweetness and depth.
Italian entrées and New York-style pizzas round out the menu, making it a versatile spot for families with different tastes. Over thirteen hundred reviews highlight the generous portions and consistent quality that keep customers returning time and again.
The casual atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy a hearty meal without any fuss. Prices stay in the affordable ten to twenty dollar range, so treating the whole family to great sandwiches won’t strain the budget.
5. Bella Monica Italian Restaurant
Authentic Italian flavors at 3121 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27612, shine through every sandwich crafted at this restaurant that takes pride in its Old World recipes.
Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella are layered with care, creating a flavor profile that feels like a trip to Italy without leaving North Carolina. Provolone cheese adds a mild, creamy note that complements the savory cured meats beautifully.
Shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes bring freshness and texture, while a drizzle of Italian vinaigrette ties everything together with tangy brightness. The bread is baked fresh daily, ensuring a soft interior and a satisfying crust that holds up to all the delicious fillings.
Regulars appreciate the attention to detail and the commitment to using quality ingredients in every sandwich. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot for family dinners or casual lunches with friends who appreciate real Italian cooking.
6. Sal’s New York Pizza & Restaurant
New York attitude meets Southern hospitality at 2211 N New Hope Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054, that knows how to build a hero sandwich worth bragging about.
Layers of Italian cold cuts are stacked high, then topped with cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions that add a satisfying bite. A generous drizzle of oil and vinegar dressing soaks into the bread just enough to add flavor without making the sandwich soggy.
The long sub roll is sturdy yet soft, providing the perfect vessel for all the delicious ingredients packed inside. Regulars know to come hungry because these heroes are built for serious appetites and serious flavor.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere feels welcoming and unpretentious, making it easy to relax and enjoy a meal that feels authentic. This spot delivers consistent quality and generous portions that never disappoint.
7. Napoli’s Italian Restaurant
Baked meatballs and bubbling marinara make this hot Italian sub a comfort food favorite that warms the soul.
Melted mozzarella stretches with every bite, creating that satisfying pull that makes hot sandwiches so irresistible at 2263 W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110.
Italian herbs add aromatic notes that enhance the rich tomato sauce and savory meatballs, creating harmony in every bite.
The toasted hoagie roll provides a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender meatballs and gooey cheese inside.
This family-owned restaurant has perfected the balance of flavors and textures, making every sandwich memorable.
The cozy, family-friendly atmosphere invites guests to linger over their meals and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food. Regulars appreciate the consistent quality and genuine hospitality that makes every visit feel like a homecoming.
8. Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian
Prosciutto and fresh mozzarella elevate the Italian sub to gourmet status at this neighborhood spot that values quality over quantity.
Peppery arugula adds a fresh, slightly bitter note that balances the richness of the cheese and the delicate saltiness of the prosciutto at 641 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804.
Roasted tomatoes bring sweetness and depth, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish.
Ciabatta bread provides a rustic, chewy texture that complements the premium ingredients.
The sandwich feels sophisticated yet approachable, perfect for anyone who appreciates fine ingredients prepared with care.
The neighborhood vibe makes it a comfortable spot to grab lunch or meet friends. Regulars love the attention to detail and the commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
9. Luigi’s Restaurant Bar & Pizzeria
Tradition runs deep at this Italian deli at 1011 North Carolina Hwy 150, Summerfield, NC 27358, where every sandwich is built with respect for the classics.
Pepperoni, ham, and salami create a trio of flavors that work together in perfect harmony, each bringing its own character to the mix.
Provolone cheese melts slightly from the warmth of the meats, adding a creamy layer that binds everything together.
Banana peppers provide a tangy kick, while black olives add a briny depth that keeps every bite interesting. Italian dressing soaks into the freshly baked sub roll, infusing it with flavor and keeping the sandwich moist and delicious.
The atmosphere feels authentically Italian, with friendly staff who treat customers like family and take pride in every sandwich they make.
Regulars know to arrive early because these subs are so popular they often sell out by mid-afternoon.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why simple, well-made food never goes out of style.
10. Roma Italian Restaurant
Cold cuts are piled high at 1011 North Carolina Hwy 150, Summerfield, NC 27358, that believes more is more when it comes to building the perfect Italian sub.
Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella are layered generously, creating a sandwich that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat. Provolone cheese adds a mild, creamy element that complements the bold flavors of the cured meats without competing for attention.
Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, sharp onions, and tangy pickles add layers of texture and freshness that balance the richness of the meats and cheese. Italian sub dressing brings everything together with a zesty, herbaceous finish that makes every bite sing.
The soft hoagie roll is sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart, making it easy to enjoy every delicious bite. The deli atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or a takeout meal to enjoy at home.
11. Marco’s Italian Family Restaurant
Imported Italian meats make all the difference at this delicatessen that refuses to compromise on authenticity.
Aged provolone cheese brings a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich, savory meats stacked between fresh Italian rolls at 1423-C, Yadkinville Rd, Mocksville, NC 27028. Shredded iceberg lettuce adds a satisfying crunch, while sliced tomatoes and red onions provide freshness and a hint of sharpness.
A sprinkle of oregano and a drizzle of red wine vinegar add traditional Italian flavors that transport taste buds straight to the streets of Rome or Naples. The fresh Italian roll is baked daily, ensuring a soft interior and a golden, slightly crispy crust that holds up perfectly.
This delicatessen feels like a hidden gem where locals go for sandwiches that taste like they were made by an Italian grandmother. The staff takes pride in every sandwich, treating each order with care and attention to detail.
