Anthony Martorano
Founder & OwnerA South Philadelphia native, Anthony started Primo Hoagies in 1992 with a family recipe and a dream. His hands-on approach and unwavering commitment to quality set the Primo standard still followed today.
Our Story
About Primo Hoagies — Philly's Authentic Sandwich Tradition
Since 1992, primo hoagies has been crafting South Philadelphia's most beloved sandwiches using only the freshest ingredients, time-honored recipes, and a genuine passion for real food. We're more than a hoagie shop — we're a neighborhood institution.
30+
Years of Tradition
50K+
Happy Customers
25+
Menu Items
1992
Est. Philadelphia
Where It All Began
A South Philly
View Our Menu
A South Philly
Institution Since 1992
It all started with a simple belief: great food doesn't need gimmicks. When founder Anthony Martorano opened the first Primo Hoagies location on West Ritner Street in South Philadelphia, he had one goal — to make the most authentic, freshest hoagie in the city using Italian deli meats, premium cheeses, and house-baked bread.
The primohoagies philosophy was built on honesty. No shortcuts. No frozen meats. No compromise on quality. That dedication struck a chord with the local community, and what started as a single corner shop quickly earned a devoted following that stretched far beyond the neighborhood.
Today, more than three decades later, every hoagie we make still carries that same South Philly spirit — hand-sliced to order, crafted with care, and served with pride. Our loyal customers have watched us grow, and we're grateful for every sandwich we've made along the way.
1992
Year Founded
100%
Fresh Ingredients Daily
#1
Hoagie in South Philly
Family
Owned & Operated
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
The primos culture is rooted in four unshakeable principles that guide everything we do, from ingredient sourcing to customer service.
Freshness First
Every ingredient we use is sourced fresh and prepared daily. We never compromise on the quality of what goes into your hoagie — from the bread to the last slice of meat.
Made with Passion
Crafting a great hoagie is an art. Our team approaches every sandwich with genuine care and enthusiasm — because when food is made with love, you can taste the difference.
Community Roots
We're deeply tied to the South Philadelphia community that gave us our start. Supporting local suppliers, hiring locally, and giving back to our neighborhood is at the heart of who we are.
Uncompromising Quality
Every hoagie that leaves our kitchen meets the Primo standard. We use only authentic Italian deli meats, premium aged cheeses, and house-baked rolls — nothing less will do.
Our Journey
The Primo Hoagies Story
Over three decades of growth, community, and incredible sandwiches. Here's how a small corner shop became a Philadelphia legend.
1992
The First Hoagie
Anthony Martorano opens the first Primo Hoagies location at 1528 W Ritner Street in South Philadelphia with just a counter, a slicer, and a family recipe passed down through generations.
1997
A Neighborhood Staple
After five years of loyal customers and word-of-mouth buzz, Primo Hoagies becomes recognized as a South Philadelphia institution. The Philadelphia Inquirer features us as "the city's best hoagie."
2003
Expanding the Menu
We introduce our now-iconic specialty hoagie lineup — including the Primo Italian, the Turkey Club, and the beloved Veggie Hoagie — doubling our menu while staying true to our fresh-made roots.
2010
Catering & Community
Primo Hoagies launches its catering service, bringing authentic hoagies to corporate events, weddings, and community celebrations across the greater Philadelphia region.
2018
Online Ordering Launch
We bring the Primo experience online, allowing customers to order fresh hoagies for pickup directly from our website — keeping up with modern convenience without sacrificing any quality.
2024
Still Going Strong
Over 30 years and 50,000+ happy customers later, Primo Hoagies continues to serve South Philadelphia and beyond with the same passion, quality, and authenticity that started it all in 1992.
The People Behind the Sandwiches
Meet Our Team
Every great hoagie starts with great people. Our dedicated team brings years of experience, genuine enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to the primo standard.
Maria Russo
Head ChefWith over 18 years in Italian-American cuisine, Maria oversees all recipe development and kitchen operations at Primo Hoagies. Her creative touch has expanded our menu while staying true to tradition.
James DiNicola
Operations ManagerJames keeps the engine running at Primo Hoagies. From supplier relationships to daily logistics, he ensures every aspect of our operations meets the high standards our customers expect.
Sofia Caruso
Customer Experience LeadSofia is the warm face of Primo Hoagies. She leads front-of-house operations and ensures every customer — whether a first-timer or a 30-year regular — feels right at home.
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