PENNSYLVANIA STATE – Pennsylvania takes its sandwiches seriously, but the name for these beloved handheld meals can spark a heated debate. While “hoagie” reigns supreme in Philadelphia and its surrounding areas, “sub” starts to creep in as you venture further west and north. But where exactly is the dividing line?
Goomba’s Old Italiano Hoagie
The truth is, there’s no official border separating hoagie territory from sub land. It’s a gradual shift, with some overlap and regional variations. However, we can make some generalizations based on anecdotal evidence and linguistic patterns:
The Hoagie Heartland:
- Southeastern Pennsylvania: Philadelphia and its suburbs are the undisputed home of the hoagie. The term originated here (though its exact history is still debated), and it remains the dominant name for a long sandwich on a roll.
- South Central Pennsylvania: Philadelphia’s terminology influences areas like Lancaster and York, where “hoagie” is still the preferred term.
The Sub’s Rise to Power:
- Western Pennsylvania: As you move west towards Pittsburgh, “sub” becomes increasingly common. This is likely due to the influence of Western Pennsylvania’s connections to Ohio and the Midwest, where “sub” is the standard term.
- Northern Pennsylvania: The northern tier of the state, bordering New York, also leans towards “sub,” reflecting the terminology used in neighboring states.
- Central Pennsylvania: The central part of the state is a bit of a mixed bag, with both “hoagie” and “sub” used with varying frequency.
Factors Influencing the Divide:
- Historical and cultural connections: Philadelphia’s strong regional identity and historical influence have helped solidify “hoagie” in the southeast. Meanwhile, neighboring states where “sub” is more common have influenced western and northern Pennsylvania.
- Migration patterns: The movement of people within the state has likely contributed to the spread and blending of terminology.
- Chain restaurants: The prevalence of national chains like Subway may also have contributed to the popularization of “sub” throughout the state.
Beyond the Hoagie/Sub Divide:
It’s worth noting that other terms for long sandwiches exist in Pennsylvania, though they are less common:
- Grinder: Used occasionally in the northeast, particularly in areas bordering New Jersey.
- Zepppelin: A less common term, sometimes used in central Pennsylvania.
Ultimately, the hoagie vs. sub debate is a friendly rivalry that reflects Pennsylvania’s rich linguistic diversity. Whether you call it a hoagie, a sub, or something else entirely, the most important thing is to enjoy this delicious Pennsylvania staple!
Follow Us!