01/28/2026
🥖 THE GREAT ITALIAN DEBATE 🥖
The Italian sub VS. The Maine Italian Sub
Why is the Maine version so different?
The "Maine Italian" was invented by Giovanni Amato in Portland in 1902. He was a baker selling fresh rolls to dockworkers; they asked him to slice the bread and put something in it. Because it was invented by an Italian immigrant, it was called an "Italian sandwich," even though the ingredients (ham, American cheese, pickles) aren't traditionally Italian.
Key Differences
1. The Bread
The classic Italian uses bread with heirloom crunch—the kind that might scrape the roof of your mouth. The Maine Italian, pioneered by Amato’s in Portland back in 1902, uses a soft, pillowy roll that is designed to soak up the oil without putting up a fight.
2. The "Meat" Philosophy
Classic: It's all about the "bite" and spice of cured meats like pepperoni and spicy capicola.
Maine: It is intentionally mild. Traditionally, it uses boiled ham. The flavor comes from the salt and the veggies rather than the heat of the meat.
3. The Vegetable Medley
This is the biggest visual giveaway. A Maine Italian is famous for its chopped vegetables. You won't find shredded iceberg lettuce here. Instead, you get a line of crunchy green peppers, onions, and specifically sour chopped pickles and pitted black olives.
4. The Dressing
Classic: A zingy vinaigrette that provides acidity.
Maine: A generous dousing of plain salad oil. It’s less about "tang" and more about creating a rich, savory mouthfeel that melds the soft bread and cheese together.
Pro Tip: If you're ordering in Maine, don't ask for "everything" unless you're ready for those black olives and sour pickles—they are the signature of the sandwich!
🥖But Munchies, where should I go to find one?!?!?
Midcoast Options:
🥖Local Favorites and Specialists:
Myrtle Street Tavern (Rockland) - Keep an eye out for their grilled Italian Panini Special (Amazeballs)
French & Brawn Marketplace(Camden) Construct your own exactly how you please
Metcalf's Submarine Sandwiches(Damariscotta)
Camden Deli (Camden) Check our last post for a pic of theirs!
Big Top Deli (Brunswick)
🥖Traditional Maine-Style Italians:
Amato's (Rockland, Brunswick, Portland, plus about 15 more locations) Here in Portland was the birthplace of the sandwich (1902). Go to the original India Street location for the most authentic experience. They are famous for their soft, house-baked rolls and signature sour pickles.
Sam's Italians (Brunswick, Augusta, Lewiston Auburn, Lisbon Falls, Dixfield, Freeport, Rumford, Topsham, Waterville) The primary rival to Amato’s in Central Maine since 1939.
Sisters Gourmet Deli Maine (Bath) Try a panini while you’re there.
🥖Portland Neighborhood Gems
The Quality Shop (Portland): A true "corner store" on Stevens Avenue. It is highly rated by locals for having the freshest vegetables and a no-frills, traditional atmosphere.
DiPietro's Market (South Portland): A family-owned pillar of the community. It’s the go-to spot for that nostalgic, homemade taste that hasn't changed in decades.
🥖Top Spots Outside Portland
George's Sandwich Shop of Biddeford (Biddeford): Often cited as a contender for the best in the state. They have a massive local following and have stuck to the same strict traditional recipe for over 50 years.
Freshies Deli (Multiple Locations): Don’t laugh - While it is a gas station chain, it’s a Maine cult favorite. If you are traveling in more rural areas or further north, their "built-to-order" Maine Italians are surprisingly authentic and fresh.
🥖WHO SELLS YOUR FAVORITE SUB
- and -
WHICH STYLE IS YOUR WINNER?!?!?!?!
