Take a Bite of Philadelphia's Storied Sandwich History Philadelphia boasts some of the most delicious original sandwiches and passionate sandwich aficionados. From the classic cheesesteak to the delectable roast pork, the city's cultural and ethnic diversity has resulted in many of America's most established meals between bread. Join author and bona fide sandwich obsessive Mike Madaio as he journeys through the history and eateries behind Philadelphia's most iconic sandwiches and discovers some unsung heroes along the way.
Mike Madaio is a food and wine writer based outside of Philadelphia. His career began with the creation of Main Line Dine, a popular restaurant and dining blog covering the Philadelphia suburbs, and his writing has appeared in publications such as Wine Enthusiast, VinePair and Edible Philly. He has also achieved Italian Wine Ambassador certification from the Vinitaly International Academy.
This book is a no brainer to someone who lives in Philadelphia and enjoys sandwiches, like myself. Pacing felt good and I have a nice springboard to go to some new places. Some recipes are a nice touch, and plenty of citations too.
A fascinating and engaging look at the ingredients of Philly’s sandwich culture. It offers rich historical context while exploring the city’s staples and their (often debated) origin stories. The personalities behind famed shops and bakeries come to life and you’ll be left craving a Philly area sando on a seeded Italian roll.
Philly is a sandwich town, Mike Madaio contends, in his new history examining the food. In A History of Philadelphia Sandwiches, he takes a deep dive into the hot dogs, hoagies, cheesesteaks, roast pork , and cullet sandwiches that define the cuisine in Philadelphia. The book also more briefly touches on lesser sandwiches available around the city, including items like stromboli (dubious these are sandwiches), and the city’s bakeries that produce sandwich breads.