Lennies Hoagies

Jeff's Take:
At Lennies, the Italian hoagie is king. We’re not just talking the standard pepper ham, Genoa salami, capicola, and provolone that make up the traditional Italian hoagie. This small takeout shop on Ridge Avenue in Roxborough, PA offers a mix-and-match menu of several other Italian meats and cheeses. In addition to the usual trio, there’s prosciutto, mortadella, soppressata, and cotechino, all offered in various combinations. But it’s not variety alone that makes Lennies Hoagies stand out. What really makes this place special is that it uses all of its ingredients to the fullest, and everything tastes fresh.

First off, the meat. Where else would I start? The quality of the meat at Lennies is better than most hoagie shops, with more spice and flavor than you’ll usually find. It’s also clear that the meats here are freshly sliced, which makes a world of difference.

Next is something that is usually an afterthought in the hoagie world—the vegetables. Most hoagie places treat vegetables as a filler, as if they’re only included for texture. If you’ve ever had the shredded iceberg lettuce and bland tomatoes that Wawa uses, you probably know what I’m talking about. Lenny’s, on the other hand, uses a whole leaf of romaine lettuce and ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Along with some olive oil, you’ve got the perfect complement to good Italian meats.

Finally, Lennies is notable for its rolls. I usually prefer softer, chewier rolls for my hoagies, but Lennies may have converted me (at least in the Italian hoagie department). The rolls here have a crustier outside that includes toasted sesame seeds. The seeds are actually a great addition to an already very flavorful hoagie.



6141 Ridge Ave.

Philadelphia
, PA 19128

(215) 487-1200

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