Hoagie vs. Sub — What's the Difference?

By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 4, 2024

A hoagie typically includes Italian meats, cheeses, and a vinaigrette on a long roll, originating from Pennsylvania, while a sub is a broad term for any sandwich on a long roll.

Difference Between Hoagie and Sub

Key Differences

Hoagies and subs both refer to sandwiches served on long rolls, but their names and slight variations in ingredients mark regional preferences. A hoagie, closely associated with Pennsylvania, especially Philadelphia, is known for its Italian meats, cheeses, and often an Italian dressing. On the other hand, the term "sub" is more universally used across the United States and can refer to any type of sandwich on a long roll, not necessarily adhering to the Italian-inspired fillings of a hoagie.

While hoagies are often garnished with a specific set of ingredients, including Italian meats like salami, ham, capicola, and provolone cheese, dressed with oils, vinegars, and oregano, subs are more about the structure of the sandwich rather than its specific contents. Subs can be filled with a wide variety of meats, cheeses, and toppings, depending on the region and the preference of the eater.

The origin stories of these sandwiches also highlight regional identities. The hoagie is said to have originated in the Italian immigrant communities of Philadelphia, whereas the sub has a more generalized American identity, with claims of origin stories from several places, including Connecticut and New Jersey.

Culturally, hoagies hold a special place in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania at large, celebrated for their Italian-American heritage. Meanwhile, subs are embraced more broadly as a quintessential American food, adaptable and enjoyed in various forms across the country.

Though both are served on similar long rolls, the naming convention often points to where you're ordering your sandwich. In Philadelphia and parts of Pennsylvania, ordering a "hoagie" is the norm, while in many other parts of the country, the same sandwich might be called a "sub."

Comparison Chart

Origin

Pennsylvania, particularly Philadelphia.

Broadly American, with various origin stories including Connecticut.

Ingredients

Italian meats, cheeses, and vinaigrette.

Varied, includes any type of meats, cheeses, and toppings.

Cultural Significance

Strongly associated with Italian-American heritage in Pennsylvania.

Considered a universally American sandwich with regional variations.

Name Usage

Predominantly in Pennsylvania and parts of the Northeast.

Widely used across the United States.

Bread Type

Long roll, often with a softer texture.

Long roll, can vary in texture from soft to crusty.

Compare with Definitions

Hoagie

Italian meats and cheeses sandwich.

A traditional hoagie is loaded with salami, ham, and provolone cheese.

Sub

Widely recognized across the US.

No matter where you go in the country, you'll find a sub shop ready to serve.

Hoagie

Often includes a vinaigrette.

A proper hoagie is drizzled with an Italian vinaigrette for added flavor.

Sub

Reflects American sandwich culture.

The sub is a testament to America's love for hearty, customizable sandwiches.

Hoagie

Originates from Pennsylvania.

The hoagie is a culinary staple in Philadelphia, showcasing its Italian-American roots.

Sub

Any sandwich on a long roll.

A sub can be filled with anything from turkey to tuna, making it a versatile choice.

Hoagie

Associated with Italian-American cuisine.

The hoagie celebrates the Italian meats and cheeses beloved by Italian-American communities.

Sub

Varied ingredients.

You can customize a sub with a wide range of meats, cheeses, and veggies.

Hoagie

Served on a long roll.

The hoagie's long roll is crucial for holding all its hearty fillings.

Sub

Adaptable to preferences.

Subs are great because you can easily tailor them to suit dietary restrictions or taste preferences.

Hoagie

A sandwich made of a long roll filled with meat, cheese, and salad.

Sub

A submarine

The yachtsman claimed his boat had been sunk by a sub

Hoagie

See submarine sandwich.

Sub

A subscription

The annual sub for the golf club will be £200

Hoagie

A sandwich made on a (usually soft) long Italian roll; a submarine sandwich.

I'm going to Wawa to get a hoagie for lunch.

Sub

A substitute, especially in a sporting team

The team pulled back with a goal from sub Chris Malkin

Hoagie

A large sandwich on a long crusty roll that is split lengthwise and filled with meats and cheese (and tomato and onion and lettuce and condiments); different names are used in different sections of the U. S., such as hero, grinder, and submarine.

Sub

A subeditor

The chief sub would be responsible for the look of the paper

Hoagie

A large sandwich made of a long crusty roll split lengthwise and filled with meats and cheese (and tomato and onion and lettuce and condiments); different names are used in different sections of the United States

Sub

An advance or loan against expected income

‘I've got no money.’ ‘Want a sub?’

Sub

Replace or be replaced; substitute

He subbed for Armstrong at some gigs

He got a lot of applause when he was subbed

Sub

Lend or advance a sum to (someone) against expected income

Who'll sub me till Thursday?

Sub

Subedit

His copy was mercilessly subbed and rewritten

Sub

(Nautical) A submarine.

Sub

A submarine sandwich.

Sub

A substitute.

Sub

To act as a substitute

A graduate student subbing for the professor.

Sub

To put or use (a person or thing) as a substitute

The coach subbed fresh players toward the end of the game. The cook subbed oil for butter.

Sub

Usage Problem To replace; substitute

The player was subbed after she committed two errors. Sub the chicken with tofu to make the dish vegetarian. See Usage Note at substitute.

Sub

A submarine.

Sub

A submarine sandwich: a sandwich made on a long bun.

We can get subs at that deli.

Sub

(informal) A substitute, often in sports or teaching.

With the score 4 to 1, they brought in subs.

She worked as a sub until she got her teaching certificate.

Sub

A subscription: a payment made for membership of a club, etc.

Sub

A subtitle.

I've just noticed a mistake in the subs for this film.

Sub

A subroutine (sometimes one that does not return a value, as distinguished from a function, which does).

Sub

(colloquial) A subeditor.

Sub

(colloquial) A subcontractor.

Sub

(slang) A subwoofer.

Sub

A submissive.

Sub

A subordinate.

Sub

A subaltern.

Sub

A subscription (or (by extension) a subscriber) to an online channel or feed.

I'm totally stoked; just got 10 new subs after my last video.

Sub

(colloquial) Subsistence money: part of a worker's wages paid before the work is finished.

Sub

(internet slang) subreddit

Sub

To substitute for.

Sub

To work as a substitute teacher, especially in primary and secondary education.

Sub

To replace (a player) with a substitute.

He never really made a contribution to the match, so it was no surprise when he was subbed at half time.

Sub

Less commonly, and often as sub on, to bring on (a player) as a substitute.

He was subbed on half way through the second half, and scored within minutes.

Sub

(British) To perform the work of a subeditor or copy editor; to subedit.

Sub

To subtitle (usually a film or television program).

Sub

To lend.

Sub

To subscribe.

Sub

(BDSM) To take a submissive role.

Sub

To coat with a layer of adhering material; to planarize by means of such a coating.

Sub

(microscopy) To prepare (a slide) with a layer of transparent substance to support and/or fix the sample.

Sub

Under.

Sub

A subordinate; a subaltern.

Sub

A shortened form of submarine, the boat.

Sub

A shortened form of submarine sandwich; also called hero, hero sandwich, and grinder.

Sub

A submersible warship usually armed with torpedoes

Sub

Be a substitute;

The young teacher had to substitute for the sick colleague

The skim milk substitutes for cream--we are on a strict diet

Common Curiosities

Is a hoagie called a sub in some places?

Yes, outside of Pennsylvania and certain parts of the Northeast, a hoagie is often referred to as a sub.

Why is it called a hoagie?

The term "hoagie" is believed to have originated from the Italian immigrant community in Philadelphia, though its exact origin is debated.

Can a hoagie and a sub have the same fillings?

Yes, both can have similar fillings, but hoagies are known for their Italian meats and dressing.

What makes a hoagie different from a sub?

A hoagie typically includes specific Italian meats and cheeses, and is closely associated with Pennsylvania, whereas a sub can contain a variety of fillings and is widely recognized across the US.

Can vegetarians enjoy hoagies and subs?

Yes, both sandwiches can be made with a variety of vegetarian fillings.

What is the origin of the sub sandwich?

The sub sandwich has various claimed origins, including Connecticut, but it's broadly recognized as an American creation.

How do regional preferences influence the choice between a hoagie and a sub?

Cultural and regional identities, such as those in Philadelphia for hoagies, influence preferences and terminology.

Do hoagies and subs have different types of rolls?

While both are served on long rolls, the texture and softness can vary based on the specific sandwich and region.

What is typically on a hoagie?

A hoagie usually includes Italian meats like salami and ham, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and an Italian vinaigrette.

Are subs healthier than hoagies?

Healthiness depends on the specific ingredients used; both can range from light and healthy to indulgent.

What is the best bread for a hoagie or sub?

Both are traditionally served on a long, soft roll, though the exact type can vary by preference.

What's the significance of the dressing in a hoagie?

The dressing, often an Italian vinaigrette, is significant for adding flavor and distinguishing a hoagie from other sandwiches.

Is there a difference in how hoagies and subs are prepared?

Preparation methods are similar, but hoagies might include a specific dressing not typically used on subs.

Why are hoagies particularly popular in Pennsylvania?

Their popularity is tied to the Italian-American communities in Pennsylvania, especially Philadelphia, where the hoagie has its roots.

Can a sub be considered a type of hoagie, or vice versa?

While there is overlap in concept, regional and ingredient-specific differences typically distinguish the two.

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Author Spotlight

Written by

Maham Liaqat

Co-written by

Urooj Arif

Urooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.

Hoagie vs. Sub — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Hoagie and Sub

Table of Contents

Key Differences

Comparison Chart

Origin

Ingredients

Cultural Significance

Name Usage

Bread Type

Compare with Definitions

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Common Curiosities

Is a hoagie called a sub in some places?

Why is it called a hoagie?

Can a hoagie and a sub have the same fillings?

What makes a hoagie different from a sub?

Can vegetarians enjoy hoagies and subs?

What is the origin of the sub sandwich?