Midtown Lunch

Simple, meat filled hoagies from a plain looking (or even menacing looking) corner deli  are one reason I love Philly. Ricci’s Hoagies has been family owened and operated since 1920, according to their website. There are 2 locations, the original by Passyunk Square and the newer store, which I checked out, in Point Breeze. The hoagie shop has bars on its windows, but sometimes the least inviting looking places will have you coming back for more important reasons.

 Inside, some rules are in place. Cash only, don’t talk on the phone while ordering; be “courteouss,” guys. Also note the Mini Me doll.

 The old fashioned Italian hoagie ($7.75)  was perfect for me. I don’t like plain ham ever ever ever, so I usually have to ask for it to be excluded. But this sandwich cuts the crap and has only the essential meats; proscioutto and sopressata sliced to order. Roasted peppers and flecks of sharp provolone accompany the meats on a seeded hoagie roll. Just what I needed, without anything I didn’t. Some add ins are permitted as the guys create your hoagie, like hot peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, and oil.

One sandwich is almost big enough for 2 people; maybe with a pickle and bag of chips (they have plenty at Ricci’s) that would do it.

THE + (What somebody who likes this place would say)

• Big, Italian sandwiches from a simple neighborhood spot

THE – (What somebody who doesn’t like this place would say)

• No seating, take out only

Ricci’s Hoagies, 1247 21st Street, 215-468-7500