One of the Best Sub Shops in America Is Based Here in Maine

We love our subs and sandwiches up here in Maine, so it’s no surprise that this spot was recently named one of the best in America!

While Maine may not be as densely populated as some states to our southwest, we’ve still got a pretty remarkable Italian population here. And if this latest accolade doesn’t prove it, just know—we also know how to track down a truly great Italian sub.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock

So, with that in mind, what’s the criteria for something like this, and who’s making the call when it comes to deciding which sub shops stand out from the rest?

Mashed set out to find the very best Italian subs in America by searching across the country for spots that honor tradition, using authentic ingredients, time-tested techniques, and family recipes passed down through generations.

Alright, now that we’ve covered that, which sub shop right here in our Pine Tree State is serving up one of the absolute best Italian subs in the country?

According to Mashed and their recent report highlighting ‘The 15 Absolute Best Italian Subs in the US,’ the list includes the Real Italian at Amato’s, which has nearly two dozen locations across Maine. Mashed had the following to say about their selection:

Ham and cheese. It's a combo associated with lunches packed by mom, but up north they form the building blocks of a regional delicacy. Taste Atlas ranks Amato's, a Maine-based sandwich chain, among the top destinations for an Italian due to their unique specialty only found in The Pine Tree State.

Credit: Amato's on Facebook

Amato’s Original Real Italian sandwich was created in 1902 by Italian immigrant Giovanni Amato, who originally sold it from a street cart in Portland.

Mashed continues by highlighting the Real Italian’s unique twist on tradition—swapping salami and provolone for deli ham and American cheese, then loading it with chopped veggies and a simple oil dressing.

Credit: Amato's on Facebook

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Well, there you have it! If you’re searching for one of the best Italian subs in America, Amato’s is getting some well-deserved national attention.

What are your thoughts on this pick from Mashed? What’s your go-to sub and favorite sub shop in Maine? We’d love to hear from you—feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.