THE GREAT DEBATE - The Italian sub VS. The Maine Italian Sub

Ali Farrell
Jan 28
3 min read

Why is the Maine version so different?

The "Maine Italian" was invented by Giovanni Amato in Portland in 1902. He was a baker selling fresh rolls to dockworkers; they asked him to slice the bread and put something in it. Because it was invented by an Italian immigrant, it was called an "Italian sandwich," even though the ingredients (ham, American cheese, pickles) aren't traditionally Italian

Key Differences

1. The Bread

The classic Italian uses bread with heirloom crunch—the kind that might scrape the roof of your mouth. The Maine Italian, pioneered by Amato’s in Portland back in 1902, uses a soft, pillowy roll that is designed to soak up the oil without putting up a fight.

2. The "Meat" Philosophy

Classic: It's all about the "bite" and spice of cured meats like pepperoni and spicy capicola.
Maine: It is intentionally mild. Traditionally, it uses boiled ham. The flavor comes from the salt and the veggies rather than the heat of the meat.

3. The Vegetable Medley

This is the biggest visual giveaway. A Maine Italian is famous for its chopped vegetables. You won't find shredded iceberg lettuce here. Instead, you get a line of crunchy green peppers, onions, and specifically sour chopped pickles and pitted black olives.

4. The Dressing

Classic: A zingy vinaigrette that provides acidity.
Maine: A generous dousing of plain salad oil. It’s less about "tang" and more about creating a rich, savory mouthfeel that melds the soft bread and cheese together.

Pro Tip: If you're ordering in Maine, don't ask for "everything" unless you're ready for those black olives and sour pickles—they are the signature of the sandwich!

But Munchies, where should I go to find one?!?!?

The Original

Amato's Sandwich Shop (Portland): The birthplace of the sandwich (1902). Go to the original India Street location for the most authentic experience. They are famous for their soft, house-baked rolls and signature sour pickles.

Midcoast Options

Local Favorites and Specialists

Myrtle Street Tavern (Rockland) - Keep an eye out for their grilled Italian Panini (Amazeballs)
French and Brawn (Camden)
Metcalf's Submarine Sandwiches (Damariscotta)
Camden Deli (Camden)
Big Top Delicatessen (Brunswick)

Traditional Maine-Style Italians

Amato's (Rockland, Brunswick, Portland, plus about 15 more locations) The original.
Sam's Italian Foods (Brunswick, Augusta, Lewiston Auburn, Lisbon Falls, Dixfield, Freeport, Rumford, Topsham, Waterville) The primary rival to Amato’s in Central Maine since 1939.
Sisters Gourmet Deli (Bath) Try a panini while you’re there.

Portland Neighborhood Gems

Quality Shop (Portland): A true "corner store" on Stevens Avenue. It is highly rated by locals for having the freshest vegetables and a no-frills, traditional atmosphere.
DiPietro’s Market (South Portland): A family-owned pillar of the community. It’s the go-to spot for that nostalgic, homemade taste that hasn't changed in decades.

Top Spots Outside Portland

George’s Sandwich Shop (Biddeford): Often cited as a contender for the best in the state. They have a massive local following and have stuck to the same strict traditional recipe for over 50 years.
Freshies (Multiple Locations): Don’t laugh - While it is a gas station chain, it’s a Maine cult favorite. If you are traveling in more rural areas or further north, their "built-to-order" Maine Italians are surprisingly authentic and fresh.

Quick Tips for Ordering:

Ham is the default: If you just say "an Italian," you're getting ham.
The Veggie List: A true Maine Italian includes onions, green peppers, tomatoes, sour pickles, and Greek olives.
Salt, Pepper, Oil: Always say "yes" to these—they are what bring the whole sandwich together.