Our Story

About Primo hoagies

Philadelphia's home of handcrafted primo hoagies — made fresh, served bold, loved by the community since 2001.

Primo hoagies kitchen — fresh ingredients being prepared
20+ Years Serving Philadelphia

How primohoagies Became a Philadelphia Institution

It started with a simple belief: a great hoagie should never be rushed. When our founder, Marco DiLorenzo, opened the doors of Primo hoagies in Northeast Philadelphia in 2001, he brought with him decades of family tradition and an unwavering commitment to quality ingredients.

"Every hoagie we make carries the same love and care as the very first one I made in my mother's kitchen."
— Marco DiLorenzo, Founder

What began as a modest neighborhood deli on Welsh Road quickly earned a loyal following. Word spread through Philadelphia that this was the place for primo hoagies — stuffed generously, made fresh to order, with bread baked daily and meats hand-sliced right in front of you.

Today, Primo hoagies continues that same tradition, serving the community with pride from our 2417 Welsh Rd location in Philadelphia, PA 19114.

2001
Year Founded
50K+
Hoagies Served
30+
Menu Items
4.9★
Average Rating

What Drives the Primo Spirit

Our mission is to craft the finest primo hoagies in Philadelphia — using locally sourced ingredients, time-honored recipes, and the kind of genuine hospitality that makes every customer feel like family. We believe great food brings people together, and every sandwich we make is a reflection of that belief.

The Principles Behind Every Bite

Fresh Ingredients

We source locally whenever possible and hand-slice all our meats and cheeses fresh each morning. No shortcuts, no compromises.

Community First

Primo hoagies has always been rooted in the Philadelphia community. We give back, support local suppliers, and treat every customer like a neighbor.

Unmatched Quality

Every hoagie is made to order. Every roll is baked fresh. Every detail matters — because you deserve the best primos can offer.

Genuine Hospitality

From the moment you walk in, you're family. Our team takes pride in warm, personal service that keeps customers coming back for decades.

The Primo hoagies Story, Year by Year

From a small neighborhood deli to Philadelphia's most beloved hoagie destination — here's how we got here.

2001 — The Beginning

Grand Opening on Welsh Road

Marco DiLorenzo opens Primo hoagies at 2417 Welsh Rd in Northeast Philadelphia, bringing family recipes and a passion for handcrafted hoagies to the neighborhood.

2004 — Recognition

Philadelphia's Best Hoagie Award

Just three years in, Primo hoagies earns its first "Best Hoagie in Philadelphia" recognition from local food critics, cementing its status as a must-visit destination.

2008 — Expansion

Full Menu Refresh & Catering Launch

We expand our menu to over 30 items and launch a dedicated catering service, bringing primo hoagies to offices, events, and celebrations across Philadelphia.

2013 — Community

Annual Hoagie Festival Founded

Primo launches the Annual Northeast Philly Hoagie Festival, a beloved community event that draws thousands of food lovers each summer and raises funds for local schools.

2018 — Innovation

Online Ordering & Fresh Delivery

Embracing the digital age, Primo hoagies launches online ordering and local delivery, making it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite primos at home or the office.

2024 — Today

Still Crafting, Still Serving

Over two decades and 50,000+ hoagies later, Primo hoagies remains committed to the same values that started it all — fresh, handcrafted, made with love for every customer.

The Faces Behind Every Primo Hoagie

Our dedicated team brings skill, passion, and heart to every sandwich we make. Meet the crew that keeps Primo hoagies running.

Founder & Owner

Marco DiLorenzo

The heart and soul of Primo hoagies. Marco's decades of culinary passion and commitment to quality are baked into every sandwich we serve.

Head Chef

Sofia Mancini

Sofia oversees all recipe development and kitchen operations. A culinary school graduate with a love for Italian-American flavors and bold combinations.

Sandwich Specialist

James Ortega

With 12 years at Primo hoagies, James knows every ingredient by heart. His precision and speed ensure every hoagie is made perfectly, every time.

Customer Experience

Priya Patel

Priya ensures every customer leaves happy. Her warmth, attentiveness, and passion for hospitality define the Primo hoagies experience from the first hello.

Want to be part of the Primo hoagies family?

Contact Us About Opportunities

Experience Primo hoagies Today

Stop by our Philadelphia location or order online. Handcrafted primo hoagies, made fresh just for you — every single time.

+1 215-677-3888 [email protected] 2417 Welsh Rd Ste 12, Philadelphia, PA