Wawa, a beloved institution among Philadelphians, is renowned for its hoagies — those overstuffed, messy creations that deliver on both flavor and satisfaction. With the imminent return of the iconic Gobbler, a Thanksgiving feast on a roll, we can’t help but celebrate by ranking Wawa’s hoagies from best to, well, less best.
Key Takeaways
- Comfort on a Roll: The Gobbler
- The Benchmark: Classic Italian Hoagie
- Simplicity at its Finest: Ham Hoagie
- A Nod to Tradition: Meatball Parm Sandwich
- For the Eccentric Palate: Meatball Sandwich, Standard
- The Ben Affleck of Sandwiches: Turkey Hoagie
- Timing is Everything: Cheesesteak Before Midnight
- A Lesson in Disappointment: Chicken/Tuna Salad
- Green and Guilt-Free: Roasted Veggie Hoagie
- A Hidden Gem: Roast Beef Hoagie
- When Cheese Takes Center Stage: Cheese Hoagie
- Strictly for the Young at Heart: Chicken-Finger Hoagie
- Pepperoni Pretender: Hot or Cold
- A Failed Bacon Attempt: BLT Hoagie
- Honorable Mentions
Comfort on a Roll: The Gobbler
Unquestionably, the Gobbler takes the top spot. This heavenly sandwich combines all the flavors of a holiday meal into a portable delight. Warm, sloppy, and irresistibly cheap, it’s a shame this masterpiece isn’t available year-round. If only it came with a side of mashed potatoes for dipping!
The Benchmark: Classic Italian Hoagie
Consider the Wawa Italian hoagie the benchmark for all others. With its thin, folded stack of ham, not-really-capicola hot ham, and thinly-sliced salami, along with lettuce, onion, tomato, and provolone, this hoagie sets the standard. Best enjoyed as leftovers, make sure to add enough oil to keep the bread soft and squishy. And why not go for double meat? You deserve it.
Simplicity at its Finest: Ham Hoagie
Sometimes simplicity is the key, and Wawa’s standard-issue ham hoagie proves just that. Packed with all the normal vegetables, American or Swiss cheese, salt, pepper, and oil, this damn fine sandwich hits the spot every time.
A Late-Night Wildcard: Cheesesteak After Midnight
There’s something about the late hours and a certain blood-alcohol content that elevates the Wawa cheesesteak to a whole new level. When everything else is closed, a hot, gooey, and salty Wawa cheesesteak becomes a culinary saving grace.
A Nod to Tradition: Meatball Parm Sandwich
While not outstanding, the meatball parm sandwich serves a specific purpose in Philly’s sandwich scene — it’s the sandwich you order when you’re in dire need of a meatball fix and Wawa is your closest option. Opt for the fully-loaded parm version for a more satisfying experience.
For the Eccentric Palate: Meatball Sandwich, Standard
If you’re a fan of hot meatball sandwiches with Miracle Whip and pickles, why not let your freak flag fly and order Wawa’s standard meatball sandwich? It may not be the popular choice, but it’s there for those who dare to be different.
The Ben Affleck of Sandwiches: Turkey Hoagie
Like ketchup on a burger, the turkey hoagie satisfies but rarely surprises. It’s a safe choice but hardly a standout.
Timing is Everything: Cheesesteak Before Midnight
Let’s be honest, nobody should order a Wawa cheesesteak before midnight. Timing is everything when it comes to enjoying this classic Philadelphia delight.
A Lesson in Disappointment: Chicken/Tuna Salad
Despite Harry Styles’ infamous tuna salad order, it’s best to steer clear of Wawa’s chicken or tuna salad sandwiches. They rarely live up to our expectations, and you’ll likely end up wearing them on your pants.
Green and Guilt-Free: Roasted Veggie Hoagie
Are you trying to impress someone standing in line at Wawa? If you’re not a vegetarian, skip the roasted veggie hoagie and indulge in an Italian hoagie instead. But if you’re following a plant-based diet, go ahead and enjoy guilt-free.
Did you know Wawa has a roast beef hoagie? Neither did we, but now we do. A surprising addition to the menu that demands further exploration.
When Cheese Takes Center Stage: Cheese Hoagie
Some swear by Wawa’s cheese hoagie — a mishmash of available cheeses and hoagie toppings. However, it often lacks the meaty goodness that makes a hoagie truly satisfying.
Strictly for the Young at Heart: Chicken-Finger Hoagie
Unless you’re a drunken teenager or a child under 10, ordering a chicken-finger hoagie might raise a few eyebrows. Leave this one to the young and the young at heart.
Pepperoni Pretender: Hot or Cold
A personal vendetta, Wawa’s pepperoni hoagie attempts to imitate a pizza sandwich but falls short. Let’s leave pepperoni as a pizza topping where it belongs.
A Failed Bacon Attempt: BLT Hoagie
Bacon is not Wawa’s strong suit. Forgo the BLT hoagie and opt for their more successful offerings.
Honorable Mentions
While not hoagies, Wawa’s cheeseburgers deserve a shoutout. Despite being far from gourmet, they possess a nostalgic charm reminiscent of frozen, microwaveable burgers from yesteryear. Plus, their fries, especially when air-fried at home, surpass most fast food options. And let’s not forget the surprisingly good panini, customizable to your heart’s desire.
As we eagerly await the return of the Gobbler, let’s toast to Wawa’s hoagies — each with its own unique personality and flavor profile. Whether you crave comfort or seek adventure, Wawa’s sandwich lineup has something for everyone. So, embark on your own hoagie adventure and savor the taste of Philadelphia’s iconic culinary culture.
For more information about Wawa and their mouthwatering offerings, visit their website Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ.
