Hoagies are large sandwiches filled with meats, vegetables, and cheeses on a split roll. In honor of National Eat a Hoagie Day—September 14—learn some interesting facts about them. After you’ve read these mouthwatering tidbits, head down to your local diner and order a delicious hoagie to celebrate.

3 Fascinating Hoagie Facts

1. Hoagies Are Known by Many Names

Hoagies are known by many different names. Depending on where you live, they can be called grinders, submarines (or subs), heroes, poor boys (or po’ boys), torpedoes, or zeps. No matter what you call them or how you fill or dress them, hoagies from east to west are made on a crusty or soft-and-chewy split roll. Many diners also have their own takes on the sandwich, perhaps layering them with grilled ribeye and marinated chicken like 416 Diner’s Hunter Hoagie.

2. Hoagies Were (Probably) Invented in Philadelphia

There are conflicting stories about the origin of the hoagie. Most people  agree that it was invented in Philadelphia. One origin story claims that workers at the Hog Island shipyard in Philly would eat sandwiches wrapped in newspaper on their lunch breaks. Because shipyard workers were called hogs, their lunch sandwiches were termed hoggies and, later, hoagies.

3. National Eat a Hoagie Day

You don’t need an excuse to eat a hoagie. Not to be confused with National Hoagie Day, which is on May 5, National Eat a Hoagie Day is observed annually on September 14. Celebrate by heading to a diner with friends and family and have the whole bunch order delicious hoagies. Don’t forget to take a picture of your meal and post it online, tagging it with the name of the diner, your location, and the #NationalEatAHoagieDay hashtag.

Celebrate National Eat a Hoagie Day by ordering one of the delectable hoagies from 416 Diner in Dayton, OH. This well-loved restaurant has become a popular stop for locals and visitors alike. Stop in to experience an old-fashioned diner and its welcoming atmosphere. The menu is filled to the limit with mouth-watering comfort food, including the Hunter Hoagie and the Bacon C.C.R. Stop by for breakfast or lunch or to fulfill a late-night weekend craving. Call (937) 461-0416 for more information, or visit the website to check out the menu.