Known for its Pittsburgh-style sandwiches, Primanti Bros. has become a local institution since opening its doors in 1933. Here's your primer on everything Primanti Bros., including a brief history, more about the famous sandwich components and Pittsburgh locations.
History
The story behind Primanti Brothers is a humble one. Owner and founder Joe Primanti started his business during the Great Depression stationing a sandwich cart in the ever-busy Strip District of Pittsburgh. When he'd built a solid reputation of delivering tasty sandwiches, he partnered with his brothers and opened a storefront restaurant, a location that currently still stands in the Strip District on 18th and Smallman streets. The first store was open from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. most days.
The original owner retired in the 1940s and 30 or so years later, new ownership took the original vision he had for his sandwich shop and translated it to new locations located throughout Pittsburgh and the state at large. Today, locations of Primanti Bros. can be found in other states as well, including Florida, Maryland, Ohio, West Virginia and Indiana.
The Almost Famous sandwich and other menu items
The sandwich is what started it all and at Primanti Bros., the Almost Famous has a special composition. Two thick slices of Italian bread are filled with either a choice of beef or pork, cheese, coleslaw and french fries. In the years since 1933, the restaurant's menu has expanded to include wings, pizza and a variety of appetizers. Check your restaurant's location for specific menu details.
Locations
As Primanti Bros. is a franchise chain sandwich shop, there are several locations throughout the state of Pennsylvania. A total of 27 shops are in the state, with nine of those locations in the metro Pittsburgh area. The original location, which opened in 1933, is at 46 18th St. in the Strip District of Pittsburgh. Other locations nearby include PNC Park, Heinz Field, PPG Paints Arena, Market Square, South Side, Oakland, Garfield and The Waterfront. To see all the locations as well as menu and directions, visit the Primanti Bros. website.
Other things to know
Primanti Bros. offers periodic promotions. Starting at 9 p.m., select Primanti Bros. restaurants offer late night deals. Check with your specific location for details. Half-priced happy hour is another running promotion. Every day, at select hours depending on your location, restaurant guests can partake in half-priced drinks and slices of pizza.
Pizza lovers should arrive on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the Primanti Bros. Pizza Feast. For $14.99, customers can get a 14-inch pizza, with three toppings, salad and a soda. Replace the soda with a pitcher of beer for an additional cost. Appetizers such as wings, mozzarella cheese sticks, queso and chips or loaded tater tots can be purchased as well.
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