Philadelphia-based sandwich shop Ricci’s Hoagies is expanding to Charlotte, according to a release. The franchise currently has two locations open in the Philadelphia area. This spot will be its first out-of-state expansion.
The forthcoming location, expected to take a 1,000-square-foot space at Centro NoDa at 715 East 36th Street in the Art District, is slated to open in late 2025. Todd Garofalo will be the franchisee for the location, which will mark his first venture into the restaurant industry. Garofalo has always had a passion for food and was interested in opening a restaurant. When he first dined at Ricci’s Hoagies in Philadelphia, he was impressed by the quality and warm atmosphere. When he learned that the company was franchising, he decided to take the leap.
“The first time I ever visited Ricci’s, I immediately fell in love with the concept,” Garofalo said in the release. “Our goal is to bring the Charlotte experience to life with the same pride, tradition and sense of community and connection that everyone cherishes at the Philly locations. I look forward to introducing the Queen City to that spirit.”
The brand, founded in 1920, is known for its authentic Italian hoagies. The sandwiches are crafted with hand-sliced meats, locally baked rolls and fresh vegetables.
“The best hoagie starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Italian flavors, and most importantly, a lot of heart,” Michael Pagliarella, owner of Ricci’s Hoagies, said in the release. “Charlotte has an incredible food scene with a love for authenticity and craft — it felt like the perfect city to bring Ricci’s next chapter.”
By the end of 2025, Ricci’s will have three locations open in Philadelphia and one in Charlotte. Garofalo hopes to continue to build the franchise’s footprint in Charlotte in the future.
