Ranelli’s Deli Italian sub named best in Alabama

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sub shop
Sarah and Rick Ranelli holding the best sub in Alabama – Richman Po’Boy. (Sabrina Palmer / Bham Now)

Ranelli’s Deli, one of Birmingham’s most beloved eateries, has the best Italian sub in Alabama, according to national foodie digital publication The Takeout.

Established in 1971, this is not the first time the eclectic family-owned Five Points South Italian cafe has drawn national attention. 

Back in 2020, the Food Network proclaimed this Birmingham original the best deli in Alabama.

Alabama’s Best Sub: Richman Po’Boy

best Italian Sub
Ranelli’s Deli & Cafe Richman Po’Boy/(Sabrina Palmer / Bham Now)

Which Ranelli’s Sub caught The Takeout’s attention as the best in Alabama? The Richman Po’Boy, of course!

Here are the ingredients:

  • Ham
  • Corned beef
  • Peppered beef
  • Italian salami
  • Pastrami
  • Swiss cheese
  • Provolone cheese
  • Mustard
  • Topped with Ranelli’s olive salad

If there was an Italian Sub National Hall of Fame, the Richman would be a prominent fixture. In fact, this isn’t the first time a national publication has honored the legendary sandwich. 

In 2025, Cheapism named the Richman to its best subs, grinders and hoagies in America list.

In addition to great food, what also makes Ranelli’s special are the owners, Rick and Sarah Ranelli. They make every sub with care and pride, and it shows!

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Pat Byington
Pat Byington

Longtime conservationist. Former Executive Director at the Alabama Environmental Council and Wild South. Publisher of the Bama Environmental News for more than 18 years. Career highlights include playing an active role in the creation of Alabama's Forever Wild program, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Dugger Mountain Wilderness, preservation of special places throughout the East through the Wilderness Society and the strengthening (making more stringent) the state of Alabama's cancer risk and mercury standards.

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