A Delaware-born chain whose sandwiches have long been a favorite of former President Joe Biden is coming to New Jersey.

As part of a franchise agreement with local husband-wife team Jimit Dharia and Urvi Jatania, Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop will launch 10 locations across the state, according to the fast-casual brand.

The first shop is slated to open Jan. 21 at 301 N. Harrison Street in Princeton. A timeline for when – or where – the next nine locations will come online was not provided. However, a spokesperson told NJBIZ Dharia and Jatania expect to unveil two stores somewhere in Central Jersey by mid-2025.

Founded 49 years ago in Wilmington by siblings Lois and Alan Margolet, Capriotti’s serves subs, cheesesteaks and salads at its more than 750 locations across the U.S.

Its menu includes “The Bobbie,” a Thanksgiving-style sub made with slow-roasted turkey topped with cranberry sauce, handmade stuffing and mayonnaise.

Besides being a bestseller for the chain, it was ranked as “The Greatest Sandwich in America” by AOL.com readers in 2009 and one of Thrillist’s top sandwiches in the country.

The Bobbie is also one of Biden’s go-to items at Capriotti’s. When Biden lived in Delaware, he reportedly used to frequent Capriotti’s. So, when the chain unveiled its first Washington, D.C., shop in 2013, the then-vice president surprised customers when he arrived during the grand opening to buy subs for himself and President Barack Obama. The veep’s order included three Italian subs and a Bobbie.

Following Biden’s 2020 election victory, sales shot up 30% at Capriotti’s in DC, The Washingtonian reported at the time.

‘Eager to expand’

In addition to dine-in, carryout and delivery options, Capriotti’s has a catering lineup that includes cold sub party trays, box lunches and a hot homemade meatball bar.

Now owned by a group of Las Vegas investors, Capriotti’s aims to grow to over 750 units systemwide by 2032.

Within New Jersey, Capriotti’s faces competition from local grown chains such as Jersey Mike’s, Blimpie and Primo Hoagies. The state is also home to Wawa and QuickChek, which are known for their hoagies and sandwiches, as well as brands like Subway, Jimmy John’s and Firehouse Subs.

Dharia and his wife said they were drawn to Capriotti’s because of the brand’s reputation for premium, handcrafted sandwiches. Originally from India, the couple has lived in Central Jersey for 14 years, running other restaurants and a construction business.

“As someone who appreciates high-quality food, I’m excited to introduce our unique flavors, high-quality ingredients and exceptional fast-casual dining experience to the community. I’m eager to expand the Capriotti’s brand across the state,” Dharia said.

America’s favorite?

When it comes to the best and most convenient spots to grab a sandwich, two New Jersey brands are among America’s favorite places to go, according to USA Today readers. Find out which topped the list >>