If you’re driving down South Prince Street in Lancaster and blink, you might miss it. There aren’t any flashing neon signs or a massive marketing budget. It’s just a small, unassuming building that’s been holding down the corner since 1976. Honestly, if you judged Prince of Subs Lancaster by its exterior alone, you’d probably keep driving. But that would be a huge mistake.
While the rest of the world is busy obsessed with "aesthetic" brunch spots and overpriced artisanal toast, Prince of Subs has spent nearly five decades doing one thing: making food that hits the spot at 1:00 AM. It’s a family-owned institution. Locals don’t come here for the décor or a quiet sit-down dinner; they come for the fried chicken that somehow manages to stay juicy even when it's blisteringly hot.
The Secret Menu Star: It’s Actually the Chicken
You’d think a place called Prince of Subs would be all about the bread. And yeah, the subs are solid. But talk to any regular, and they’ll tell you the same thing: you have to get the famous fried chicken.
It’s weirdly legendary.
People on Reddit and local food forums argue about it constantly. Some say it’s the best in the city, period. Others point out that it’s "tried and true" because it’s been the same recipe for decades. It’s not that fancy Korean double-fried stuff or a spicy Nashville bird. It’s just traditional, salty, crunchy-as-all-get-out fried chicken.
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- The 6-Wing Special: You can usually snag six whole wings for about $12.
- The Texture: The skin has that specific, heavy crunch that only comes from a seasoned pressure fryer or a very old, very well-loved deep fryer.
- The Vibe: Most people don't even go inside. They use the side window. You call it in, you walk up, you grab your bag, and you head home.
Prince of Subs Lancaster: More Than Just a Name
When you finally look past the chicken, the sub menu is massive. It’s the kind of place where the "Small" sub is basically a meal and the "Large" is a structural hazard.
The cheesesteaks are a big deal here. Specifically, the Chicken Cheesesteak and the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak get a lot of love. They don't skimp on the meat, and the rolls are soft enough to soak up the grease without falling apart. If you’re feeling particularly hungry, the Prince Burger is a 10oz beast that comes with fries, and it’s basically designed to put you into a food coma.
What to Order (If You Can’t Decide)
Honestly, just look at the board. But if you want the "true" experience, here is what usually flies out of that window:
- Steamed Shrimp: You can get 1/4 lb or a full pound. It’s a random addition for a sub shop, but it works.
- The Whole Leg Dinner: Two legs, fries, and a roll. It’s simple, cheap, and effective.
- Jumbo Butterfly Shrimp: 15 pieces for under $15? In this economy? That’s why people keep coming back.
- Fish Subs: They use haddock or catfish, and the Catfish Po-Boy with fries is a sleeper hit.
The Reality of the Atmosphere
Let's be real for a second. Prince of Subs has a reputation for being a bit "rough around the edges." It’s located at 145 South Prince St, right in the heart of a busy, urban part of Lancaster. There have been headlines in the past—like a shooting that happened nearby in late 2022—which sometimes gives newcomers pause.
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But if you ask the neighborhood regulars, they’ll tell you it’s just part of the city’s fabric. It’s a late-night spot. It’s open until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM most nights (except Mondays and Tuesdays when they’re closed). When everything else in Lancaster is shut down and you’re starving, the Prince is there.
It’s not a place for a first date unless your date really loves grease and authentic city vibes. It’s a pickup spot. You’re there for the food, the convenience, and the fact that they’ve survived 50 years in a changing city.
Why It Still Matters in 2026
Lancaster’s food scene has exploded lately. We’ve got high-end rooftops, vegan cafes, and trendy fusion spots. But those places come and go. Prince of Subs stays. It matters because it represents the "old" Lancaster—the one that doesn't care about Instagram filters.
The ownership hasn't changed hands a dozen times. It’s still family-run. That continuity is rare. When you bite into a wing, you’re tasting the same seasoning someone tasted in 1985. There’s something comforting about that.
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Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re going to hit up Prince of Subs Lancaster, do it right.
- Call Ahead: (717) 397-0965. Do not just show up and expect a 2-minute wait. They’re busy, especially late at night.
- The Window is King: Use the side window for pickup. It’s faster and just part of the ritual.
- Check the Hours: They are closed on Monday and Tuesday. Don't be the person pulling on a locked door at noon on a Monday.
- Bring an Appetite: The portions are generous. The "Munchies" section alone (jalapeño poppers, mozzarella sticks, etc.) is enough to fill you up.
If you want a real taste of the city that isn't curated for tourists, this is it. It’s salty, it’s greasy, and it’s exactly what a sub shop should be.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
Map out your route to 145 South Prince St and make sure to call in your order at least 20 minutes before you arrive. If it's your first time, stick to the 6-wing special or a Chicken Cheesesteak to get the authentic experience. Check their official website at https://www.google.com/search?q=princeofsubs.com for the most up-to-date pricing before you head out.