Tucked into a no-frills corner of Harrisburg, Jackson House is where lunchtime legends are born.
This cash-only, no-nonsense deli has been slinging stupidly good sandwiches and burgers since the ’80s, drawing politicians, construction crews, and savvy tourists into its gloriously cramped embrace.
Come for the food, stay for the show: three staff members orchestrate lunch rush like it’s the Super Bowl halftime show.
Tip: bring exact change and a game plan – hesitation at the counter is a capital offense here!
Food Highlights
- Jackson Burger: A half-pound behemoth dripping with aged provolone and crowned with thick-cut bacon. Reviewers swear it’s “drip-down-your-arm good” 🏆, with beef so juicy it’s been called “Philly’s secret revenge on New York.”
- Mrs. Andreoli’s Old Italian Hoagie: Stacked with cured meats, sharp provolone, and pickled peppers on a roll shipped daily from Philadelphia. One Yelper declared it “the reason hoagies exist.”
- Cheese Whiz Steak: Philly purists might side-eye the Whiz, but locals line up for this melty, messy masterpiece. Pro move: add caramelized onions and let the cheese lava flow. 🌋
- Bada Bing Hoagie: Named like a Sopranos episode, this spicy Italian sub packs soppressata, hot capicola, and pepper shooters – aka “crack in vegetable form” according to regulars.
- Pepper Shooters: These pickled cherry peppers stuffed with prosciutto and provolone are so addictive, one reviewer joked they “need a support group.” 🌶️
- Super Tossed Salad: For the 1% who aren’t here for meat comas. Fresh greens loaded with toppings – because even vegetarians deserve joy.
Atmosphere
Imagine the energy of a Black Friday sale… but for sandwiches.
The tiny space hums with the clatter of grill spatulas and the sweet chaos of lunch-rush negotiations. 🏃♂️💨
First-timers gawk at the line snaking out the door while regulars shout their orders like seasoned auctioneers.
Don’t expect comfy seats or mood lighting – the real decor is the wall of signed celeb photos and the collective drool over sizzling burgers.
Why It’s One of the Best in Pennsylvania
Jackson House doesn’t just serve food – it delivers edible time capsules.
The hoagie rolls arrive daily from Philly bakeries, the provolone ages like a fine wine, and the staff treats every order like it’s their last meal on earth.
It’s the rare spot where tourists and state legislators elbow each other for a taste, united by melted cheese and sheer hunger.
Want bragging rights? Try surviving lunch without getting sauce on your shirt.
Address: 1004 N 6th St, Harrisburg, PA 17102