The secret to a great sandwich? The bread. So says Mike McDowell, owner of the recently opened Family Steaks & Hoagies at 212 S. Governors Ave., Dover.

    The store specializes in exactly what its name states — steak sandwiches and hoagies.

    “We’ve brought Philadelphia here,” said McDowell. “A lot of people don’t know that a hoagie is what people in Philadelphia call an Italian sub.”

    McDowell is learning the ropes from his parents, Ann and Pete Palumbo, both who have spent their lives working in the food or restaurant business. Opening up a shop is something Palumbo said they’ve talked about for years.

    “Dad’s starting me off, showing me the ropes,” he said.

    During the busy lunch hour, both Ann and Pete are hard at work taking orders and cooking for to- go or for sit-down customers in the 1,300-square-foot restaurant that seats 96.

    “It’s quick, quality and quantity,” Ann said. “I want to know everybody and want them to feel comfortable here.”

    The cheesesteaks are made, in traditional Philadelphia fashion, with Cheez Whiz and cost $6.50. Italian hoagies are $6.75. Sandwiches are made with bread brought down from Liscio’s Bakery in Philadelphia, of course.

    The store hours are from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and from 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Thursdays; 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Fridays; and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Saturdays. They are closed Sundays.

    Breakfast starts off the day with three types of breakfast sandwiches served on Kaiser rolls. French fries and drinks round out the sandwich offerings.