An authentic Italian sandwich is not the one you find in every corner shop or petrol station, but it is not the most grotesque creation of an American's imagination.  My idea of a 'real' Italian sandwich is somewhere between these two extremes.  -It has to be made with quality ingredients, and it must be fresh.  -The bread needs to be crunchy outside and soft inside.  To me, a good Italian sandwich is not one you eat quickly while standing up or taking away; it's one to be enjoyed with people around you who are sharing the same experience too.