Admin: Created page with "'''Kappy's Subs''' is a longtime sandwich shop and diner located in Maitland, Florida. Established in 1967, the restaurant became a well-known Central Florida landmark, recognized for its submarine sandwiches, Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, hamburgers, and traditional diner atmosphere. For generations, Kappy's has been a gathering place for local residents and visitors, earning a reputation as one of Maitland's enduring independent restaurants.Jason Byrne, "[htt..."

2026-10-30T00:31:23Z

Created page with "'''Kappy's Subs''' is a longtime sandwich shop and diner located in Maitland, Florida. Established in 1967, the restaurant became a well-known Central Florida landmark, recognized for its submarine sandwiches, Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, hamburgers, and traditional diner atmosphere. For generations, Kappy's has been a gathering place for local residents and visitors, earning a reputation as one of Maitland's enduring independent restaurants.<ref>Jason Byrne, "[htt..."

New page

'''Kappy's Subs''' is a longtime sandwich shop and diner located in [[Maitland, Florida]]. Established in 1967, the restaurant became a well-known Central Florida landmark, recognized for its submarine sandwiches, Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, hamburgers, and traditional diner atmosphere. For generations, Kappy's has been a gathering place for local residents and visitors, earning a reputation as one of Maitland's enduring independent restaurants.<ref>Jason Byrne, "[https://floridahistoryblog.com/kappys-subs-in-maitland-is-a-step-back-in-time/ Kappy's Subs in Maitland is a Step Back in Time]," Florida History Blog, April 6, 2024.</ref>

== History ==

The building that would eventually become Kappy's Subs originally opened as a What-a-Burger restaurant in 1963. The establishment featured a traditional drive-up service, where customers could order food without leaving their vehicles.

In 1967, Isidore "Itch" P. Kaplan and his wife, Anne, purchased the business and reopened it as Kappy's Submarine Sandwiches. They expanded the menu to include submarine sandwiches while continuing to serve hamburgers and other traditional American diner favorites. The restaurant became particularly known for its New York-style hot dogs and made-to-order sandwiches.<ref>Jason Byrne, "[https://floridahistoryblog.com/kappys-subs-in-maitland-is-a-step-back-in-time/ Kappy's Subs in Maitland is a Step Back in Time]," Florida History Blog.</ref>

In 1974, Warren Robert "Bob" Caplan and his wife, Claudia, took over the restaurant. Although the spelling of their surname differed from the original Kaplan family, they retained the Kappy's name. The Caplan family continued operating the business for decades, maintaining much of its original character and traditional menu.

Bob Caplan eventually retired in 2008, and the restaurant continued under the management of his daughter, Rachel Milsom, with subsequent family involvement from the next generation.<ref>Jason Byrne, "[https://floridahistoryblog.com/kappys-subs-in-maitland-is-a-step-back-in-time/ Kappy's Subs in Maitland is a Step Back in Time]," Florida History Blog.</ref>

== Restaurant and Atmosphere ==

Kappy's became known for its distinctive old-fashioned diner setting. Located near the intersection of North Orlando Avenue (U.S. Highway 17-92) and Sybelia Avenue, the restaurant sat alongside railroad tracks and retained much of the appearance and character of an earlier era.

Its traditional setup included counter seating, outdoor picnic tables, and a casual ordering arrangement that reflected its roots as a neighborhood diner. The restaurant's relatively modest appearance contrasted with the rapid commercial development surrounding it.

The menu included:

* Philly cheesesteak sandwiches
* Italian sausage subs
* Traditional submarine sandwiches
* Hamburgers and hot dogs
* Chicken tenders
* French fries and onion rings
* Milkshakes and other beverages

Kappy's became especially popular for its cheesesteaks and New York-style hot dogs. Its recognizable mascot, Sammy Sub, was another part of the restaurant's identity.<ref>Jason Byrne, "[https://floridahistoryblog.com/kappys-subs-in-maitland-is-a-step-back-in-time/ Kappy's Subs in Maitland is a Step Back in Time]," Florida History Blog.</ref>

== The 2024 Closure and Reopening ==

In September 2024, Kappy's announced that it would have to close after being unable to reach an agreement to extend its property lease. The announcement prompted an outpouring of support from longtime customers, many of whom visited the restaurant to enjoy one last meal and show their appreciation for the family and its employees.

The restaurant served what was expected to be its final meals on September 14, 2024, ending a run of more than 50 years in Maitland.<ref>WESH 2 News, "[https://www.wesh.com/article/kappys-subs-closes-maitland/62203654 Maitland's iconic Kappy's Subs serves its final meals after over 50 years in business]," September 14, 2024.</ref>

However, following the community's response, the owners reached a new lease agreement. Kappy's announced that it would reopen on September 23, 2024, allowing the restaurant to continue serving its customers.<ref>WESH 2 News, "[https://www.wesh.com/article/kappys-subs-reopen-maitland-sandwich-shop/62243159 Kappy's Subs to reopen; owners thank community for all the love]," September 17, 2024.</ref>

The reopening was celebrated by longtime patrons who viewed the restaurant as an important part of Maitland's local identity.

== Location and Information ==

'''Kappy's Subs'''
501 North Orlando Avenue
Maitland, Florida 32751
Phone: (407) 647-9099

'''Website:''' [https://www.kappyssubsfl.com/ Official Kappy's Subs Website]

According to the restaurant's published hours:

* Monday – Saturday: 10:30 a.m. – 8:45 p.m.
* Sunday: Closed

== Legacy ==

Kappy's Subs represents a surviving example of the traditional neighborhood restaurants that once characterized many Central Florida communities. Its longevity, family ownership, and connection to generations of local customers have made it more than simply a place to eat.

In a region that has experienced tremendous growth and commercial development, Kappy's has remained a recognizable piece of Maitland's history and local culture.

For many Central Florida residents, Kappy's is associated with childhood memories, family outings, school lunches, and the familiar experience of visiting a local establishment that has remained part of the community for decades.

== References == <references />

[[Category:Maitland]]
[[Category:Restaurants in Central Florida]]
[[Category:Central Florida History]]
[[Category:Local Businesses]]

Kappy's Subs - Revision history