During Thursday’s grand opening here in D.C., Capriotti’s — a sandwich shop that got under way nearly four decades ago in Wilmington, Del. — got a visit from a very special fan: sub-dispatcher-in-chief Joseph R. Biden Jr.

The Delaware Democrat strode into the new location (1800 M St. NW) and was immediately welcomed by thunderous applause. The store was packed with friends and family of the Capriotti’s chain (95 stores and counting), while Racing Presidents, freebie-seekers and star-struck tourists milled about outside.

Once at the counter, Biden ordered lunch for himself and President Barack Obama. He put in for two medium Italian subs — “We don’t call them hoagies in Delaware. We call them subs,” VPOTUS explained to the crush of reporters on hand for the lunch outing — both stripped of onions, an order of hot peppers on the side, one large “Bobbie” (a Thanksgiving-style mash-up of roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing and mayo) and another large Italian sub, again with hot peppers on the side.

The crowd erupted in laughter after Capriotti’s CEO Ashley Morris recited back the charge ($56.25), at which point Biden, who discovered he only had $50 on him, called back to staff to loan him a few bucks.

When a Capriotti’s staffer offered to comp the Bobbie for Biden, VPOTUS brushed aside the kind offer.

“I have been going to Capriotti’s in Union Street [510 Union St., Wilmington, Del.] for the last 40 years. I have paid every time I’ve gone,” he proudly stated. “In Delaware you pay. It’s simple.”

His order packed and ready, Biden assured press that this lunch delivery to the White House should settle, once and for all, which city produces the best handheld eats. (Except, of course, that Obama appears to be a Taylor Gourmet guy.)