Food trend forecasts for 2012 have sandwiches popping up here and there, but notations about ethnic fusion sandwiches and fresh takes on grilled cheese in no way predicted the recent stack shop run Wilmington is experiencing.

Three new sandwich-centric places have opened in the past month. Yet another is scheduled to debut in mid-October when Capriotti’s unveils its first North Carolina location at Hanover Shopping Center, 3501 Oleander Dr., No. 2.

Capriotti’s spokeswoman Bridget Strickland described the eatery as “a gourmet sandwich shop that specializes in fresh, whole-roasted turkey meat and unique menu options …”

Subs, salads and sandwiches make up the list, which includes the Bobbie, prepared with turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing and light mayonnaise.

House slow-roasted turkey, provolone cheese, Russian dressing and coleslaw land on the Cole Turkey while house-roasted beef makes up a similar combination on the Slow BeJo.

Vegetarians may choose sandwiches made with “meatless” turkey, chicken and burgers.

A chopped Italian salad and build-your-own salads are available, too.

Capriotti’s has more than 80 locations nationwide, Stickland said.

Capriotti’s founder Lois Margolet actually started the chain in Wilmington, Del., where she grew up. The first Capriotti’s opened in 1976 in that Wilmington’s Little Italy neighborhood, according to the company website.

Margolet wanted to “capture the hearts of ‘real turkey lovers’ by roasting whole, fresh turkeys for sandwiches” an idea that Margolet thought would distinguish Capriotti’s from the neighborhood’s many other sandwich shops.

The company started adding more stores in 1987.

Find new sandwich menus, too, at The Pub at Sweet ’n’ Savory, 2012 Eastwood Road; Which Wich, Mayfaire Town Center; and Jason’s Deli, 5703 Market St., next door to Olive Garden.