Chain Sandwich Shops Ranked From Worst To Best

[@MashedFood]

Which sandwich shop chain do you think is the best?

[@brownpapi960]

Capriotti's

[@tlomsland]

Jersey Mike's $$$

[@5610winston]

Blimpie, without a moment's hesitation.

[@Sailorgirl222]

Firehouse and Jersey Mikes are a tie for me.

[@julianadeau5797]

Strange I didn't see my favorite sandwich shop on this list. Goodcents pretty much beats all of these, except maybe Jersey Mike's, which I haven't yet tried. Their bread is baked fresh, everyday, their meats and cheeses are fresh-sliced and they had me at Capicolla. While Subway's not hard to beat, they are, by far and away better than Jimmy Johns.

[@jeffarose]

Quiznos from the 90's and early 2000's was the best sub shop around. They are the reason the other "sub" shops added toasters. Nothing could compete with their prime rib subs. Franchises actually sliced freshly cooked prime rib on site to make their subs and then sent them through a conveyer oven. Corporate cut corners and were sued by the franchisees. They ended up with dog food on their subs before some franchises returned to the good meats but couldn't survive without cooperate support and folded. The best sub shop that didn't make it.

[@djnes2k7]

This is a fact. That chili in bread bowl, and the salads were a good time

[@alwillk]

Yeah, Quiznos is good. Better than Jimmy johns and subway.

[@FactStorm]

Good points

[@bamafencer12]

Quiznos was the OG back in the day. The turkey bacon with honey mustard was amazing.

[@johniii8147]

They went under because of corrupt practices by corporate. Got greedy.

[@DarkEnv2]

You won me over the minute you put Subway dead last lol. Very solid list. My only complaint is Jason’s Deli didn’t make the list, very very good sandwiches there. Glad to see Publix getting the respect they deserve. Easily one of the best places to get a sub.

[@jamesleason4004]

jasons sandwiches are bland and overpriced affairs. We've had one in my little town for 30 years. I mean, sure they give you a lot of meat. But it doesn't seem to matter what you order, their food simply doesn't have any flavor.

[@DarkEnv2]

I get the California Club and it’s very flavorful for me.

[@leytonwest3241]

Bro this food is DELICOUS

[@djwheels66]

I have never heard of Jason’s Deli. Where can I find it?

[@lynnerose7891]

Love the salad bar at Jason’s Deli.

[@WorthyOfLove406]

Subway has basically become the Walmart of fast foods 😂

[@meadster308]

A healthier alternative to McDonald's

[@mickey34jb]

There are Subways located right inside a Wal-Mart as well

[@michaelvandyke6715]

@@meadster308 ,😂😂😂 Subway is pure swill....

[@meadster308]

My healthy comment is the only positive about Subway. It is swill.

[@sama2965]

I went to a subway for the first time in a few years recently. It's also way more expensive than I remember so it felt even more overpriced.

[@jackson7421]

Potbelly’s sandwiches are amazing. Especially with the pickled vegetables. Yummmmm

[@trishayamada807]

I only had them once, and it was absolutely delicious but this was in DC during a blizzard, while I was pregnant and had trudged through snow drifts. We went for vacation and it was a snowy disaster.

[@drewc7078]

There meat is good they use good Italian meat usually fresh as well but the bread is terrible

[@Rick-sm5xf]

When Publix grocers were mentioned, I could help but think of the many IGA grocers and other independent grocery stores that go out of their way to make fresh sandwiches on order. They deserve a shot at our business.

[@ReadR00ster1]

Harris Teeter has excellent subs as well

[@richardsmith4187]

Publix is awesome !!

[@KegstandOG]

IGA is old school where do you live that there are still IGA's? There's a few in Maine left but not many.

[@Rick-sm5xf]

@@KegstandOG CT

[@KegstandOG]

@@Rick-sm5xf Nice good brand imo.

[@TheAlibabatree]

I completely agree with this list. I get Fire House when I’m feeling “richer”, both in taste and financials. Jimmy Johns when i want something simple, quick, and tasty. Publix, when I’m particularly hungry and have the time to wait in their very long lines. And finally, Jersey Mike’s… well, i just go there for almost any occasion. Easily the best chain sub shop.

[@johniii8147]

Unfortunately, i've learned to avoid the Fire House near me. Very poorly managed location and something always goes wrong. I've reported them to corporate that they need to get to the location in order. But they are all franchised, so doubt that will happen. A one a few miles away is by far better. All the chains just vary by location.

[@dimmn82]

Used to work at Blimpie in a gas station. I can honestly say I preferred them over Subway. Firehouse is so expensive. But Publix sandwiches are amazing. Quizno's is great, but they filed bankruptcy because of the standards they hold. They will shut down a store who gives more meat than what Quizno's authorize.

[@AdamS-lh2ug]

We used to have a locally owned Blimpie in station across from a high school. The Blimpies was amazing and the gas station owner refused to ever sell a candy bar over $1. He wanted a place kids could afford a sandwich and candy bar.

[@dimmn82]

@@AdamS-lh2ug i'm craving blimpie now and i have no idea where one even is lol

[@richardsmith4187]

Blimpies was a very good sub

[@YOUREADY09]

Publix has the best sandwiches I’ve ever had. Whenever I visit family in Atlanta, I have to grab a sandwich while I’m there.

[@cdub]

You know it! I have two Publix within 5 miles of me and I'm always torn between their chicken tenders and roasted potatoes, or a nice sub from their deli.

[@bigt6359]

Wegmans has great subs in the north...just like Publix...fresh bread!

[@justpalms9978]

Publix chicken tender sub is King!

[@mattmcgriff5952]

Publix subs are excellent! Miss them now that we’ve moved out of Florida.

[@ryancarter2959]

Pub subs are far better than you would expect. Especially if you splurge and get Boar’s Head

[@silverback1138]

Good list! I'll have to try a few of these other ones. I will say that I miss old Quiznos before they tried to expand to fast. They had some really awesome unique sandwiches. Firehouse and Jersey Mike's are probably my favorites out of this list. They're definitely a level above the competition.

[@EthanRadell]

you try potbelly's? It does not disappoint. Their hot peppers are a FORCE. Get an italian or a Wreck with hot peppers and your brain will start glitching from all the dopamine.

[@sledawgpilot]

Seems to me Firehouse has some sweet ingredient in every sandwich which is not my thing. I wanted to like it but it’s not for me.

[@EthanRadell]

@@sledawgpilot really? Maybe that's what it is. I like savory and spicy. Never been a fan of sweet. Dont even really like candy

[@dextersmithbsee]

I agree. Quiznos was really good. It's hard to find one nowadays even in Atlanta, GA.

[@dextersmithbsee]

@@sledawgpilot Yesss! I tried one and it tasted like a sweet component was added to the sandwich. I like my sandwiches savory with umami undertones, not sickly sweet.

[@toddpeucker9905]

Schlotzsky 35 yrs ago was the absolute bomb. Togo's is amazing, and Roly Poly simply for the ridiculous amount of options you can throw together on a sandwich.

[@Krisna_K]

Never went there but they’re all gone in my area!

[@gmilesm8797]

I used to have a schlotzkys within walking distance from me. That was about 20 years ago and I now tell my daughters that they missed some very good sandwiches.

[@meganasp1498]

You don't have to go back 35 years. They were great within the last 5 to 8 years. Just went for my late bday from my mom and dad last year (we now have a 45 minute drive to get to one and we're visiting relatives in that direction). Service was so bad and the food was delivered so improperly that we got a $50 gift card. And they have closed so many locations! Eh, I wish they would do better these days.

[@bb_lz9790]

Togos was late night drinking food when I was in college. Still miss the No. 16, 40 some years later. I was introduced to Schlotzsky's in the summer of 1981 when I had a job in Texas. Brought a few Originals back from Wichita, Kansas when I had an interview trip there from college. We later had one in the town I live in, then they disappeared from Illinois and I had to rely on getting my fix in Maumee, OH on my drive from Chicago to Cleveland on a quarterly business trip. I'd stop there for lunch on the way out and visit again on my way home as my wife is a fan too. Now, we just have to wait until we visit family in the Phoenix area. We still love Schlotzsky's as do my kids and Grandkids!

[@sabinetripoli7532]

Ike's is always and forever my favorite. Moved out of CA but hopefully they will open one soon here in the DFW area. They keep branching out soooo...

[@jamesblanton3744]

I have never tried Jersey Mike's but Publix is amazing and I believe Fire House is better than Jimmy John's

[@m.b.2153]

Jersey Mike's is really Good !!!! Better than Firehouse !! I think ! 👍I use to live in Miami at the end off the 90s and have been back maybe once , wish I'd known about Publix ! That's where I shopped !

[@davidwoolbright3675]

I thought Jimmy John’s was pretty bad! I would rather have Subway.

[@orioles1971]

When Quiznos first came out they were the best. Bad management ruined a good sandwich shop.

[@AdamS-lh2ug]

They’re where amazing in the early 2000’s

[@dcyork2703]

I used to live in Long Island and there was a deli on every other corner where hat blows away all these chain stores. Damn I miss a good deli sandwich

[@shebadog9628]

I think all of these food comparison videos are made by people who have never lived in the NYC/North Jersey area.

[@LFROSTVEVO]

True. I'm still on LI, and our mom and pop delis are phenomenal, but you gotta appreciate the list for what it is. They talking best CHAIN sandwich shops. Also, I'm a little surprised capriottis isn't on this.

[@RichieLA1]

Publix rules! Taste (Boar's Head), Size (they're HUGE) and Price ($5.99 for a fully packed 12") can't be beat.

[@warrenjrjr4470]

PUBLIX GANG!!!

[@gorymarty56]

God I miss Publix

[@artistnyc123]

They are good but $5.99 is only the sale price of the featured sandwich, the bread is ok at best. By far the best sub is La Sandwicherie.

[@warrenjrjr4470]

@@artistnyc123 where are they located. I haven't heard of them before.

[@artistnyc123]

and check out the reviews on yelp.

[@kimpritchard4322]

Firehouse Subs is my favorite but ONLY if you eat the sandwich there. The steaming makes it incredible in-house but will give you a soggy sandwich if you take it anywhere. Quiznos is my 2nd favorite.

[@jernigan007]

I LOVED Schlotzsky's. Jalapeno cheese bread FTW! They disappeared in the Tampa Bay around 2000 😢 Jersey Mike's Big Kahuna Cheese Steak w/ cherry pepper relish is AMAZING. But the best is PUBLIX PUB SUBS !!!! Fresh baked bread all day long, deli meat & cheese sliced by hand. A 10" sub costs $6-10. Jerk chicken w/ smoked gouda & bacon is FANTASTIC 💯

[@warrenjrjr4470]

PUBLIX ALL DAY

[@brandonlytle9392]

Damn I haven't tried Jersey Mike's yet but when I do, that's the sandwich I'm ordering..sounds amazing..thanks for the tip

[@web5271]

And can pay 50 Cents extra for Boars Head meat. They don't skimp on anything. You can't put one in your mouth. Publix #1.

[@LyleFrancisDelp]

When it first started out, Subway was really quite special. We discovered it first on Crystal Beach, near Galveston, back in around 1988 or so. It was great for a good lunch. However, over the years, as it has expanded so quickly, quality control has suffered. These days, I won’t go near it.

[@jngibson24]

I actually LOVE Quiznos. I wish there were more around.

[@ronhanisco8697]

Toasted means stale bread. No thanks.

[@sixeightguy6723]

N…no it doesn’t. Do you want not understand how a toaster works?

[@kevinclapson]

Subway is still pretty big here (Oahu) but that's because there isn't much by way of competition. Jersey Mike's absolutely stomps them in quality and quantity of food, but they are a pricier and a lot of people will go cheap or go home (see McDonald's success). I do miss Quiznos though, a few of their sandwiches were just insanely flavorful.

[@kevinclapson]

@ET phone home had a few of them. I remember one in Mililani by 24hr fitness and another in Kapolei.

[@eddyedwards4955]

I've got two Subways near my home. I go to both of them often and have never been disappointed.

[@johniii8147]

Wouldn't touch a Subways. Their food is crap.

[@johnmoldoch3338]

I live in northern California and we have this place called ToGo's. Even they're vegetarian kicks a$$. Our local Subway's only offer white, wheat, or Italian. O.K. I forgot Dutch crunch. I, however, ordered a pastrami on rye with Swiss cheese at a location in Stockton, I was told if I wanted rye bread, I would have to order the Reuben, fine, give me the Reuben, hold the sourkrout. There became a problem

[@EdMan57]

I agree. By far me favorite sub/sandwich joint. I'm a bit surprised that the chain never went national.

[@jamesmiller4487]

Agree - ToGo’s is awesome. I was always impressed by the amount of meat they put on their sandwiches.

[@atbrow84]

I personally feel like Cheba Hut deserves a spot on this list. Granted, they aren't nearly as big as some of the others mentioned but they blow so many of them out of the water, both in creativity and quality. They also take great care of their employees!

[@msevada]

Hell yea! I agree.

[@alwillk]

By far the best. Too bad nobody except for us out west know about it.

[@atbrow84]

Funny because I'm born and raised in GA. I discovered Cheba Hut on my last trip to Denver and immediately knew I'd found something special. We've got one location in Atlanta but I'm hoping it really catches on.

[@AdamS-lh2ug]

We had one in Iowa City, Ia university of Iowa campus. Employees and management where too high to make a proper sandwich. Closed pretty quickly.

[@dextersmithbsee]

This is an absolute spot on assessment of sandwich venues. My personal favorite is Publix. Public makes an excellent sandwich no matter the bread, meat or condiments. A Boars Head meat of your choice on white mountain bread with your choice of fresh veggies and condiments is the real deal. Bonus- Publix bakes their own breads. Publix is just excellent.

[@richardsmith4187]

Dexter you are right, Publix rocks in the subs dept !!!

[@kevinmarshall808]

I used to love Quiznos classic Italian sub, but they were too expensive. As far as Jimmy John’s; I’ve had it twice and never again. My sandwich was flat with sparse ingredients and tasted that same way. A good sandwich is the New York Yankee from Jason’s Deli! Hot corned beef and pastrami on toasted rye! You can’t beat that.

[@YoSpiff]

Jason's is really good. I love their club sandwich made on rye bread.

[@AriessunvirgomoonlightLibraise]

Jersey Mike's is probably the underdog in this one, we used to have Quiznos here in Southern California & I LOVED Quiznos but I think they went out of business...we don't have blimpy

[@phaedrus2633]

Agreed. Mike's Jersey Subs are my favorite. I just never understood why anyone would bother to go to Subway.

[@beatrixbrennan1545]

Subway was a lot cheaper. But i agree, jersey Mike's is so delicious

[@coyotelong4349]

Firehouse Subs is probably my favorite When I feel like ODing on sandwich, however, a Giant-sized Gargantuan from Jimmy John’s is my method of choice Charleys and Steak Escape always have good cheesesteaks

[@arniesilverberg764]

I must say that Jersey Mike’s was a top notch experience when in Florida. My strong recommendation is to ask for extra “juice”. Most sandwiches, after all, are enhanced by oil and vinegar.

[@ddt3831]

I grew up in NJ in the 1970s, and Jersey Mike's is reminiscent of the sandwich shops I grew up eating from. In fact, sadly, the old-fashioned sandwich shops in NJ have largely disappeared and Jersey Mike's is now one of the better sandwich shops left in NJ. The other great thing about Jersey Mike's is the quality of their sandwiches are consistent, regardless of which state in which you visit one. You can get the same sandwich in Alabama as you would in NJ.

[@shirleylay1257]

McAlisters is my go to hang out. Delicious loaded potatoes loaded sandwiches and Southern Tea. Senior discounts. Don't forget the carrot cake

[@geopioneergsxr5357]

I don't even really like sub sandwiches generally, but then I tried the Italian sub from Firehouse! 🤯 One of the best things I've eaten in all of my 47 years! Amazing to say the least!

[@ChrisStafford-vj8ou]

New York Steamer is the best thing on the menu. It's a bit much to eat every day but once in a while.. oh man it's the best.

[@carizarou7445]

Pocket Deli has the best Sammy, it’s not a chain but is Franchising now. The bread is made from scratch daily and kneaded and rolled into a 9” round loaf. Sliced in half and then stuffed with fresh meats, cheeses, veggies, etc. The Signature Cari Caprese is my favorite it includes: turkey, bacon, avocado, fresh mozzarella, spinach, tomatoes and pesto mayo. It’s the bomb!! Located in Rancho Cordova CA been in business for 36 years.

[@Lancet711]

Definitely agree about Jersey Mikes. Whether a cheesesteak or a veggie, their heroes are very good. Now if they could just drop their prices a little.

[@kevinclapson]

Quality seldom comes cheap, sadly. But some slight reductions in price would be very welcome.

[@Lancet711]

@@kevinclapson Agreed, but a guy like me with a big appetite that usually gets a Giant, can’t stomach the $15 cost.

[@kevinclapson]

@@Lancet711 right there with you. Cost of living being what it is here (Hawaii) a usual meal at Mike's runs me about 23 bucks.

[@Lancet711]

@@kevinclapson Just about the same here in NY. Local delis usually my go to.

[@dementiabidenfallingontheb6712]

If possible you guys should try Firehouse subs. Last time I got one they were pretty good.

[@bicentensol]

Best sub I ever had came out of a gas station in Pennsylvania. Size and taste was phenomenal. I've had subs all over the country in my over the road career.

[@bonniem3754]

Vons ( and Safeway)Supermarkets makes excellent sub sandwiches. You can also order them with Boarshead meat with a variety of toppings, like bacon and avocado. Reasonably priced too

[@Mike-ll2zh]

The fried chicken sandwich at Vons was surprisingly good too

[@richardsmith4187]

Living in Florida we have most of the sandwich chains here, Jersey Mikes in one of the best but way over priced for what you get. We also have Publix Supermarkets here and in the deli they make sandwiches and they are some of the best you will ever have. They can use store brand meats or Boars head meats and are priced at half of what a Jersey Mikes sub cost. I love Jersey Mikes, but Publix deli subs are even better and my now favorite sub.

[@Lynn17]

Subway was my go-to in college because it was cheap, thought to be healthier than other fast food, and there was at least one near me. I haven't gotten from there in a long time and judging by what I'm hearing it's for the best. Blimpie is uncreative, but there's one at the shopping center down the street from me. Not too far from a pizza place that makes subs too...or a bagel shop that makes sandwiches. Not sure how it's still in business! Quiznos used to be a special treat for me all because they toasted their sandwiches and put oregano on the turkey subs. I miss them, but the writing was on the wall for quite a while. I had Jimmy John's once and it was good, but I can live without them. I will order from Jersey Mike's next time I get DoorDash, which will probably be this coming weekend. I've heard so many good things about them and they deliver and I have no excuse to keep not trying them.

[@michaelbee2165]

Publix is our first choice always. But Fire House, Jersey Mike's and Jimmy John's are all really good too.

[@salgalvan7450]

My friend took me to firehouse and it did not disappoint the brisket and cheese is so 🔥

[@oldguysmusic2929]

I went to a Subway a few years ago. I wanted them to make a meatball sandwich the way that my local sub shop made them when I was a kid. Basically you cut the end off of the roll and cut out the bread and then fill that void with the meatballs and the sauce and put the bread you cut out on the end. You could eat it like an ice cream cone. They tried which is more than I can say for other shops.

[@grahammcfadyenhill9555]

Last time I was in our local Subway I ended up in a conflict because I wanted my ciabatta panini grilled on therir panini grill, but hey wanted to nuke it. Which they did despite my objections. I left the soggy mess with them, never returned. That was several years ago.

[@mwroberts79]

Totally agree with Jersey Mike's winning...their prices are up there tho ($16 for a giant) but it's by far my fave/best. Penn Station Subs also has a great sandwich! Love the hot sauces at FireHouse...

[@Kissfan96dr]

$16, but the sandwich is freaky huuuuuuuuge. I get two meals out of it and I am full the whole day.

[@65MK]

You got this one right! Jersey Mike’s is the best sandwich.

[@MBD-BDBF]

I generally agree, but sometimes during the dinner hours you might get bread thats a touch on the stale side

[@jaywarren2126]

Jersey Mikes is far and away the best.

[@KING-FU]

Jersey Mike’s as #1? That’s not been my experiences at all, so I’ll have to politely disagree. 🙂

[@alwillk]

Yeah. They are mediocre at best. I prefer firehouse and Quiznos to them on this list that I have tried.

[@masada667]

Publix has the best grocery store fried chicken too.

[@rebeccamartin3744]

Absolutely!

[@Dcaloosa]

Yes. When you go in and they are frying the chicken, you can smell it throughout the store. It’s delicious!

[@thomasparrish2346]

You did not even mention Jason's Deli, or McAllister. I must say Jason is my favorite. They have a wide selection of sandwiches. Plus they have a salad bar. You can do the manager special which is a half sandwich and small salad.

[@thankyoucomeagain9130]

I grew up eating subway so subway is still good and will still eat subway... Spicy Italian is my go to sub

[@karenryder6317]

That's the one I like best also and I get it toasted on flat bread with just O&V.

[@VibrantBeauty1212]

I think Wegman's would be great on this list!

[@williamt8797]

Yes yes yes........

[@ultraspinacle]

Sorry, $18 for a foot long menu sandwich is ridiculous. Jersey Mike’s is just ok - not worth that. Love Blimpie - especially the Blimpie Best. Subway can be good IF you know what to order (get the cold cut combo). Otherwise just make it at home.

[@namvet1968]

18 bucks? Outrageous. I will avoid Jersey Mike's.

[@adonailord5022]

One Jersey Mike's is equal to 4 air Subway's. And you won't die from the mystery meat!

[@namvet1968]

@@adonailord5022 What is the best Jersey Mike's sub?

[@Mike-ll2zh]

The prices at Jersey Mike's are too high. Better options out there for a lower price.

[@jimpern]

I tend to agree with your choices, though I find Jimmy John's highly overrated, and Blimpie underrated (they have oil & vinegar, too!). I have never cared for Subway or Which Wich, but I do like Quzno's and Schlotsky's, except that all their local outlets have disappeared! But my favorites tend to be Firehouse and Jersey Mike's, and I'll occasionally go to Publix as well (but I find Boar's Head meats to be too salty and prefer Publix's own meats).

[@piratepress6958]

My favorite is Earl of Sandwich. I can't believe it was omitted when it literally has "sandwich" in the name!

[@georgeprchal3924]

Ah yes, John Montagu 4th Earl of Sandwich, inventor of the sandwich.

[@djbenje4019]

I'm grateful for the advice on 'oil and vinegar'. I've been eating sandwiches for many decades, but for whatever reason, never learned about or tried this...

[@joeymerchant5969]

Being from a smaller city we only had subway growing up, then Quiznos was the best, and then we finally got a Jimmy Johns and I fell in love lol

[@asrr62]

Jimmy John's is terrible the worst sandwich I've ever had. Subway is the best.

[@martinmarks8664]

@@asrr62 You must have a bad franchise. I've tried subs from various places and I have to say, Jimmy John's is the best I've had.

[@neub4321]

I live in Jersey, but Subway is my favorite over Jersey Mike's (your first place). I order everything my way, so if I see that portions or a particular veggie isn't how I want it, I'll change my order while they're building the sandwich. Between the 2 chains, the difference in freshness isn't noticeable. Subways can heat any sandwich. Jersey Mike's has fewer choices, and tends to soak sandwiches in oil and vinegar. Subway has more locations and is less expensive.

[@1_lens_view]

In high school, I worked at a small midwestern chain called Clark’s. They had some of the best sandwiches I remember. Unfortunately, they “got their lunch eaten” by the newer market entrants and are long gone as far as I know. To me, Jersey Mike’s is an improved version of Clark’s, something that chain would have perhaps evolved into by maybe version 2.5. JM’s definitely tops this list for me. I pretty much agree with your ranking order as well.

[@FactStorm]

Sucks that the majority of people will never get to experience top notch delis and sandwich shops by virtue of them being small and localized. I bet some of the best places will never become chains, and rightfully so.

[@FLAV3R]

Jimmy John’s doesn’t deserve this high of a spot on this list.

[@veronicafoxx27]

What? Jimmy John's is banging

[@joshuam6587]

Quiznos was wayy better back in the day

[@hellhound1389]

When I was a kid my first job was at a convenience store that had a small deli and sandwich counter where we had to cut the meats and veggies by hand so my knife skills are insane and we had several hot sandwiches that would rotate through out the month. My favorite that I learned to make at home is a thin sliced steak with pepper jack cheese and peppers and onions topped with oil vinegar and hot sauce

[@skimanfree1073]

I'll take one!

[@tezzmccarty]

Jersey Mike's all day long!

[@Shadowoftheoldones]

I can't agree with Jimmy John's being ranked above Potbelly's. They are both good, but the bread and ingredients at Potbelly's are just better.

[@trippylarry8409]

Schlotzskys is pretty much the best deli sandwich you can get IMO

[@davidmccarthy6061]

Food of the gods!

[@trippylarry8409]

@@davidmccarthy6061 just picked me up an original!

[@masada667]

Schlotsky's used to do personal pizzas too. They had a Thai chicken one with peanut satay sauce.

[@trippylarry8409]

@@masada667 the pizzas are awesome too. I usually throw one on my order

[@Mike-ll2zh]

Especially on this list

[@iswc27]

I've never had a chance to try Jersey Mike's, but apparently there are a few locations near me that I didn't know about, so maybe I'll try it one of these days. I have made several visits to Potbelly this year, after I first heard about it from a fellow I watch regularly here on KZbin, and I'm a bit surprised it wasn't ranked at least a little higher on the list. Their sandwiches are some of the best I've ever eaten. I've tried several of them and I particularly like the meatball sandwich, the pizza sandwich, the Italian, and the Wreck. And you gotta try their cookies, too.

[@JoeyT1]

Stay away from Jersey Mike's. It's expensive and underwhelming.

[@iswc27]

@@JoeyT1 I have now made a couple of visits to Jersey Mike's. It may be pricey, but I found the service very friendly and the sandwiches quite impressive. If you think it's underwhelming, well, that's your opinion, and you don't ever have to go back there again. As for me, I will be back again!

[@vickilssrb4405]

Pot Belly Italian on "skinny" bread was my Dad's absolute FAVORITE! 🤗

[@jcrow236]

The grocery store Wegmans has amazing everything, I drive 45 min for those subs

[@ddt3831]

Blimpie IS very similar to Subway, but top to bottom, the quality of their ingredients are a cut above Subway. They also offer some toppings not offered by Subway.

[@flowerdalejewel]

In Australia I've only heard of Subway, which I wouldn't touch with a ten foot pole! I hate the way all chains show you these wonderful looking sandwiches when they all look like a demented child threw them together from a great height! I'll stick to something I make at home!

[@cmmolthr]

you -NAILED- it!! JerseyMikes *is* the best....sadly, due to mismanagement, Quiznos is starting to phase into the sunset.

[@freezegopher7054]

The best "chain of one" is Galassi's Subs in N. Tonawanda N.Y. The Home of the Nightmare is the best sub I've ever had. I get one every time I go back.

[@mimishepard8298]

I lived in Tonawanda when I was a kid.

[@LoganDC100]

My opinion about Panera Bread is skewed. I have some health issues that require me to spend a lot of time in the hospital. There's a Panera Bread on the first floor of the hospital, and it's a life-saver. So, I like them, but remember that, for me? They're competing with hospital food.

[@jodem7]

And that makes so much sense bc it reminds me of hospital food 🤣🤣😩

[@trevonpernell0814]

Jersey Mike's is the TRUTH!

[@HairHoFla]

My first visit to Schlotzsky's was 1980 in Central Texas...been a fan ever since

[@marthabixler1606]

There used to be a place called Mancino's. They had grinders that were broiled. They were delicious. The Italian steak was my favorite. Haven't seen them around for years.

[@patriciaaturner289]

Don’t know many of them. We have a couple of chains in NorCal that probably belong here: Togo’s and Mr Pickle. Both use local products and bake their bread fresh. Mr Pickle has a swirled rye that is killer with their pastrami, and Togo’s has a whole grain roll to die for.

[@crrhoades4]

Completely agree about Togo's here in NorCal (which was started to cater to nearby San Jose State students). Their #9 (hot pastrami) is a benchmark, with the fresh wheat roll you cite and the optional peperoncinis! And their Italian (#13?) is also superb. I've been to the Mr. Pickle near me a dozen times, and they make great combos, but Togo's edges Mr. P. The Jersey Mike's is a great option, especially their Italian, spuer filling and very tasty done "Mike's Way" w the oil, vinegar, and spices -- but they lose a bit of standing for their slightly higher cost.

[@TiaCatR]

I've been binge watching your restaurant lists recently and find that I agree almost 100% of the time with your choices. But I have to respectfully disagree with having Jimmy John's so high on this list! I think they're terrible! The food is just basic, bland and unimaginative. The delivery is by no means "freaky fast," in fact sometimes they don't even show up! Maybe it's just the one here in Savannah, but they are the worst. And after an hour of waiting, if you call to check on your order, they get an attitude with you! I never go there anymore, and am just quietly hoping they go out of business so something better can come along.

[@trustmewereallydontcare4553]

Firehouse is definitely #1

[@inmindcanidate1884]

Blimpie back in the day was better

[@philanderphillips2309]

Went to a Quiznos in Cobb County, Ga. back in 2015. Sick the next day. Never looked their direction again.

[@treyatl2006]

Who ever did this list was on point. Jersey Mikes is the best hands down. They are a bit expensive but it’s worth it. Publix is my favorite also and they are cheap. So those two go back and forth for my top spot.

[@rogercollins3]

I can understand you knocking Publix because they aren't nation-wide, but it's still a must stop for me when I'm on my FL vacation. Stop in after breakfast, grab a sub, load it in a cooler for lunch on the beach. It's a great sandwich and a great value.

[@JakeGemzen]

Of all the sandwich shops I've tried on this list which is more than half of them, the order is very very accurate. Jersey Mike's being number 1 I 100% agree with. One of the best quick serve sandwiches I've ever had. There's just one place that beats it in my opinion but there's only 1 location so it didn't belong in this list lol

[@richardsmith4187]

Jersey Mikes is so damn expensive for what you get, a whole # 13 sub is now about $ 17.00 which is a rip off because they don't really put that much meat on the sub. If you watch when they make it they don't lay the meat flat, they tend to roll it so it looks like more meat.

[@SeanHartnett-t8c]

@@richardsmith4187 they give you plenty of meat. and it isn’t that much more than subway.

[@johnfoster3895]

I used to love Subway until they started going cheap on their sandwiches (cutting back on cheese, slicing the meat thin enough to see tomorrow through, and reducing the vegetables). A Jimmy John's opened up with walking distance of my home and I eat there quite often (Gargantuan! ! !). I've tried several other, JJ's is my choice.

[@benyang2427]

McAllister's has a quality veggie sandwich amongst other solid stuff

[@shirleylay1257]

I go to McAlisters 2 to 3 times a week. We have 2 McAlisters here now in Murfreesboro Tn. Never been to New one. Love the salad and Great Sandwichs soups and brownies. Don't forget the southern tea!!!!

[@deniser7573]

The value of Publix sandwiches may depend on where you buy them. I worked in South Fort Myers Florida and ordered an American cheese and tomato sandwich with mayo. Pretty simple except when I got back to the office, the 12 inch sub (I planned on having second half the next day) had THREE slices of cheese on it; there was more tomato than cheese. When I called, I was told that three pieces of cheese were all that was allowed on each sub. I spoke with the manager and tried to get the point across that in lieu of a roast beef sandwich, I was having a cheese sandwich so more cheese was indicated. Never did get my point across. Went back and after some argument got my money back and due to time constraints had a lousy Mickey D’s burger.

[@martymar2982]

Mark Wiens, and international food traveler said that Philadelphia is the sandwich capital of the world. Why isn't there any Philadelphia area based sandwich shops on this list? The two things that makes a sandwich great Philadelphia has, the meat and the best sandwich bread in the world. Yes, Jersey Mike's is based in New Jersey, but they are based closer to New York than they are based in Philly. Now one thing they did get correct is that Publix would be higher on the list if they had a lot more locations in the country. But Primo Hoagie's hands down has better sandwiches than Publix all thanks to the one thing that makes a sandwich great, the bread!

[@priscillawagner4939]

Primo is a chain Publix is a chain market. The sandwich shops that are great phila aren't chains

[@Mike-ll2zh]

Well said. Philly is the sandwich capital of the world and definitely the United States. And you nailed it - the bread is key.

[@mariowalker9048]

Hence why Wawa should have been on the list.

[@tammyschmidt8001]

I kept waiting for my favorite place to get ranked. Yay! Jersey Mike's is my absolute favorite! I love the #9.

[@richardsmith4187]

Try the number 13 its awesome !

[@cdub]

I guess we all probably know a hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop that blows all the chains away on the regular... but for me the Subway Cold Cut Combo will always be my 'chain' go-to sandwich, with their Spicy Italian also a great choice. I do eat at several other chains, especially Publix which is a close second for me, then Jersey Mike's and Jimmy Johns... but yeah, vinegar and oil is always the magical missing ingredient if you don't ask for that! Also, your idea of a boring sandwich? That's someone else's idea of the perfect lunch!

[@DWilliam1]

As a guy who is almost 60, growing up in the 70’s and 80’s the only chain I knew of was Blimpies which no one ever went to. I’m from NYC and the suburbs and we always went to the local deli or Italian deli to get our Heroes(in NY back then we called them Heroes or Wedgies not Subs) and I still do.

[@OpoOnTheGo]

Did you guys forget about wawa? During gobbler season? That's like a cardinal sin

[@TLR1219]

Get a gobbler bowl every week

[@DannyNetwirk]

Wawa sucks

[@OpoOnTheGo]

@@DannyNetwirk no u

[@nancycallas5301]

No Wawa near me now, sadly. Boy do I miss those Gobblers.

[@josephgeerkin2083]

Dibella's should be on this list for best chain sub place. I think they are in six states now. Their subs were the inspiration for Wegman's and are delicious.

[@LilTonyMarooney]

100%

[@cindycapps3816]

Subway still offers salads (very rare these days) & their salads are gr8!!

[@mariowalker9048]

I use to get the salads all time when I was in high school.

[@firebird6522]

We have two Subways, a Which Which, a Panera, a Corner Bakery, a Potbelly, a Schlotsky's, a Firehouse, and a Jimmy John's all within a mile in either direction. The only one that couldn't make it in this particular part of town was, oddly enough, Jersey Mike's. It didn't last a year. Go figure, huh?

[@daniel.d.roberts6850]

I've ate at Subway once, but never came back, such as the sandwich I've had. Such yucky food.

[@mattybearvids]

There is a local chain in my area called Sub City. Similar to Jersey Mike's. Always fresh bread and meats are sliced to order everytime. Just like going to a deli. Great variety of meats and toppings along with hot options and soups. Twice the sandwich of subway for a buck or so more.

[@TheAlibabatree]

We had a Sub City in the town i grew up in Iowa.

[@markbeaver5010]

I've had a few outstanding sandwiches at Subway. When they offer the sometimes pastrami, I order the toasted double meat with swiss and it is really-really good!! Also the Italian BMT is very good!!

[@markdombrowski9619]

They used to offer a pizza sub. They no longer do but… Italian BMT with cheese No lettuce Add marinara Green pepper Onion Olives Oregano Toasted.

[@AudiophileTommy]

Too bad the double meat really is the same amount of meat that they used to put on one to start with 😡😡😡😡

[@codyherman2977]

This guy said the Italian bmt is very good haha. Are you a 7 year old?

[@AudiophileTommy]

@@codyherman2977 who are you referring to ? I am saying ALL subway subs SUCK ! Value for your money equals ZERO ( plain enough ?)

[@markbeaver5010]

@@codyherman2977 no I'm 8 yrs old Lol!!

[@DSMattitude]

To me Jersey Mikes and Jimmy Johns are tied for first.

[@austinray6545]

I don’t know if I can trust this list after putting Jimmy John’s at number 4. I’d rank them even below subway

[@michaelslaughter54]

Then you haven’t had the nite club from JJ.

[@Wihf]

I completely agree with your top 2! Best of the best

[@zzzxxzzz3248]

Penn station is better than them all ! From the dagwood to the cheese steak to the chicken swiss teriyaki , so yummy ! Extra teriyaki please !

[@DockNinja]

Publix is probably the only store I miss in GA and they HANDS DOWN have the best sandwiches when it comes to quality. Unfortunately, they’re only available in the Southeast.

[@NLC42069]

Primo Hoagies would easily be 1 if it were on here

[@RaymondHng]

I only know of Subway and Quiznos out here in California. Our local and small "chainlet" sandwich shops are the best. I was in Paris where I met up with a fellow traveler also originating from my area who wanted to eat only at Subway. I did not go all the way to Paris to eat at a Subway for chrissakes. So I just had a bottle of water while he ate his Subway "sandwich".

[@ernestcastro6238]

RaymondHng Very funny I don't blame you.

[@717dash_cam]

Not sure how Jimmy Johns ranked above Subway. I've gotten sick every time I've eaten Jimmy Johns, you couldn't pay me to go back to one.

[@johncook9392]

Subway is garbage though...

[@caseyhouser9839]

Subway is the worst of the worst. Jimmy John’s is second worst

[@717dash_cam]

@@caseyhouser9839 They're the same level. I nudge Subway up for at least better tasting bread... even if it's ingredients were questionable. Honey Oat, Jalapeno Cheese and Herb and Cheese breads things that JUST edge Subway above JJ for me. That and having never gotten sick off of a sub from Subway. There's a little bias from having worked at a Subway as a kid, but it is still not one of the places I'd stop given a choice between Subway and a few Mom and Pop Pizza Shops for a sub.

[@nancycallas5301]

Must be your shop. Jimmy John's here in SC is great...better than the Jersey Mike's, IMHO.

[@OhSankYouDoktor]

You would think New York City has EVERYTHING but there are no Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike's or Jimmy John's. I visited a friend in Florida and fell in love with Publix - one of the nicest supermarkets I have ever been to, and yes, good sandwiches. Subway is not top-notch ingredients but the sandwiches are tasty and, though they do not give you a lot of meat, if you get most of the veggies, it's a pretty substantial sandwich. I can't believe you left out my favorite sandwich chain, Capriotti's, which just recently opened in New York and is thriving. The sandwiches are very well-made, especially their killer cheesesteak. The fresh turkey is unfortunately dry, though. Staff is also trained very well and very customer service oriented.

[@v-gutta5201]

It's because we all go to your nearest Italian Deli in the New York and New Jersey 🗽

[@zebrajenks]

H-E-B grocery stores in south Texas are amazing

[@mariowalker9048]

@@v-gutta5201 Yep, and that NYC isn't too privy on chain restaurants. Subway and Blimpe are basically your only options in NYC.

[@yobabyyobabyyo]

Best shops I've been too.... capriottis in Las Vegas, eegees in Tucson, and firehouse

[@teeznigan337]

Cousins subs in WI and IL is top of the list for me. Great variety of sandwiches for a great price and good quality ingredients. Love their bread and Mac and cheese as well!

[@rodneyakjohnson451]

Hell yea ….cousins subs out beat jersey mikes anyday