Sandwich lovers know that not all chain restaurants serve up the same quality between two slices of bread. From soggy vegetables to premium meats, the differences can be huge.
We’ve sampled hoagies, subs, and melts across America to bring you the definitive ranking of sandwich chains that’ll guide your next lunch decision.
1. Subway
Remember when Subway seemed revolutionary? Those days are gone. Their bread has that distinct chemical aroma that lingers on your fingers for hours.
The meats sit limply on the assembly line, looking as tired as the employees making minimum wage. Even their vegetables somehow manage to be simultaneously soggy and tough.
2. Quiznos
Quiznos once ruled the toasted sandwich kingdom before nearly imploding. Their dramatic fall from 5,000+ locations to barely 200 speaks volumes.
The toasting process often leaves bread burnt on edges yet somehow still cold in the middle. Their signature sauces now taste like industrial mayonnaise with food coloring.
3. Jimmy John’s
Speed shouldn’t be a sandwich’s main selling point, yet here we are. Jimmy John’s “freaky fast” delivery means your sandwich arrives quickly, but at what cost?
Paper-thin meat portions leave you hunting for protein between massive bread slabs. Their French bread could double as a defensive weapon in emergencies—that’s not a compliment.
4. Blimpie
Walking into a Blimpie feels like time-traveling to 1995. The chain stubbornly refuses to evolve while somehow still existing in food courts across America.
Their sandwiches feature bread that’s neither fresh nor stale—existing in a mysterious in-between state. Meat quality varies wildly from location to location.
5. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Potbelly’s aesthetic charm masks mediocre sandwiches. Those cute vintage stores with live music can’t hide the truth about what’s between the bread.
Their hot peppers provide the only real flavor punch in otherwise forgettable offerings. The signature move of scooping out bread innards creates a structurally unsound lunch.
6. Schlotzsky’s
Points for originality! Schlotzsky’s round sourdough buns stand out in a rectangular sandwich world. Unfortunately, the experience often peaks at that first glance.
The endless wait times have become legendary—your sandwich apparently takes a journey to the sourdough homeland and back. When it finally arrives, the complex layering of ingredients creates a structural nightmare.
7. Arby’s
“We have the meats” should come with a disclaimer: “…but not necessarily the quality.” Arby’s roast beef has that distinctive processed sheen that raises eyebrows.
Their sauce selection deserves praise, though. The Horsey Sauce and Arby’s Sauce can make cardboard taste acceptable.
8. McAlister’s Deli
McAlister’s sweet tea deserves its own fan club. The sandwiches? They’re the reliable friend who never disappoints but never truly excites either.
Portion sizes impress even the hungriest customers—expect leftovers unless you’ve just run a marathon. Their 13-layer club requires unhinging your jaw like a snake, but the consistent quality makes the effort worthwhile.
9. Jason’s Deli
Free ice cream with every meal! That alone bumps Jason’s up several notches. Their commitment to removing artificial ingredients deserves genuine applause.
The salad bar offers a welcome break from carb-loading, though it’s often picked over. Their muffalettas bring New Orleans flavor to suburban strip malls.
10. Firehouse Subs
Firefighter-founded and proudly themed, Firehouse steams their meats and cheeses for optimal melt factor. The technique creates a hot sandwich experience that few chains can match.
Their signature hot sauce bar lets heat-seekers customize their pain level. The foundation supporting first responders adds a feel-good factor to your meal.
11. Penn Station
Fresh-cut fries alongside submarine sandwiches? Pure genius. Penn Station’s grilled-to-order approach means your sandwich isn’t sitting under a heat lamp developing existential dread.
Their Philly cheesesteak outshines many specialty shops with its generous portions and authentic preparation. The open kitchen lets you watch your meal’s creation!
12. Panera Bread
Panera successfully convinced America that paying $13 for half a sandwich is reasonable. Their bread quality legitimately stands above most chain competitors—crusty exterior giving way to soft, flavorful interior.
The seasonal menu keeps things interesting, though the portions seem to shrink as prices rise.
13. Which Wich
The ordering system alone makes Which Wich revolutionary—marking your customizations on brown paper bags feels strangely satisfying. Their bread strikes the perfect balance between substantial and not overwhelming.
Protein options extend far beyond typical deli fare, with egg salad and hummus for non-meat eaters. The Wicked challenges even the most ambitious appetites.
14. Jersey Mike’s
“Mike’s Way” should be the only way. The ritual of watching them slice meat to order creates sandwich theater that builds anticipation.
Their bread has actual character—pleasantly chewy and substantial without overwhelming fillings. The splash of red wine vinegar and oil creates a tangy flavor profile that elevates ingredients.
15. Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches
Fresh-baked bread makes all the difference, and Jimmy John’s bakes theirs throughout the day. Their simplicity is their strength—no toasting or complicated preparations, just quality ingredients assembled with precision.
The Beach Club stands as a perfect sandwich creation—turkey, provolone, avocado, cucumber, sprouts, and mayo in ideal proportion. Their commitment to speed never sacrifices quality.