Potbelly: The Illinois Comeback Story That Captivated America
After bouncing back in terms of sales and locations in 2022, the sandwich company – known for its fresh, hand-sliced meats – recently achieved record revenue. This Chicago-born chain nearly disappeared from the national scene, but Potbelly’s turnaround has been nothing short of remarkable. Their focus on quality ingredients has struck a chord with health-conscious customers who are tired of processed alternatives.
They’re passionate about serving fresh, crave-worthy food made with high-quality ingredients, sourcing things like all-white breast meat chicken, free of preservatives and artificial colors, for both sandwiches and salads. With more than 400 locations nationwide, things are looking up for this sandwich-slinger. The chain’s toasted sandwiches and cozy atmosphere make it feel like discovering a hidden neighborhood gem, even at locations in busy shopping centers.
Wawa: The East Coast Hoagie Heaven With a Cult Following
Wawa enjoys a level of popularity in the Greater Philadelphia region likened to a cult following. This Pennsylvania-based chain has created something special that goes beyond just sandwiches. People literally plan their vacation routes around Wawa stops, and that’s not an exaggeration. Wawa sells about 195 million hoagies each year.
In total, Wawa has approximately 990 convenience retail stores, with 750 of these locations offering gasoline. The made-to-order hoagies use fresh bread baked daily, and the customization options are virtually endless. Unlike Mom, Wawa churns out about 70 million of the hoagies annually. Their expansion into Florida has proven that this East Coast favorite translates well beyond its original territory.
Jersey Mike’s: Where Fresh-Sliced Meets Massive Growth
In business since 1956, Jersey Mike’s has been around longer than any other chain on our list. Today there are more than 750 locations nationwide and Cancro is CEO of the company. This New Jersey original has cracked the code on rapid expansion without sacrificing quality. The chain’s commitment to slicing meats and cheeses fresh in each store daily sets them apart from competitors who rely on pre-packaged ingredients.
The chain’s commitment to a “no antibiotics ever” policy includes sourcing pork products exclusively from farms where pigs are happy and healthy, without crates or hormones. Jersey Mike’s – which now boasts more than 2,000 locations – is in the top five sandwich chains for sales. Their signature “Mike’s Way” with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, oil, vinegar, and spices has become the gold standard for submarine sandwiches.
Portillo’s: Chicago’s Italian Beef Ambassador Goes National
Portillo’s has more than 90 stores nationwide. The Chicago-based brand topped customer perceptions this past quarter. This chain brings authentic Chicago street food to the masses, and their Italian beef sandwiches are nothing short of legendary. Founded in 1963 as a small hot dog stand, it has grown into a nationwide brand with over 70 locations.
The chain’s expansion beyond Illinois has created devoted fans across the country, though their Texas expansion faced some growing pains. Texas locations have cut its projected revenue growth for 2025: from 10 to 12 percent down to 5 to 7 percent. Still, their commitment to authentic flavors and that famous chocolate cake shake keeps customers coming back. The vintage diner atmosphere adds to the nostalgic charm that makes every visit feel special.
Jimmy John’s: The “Freaky Fast” Gourmet Sandwich Revolution
Famous for its “free smells,” Jimmy John’s is a sandwich chain that can back up its quirky marketing campaign with plenty of legitimacy. Any sandwich chain that’s equally endorsed by chefs and dietitians is bound to be good and good for you. This Illinois-based chain revolutionized fast-casual dining by proving that speed and quality don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Another company that’s among the top-earning sandwich brands in the nation, Jimmy John’s is proof that due diligence and extra effort pays off. Their obsession with fresh ingredients, from daily-baked bread to hand-sliced vegetables, has earned them a reputation among food service professionals. The chain’s delivery speed became legendary long before third-party apps made fast delivery commonplace.
Penn Station East Coast Subs: Midwest’s Answer to the Philly Experience
The name of Penn Station East Coast Subs might lead you to believe you can only find this sandwich shop at New York City’s famed train terminal. On the contrary, there are actually over 300 locations today across 15 states across the Midwest and as far south as South Carolina. This chain brings East Coast sandwich culture to regions that might never have experienced authentic submarine sandwiches.
It’s a reliable sandwich shop for many, with customers citing the chain’s consistency. Always a great sandwich. Their fresh-cut fries and grilled sandwiches create an experience that feels more like a full restaurant than fast food. The chain’s commitment to consistent quality across hundreds of locations has made it a dependable choice for customers who know exactly what to expect every time.
Which Wich: The Creative Ordering Experience That Started a Trend
Which Wich can be found in 37 states, but most of its restaurants are concentrated in Texas and across the Mid-Atlantic. The concept of Which Wich is more unique compared to other sandwich chains. Instead of standing in line and shouting your order, customers use Sharpies to mark their preferences on paper bags that double as order forms.
Rather than speak your order to an employee, customers write their orders on paper bags, checking off various boxes for the kind of cheese, vegetables, and other toppings. The unique ordering process makes Which WIch worth at least one visit, though many customers happily return to enjoy their go-to sandwich. After eating, customers can decorate their bags and tack them to the walls, creating a constantly changing art gallery that makes each location feel uniquely personal.
Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop: California’s Sweet Surprise
The sandwich chain offers cold and hot subs with a wide range of customization options. Best of all, each sandwich comes with a complimentary fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie. This California-based chain understands that sometimes the little extras make all the difference. While the free cookie might seem like a gimmick, it’s the quality of their sandwiches that keeps customers returning.
While the perk of a free dessert is an excellent cherry on top of an already solid lunch option, Mr. Pickle’s doesn’t need to hide behind baked goods to prove that the chain makes a good quality sandwich. Locals and tourists alike are fans of the sandwich shop. The chain has mastered the art of making each sandwich feel made-to-order special, with generous portions and fresh ingredients that justify the higher price point.
Mendocino Farms: Farm-to-Table Meets Fast-Casual Excellence
If you’re looking for farm-to-table ingredients and a smaller regional-chain vibe, look no further than Mendocino Farms. With many locations throughout California, Mendocino Farms’ menu includes favorites like the Original Pork Belly Banh Mi, made with braised, caramelized pork belly, pickled daikon & carrots, cilantro, cucumbers, jalapeños, Thai basil, and Sriracha mayo.
The ingredients section of the chain’s website boasts its commitment to fresh, high-quality, and antibiotic-free ingredients. Toasty bread, crunchy veggies, and unique sauces all come together to make the sandwiches at Mendocino Farms top-notch. Their creative sandwich combinations push boundaries while maintaining the quality that justifies their premium pricing. Each location feels like a neighborhood bistro that just happens to serve sandwiches quickly.
Earl of Sandwich: Disney Magic Meets Gourmet Sandwiches
There are only around 50 Earl of Sandwich restaurants in the United States, so if you come across one, it’s worth popping in to check it out. You’re likely to come across an Earl of Sandwich in major tourist destinations, including Walt Disney World and the Las Vegas Strip. This unique chain brings a touch of British sophistication to American sandwich culture.
The chain has an assortment of unique hot sandwiches, including fan favorites like the Holiday Turkey, made with turkey, cornbread stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce and mayonnaise. It also makes a popular Cuban sandwich, made with pork carnitas, ham, Swiss, pickles, and a mustard sauce. Their limited locations make discovering one feel like finding a hidden gem, and the quality justifies the hunt. The warm, pressed sandwiches offer something different from typical cold cuts, with creative flavor combinations that work surprisingly well.
These regional sandwich chains prove that great food doesn’t always come from massive national brands. Each has carved out its own devoted following through commitment to quality, unique approaches to service, or simply by perfecting classic combinations. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just exploring your own backyard, seeking out these regional favorites offers a taste of local culture wrapped in bread. Which one will you discover first?
