A Definitive Ranking of Every Major Sandwich Chain
You can't go wrong with a delicious sandwich—the question, of course, is where to find one.
To answer that question, we looked at the major chains and considered their prices, menus and overall quality. Everyone's tastes are different, but the result is our definitive ranking of them all. Whether or not you agree with our ranking, this list will be able to point you in the direction of a great option.
Keep on reading to see how the sandwiches stacked up.
14. Arby's
As Arby's says, they have "the meats." Not surprisingly, if you're a meat-lover, it has a lot of great options. That said, we wish it had a bigger bread selection and at least a few more vegetarian-friendly menu items.
13. Charleys Philly Steaks
If you crave a steak sandwich, this is the chain you want. Not only does it have the traditional Philly cheesesteak, there's the Bacon 3 Cheesesteak, the Pepperoni Cheesesteak and more. There are also non-beef options, including chicken and vegetarian sandwiches, leading us to put it atop Arby's. While all are tasty, we appreciate chains that offer more variety, like in the spots listed ahead!
12. Blimpie
We like Blimpie even more than Charleys Philly Steaks because it caters to a wider range of cravings. There are scrumptious deli subs, hot subs, paninis and wraps, and the prices are reasonable. We could use a few more vegetarian options and sides, though.
11. Subway
Subway has an even bigger selection of sandwiches (including more for vegetarians), and it seems like new combos are always being introduced. The sandwiches are customizable, too—you get to select your bread, cheese, meat, vegetables, sauces, etc. But the freshness and flavor of the veggies fall a bit flat, placing Subway in a lower spot than many of its competitors.
10. Quiznos
Quiznos has a smaller selection than Subway, but what it does, it does even better. We prefer the balance of their sandwiches, as the ratios of bread to meat to veggies to sauces are even better.
9. Port of Subs
Port of Subs is another chain with well-balanced sandwiches. The ingredients are very fresh and delicious—a tad more-so than at Quiznos, we'd say. We love the smokey cheddar cheese so much.
8. Jimmy John's
Like Port of Subs, Jimmy John's has excellent ingredients that make for yummy sandwiches. When it comes to classic sandwiches, this place does it just right. In fact, we rate the quality even higher than most of its competitors altogether.
7. Jersey Mike's Subs
Jersey Mike's Subs are relatively simple, yet still manage to taste better than most. They're "prepared Mike's way," meaning they have onions, lettuce, tomatoes, vinegar, oil and spices. It's a great combo, especially when they have such fresh ingredients.
6. Firehouse Subs
Firehouse Subs tops Jersey Mike's when it comes to hot subs—that's where the chain really shines. Some of its favorites include the Steak & Cheese and the Meatball sub. As a bonus, you can get your sandwich with chili.
5. Penn Station East Coast Subs
The quality continues with Penn Station East Coast Subs. What nudges the chain ahead are its delicious grilled subs (we especially love the Reuben) and unique options like the Grilled Artichoke. There's even fresh-squeezed lemonade. Yum.
4. TOGO's
TOGO's has a great mix of hot and cold sandwiches, made with fresh ingredients. Compared to the other sandwich chains mentioned so far on this list, TOGO's sets itself apart with its soup and salad options. Not only are they numerous—they're delightful.
3. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Potbelly may not have as many sides as TOGO's, but we love the ones they do have. On top of that, we like their sandwiches selection even more because it's so varied. Options range from PB & J to Mediterranean chicken.
2. Which Wich
We're suckers for choices, and Which Wich brings an even better selection of ingredients to the table. Toppings include everything from a mix of hot peppers and hummus, to caramelized onions and sauerkraut galore. The signature favorites are worth trying, too.
1. Schlotzsky's
Great concepts, delicious bread and tasty ingredients come together at Schlotzsky's. The chain does the classic as well as the creative, which led us to put it in our top spot. The Caprese, French Dip and Rancher Brisket will make you drool.
Ready to consider burgers? HERE is our ranking of signature fast food hamburgers.