Let’s talk about Italian subs. They’re the sandwich world’s version of a power ballad—bold, layered, and full of dramatic flair.
Piled high with salami, pepperoni, ham, provolone, and maybe a little oil and vinegar magic, they’re supposed to be the kind of sandwich that slaps you in the taste buds and makes you want to kiss your fingers like an overenthusiastic Nonna.
But let’s be real—not all Italian subs are created equal. Some are mouthwatering masterpieces that make you question why you ever ate anything else for lunch. And others? Well… they’re the culinary equivalent of a soggy napkin pretending to be a meal.
So we did the noble work of chomping through the meat mountains and lettuce lands of America’s sandwich chains. Here’s our definitive list of The 5 Worst & 5 Best Italian Subs, ranked with brutal honesty, a little grease, and a lot of love.
1. Subway – Italian B.M.T.
Subway’s Italian B.M.T. may bring back memories of high school lunches, but those memories might be better left in the past.
The sandwich often arrives soggy, with overly salty meats that taste more like fillers than flavor. If the veggies are less than fresh, which they sometimes are, the whole sandwich feels like a disappointment.
The balance is all off, with the taste of processed meat overwhelming any hint of freshness. Though it tries to emulate an Italian sub, it falls short on almost every level. Despite its long-standing place on the menu, it’s more of a filler option than a fulfilling meal.
For those craving authenticity, this sub is more ‘meh’ than masterpiece. Best to leave this one on the menu board and look elsewhere for something more satisfying.
2. Quiznos – Classic Italian
Once upon a time, Quiznos was the king of toasty sandwiches, but their Classic Italian has fallen from grace.
Instead of the robust flavors you’d expect, you’re met with a greasy sub that’s overly heavy on the pepperoni. The texture can be off-putting, feeling more rubbery than the delightful chew you’re hoping for.
Toasting does little to save this sub, only slightly enhancing the lackluster quality of the meat. It’s a shadow of what it once was, leaving long-time fans yearning for the good old days.
While the ingredients list reads like a classic Italian sub, the execution leaves much to be desired. The decline in quality is palpable, making this one sub that doesn’t live up to its storied past.
3. Jimmy John’s – Italian Night Club
Jimmy John’s Italian Night Club might have you dreaming of a flavorful feast, but the reality is a little more mundane. The bread is perhaps the highlight, but the rest of the sandwich lacks that Italian zing you’re hoping for. Overwhelmed by too much lettuce, the flavors struggle to shine through.
The meat-to-flavor ratio is off-kilter, leaving the taste buds yearning for more pizzazz. It wears the name of an Italian sub, but doesn’t quite deliver the punch you’d expect.
For those looking for something more exciting, this sub might not hit the mark. It’s more a lesson in mediocrity than a showcase of vibrant tastes.
4. Blimpie – Italian Sub
Blimpie once held a special place in the world of subs, but their Italian offering now feels like a relic of the past. The meats come across as bland, and the bread doesn’t do much to elevate the experience. Visually, the presentation is sloppy, as if assembled without care or passion.
The overall experience feels outdated, like a recipe that hasn’t evolved in two decades. What was once a contender now feels like it’s just going through the motions.
This sub feels nostalgic in the wrong way, harking back to a time when standards were lower. If you’re seeking satisfaction, this one might leave you longing for something more current and exciting.
5. Erbert & Gerbert’s – Tappy
Erbert & Gerbert’s Tappy sub is technically Italian, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The bread often comes out dry, a stark contrast to the luscious textures you’d expect from a great sub. The meats, instead of harmonizing, clash in a way that leaves an odd aftertaste.
While the attempt at an Italian-style sandwich is there, the balance just doesn’t hit the mark. It’s a sub that leaves you indifferent by the final bite, already forgotten before the napkin is unwrapped.
For those seeking an Italian delight, the Tappy might be a miss. Opt for something else if you’re looking for a true Italian experience.
1. Jersey Mike’s – #13 The Original Italian
Jersey Mike’s #13 The Original Italian is truly a masterpiece in the world of subs. The moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with a harmonious blend of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, and pepperoni.
Each ingredient plays its part perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
The bread is equally impressive, fresh and slightly chewy, offering the perfect vessel for this Italian delight. Topped ‘Mike’s Way’ with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, vinegar, oil, and spices, it transforms from a sandwich into a near work of art.
If you’re looking for a sub that feels like an authentic Italian experience, this is it. Jersey Mike’s has truly captured the essence of what makes these sandwiches so beloved.
2. Firehouse Subs – Italian
Firehouse Subs has crafted an Italian sub that hits all the right notes. With every bite, you’re met with a meaty, melty delight that’s generously packed with salami, pepperoni, ham, and provolone. The ingredients are heated to perfection, ensuring every flavor is at its peak.
The toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch, avoiding the all-too-common pitfall of turning into a mouth-scraping ordeal. Instead, it provides a delightful texture that complements the rich fillings within.
This sub is a testament to Firehouse’s commitment to quality. It’s a flavorful journey that invites you back for more, offering an Italian sub experience that’s hard to beat.
3. Potbelly – Italian
Unexpected surprises come in the form of Potbelly’s Italian sub. With layers of capicola, mortadella, pepperoni, and salami, it offers a flavor profile that’s rich yet balanced. The optional giardiniera adds a wonderful heat that amplifies the experience if you’re in the mood.
Toasting the sub seems to awaken the flavors, making each bite an adventure in taste. The combination of meats and toppings creates a delightful symphony of sensations, paired beautifully with the fresh bread.
If you haven’t tried it yet, Potbelly’s Italian is a must. It’s a sub that may not be on everyone’s radar, but it certainly deserves a spot on your must-eat list.
4. Which Wich – Grinder
Customization is key with Which Wich’s Grinder, allowing you to craft an Italian sub that suits your exact tastes. The meats are reliable, but the real magic lies in how you choose to spice it up. Fresh peppers, oils, and herbs bring a lively freshness to each bite.
When built right, it’s a solid contender in the Italian sub arena. The ability to tailor the sub to your liking ensures a unique experience every time.
For those who enjoy having a say in their sandwich construction, the Grinder offers both creativity and satisfaction. It’s a sub that reflects your personal taste, making each visit a new adventure.
5. Capriotti’s – Italian
Capriotti’s Italian sub is a hidden gem that delivers in spades. With premium meats and a more authentic deli feel, it’s a hearty, savory masterpiece that hits all the right notes. Each element works in harmony, providing a balanced blend of tang, spice, and crunch.
The sandwich feels elevated, a step above the typical fast-food fare. It’s the kind of sub that makes you appreciate the art of sandwich-making.
If you’re searching for a sub that feels special, Capriotti’s is the place to go. It’s an Italian sub that lingers in the memory, a true testament to quality ingredients and expert preparation.
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