8 Sandwich Chains That Are a Huge Upgrade from Subway

Subway, with nearly 37,000 locations worldwide, offers a variety of tasty options like Featured Combos, Deli Heroes, Classic Sandwiches, Italianos, Subway Series, and Cheesesteaks. It's still a popular place for many restaurant-goers who love subs, but with so many other options out there, many people are turning to other sandwich shops.

While Subway was once my go-to sandwich spot, I've since discovered 8 even better alternatives. If you're looking to try something new, these spots are definitely worth considering.

This post was updated in December 2025 to include relevant information about popular sandwich shops and additional editorial enhancements.

Founded in 1971, Schlotzsky's has 303 locations throughout the United States as of September 2025. In the beginning, they only served one sandwich known as “The Original.” It consisted of mixed meats, black olives, and cheeses, and was served on a freshly made toasted bun.

Life is too short for boring sandwiches. All sandwiches are served on their signature sourdough bread. Each bite makes you feel happy inside, and it comes in three different sizes: small, medium, and giant. The Smoked Turkey Breast comes with lettuce, lite mayo, turkey, and tomatoes.

Founded in 2003, Which Wich has 109 locations in the United States and specializes in salads and sandwiches. Which Wich also gives back to the community. The Spread the Love program helps those who are suffering from hunger. When someone orders a jelly and peanut butter sandwich, the company donates one to someone in need.

A sandwich is a meal that can be as complex or as simple as you want it to be. For those of you who like customizing your order, there are 50+ toppings to choose from. In addition, their menu also has a variety of options, including their Wicked signature sandwich, seafood, turkey, vegetarian, ham, pork, Italian, beef, chicken, breakfast, and classics.

Founded in 1998, Lennys Grill & Subs specializes in Philadelphia-style deli sandwiches and cheesesteaks. There are about 56 locations, and the chain boasts that its bread is freshly baked and that the ingredients used are of the highest quality.

Famous sandwiches include cold and hot Italian subs and different twists on the Philly cheesesteak. You can’t beat Lennys when it comes to a mouth-watering sub. The Deluxe Club is loaded with fresh-sliced, oven-roasted turkey, hickory-smoked bacon, premium roast beef, your choice of fresh toppings, and provolone cheese served on a freshly baked wheat or white roll.

When Jimmy John Liautaud graduated from high school, his father gave him a choice to start a business or join the army. It was then that he decided to start a hot dog business; however, due to costs, it changed to sandwiches. Jimmy John’s was founded in 1983 and now has 2,740 locations as of October 2025.

At Jimmy John's, they are called favorites for a reason: that’s because I can’t decide which one is best. Maybe it’s the Italian Night Club, Beach Club, or Club Lulu with 11 favorites on the list; you may just need to try each one.

Next on our list is another fantastic alternative, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, founded in 1977. Their sandwiches are made with the freshest ingredients, and the bread is baked to perfection. If you fancy a Mediterranean nibble or a grilled-to-perfection delight, there’s something to please your taste buds.

Furthermore, the staff welcomes you with a friendly smile and excellent service. Potbelly sandwiches are not only tasty, but they are a better alternative to Subway, and what’s more, their sandwiches are also affordable. A Potbelly sandwich is a meal that can make any day better. Next time you head to Potbelly, try the Pizza Melt; it combines the best of a sandwich and a pizza.

Founded in 1976, Capriotti’s has more than 175 locations in 33 states as of July 2025. In 2025, Capriotti’s ranked No. 292 in the Franchise Times Top 400. Did you know that every night for 12 hours, each restaurant roasts whole turkeys, then hand pulls the meat and makes their own meatballs and delicious coleslaw?

Using premium chicken, steak, and American Wagyu, you know that you will experience a taste like no other, making you want to come back for more. I thought the Capastrami was a real game-changer. It’s loaded with melted Swiss cheese, hot pastrami, a tangy Russian dressing, and their oh-so-good crunchy coleslaw.

Celebrating 85 years of business, this family-owned deli is a must-visit favorite sandwich shop located in Astoria, New York. They offer delicious deli sandwiches that will definitely satisfy your craving. Customers rave about the size and quality of these sandwiches and keep coming back for more. 

It’s important to note that Sal, Kris & Charlie’s Deli does not make small sandwiches. You would have to eat one of their sandwiches in more than one sitting or share it with a couple of friends. The Bomb is one of their famous signature dishes, which weighs around 2 pounds. It consists of layers of thinly sliced ham, turkey, pastrami, roast beef, pepperoni, mortadella, American cheese, mild provolone cheese, lettuce, onions, sweet and hot peppers, tomato, and your choice of olive oil and vinegar, mustard, mayonnaise, or all three. The price is $25 as of 2025.

Panera Bread is a bakery café with 2,228 locations in the United States as of October 2025. In addition to offering freshly baked bread, they also have a wide variety of sandwiches, pasta, pizzas, and more. Furthermore, Panera Bread also supports the community by donating over $85 million of unsold baked goods and bread annually as of 2022 to organizations that need assistance.

Finally, their menu features a wide variety of delicious sandwiches, such as the Chicken Bacon Rancher. On a black pepper focaccia, you will bite into succulent grilled chicken, aged white cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, and ranch sauce. There are also vegetarian-friendly sandwiches like the Toasted Garden Caprese. Not only is Panera Bread’s food tasty, but it is also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for those who are health-conscious.

In conclusion, Subway used to be my go-to sandwich spot — but these 8 alternatives are way better, with great taste and affordable options to choose from.