Subway Used to Be My Family’s Go-To Sandwich Spot – But These 8 Alternatives Are Way Better

When I was growing up, Subway was our go-to sandwich spot. Naturally, I continued to eat there when I got older and craved a sub of any kind. However, despite Subway's popularity, I've found that our family prefers some of the other sub shops out there.

As of 2026, just over 35,000 Subway branches worldwide offer delicious sandwiches, including Featured Combos, Deli Heroes, Classic Sandwiches, Subway Series, and Cheesesteaks. Subway has something for everyone. But some customers agree that Subway restaurants aren't what they used to be. For us, Subway used to be our go-to sandwich spot, but now we prefer these 8 alternatives. If you want to try something new, consider these options.

This post was updated in June 2026 to include updated information about popular sandwich shops and additional editorial enhancements.

Founded in 1971, Schlotzsky's has about 303 locations throughout the United States. 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 at Schlotzsky's are served on their signature sourdough bread. Each bite is better than the last, 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 about 132 locations as of 2026 and specializes in salads and sandwiches. This chain 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 anyone who likes customizing their order, there are 50+ toppings available. In addition, the menu also has a variety of options, including the 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 were 56 Lennys Grill & Subs locations open as of December 2025, with additional locations planned for 2026. The chain boasts that its bread is freshly baked and that the ingredients used are of the highest quality.

Famous sandwiches at Lennys 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 it has over 2,600 locations as of 2026.

At Jimmy John's, they are called favorites for a reason: one of them is bound to be your new favorite sub. 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.

At Potbelly's, 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 had more than 175 locations in 33 states as of mid-2025, with several new locations opening in 2026. In 2016, the chain ranked 264 in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500. 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.

Much like the name suggests, Firehouse Subs was founded by former firefighters. Chris Sorensen and Robin Sorensen founded the restaurant in 1994, and there are now over 1,400 Firehouse Subs locations as of early 2026. Even though Firehouse Subs is now a part of the Restaurant Brands International family of restaurants, they've stayed true to their mission, donating a portion of their revenue to public safety.

There are many delicious subs to choose from at Firehouse Subs, but we recommend the Firehouse Hero. This sub includes roast beef, turkey, ham, and provolone. You can choose from a small, medium, or large sub, and each one is served with a pickle spear on the side.

Jersey Mike's is an excellent choice when you're looking for a high-quality sub. They offer a variety of hot and cold subs, made fresh to order. In the U.S., there are 3,317 Jersey Mike's locations as of February 2026, and according to their website, 297 locations are coming soon.

The Club Sub is a fan favorite, topped with a number of classic ingredients. This sub includes turkey, ham, provolone, bacon, and mayo. To give the sandwich even more flavor, you can order it "Mike's Way," which includes toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.