8 Sandwich Chains That Use The Highest Quality Cheese And 4 That Use The Lowest

Explore the best and worst sandwich chains based on the quality of cheese they use. From sliced fresh to processed, let’s uncover the cheese stories behind these popular eateries.

1. Jersey Mike’s Subs

Jersey Mike’s Subs stands out for its commitment to using high-quality cheese, specifically their real provolone. Sliced fresh to order, it adds a rich and authentic flavor to their sandwiches. There’s nothing pre-packaged here, ensuring a taste that’s both fresh and satisfying.

The consistency of their cheese quality has been a major talking point among patrons. It complements the fresh ingredients, making each sub a delightful experience.

Provolone’s mild yet nutty profile elevates even the simplest of sandwiches, proving that cheese can be the star of the show.

2. Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs is celebrated for its carefully selected cheese blends that perfectly complement their hot sandwiches. Using real cheddar, provolone, and Monterey Jack—not imitation slices—the chain delivers a melt that’s both creamy and flavorful.

The combination of these cheeses adds depth and richness, enhancing the overall taste experience. Each bite of a Firehouse sandwich is a testament to their dedication to cheese quality.

For those passionate about melted cheese, Firehouse Subs offers a gooey indulgence that’s hard to resist, making every sandwich a memorable meal.

3. Panera Bread

Panera Bread impresses with its variety of premium cheeses, such as Vermont white cheddar, feta, and Gouda. These cheeses are thoughtfully incorporated into well-balanced sandwich builds, ensuring a delightful harmony of flavors.

Each cheese brings its own unique taste and texture, from the sharpness of cheddar to the creaminess of feta. This diversity offers something for every palate.

Panera’s commitment to quality is evident in every sandwich, making it a favorite for cheese lovers seeking variety and authenticity in every bite.

4. Potbelly Sandwich Shop

Potbelly Sandwich Shop is known for its use of real Swiss, provolone, and cheddar cheeses, which contribute to their unique toasted-sandwich identity. The emphasis on real cheese ensures a melt that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

The combination of these cheeses provides a balance of sharpness and creaminess, enhancing the taste of each sandwich. Potbelly’s dedication to quality is evident in the taste and texture of their offerings.

For those who appreciate a good melt, Potbelly’s cheese selection is sure to satisfy, making every bite a toasty delight.

5. McAlister’s Deli

McAlister’s Deli offers a variety of high-quality cheeses like pepper jack, Swiss, provolone, and cheddar, used generously in both hot and cold sandwiches. Their commitment to quality is reflected in the rich flavors and textures their cheeses bring.

Each cheese contributes differently, with the spicy kick of pepper jack and the smoothness of Swiss enhancing the overall taste profile. This variety allows customers to enjoy a personalized sandwich experience.

McAlister’s dedication to using real cheese ensures that every sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying feast.

6. Mendocino Farms

Mendocino Farms is a fast-casual chain that stands out for its use of artisanal and regional cheeses. Their sandwiches feature selections like goat cheese and fontina, carefully composed to enhance the overall flavor profile.

The use of these special cheeses highlights the chain’s commitment to quality and innovation in sandwich-making. Each bite offers a taste of something unique and delightful.

For those seeking a gourmet sandwich experience, Mendocino Farms delivers with its creative and delicious cheese selections, ensuring a memorable culinary adventure.

7. Earl of Sandwich

Earl of Sandwich may have a more limited cheese variety, but their cheddar and Swiss are renowned for being real and melting perfectly into hot sandwiches. This commitment to quality cheese elevates their offerings.

The melting process enhances the flavor, providing a satisfying, gooey texture that complements the other ingredients. It’s a taste sensation that warms the palate.

For those who appreciate the simple pleasure of a well-melted cheese, Earl of Sandwich provides a comforting and delicious option that never disappoints.

8. Publix Deli

While not a chain restaurant, Publix Deli is worth noting for its high-quality deli-sliced cheeses like Boar’s Head provolone and Swiss. These cheeses are used in custom subs, adding a rich and authentic taste to each bite.

The quality of the cheese is a key factor in the deli’s popularity, ensuring a satisfying experience for cheese lovers. The freshness and taste of the cheese enhance every sandwich creation.

For those in search of a premium cheese experience, Publix Deli offers a top-tier option that stands out in the world of sandwiches.

9. Subway

Subway is critiqued for its use of processed cheese slices, like “American” or Swiss-style, that don’t melt well and often lack flavor. While their provolone is somewhat passable, the overall cheese quality remains inconsistent.

The reliance on pre-packaged options detracts from the sandwich experience, leaving some customers disappointed. The limited meltability and taste can make the sandwiches less enjoyable.

For those seeking a more authentic cheese experience, Subway’s current offerings may fall short, making them a lesser choice for cheese enthusiasts.

10. Jimmy John’s

Jimmy John’s offers limited cheese options, mostly sticking to provolone and American. The cheese is often pre-sliced and lacks the depth of flavor found in higher-quality cheeses. It’s not customized or melted, leaving some customers wanting more.

This lack of variety and flavor depth can make the sandwiches feel basic and uninspiring. The pre-packaged nature of the cheese detracts from the overall sandwich quality.

For those who appreciate nuanced flavors, Jimmy John’s cheese offerings might not satisfy, positioning them lower on the list of quality cheese options.

11. Quiznos

Quiznos, where still operating, is known for its toasted sandwiches. However, the cheese selection usually includes basic cheddar or processed mozzarella blends that don’t stand out.

Despite the toasting process, which could enhance flavors, the cheese itself lacks the richness and quality that cheese lovers might expect. This can leave sandwiches feeling somewhat underwhelming.

For those seeking a standout cheese experience, Quiznos may not deliver the premium quality found in other chains, making their offerings less memorable.

12. Wawa

Wawa is known for convenience, but its cheese options, like processed American or provolone-style, are often pre-packaged and lack the rich, fresh taste of full-service delis.

The convenience factor might appeal to some, but cheese enthusiasts might find the options lackluster. The pre-packaged nature impacts the flavor profile negatively.

For those seeking quality and freshness in their cheese, Wawa’s offerings might not meet expectations, positioning them among the chains with lower cheese quality.