We Asked 20 Chefs Which Cold Sandwich Chain Is The Best

In the world of quick, satisfying meals, cold sandwich chains have carved a niche, offering fresh ingredients layered between slices of bread. To uncover the ultimate favorite, we reached out to 20 diverse chefs, each with a unique palate and culinary perspective. Their insights not only revealed personal preferences but also highlighted what makes each chain standout. From gourmet touches to nostalgic flavors, get ready to explore a delicious journey of textures, tastes, and unexpected favorites.

1. Chef Mario’s Pick: Subway

Chef Mario appreciates the customizable nature of Subway’s sandwiches. “It’s like a blank canvas for my taste buds,” he says. The variety of fresh vegetables and multiple bread options appeal to his culinary creativity.

He often opts for the Italian B.M.T., loaded with spicy pepperoni, salami, and ham, complemented by crisp lettuce and tangy olives. “It reminds me of home,” he adds with a nostalgic smile.

For Mario, the magic lies in the balance of flavors that can be tailored to suit different moods, making Subway a versatile choice.

2. Chef Lisa’s Favorite: Jimmy John’s

For Chef Lisa, Jimmy John’s represents simplicity and speed. “When I’m in a rush, their sandwiches always hit the spot,” she claims. Known for their fast service, she enjoys their fresh, no-nonsense approach to sandwiches.

Her go-to order is the Turkey Tom, a straightforward combination of turkey breast, lettuce, and tomato. “It’s light and refreshing,” Lisa notes, appreciating its fresh ingredients.

With its quick service and reliable quality, Jimmy John’s has become her staple for a quick and satisfying meal, whether at work or on the go.

3. Chef Miguel’s Choice: Jersey Mike’s

Chef Miguel swears by Jersey Mike’s for its authentic sub experience. “It’s the freshness that wins me over,” he explains, pointing to their technique of slicing meats and cheeses right before serving.

His favorite is the Famous Roast Beef and Provolone, piled high with tender beef and creamy cheese. “It feels like a hearty meal,” Miguel asserts, enjoying the richness of flavors accented by a splash of vinegar and oil.

For Miguel, Jersey Mike’s goes beyond a meal—it’s a flavorful indulgence rooted in quality ingredients and robust taste.

4. Chef Ella’s Delight: Panera Bread

Panera Bread is Chef Ella’s top choice for its commitment to clean eating. “I love their focus on wholesome, fresh ingredients,” she shares. The atmosphere adds to her enjoyment, perfect for a relaxing lunch.

Her favorite is the Mediterranean Veggie sandwich, featuring feta cheese, cucumbers, and peppadew peppers. “It’s a burst of flavors,” Ella describes, highlighting its vibrant and refreshing taste.

With an emphasis on nutritional value and taste, Panera Bread satisfies Ella’s desire for a nourishing yet delicious meal, aligning with her health-focused lifestyle.

5. Chef Tom’s Go-To: Quiznos

Chef Tom appreciates Quiznos for its unique toasting process, which elevates the sandwich experience. “The warmth and crunch make all the difference,” he muses.

His favorite, the Classic Italian, is a fusion of salami, capicola, and fresh veggies, all enhanced by their signature Italian dressing. “It’s a delightful blend of textures,” Tom expresses, enjoying the layers of flavor.

Quiznos offers Tom a distinct taste adventure with every bite, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a warm, fulfilling sandwich that’s anything but ordinary.

6. Chef Grace’s Preference: Potbelly Sandwich Shop

Potbelly Sandwich Shop is where Chef Grace finds her comfort. “Their toasted sandwiches are pure joy,” she exclaims. She enjoys the cozy, welcoming environment that complements the hearty food.

Her go-to order is the Wreck, a delightful mix of salami, roast beef, turkey, and ham. “It’s a symphony of flavors,” Grace describes, loving the combination of meats and the crunchy bread.

For Grace, Potbelly offers more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic escape into deliciousness, making each visit a cherished experience.

7. Chef Sam’s Selection: Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs wins Chef Sam’s vote for its bold flavors and hearty portions. “It’s like a feast in a sandwich,” he states enthusiastically.

His favorite is the Hook & Ladder, packed with smoked turkey breast, Virginia honey ham, and melted Monterey Jack. “The flavors are explosive,” Sam says, enjoying the savory experience.

With its firefighter-themed atmosphere and robust sandwiches, Firehouse Subs satisfies Sam’s craving for big, bold flavors that leave a lasting impression on his taste buds.

8. Chef Nina’s Choice: Pret A Manger

Chef Nina values Pret A Manger for its commitment to organic ingredients and sustainability. “Their fresh approach is refreshing,” she remarks, admiring their ethical food practices.

Her favorite, the Tuna & Cucumber, combines responsibly-sourced tuna with crisp cucumbers and fresh greens. “It’s a guilt-free pleasure,” Nina comments, savoring the clean flavors.

For Nina, Pret A Manger is more than just a sandwich shop—it’s a testament to conscious eating, offering delicious, mindful choices that align with her values.

9. Chef Alex’s Favorite: Blimpie

Blimpie holds a special place in Chef Alex’s heart for its classic deli-style sandwiches. “It’s like a bite of tradition,” he beams.

His favorite is the Blimpie Best, a hearty concoction of ham, salami, and capicola layered with fresh veggies and provolone cheese. “Every bite is a celebration of flavors,” Alex explains, relishing the traditional taste.

Blimpie offers Alex a timeless sandwich experience, where familiar flavors meet quality ingredients, creating a satisfying and memorable meal.

10. Chef Emma’s Top Pick: Which Wich

Which Wich is Chef Emma’s playground for culinary creativity. “It’s all about personalizing my sandwich heaven,” she declares.

Her usual concoction is a blend of turkey, avocado, and spicy mayo, all wrapped in a softly baked roll. “The freedom to experiment is thrilling,” Emma says, enjoying the endless combinations.

For Emma, Which Wich isn’t just a sandwich shop; it’s a canvas where she expresses her taste preferences, creating a personalized and flavorsome masterpiece with every visit.

11. Chef Leo’s Favorite: Au Bon Pain

Chef Leo appreciates Au Bon Pain for its European-style sandwiches. “It’s like a trip to Paris,” he muses.

His favorite, the Caprese with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, delivers a taste of Italy in every bite. “It’s both simple and sophisticated,” Leo comments, admiring the elegant flavors.

For Leo, Au Bon Pain offers more than just a meal; it provides an international escape, merging quality ingredients with a touch of elegance that satisfies both his palate and soul.

12. Chef Olivia’s Pick: Schlotzsky’s

Schlotzsky’s wins Chef Olivia’s heart with its unique sourdough bread. “The texture is unbeatable,” she says, appreciating the distinct chewiness.

Her favorite, the Original, combines lean meats, cheeses, and their signature dressing, wrapped in that iconic bread. “It’s a flavor explosion,” Olivia exclaims, enjoying the harmony of tastes.

For Olivia, Schlotzsky’s offers a delightful and spirited dining experience, where every bite is an exciting journey of textures and flavors that never fails to delight.

13. Chef Jack’s Choice: Corner Bakery Cafe

Corner Bakery Cafe is Chef Jack’s go-to for family time and flavorful sandwiches. “It’s the warmth of home,” he shares, pointing to the café’s inviting atmosphere.

His family favorite is the Chicken Pomodori, featuring grilled chicken, fresh basil, and tomatoes. “It’s a comforting blend of flavors,” Jack notes, enjoying the hearty, homely taste.

For Jack, Corner Bakery Cafe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating cherished memories with loved ones over delicious, heartfelt meals that resonate with warmth and comfort.

14. Chef Chloe’s Selection: Panini’s

Chef Chloe embraces Panini’s for its bold flavors and crunchy textures. “The crispness is addictive,” she laughs, loving the toasted perfection.

Her favorite, the Italian Panini, layers fresh meats, cheese, and spicy peppers between perfectly grilled slices. “It’s a fiery delight,” Chloe describes, savoring the combination.

For Chloe, Panini’s offers a thrilling flavor adventure, where the sensory delight of each bite captures the essence of bold, creative culinary expression that excites the palate.

15. Chef Nick’s Favorite: Togo’s

Togo’s holds Chef Nick’s heart for its abundant portions and fresh ingredients. “It’s a bite of the California coast,” he grins.

His choice, the Turkey Avocado, combines creamy avocado with fresh turkey and crisp lettuce. “It’s pure and satisfying,” Nick explains, appreciating the freshness.

For Nick, Togo’s represents the essence of West Coast flavors, where generous, fresh sandwiches make a perfect companion for laid-back beachside enjoyment, capturing the spirit of California’s culinary culture.

16. Chef Sara’s Choice: E.A.T. Marketplace

Chef Sara favors E.A.T. Marketplace for its organic and locally-sourced ingredients. “It’s food with integrity,” she notes.

Her favorite, the Farmhouse, includes organic chicken, avocados, and garden-fresh veggies. “It’s a wholesome delight,” Sara comments, enjoying the farm-to-table feel.

For Sara, E.A.T. Marketplace isn’t just about eating; it’s about engaging with food that’s sustainably sourced, offering a connection to nature and purity in every bite, enhancing her dining experience with ethical satisfaction.

17. Chef Ben’s Pick: Mendocino Farms

Chef Ben admires Mendocino Farms for its gourmet twist on classic sandwiches. “It’s culinary creativity at its finest,” he praises.

His favorite, the Pork Belly Banh Mi, combines crispy pork belly with pickled vegetables and spicy mayo. “It’s a fusion of flavors,” Ben says, relishing the unique taste.

Mendocino Farms offers Ben a stage for innovation, where traditional meets trendy, crafting elevated sandwich experiences that delight and surprise with each inventive bite.

18. Chef Rachel’s Go-To: Earl of Sandwich

Earl of Sandwich stands out for Chef Rachel with its homage to the classic sandwich. “It’s a slice of history,” she smiles.

Her favorite is The Original 1762, filled with roasted beef, cheddar, and horseradish sauce. “It’s timeless,” Rachel notes, enjoying the historical touch.

For Rachel, Earl of Sandwich isn’t just about taste; it’s about tradition, offering a connection to the past through classic recipes that have stood the test of time, providing a taste of culinary heritage with every bite.

19. Chef Paul’s Favorite: Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop wins Chef Paul’s praise for its unique creations. “The innovation is remarkable,” he asserts.

His favorite, the Bobbie, features roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. “It’s Thanksgiving in a sandwich,” Paul exclaims, delighting in the holiday flavors.

For Paul, Capriotti’s offers a culinary celebration, where inventive sandwich combinations create joyful eating experiences that resonate with the comforting tastes of festive feasts, making every meal a special occasion.

20. Chef Clara’s Unexpected Delight: The Pickle Palace

When you think of a sandwich, pickles are usually a crunchy afterthought. But at The Pickle Palace, they take center stage! Chef Clara, known for her adventurous palate, swears by this unique chain. She loves the tangy twist they bring to classic combinations.

Imagine biting into a sandwich where each layer is a burst of flavor, thanks to their signature pickled veggies. With options ranging from sweet gherkins to spicy jalapeños, there’s something for everyone.

Chef Clara particularly recommends the ‘Dill Delight’ — a symphony of textures and tastes that’ll leave you craving more. The Pickle Palace proves that pickles can be the star of the show!