Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Lauren Beck
When it comes to sub sandwiches, there are two names that immediately come to mind: Subway and Jersey Mike’s. Both of these chains have a long history and plenty of experience making delicious sandwiches. But which one is truly better?
Some people might say that Subway has the edge when it comes to health. After all, the American Heart Association has given their stamp of approval to some of their menu items. But does healthier always mean tastier?
To settle this debate once and for all, we decided to conduct a taste test. We pitted Jersey Mike’s against Subway to see who comes out on top in terms of flavor.
We tried a variety of subs from both chains, from classic Italian to veggie-packed options. And let me tell you, it was a tough decision. Both Subway and Jersey Mike’s offer some seriously delicious sandwiches.
But in the end, there can only be one winner. So if you’re curious about which chain came out on top in our taste test, keep reading.
Difference Between Jersey Mike’s & Subway Sandwiches
The main difference between Jersey Mike’s and Subway Sandwiches is in the flavor. Jersey Mike’s submarine sandwiches contain more ingredients compared to Subway.
Though Jersey Mike costs around 30% more than Subway, their meats are higher quality which translates to better flavor.
However, Subway’s Subs has more grain wheat bread, green peppers, lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
These sandwiches are certified healthier by the American Heart Association AHA [1].
Key Differences
History
Subway opened in August of 1965 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and it was named Pete’s Super Submarines then.
They later changed the name to Subway in 1968 to have a better ring on the radio, and it has stuck since then.
Jersey Mike’s Subs opened in 1956. Peter Cancro launched it in Manasquan, New Jersey.
He opened his first single-shop sandwich when he was 17 years old. After being privately owned, he became open for a franchise and began franchising in 1987.
Menu Options
Subway’s core products are its submarine sandwiches. They have 16 regular sandwiches and four flatbreads for breakfast.
However, they allow their customers to customize their sandwiches. They also serve wraps, paninis, doughnuts, cookies, and pizzas.
Jersey Mike’s also has their submarine sandwiches served “Mike’s Way.” They have 14 cold subs, 12 hot subs, sides, drinks, and desserts.
They also have special kid’s meals prepared for the young ones.
Best Seller Sub
The best-seller sub at Subway is their BMT (Biggest, Meatiest, Tastiest).
The freshly baked bread is stacked with pepperoni, ham, and special Genoa salami. Customers are given the choice of vegetables and condiments.
Jersey Mike’s Turkey and Provolone sub is at the top of their best-sellers list.
Its main components are the delicious turkey breast that is additive-free and added with provolone cheese.
Location
The DeLuca family still owns Subway, and their headquarters is in Milford, Connecticut. The first store is located in the same state.
Since it started in 1965, it has grown exponentially and now has approximately 39,821 locations worldwide as of 2021.
Jersey Mike’s headquarters, on the other hand, is located in Manasquan, New Jersey, which is also their first store.
They cater to US and Canadian customers only and have around 2,100 stores based on their 2021 records.
Services
Jersey Mike’s restaurants are fresher and cleaner, with very friendly staff compared to Subway.
Both stores have dine-in and take-out services. These stores and their drive-through services still practice the traditional methods.
Subway has acquired an online app where customers can place their orders.
They are still given a chance to choose the contents of their subs or instructed to follow the picture shown on the store app. Jersey Mike’s app also provides the same online services.
Price Range
Subway subs’ footlong prices range from $5.50 to around $8.95, while their 6-inch subs range from about $3.75 to $5 each. Their flatbread menu ranges from $4 to around $5.50.
On the other hand, Jersey Mike’s has higher product prices. Their mini subs range from about $4.35 to around $5.00, while the regular subs range from around $5.45 to $7.00.
Their biggest servings called the giant subs, are priced from roughly $10.00 to around $12.00.
FAQs
What is the healthiest sub in Jersey Mike’s?
The healthiest sub in Jersey Mike’s is their No. 16, Mike’s Chicken Philly. It is made of freshly grilled chicken breast with onions, peppers, and white American cheese.
It has 670 calories, higher than the least healthy sandwich from Subway’s chicken and bacon ranch melt sandwich.
Does Subway have a secret menu?
Yes, Subway has a secret menu called “The Carnivore” by Subs enthusiasts.
These are varieties of food served with stacks of flavorful meats. There are pizza options that are included on the secret menu.
Final Verdict
After our taste-testing of both Jersey Mike’s and Subway subs, we have a clear winner: Jersey Mike’s. Despite the price difference and the wide variety of choices offered by Subway, we were won over by the flavors at Jersey Mike’s.
There’s something about their subs that just can’t be beaten. They’re thicker, meatier, and juicier than the ones we tried at Subway. And when it comes to taste, the meats used by Jersey Mike’s are clearly of higher quality.
Now, we’re not saying that every single sub at Jersey Mike’s beat out Subway’s offerings. The BMT, for example, is still a standout for us. But overall, we found a consistency in the flavors at Jersey Mike’s that just couldn’t be matched by Subway.
So if you’re on the hunt for a delicious sub sandwich, we recommend trying Jersey Mike’s. You won’t be disappointed.
Reference:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/subway-nutrition-facts
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