You’ll travel coast to coast without leaving your seat, discovering the sub shops that locals swear by and the sandwiches that define towns and cities. This guide points you toward eateries from classic hoagies in Philadelphia to spicy po-boys in Louisiana and inventive melts on the West Coast.
Expect a state-by-state tour of standout sub shops so you can plan your next lunch stop or a sandwiches-focused road trip with confidence. Flip through the list to find hometown favorites, regional specialties, and the stories behind the sandwiches that made them famous.
Philadelphia’s Primo Hoagies
You’ll find Primo Hoagies rooted in South Philadelphia tradition, serving Italian-style hoagies with Thumann’s meats and seeded rolls.
They’ve earned repeat recognition, including USA TODAY 10Best honors as a top sandwich shop in recent years, reflecting strong customer support.
Try the Sharp Italian or a signature Schwartzie if you want a classic Philly-flavored option.
Visit their awards page to see details of their accolades and recent honors.
New York’s Katz’s Delicatessen
You step into Katz’s and the buzz hits you — a long line, handwritten tickets, photos on the wall.
Order the pastrami on rye; it’s a mile-high sandwich that many New Yorkers swear by.
Expect crowded hours and tourist-heavy scenes, so go off-peak if you want a quicker bite.
Katz’s history stretches back to the 19th century, and its pastrami reputation keeps locals and visitors coming.
Try pairing your sandwich with a pickle and a classic soda for the full deli experience.
Learn more about Katz’s legacy at the Katz’s Delicatessen Wikipedia page.
New Jersey’s Suburban Deli
You’ll find thin-sliced meats piled high on rolls that still taste like they came from a local oven.
The vibe stays casual—counter service, family photos on the wall, and regulars who know your order.
Expect classic Italian subs, roast beef, and chicken parm with fresh mozzarella.
If you want recommendations, check out lists of top New Jersey sandwich shops like this Best Sandwich Shops in New Jersey guide.
Alabama’s Bunkie’s BBQ Subs
You’ll find Bunkie’s BBQ & Subs in Montgomery serving smoked meats tucked into hearty subs.
Order a brisket or pulled pork sandwich and expect bold, smoky flavors with classic Southern sides.
The shop blends barbecue techniques with sub-style sandwiches, so your meal feels familiar yet distinct.
Check a write-up of the shop for more details and hours at Bunkie’s BBQ & Subs in Montgomery.
California’s Ike’s Love & Sandwiches
You’ll find bold, over-the-top sandwich combos at Ike’s that mix unexpected sauces and toppings.
The chain started in San Francisco and now serves hundreds of menu options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
Order something famous or build your own — flavors tend toward savory and messy, in a good way.
Find locations and menus on the official Ike’s site.
Louisiana’s Johnny’s Po-Boys
You’ll find Johnny’s tucked into the French Quarter, serving classic po-boys since 1950 on St. Louis Street.
Grab a roast beef or fried shrimp sandwich and expect simple, well-made fillings on crisp French bread.
Lines form, so come hungry and patient; the counter service moves steadily.
Menus and current hours appear on Johnnys Po-Boys’ official menu page.
Maine’s Marden’s Famous Lunch
You’ll find Marden’s Famous Lunch tucked in a familiar Maine variety-store setting where cheap eats meet big portions.
Order a classic Italian or a steak bomb and expect generous fillings on a soft sub roll.
The counter service is fast and no-frills, which keeps prices low and locals coming back.
If you want a true Maine sandwich experience beyond lobster rolls, this place is a solid pick.
Texas’ Jimmy John’s
You’ll find Jimmy John’s across Texas for fast, no-frills subs when you need something quick between errands.
Expect classic options like the Turkey Tom or the Italian Night Club, made with simple, fresh ingredients.
If you want the chain’s fastest service, check locations and hours online before you go.
For local reviews and rankings of popular Jimmy John’s sandwiches, see this roundup of Jimmy John’s sandwiches ranked.
Illinois’ Al’s Italian Beef
You’ll find Al’s on Wells Street, serving slow-roasted beef sliced thin and piled into soft rolls.
Grab it “wet” with au jus and spicy giardiniera if you like bold, messy flavors.
Al’s has served this classic since 1938 and ships sandwiches nationwide for when you can’t make the trip; explore their story and ordering options at Al’s official site (https://www.alsbeef.com/about).
Florida’s Firehouse Subs
You’ll find Firehouse Subs started in Florida by two former firefighters, so the menu leans hearty and straightforward.
Order the Hook & Ladder or a hot meatball sub if you want familiar, crowd-pleasing flavors.
Locations in beach towns and suburbs make it an easy grab after work or the shore.
The chain also supports public safety through its foundation, which helps local first responders.
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As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.