As one of the world's largest fast food chains, it's impossible to have a discussion about sandwich companies without bringing Subway into the conversation. That said, Subway is living proof that success doesn't necessarily hinge on quality.
Even the name Panera Bread signals the trouble ahead here, because while the chain has decent bread, the quality of its sandwich meat isn't exactly impressive. There's nothing really special or noteworthy about it.
Using hand-sliced meats and featuring some specialty subs with generous portions of meat, Jimmy John's nudges ahead of some of its competitors.
With its emphasis on soups and sandwiches, Jason's Deli occupies similar territory to Panera Bread. It's not known for its sandwiches, and they aren't the best things on the menu. However, the difference is that Jason's Deli has a more extensive sandwich menu that includes muffulettas and corned beef Reubens.
Potbelly Sandwich Works is mostly known for its toasted subs that are crisped in a 500-degree Fahrenheit oven until everything is that beautiful combination of melty and crunchy.
One thing that's earned Firehouse a high-ranking spot is its meatball sub. It's honestly straight-up shocking that a big sandwich chain like this is serving meatballs that are this good. Firehouse's meatballs are juicy and flavorful.
Jersey Mike's has some of the best sandwiches in the business — and a big part of that comes down to the quality of the deli meat itself.