There is no question that the sandwich is the best invention in all of food. So much so, that there are all kinds of brands out there offering their own renditions. It gets to be quite challenging if we say so ourselves.

This guide will cover the top 20 sandwich franchises. Whether it’s a big global brand or something locally owned or regionally known, you’re about to find out which ones are out there. If we may, we might have an idea of one in particular we highly recommend. Let’s unveil the list.

Tony Boy’s

Based in New Jersey with three locations (with more in the works), you can choose plenty of options. We highly recommend our cutlet sandwiches – which feature your choice of chicken or eggplant. It may look like a small sandwich franchise, but they’re big on leaving you with a smile courtesy of a mouthwatering sandwich.

Subway

Ah yes. One of the most well-known franchise sandwich shops around. You may find one in almost every town in the country.

Sure, they’re known for their fresh ingredients. The sandwiches are made right in front of you with your choice of meats, veggies, and more. But can they make it the best ever?

Jimmy John’s

They are known for being “freaky fast” while giving you a sandwich that has fresh ingredients. Sure, speed is fine and fresh is good. Where it really shines is how affordable their options are. You have plenty of choices to choose from just like any other of the sandwich franchises that exist.

Quiznos

This is one of the more well-known franchise sandwich shops out there. Where they shine the brightest is their toasted subs. If you’re looking for something nice and hot, this could be the place. All that’s left for you to do is build it into something you might enjoy.

Firehouse Subs

What we like about this place aside from the ingredients and sandwiches they put together is their drive to give back. You may have seen the commercials where they help support the firefighters and first responders of America. If you want a good sandwich while supporting those who keep us safe, why not get a sandwich from here?

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

Potbelly Sandwich Shop is one of those under the radar sandwich franchises that really stand out. They offer not just hot and toasty sandwiches, but they also have milkshakes as well. What an interesting combination.

They offer an excellent dining experience like nothing else. So if you’re looking for a sit down place, this may be one of them.

Jersey Mike’s Subs

Of all the sandwich franchises on the list, this one deserves a spot. Maybe one of the reasons is that it’s based in New Jersey? Or could it be the sandwiches made the “Mike’s Way” that gets your mouth watering?

Whatever it may be, it has built up quite a reputation for making East Coast-style sandwiches that will really make you want more. It may be one of the nationally known gourmet sandwiches franchises around and we might be telling some truths here.

Which Wich

Want to build a sandwich your way? Want to write it down on a bag? This is the place.

A custom-made sandwich with all the meats, veggies, and breads you can think of. You know how you like it and they’ll make sure it comes out that way. One bite and you’ll be thinking “this is exactly the sandwich I like”.

Panera Bread

If high-quality is what you aim for, this might be one of the better sandwich franchises. They offer different types morning, noon, and night. Fresh ingredients and artisanal bread are one of the hallmarks of this franchise.

So if you’re looking for something that is akin to a bakery-style sandwich shop, go here. Their options don’t disappoint.

Arby’s

The commercials say it best – “we have the meats”. One of their sandwiches is none other than their legendary “Roast Beef Sandwich”. They also offer gyros, brisket sandwiches, and much more. So if you’re someone with a bit of a carnivorous side, the choice is obvious.

Blimpie

Fun fact: this sandwich chain was also founded in New Jersey. So make that three on the list for the Garden State. Looks like we should change the nickname to the Sandwich State.
Then again, maybe not. But nonetheless, you get an excellent option of subs, soups, and a whole lot more. The Hoboken Hero is as Jersey as you can get from a place like this.

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop

This has plenty of sandwich options. So many it’s hard to know where to begin. You can try something meaty like their legendary cheesesteaks. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, they have quite a few options available.

Cousins Subs

Sandwich franchises live up to the phrase “believe in better”. Of course, that’s one of the mottos of Cousins Subs. This franchise is more concentrated in the Midwest with locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Tennessee. This is another place that offers sandwiches and shakes – kind of like Potbelly’s.
Not a bad idea right? Sandwich and a shake? What’s not to love?

Schlotzsky’s

Home of all kinds of sandwiches – hot and cold. While their name sounds like a mouthful, their subs might just be just as good. Their jalapeno chips just might be one of those must-have sides if you care for a little extra kick.

Togo’s

Sandwiches, salads, and soups galore here at Togo’s. They have been around for more than 50 years and may not be as well known as Subway or Jersey Mike’s. Might be a good reason to check them out if there happens to be a Togo’s location near you.

Earl of Sandwich

Needless to say, we aren’t surprised that someone came up with a franchise named after the inventor of the sandwich. However, this is another lesser known of the sandwich franchises with locations in about 13 states. They offer sandwiches with artisan bread and family recipes that feature fresh ingredients.

Cheba Hut

This sandwich franchise has an interesting theme to it. It caters to those who are amongst the aficionados of cannabis. We won’t place judgment on those who do (or disapprove of it). What matters is that they offer some pretty exotic options for sandwiches like the Jamaican Red or the G-13.

Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop

It’s got toasted sandwiches, cold sandwiches, and even one that is a mix of mac & cheese and BBQ brisket. If you’re looking for a sandwich place that has plenty of options and a few exotic ingredients, this could be the go to place.

Another lesser known franchise. But hey, you’ll never know if there’s a treasure of a sandwich that you might try.

Lenny’s Grill & Subs

This place is known for making some pretty mouth watering Philly-style cheesesteaks. However, it’s another regional chain so it may be something you might not have heard of until reading this. If cheesesteak isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other sandwich options too.

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches

Whether it’s for meat lovers, vegetarians, or vegans – Ike’s has all kinds of options. The names are quite unique as well such as the Hot Mama, Sometimes I’m A Vegetarian, and the Ike’s to name a few. So many options, so many unique names…all the reasons why you may want to check this place out.