Jersey Mike’s Totally Stole the Show: I Ordered Turkey Sandwiches From Subway and Jimmy John’s

A Fair Sandwich Comparison

The tester ordered each chain’s regular turkey sandwich without customizations, then used a measuring tape to check the advertised lengths. Jersey Mike’s and Subway sandwiches included turkey and other toppings, while the Jimmy John’s sandwich was described as especially simple.

The comparison considered taste, texture, size and price. Jersey Mike’s regular sub was almost 7 inches and cost $9.80 before tax, or about $1.40 per inch.

Jersey Mike’s Stands Out

Jersey Mike’s Turkey and provolone came with the chain’s “Mike’s Way” preparation and its oil-and-vinegar “juice.” The tester found the sandwich unusually thick, with moist turkey and cheese that had been sliced in the shop. The sandwich had at least five slices of turkey and three of cheese. It did not include mayonnaise, but the tester said the “juice” supplied enough brightness that the missing condiment was not a problem.

Subway Falls Short On Bread

Subway’s sandwich was intended to be 6 inches but measured closer to 5½, and cost $7.99 before tax, or about $1.33 per inch. Though narrower than Jersey Mike’s, it was nearly as tall and contained plenty of turkey.

The turkey seemed papery-thin and somewhat dry to the tester, while the raw red onions came across as too strong. The bread also disappointed: the tester had hoped for a soft, chewy loaf.

Jimmy John’s Feels Forgettable

Jimmy John’s sandwich appealed more to people who prefer a thin, slim sub, but the tester did not find it especially satisfying. It lacked onions, cheese and much else, with the missing cheese particularly noticeable.

The bread was judged mediocre despite the chain’s website saying it bakes fresh loaves every four hours. The tester found the sandwich forgettable and said it would be easy to make a similar one at home.

The Final Choice

Jersey Mike’s was the favorite, even though it cost the most per inch. Its substantial weight, balanced ingredients and signature “juice” made it feel like the best value. The tester considered Subway and Jimmy John’s passable choices in a pinch, but said Jersey Mike’s delivered the most memorable sandwich.