When it comes to crafting the perfect submarine sandwich, New Jersey is proving to be a true powerhouse. Two beloved Garden State-born brands, PrimoHoagies and Jersey Mike’s Subs, have once again earned top honors in USA Today’s highly anticipated 2025 readers’ choice awards, solidifying their status among America’s most cherished sandwich chains. This remarkable recognition underscores New Jersey’s enduring legacy in the culinary world, particularly when it comes to the art of the hoagie and the sub.
For Westville-based PrimoHoagies, the triumph is particularly sweet, marking its third consecutive year at the coveted No. 1 spot for “Best Sandwich Shop in America.” This unparalleled achievement is a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and consistency, deeply rooted in Italian American heritage. Meanwhile, Manasquan-headquartered Jersey Mike’s Subs proudly claimed the No. 6 position, climbing a notch higher from its No. 7 ranking in 2024, showcasing its continued growth and widespread appeal.
These annual accolades, announced during the peak summer travel season, serve as invaluable recommendations for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. The rigorous evaluation process involves an expert panel assessing crucial factors such as the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, the availability of customizable options, and the appeal of signature menu items. Ultimately, it’s the enthusiastic votes of readers that crown the champions.
The Primo Difference: A Legacy of Flavor
PrimoHoagies, with over 125 locations nationwide and a strong presence of more than 30 stores right here in New Jersey, has cultivated a loyal following by delivering what they call “the Primo difference.” Nicholas Papanier Jr., PrimoHoagies’ owner, president, and CEO, attributes their consistent success to this commitment. “Winning USA Today’s Best Sandwich in America three years in a row is an incredible honor,” he remarked. “It’s a testament to our commitment to quality, our passionate franchisees, and—most importantly—our loyal customers who crave the Primo difference. We’re proud to represent the best of what a sandwich should be.”
USA Today editors affectionately describe PrimoHoagies as an “East Coast staple built on bold flavors, premium meats and cheeses, and recipes rooted in Italian American heritage.” Their menu is a diverse culinary journey, featuring ten distinct categories to satisfy every craving. From classic Italian favorites like the “Sharp Italian” to hearty “Philly Cheesesteaks” and unique “Schwartzies,” each hoagie is a handcrafted masterpiece. Even their “Meatless options,” such as “Nonna’s Veggies” with eggplant and broccoli rabe, are praised for delivering that quintessential Primo flavor, proving that quality ingredients and meticulous preparation are the secret to their widespread acclaim. To celebrate their continued success, PrimoHoagies is treating its rewards members to a special offer: $5 off a combo meal featuring a Primo-sized hoagie, a 20-ounce beverage, and a 1-ounce bag of chips.
Jersey Mike’s: A Sub Above the Rest
The story of Jersey Mike’s began in 1956 as a humble sandwich shop in Point Pleasant, New Jersey. From these modest roots, it has blossomed into one of the fastest-growing quick-service restaurant chains in the U.S., boasting over 3,100 locations. For nearly seven decades, Jersey Mike’s has been perfecting the art of the “quick-but-tasty sub.”
What sets Jersey Mike’s apart is their dedication to freshness and customization. Patrons can choose between cold or hot subs, select from a variety of premium meats like turkey, ham, roast beef, and proscuittini, or opt for a meatless creation. The true hallmark of a Jersey Mike’s experience, however, is ordering it “Mike’s Way.” This signature preparation includes freshly sliced lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, all generously drizzled with “the juice” – a blend of red wine vinegar and olive oil – and finished with a sprinkle of spices. This combination creates a distinctive, tangy, and incredibly flavorful profile that keeps customers coming back for more.
The success of both PrimoHoagies and Jersey Mike’s highlights New Jersey’s significant contribution to America’s culinary landscape. These brands embody the entrepreneurial spirit of the Garden State, proving that with dedication to quality ingredients, unique flavors, and an exceptional customer experience, local businesses can achieve national recognition.
For more insights into successful businesses thriving across New Jersey and their impact on our communities, explore our dedicated section on New Jersey Business.
