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The basics:

• PrimoHoagies ranks No. 1 for third year in USA Today list
• Jersey Mike’s earns No. 6 spot, up from 2024
• Rankings based on expert input and reader voting
• Both brands praised for quality ingredients and variety

When it comes to America’s favorite shops for grab-and-go sandwiches and subs, two New Jersey-born brands are among the most craved.

According to USA Today’s 2025 readers’ choice award’s ranking of the best 10 chains, Westville-based PrimoHoagies came in at No. 1 and Manasquan-headquartered Jersey Mike’s Subs was named No. 6.

For PrimoHoagies, this marks its third-consecutive year it ranked as America’s No. 1 sandwich shop. For Jersey Mike’s, it is a notch higher than last year’s No. 7 place.

Awarded annually during the summer travel season, the recognition aims to provide trusted recommendations for food, lodging, destinations, travel gear and activities.

To evaluate sandwich and sub shops, an expert panel considered factors such as the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, customizable options and signature items, according to USA Today. Readers then voted on those finalists.

A biting competition

Nicholas Papanier Jr., PrimoHoagies’ owner, president and chief executive officer, believes the award underscores the brand’s commitment to quality and consistency, as well as the loyalty of its customers.

He said, “Winning USA Today’s Best Sandwich in America three years in a row is an incredible honor. 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.”

To celebrate the recognition, PrimoHoagies said it is offering rewards members $5 off a combo meal featuring one Primo size hoagie, a 20 ounce beverage and a 1-ounce bag of chips.

Known for its specialty sandwiches made with high-quality meats, cheeses and fresh-baked rolls, the growing franchise currently has more than 125 locations across the U.S. Within New Jersey, it has a footprint of 30-plus stores.

An ‘East Coast staple’

USA Today editors described PrimoHoagies as “East Coast staple built on bold flavors, premium meats and cheeses, and recipes rooted in Italian American heritage.”

“With 10 distinct categories on the menu, there’s something for every craving; from the fan-favorite Italian Classics like the Sharp Italian, to Philly Cheesesteaks and signature Schwartzies, each hoagie is handcrafted to perfection. Even the Meatless options, like Nonna’s Veggies with eggplant and broccoli rabe, deliver that same Primo flavor,” the publication said.

Founded in 1956, Jersey Mike’s started out as a small sandwich shop in Point Pleasant. Now, it is one of the fastest-growing quick-service restaurants in the U.S., with more than 3,100 locations.

In describing the brand, USA Today editors wrote that Jersey Mike’s has been “perfecting the art of the quick-but-tasty sub” for nearly seven decades.

“Opt for cold or hot, pick your meat (turkey, ham, roast beef, proscuittini, among others) or skip it altogether, then add a few slices of provolone or Swiss. Get it ‘Mike’s Way’ for lettuce, tomato, and onion, plus the “sauce” (oil and vinegar) and spices,” they said

USA Today’s readers’ choice top 10 best sandwich chains:

1. PrimoHoagies
2. Jason’s Deli
3. Penn Station East Coast Subs
4. Subway
5. D’Angelo Grilled Sandwiches
6. Jersey Mike’s Subs
7. Potbelly Sandwich Works
8. Firehouse Subs
9. Capriotti’s
10. Jimmy John’s