Turkey subs are a popular option within the sandwich landscape, often vying for attention among hearty club, Italian, and roast beef selections. Known for being a quick, convenient, and healthier choice, turkey subs provide a lean protein alternative for those looking for something light yet satisfying. They serve as an excellent on-the-go meal for lunch or dinner, especially when someone is steering clear of heavier meats. To find out which chains offer the best turkey sub, I sampled and ranked various options.
Ranking the Turkey Subs
My taste test included various well-known establishments like Primo Hoagies, Subway, and Firehouse Subs. I even gave Sheetz a shot, a gas station known for its extensive made-to-order menu. Each chain offers its own twist on the turkey sub, showcasing unique interpretations. While some chains aimed for simplicity, opting for minimal ingredients, others piled on an array of toppings, meats, and cheeses. This led me to ponder—do we prefer the simplicity of a classic turkey sub, or do we opt for the extravagance of embellished versions?
Jersey Mike’s and Capriotti’s: The Bottom of the Barrel
Starting at the bottom, Jersey Mike’s Turkey and Provolone earned last place despite previous successes in other categories like cheesesteaks. While its visual appeal was undeniable, the sandwich fell flat in execution. The thick, slick slices of meat combined with an overpowering dose of oregano created an unpleasant flavor profile. Additionally, the soggy lettuce and tomatoes left little to be desired, turning the bread into a mushy mess.
Similarly, Capriotti’s Homemade Turkey was another disappointment. Rather than using deli meats, this chain offered slow-roasted turkey, which sounds great in theory. However, it lacked moisture and seasoning, leaving behind a dry experience. The bread also didn’t provide the necessary texture, leading to an unremarkable and somewhat bland sandwich.
Middle of the Pack
Moving up the ladder, Firehouse Subs’ Smoked Turkey and Provolone presented a mixed experience. The sandwich’s small size belied its price, leading to initial disappointment. Still, the bold flavors from the smoked turkey and condiments offered a savory delight that salvaged the overall experience. However, I wished for more lettuce to balance it out.
Next was Primo Hoagies’ Turkey & Cheese, which featured commendable turkey but suffered from an overload of oil and oregano. Though the bread was solid, the imbalance of flavors pushed it downward in the rankings. In contrast, Subway’s Oven-Roasted Turkey was the epitome of average—neither exceptional nor terrible. This sandwich offered an acceptable blend of ingredients without any noteworthy characteristics.
Top Contenders
In the upper tier, Penn Station East Coast Subs Turkey stood out with generous portions of high-quality meat and flavorful provolone. The addition of pickled banana peppers elevated the experience, making it a surprisingly delightful choice, even if the bread left something to be desired.
Sheetz Turkey was another strong contender, providing a nostalgic experience with its straightforward, classic approach. Each ingredient was fresh, although some improper preparation marred its execution.
The second-place winner, DiBella’s Subs Turkey, showcased a stunning balance of flavors and textures. The golden-brown sesame-topped roll held a generous amount of perfectly seasoned meats and veggies, although the dressing did cause a bit of sogginess.
Finally, leading the pack was Jimmy John’s Turkey Tom, a paragon of simplicity. This sandwich excelled in its flawless construction of fresh ingredients without overcomplicating things. The clean, fresh taste ensured each component maintained its integrity, making this my top choice.
In conclusion, the turkey sub landscape is diverse and rich with options, each chain offering its own take on this beloved sandwich. Whether you’re looking for something classic or adventurous, there’s bound to be a turkey sub that suits your taste buds.