9 Illinois’ Top Sandwich Chains That Beat The Rest
When hunger strikes in the Land of Lincoln, nothing satisfies quite like a perfectly crafted sandwich. Illinois boasts some seriously impressive sandwich chains that have locals and visitors alike forming lines out the door. From Italian beef dripping with au jus to freshly baked subs piled high with premium ingredients, these spots have mastered the art of what goes between two slices of bread. Here’s my personal rundown of the nine sandwich chains in Illinois that truly stand above the competition.
1. Portillo’s
Holy Italian beef, Batman! Portillo’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s practically a religious experience for sandwich enthusiasts across Illinois. Started as a humble hot dog stand in 1963, this Chicago institution now delivers beef sandwiches so juicy you’ll need at least three napkins on standby.
Their Italian beef, dipped and topped with giardiniera, has ruined me for all other sandwiches. The chocolate cake shake doesn’t hurt their reputation either. When out-of-towners visit me, this is always our first stop; no exceptions, no complaints, just pure sandwich bliss.
2. Jimmy John’s
Born right here in Charleston, Illinois, Jimmy John’s has grown from a college town favorite to a nationwide phenomenon. What makes them special? Those ridiculously fast deliveries aren’t just marketing; I’ve literally had sandwiches arrive before I’ve finished hanging up the phone.
The bread, baked fresh daily, has that perfect crunch-to-softness ratio that’s nearly impossible to replicate. My go-to order is the Beach Club with extra avocado spread. For busy Illinoisans needing quality food in a flash, Jimmy John’s remains the undefeated champion of the lunch rush.
3. Jersey Mike’s
First time I walked into Jersey Mike’s, I was skeptical; another sub chain claiming authenticity? But that magical moment when they slice the meat right in front of you changed everything. Their bread is shipped in from Jersey, giving it that distinctive tang you can’t find elsewhere in Illinois.
The #13 Original Italian, Mike’s Way with the juice, is a revelation of flavors. They don’t just stack ingredients; they architect an experience. The staff remembers regulars’ orders too, which makes this East Coast transplant feel surprisingly homegrown in our Midwestern landscape.
4. Firehouse Subs
Founded by firefighting brothers, Firehouse Subs brings more than just clever theming to Illinois; they’ve mastered the art of steam. Unlike other chains, they steam their meats and cheeses before building the sandwich, creating this melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s absolutely addictive.
The Hook & Ladder sub loaded with provolone, turkey and ham has gotten me through many a rough day. Beyond the food, their commitment to providing equipment to first responders through their Public Safety Foundation adds a layer of community connection. Good sandwiches doing good things; what’s not to love?
5. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Starting as an antique shop that served sandwiches on the side, Potbelly has become Chicago’s homegrown comfort food headquarters. The toasted bread with that signature slight char makes even the simplest sandwich sing with flavor. And that warm, neighborhood vibe? Completely authentic.
I’m particularly fond of their Wreck sandwich with the works, paired with a hand-dipped shake. The live music at some locations (yes, actual humans playing actual instruments during lunch) creates this awesome atmosphere you won’t find at other chains. It’s like eating in your coolest friend’s living room; if that friend made killer sandwiches.
6. McAlister’s Deli
McAlister’s might be known for that famous sweet tea, but their sandwiches deserve equal billing in the Illinois food scene. The portions here are Midwestern generous; I’ve never left hungry and usually have leftovers for a midnight snack.
Their Spicy Southwest Chicken Griller hits all the right notes with pepper jack, green chiles, and chipotle ranch. But let’s be honest; the real showstopper is the 13-Spud, a baked potato loaded with ham, turkey, bacon, cheese, and more. Not technically a sandwich, but it satisfies the same comfort food craving with carb-loaded delight.
7. Charleys Philly Steaks
Mall food courts across Illinois have one saving grace; Charleys Philly Steaks. While technically not native to our state, they’ve earned honorary citizenship through their consistently crave-worthy cheesesteaks that have fueled countless shopping sprees.
The sizzle of that thinly sliced steak hitting the grill creates a smell that follows you through the entire mall. Their Bacon 3 Cheese Steak with extra cheese whiz (don’t judge me) somehow manages to stay perfectly messy without becoming structurally compromised. The fries with cheese sauce make for the perfect sidekick to this shopping break masterpiece.
8. Subway
Laugh if you must, but Subway deserves its spot on this list purely for its chameleon-like ability to be exactly what you need it to be. No other chain in Illinois offers quite the same level of customization, making it the perfect spot for picky eaters (like my nephew who only eats turkey and cheese, no veggies).
The Italian BMT on herb and cheese bread, toasted with all the veggies, has gotten me through road trips across every corner of our state. Sure, it’s not boutique or trendy, but there’s something comforting about knowing exactly what you’re getting whether you’re in Chicago or Carbondale.
9. Arby’s
“We have the meats” isn’t just a catchy slogan; Arby’s delivers on this promise with sandwich options you simply won’t find elsewhere in Illinois. Their Market Fresh sandwiches using thick-cut honey wheat bread deserve way more credit than they get in the sandwich discourse.
The Beef ‘n Cheddar with that signature red ranch sauce and cheese sauce has been my guilty pleasure since college days. Those curly fries, too? Perfection. While fancy foodies might turn up their noses, there’s something gloriously satisfying about Arby’s unique position in the Illinois sandwich ecosystem; familiar yet completely distinct from every other option.
