As someone who's visited Quiznos more times than I can count, the chain's Italian-inspired, toasted submarine sandwiches have always taken center stage for me. Their claim to fame definitely checks out in my book! The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the sheer craft that goes into each sub sets Quiznos apart from the competition -- and has had me coming back since 1981! Remembering my first bite, the freshness just blew me away.
Quiznos first restaurant, which opened its doors more than 20 years ago -- right at the bustling intersection of 13th and Grant Streets in Capitol Hill, Denver -- was nothing short of a revelation. At that time, sub sandwiches were pretty mundane but Quiznos brought freshness into the game. It's exciting to think that this sandwich revolution started small and has now grown to span the globe with locations popping up around the United States, Asia, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Central and South America, thanks to franchising from 1983 onwards. I remember visiting a Quiznos in Tokyo and being amazed at the booming popularity!
Along with these trusted old friends, Quiznos lineup also includes hearty sizes of 4", 8", and 12". The menu also features mouthwatering chicken and steak options, sammies, sumptuous soups, tasty sides, tantalizing desserts and fun kids’ dishes. Quiznos also caters with a range of customizable options along with the convenience of online ordering -- I once used it for my cousin's birthday and it was a huge hit!
Speaking of hits, let's talk about the Spicy Monterey Sub -- it's no surprise that it's a fan-favorite! Toasted to perfection, this sandwich brings together oven-roasted turkey breast, smoked ham, gooey melted provolone, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, pickles, creamy mayonnaise, and the tempting Quiznos’ 83 chili sauce. The first time I tried this combo was on a dare and it was an explosion of flavors. The menu also satisfies every palate from chicken and steak variations to vegetarian options, and yes, even lobster for the seafood lovers!
What's a Sammie?
Quizno's also has something called a Sammie which uses a lighter, flatbread instead of sub-style loaves. If you're into Pepperoni, Salami, Capicola, Ham, Mozzarella, Black Olives, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Onions, and Red Vinaigrette sauce, go for the Classic Italian Sammie. And for poultry fans, there's the Mesquite Chicken variant, boosted with Bacon, Cheddar, Lettuce, Tomatoes, and creamy Ranch sauce.
Quiznos' Lunch Box
The lunch box offerings are equally interesting -- you can get your choice of sub with chips and a chocolate chunk cookie-- a perfect meal for a quick lunch in the office. The salad box, packed with a choice of salad and satisfying sweet treat, was my go-to during weight-watching months.
Quiznos' Sub Tray
Don't miss Quiznos’ Sub Tray for bigger gatherings. Each tray holds twenty 3" subs, enough for 12 hungry guests while the Sammie tray serves up to ten people with fourteen half-cut Sammies. A last-minute office party was saved by these trays!
Sourcing of Ingredients
Quiznos' commitment to fresh and ethical ingredient sourcing is noteworthy. Independent franchisees can only work with approved suppliers ensuring quality at every step. For instance, since 2016, Quiznos is transitioning to source only cage-free eggs aiming for a 100% change-over by the end of 2025.
The Loyalty Program
The Quiznos' loyalty program equates dollars spent with points, the joy of a $5 discount on my first app order, and the free sub on my birthday were delightful surprises. Download the app, the more you eat, the more you earn, and who doesn't love a free sandwich?
Quiznos' Name
As a trivia buff, I was perplexed with the origins of the chain's name. Eventually, I found out that Quiznos is just a snazzy invention from its founder who was quite fond of the letters Q & Z.
Quiznos Global Presence
Looking at the global fast-food market, Quiznos stands its ground with about 200 locations across 30+ countries. I stumbled upon a branch in Vancouver, the first location outside the US which started the global expansion back in 1996. By 2001, they had even journeyed across the Atlantic to Peterborough in the United Kingdom.
Future Expansion
It's interesting to note that Quiznos is now focusing on Asia for new locations substituting the closed locations in the US. Positive palates for American cuisine in this region proves to be a favorable market opportunity.
Why have some Locations Closed?
While Quiznos has seen its ups and downs with closures across the U.S stemming from massive debt and an economic recession, it's made essential changes, though, including a stint in bankruptcy in 2014 from which it emerged four months later.
Quiznos over Subway?
Speaking as a sub sandwich connoisseur, I find Quiznos outdoes Subway in terms of ingredient quality, flavors, and diversity. Having tried chicken at both places, Quiznos' definitely turned out to be juicier and tastier. It left Subway's comparably chewy version behind by a mile.
Pros
- Wide variety of sandwiches
- Ingredient sourcing from ethical suppliers
- Worldwide presence
- Remarkable customer loyalty program
- Dedicated kids' menu
Cons
- Closure of various locations in the U.S
- High-priced items compared to competitors
- Restrictive meal customization
- Limited vegetarian options