Stepping into the Which Wich off Dallas, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia. This world-renowned sandwich chain was founded by two Dallas-native brothers back in 2003. Who knew this little corner spot in Dallas, Texas, that quickly gained local fame as the best sandwich shop in town, would eventually turn into a franchise in 2005 and expand across the country - all 341 locations of it.
The Mystery of Franchise-Owned Stores
Now, sitting in one of their company-owned stores in Dallas, I wondered about the difference compared to their franchised counterparts scattered across the US and beyond. Turns out, it's all about responsibility for day-to-day operations like staffing and advertising. Company-owned stores bear the brunt of these duties, while franchise partners share this load. Interesting right?
Sub Sandwiches for Every Appetite
The real stars of the show, however, are their sandwiches. They cater to all appetites and sizes. This was made evidently clear with the options they had:
- Small - 7 inches: Ideal when you want to just dip your toes in and explore their signature flavors.
- Medium - 10.5 inches: Perfect for when you are hungry, but not that hungry. Or when you want to sample more than one sandwich.
- Large - 14 inches: A beast! Perfect for sharing or taming a gnarly hunger.
Creating Your Own Sandwich – Your Way
Which Wich provides you with an option to "play chef" with their "build your own sandwich" concept. Selecting the base of your sandwich (heartily recommend the pick three menu!) instantly adds a personal touch. From a plethora of breads, cheeses, meats, veggies, and spreads - the array of choices can be overwhelming! Curating your own masterpiece considering your dietary needs and finishing off with toppings of your choice… it’s every sandwich lover's dream come true!
Unforgettable Specials
Nothing screams “unique” like Which Wich’s special subs. Believe me, there's a reason their Corned Beef, Bacon, Tuna Salad, Chicken, Ham, Roast Beef, Turkey, Black Bean Patty, Avocado, and the ever-popular PB&J subs make folk’s hearts skip a beat. The variety on offer is unprecedented and not to forget the homemade feel. The kitchen magician’s start flaunting their skills for those who love a surprise element with the Build Your Own option too!
The Veggie Delight: Black Bean Patty
Shaking things up from the usual, their Black Bean Patty is a particular stand out for vegetarian lovers. This blend of black beans, spices, onions, and peppers topped with Monterey Jack cheese and select veggies gives the most seasoned non-vegetarian a run for his money.
Feeding Love, Sandwich by Sandwich
These sandwich maestros have developed an initiative as heartwarming as their sandwiches. It’s called Project PB&J, started by the founder to feed the less fortunate. Apparently, they have served over 165,786 PB&Js to date. A certain percentage from each sandwich purchase is donated for the project. Sounds like a sandwich that keeps on giving, doesn't it?
Beyond Sandwiches
Which Wich’s menu offers more than just sandwiches though. Salads, wraps, chips, bread options, dietary needs – they have got it all. Plus, to quench your thirst, freshly squeezed juices, heady iced tea, divine milkshakes, and cookies & muffins are ready to seal the deal.
Rewarding Loyalty
But, hold on! Which Wich is that sandwich joint that rewards loyalty. Every 75 points earn you a free 7" sandwich. Every visit? Yes! That earns you a point. How about birthdays? That earns you some love too! Your special day gets an extra special email with a coupon. Plus free drink for joining the club.
Event Planning, Which Wich Style
Preparing to throw a big event? Guess you’ll need catering, right? Ravenous guests crave Which Wich signature iced tea and sandwiches in bulk. Even an intimate tea party or elaborate office lunch is catered beyond imagination with the right touch of taste, service, and convenience.
Shaking Things Up!
What can make all this better you ask? Well, shakes of course! Choosing between the classic Chocolate, the refreshing Strawberry, and the reminiscent Oreo Cookie was agony. But when the whiff of the chocolate shake hit me - evoking memories of good ol' chocolate milk and hot cocoa - the decision was made.
Pros
- Creative options with 'build your own sandwich'
- Transparent 'franchise' vs 'company-owned' store experience
- Philanthropic cause with Project PB&J
- Generous rewards system
- Shakes worth the indecision
Cons
- Overwhelming choices for first-timers
- Difference in experience between franchises and company-owned outlets
- The indecisive agony of selecting a shake