What is a Jimmy John's Unwich?
An Unwich is Jimmy John's official term for a lettuce-wrapped sandwich. Instead of being served on their traditional French or sliced wheat bread, the fillings are tightly wrapped in large leaves of fresh, crisp iceberg lettuce. This option provides a satisfying crunch and allows you to enjoy all the classic Jimmy John's flavors without the carbohydrates from the bread. It is a game-changer for those following keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets, or anyone simply looking for a lighter, more refreshing meal.
Unlike a simple salad, the Unwich is expertly prepared to be a handheld meal. The careful wrapping technique, which is often best eaten by peeling back the paper as you go, ensures all the meats, cheeses, and veggies stay neatly packed together. This thoughtful design prevents the messy experience often associated with homemade lettuce wraps and makes for a perfect on-the-go meal.
How to Order Your Lettuce Wrap
Ordering an Unwich is a simple process, whether you are in the restaurant, on the phone, or using the app or website. The key is knowing what to ask for.
Ordering In-Store
- State Your Order: When you get to the counter, simply say the name of the sandwich you want, followed by "Unwich." For example, "I'd like a #4 Turkey Tom Unwich." or "Can I get a Beach Club Unwich?".
- Specify Customizations: If you have any modifications or additions, state them clearly. For instance, "Club Lulu Unwich with extra avocado spread and no tomato".
- Confirm the Details: The team member will confirm your order. It's always a good idea to quickly double-check that they heard "Unwich" correctly.
Ordering Online or via the App
- Select Your Sandwich: Browse the menu and add your desired sandwich to your cart.
- Choose Your Bread: During the customization process, you will find a drop-down menu or selection box for "Choose Your Bread".
- Pick the Unwich Option: Select "Unwich® Lettuce Wrap" from the available choices. It's listed alongside the French and wheat bread options.
- Add Your Extras: Add any desired extras, like additional meat, cheese, avocado spread, or veggies.
Popular Jimmy John's Unwich Options
Virtually any Original or Favorite sandwich can be transformed into an Unwich. Here are some of the most popular choices, particularly for those on a keto or low-carb diet:
- Turkey Tom Unwich (#4): A classic for a reason. With lean turkey breast, lettuce, and tomato, this is one of the lightest options, especially when paired with mayo.
- Hunter's Club Unwich (#10): Double the roast beef and provolone cheese, wrapped in lettuce, makes for a high-protein, filling, and flavorful meal.
- JJBLT Unwich: For bacon lovers, this lettuce-wrapped version of the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich delivers all the crispy, salty goodness you crave.
- Club Lulu Unwich (#11): A fan favorite featuring turkey, ham, and provolone. The Unwich version is packed with protein and flavor.
- The Veggie Unwich (#6): A great meat-free option with provolone, avocado spread, and cucumber. Be mindful of the avocado spread's carb count if you are strictly keto, though it remains a low-carb choice overall.
Unwich vs. Sandwich: Nutritional Breakdown
Swapping the bread for a lettuce wrap significantly changes the nutritional profile of your meal. This table compares the approximate nutritional values of a popular sandwich and its Unwich version based on information available from Jimmy John's and nutrition tracking websites.
| Sandwich | Calories (approx.) | Carbs (approx.) | Protein (approx.) | Total Fat (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Pepe (8" French Bread) | 600 | 50g | 29g | 29g |
| The Pepe Unwich | 370 | ~10g or less | ~25g | ~29g |
| Turkey Tom (8" French Bread) | 510 | ~60g | ~27g | ~22g |
| Turkey Tom Unwich | ~240 | ~10g or less | ~26g | ~10g |
Note: Exact nutritional values can vary slightly based on ingredients and portioning. The primary benefit of the Unwich is the dramatic reduction in carbohydrate and calorie count, making it a much more diet-friendly option.
Customizing Your Unwich for Maximum Flavor
An Unwich isn't just about removing the bread; it's also about optimizing the flavors and textures within the lettuce wrap. The key to a great Unwich is to avoid ingredients that are too watery and to add things that provide great texture and fat to keep you full.
Ingredients to Add
- Avocado Spread: Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats, which are key for keto dieters.
- Bacon: Crumbled or full strips of bacon add a salty, crunchy element.
- Extra Cheese: Double provolone can make your Unwich more substantial and cheesy.
- Peppers: The Jimmy Peppers provide a spicy kick without adding significant carbs.
- Mustard: Both yellow and Dijon mustard are low-carb and add a zesty flavor.
Tips for Eating a Perfect Unwich
- Leave the Wrapper: The best way to eat an Unwich is to leave the paper wrapping on and peel it down as you take bites. This method keeps the ingredients from falling out and your hands from getting messy.
- Add a Side: Complement your Unwich with a side that fits your diet. The Jumbo Kosher Dill Pickle is a great keto-friendly option.
- Order Extras on the Side: If you plan to use a sauce or dressing, consider asking for it on the side to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
Conclusion: A Freaky Fresh, Low-Carb Alternative
In summary, if you've ever wondered "can I get a lettuce wrap at Jimmy John's?", the answer is a simple yes, and it's known as the Unwich. This brilliant menu option provides a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy your favorite subs while adhering to a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet. With the ability to customize any Original or Club sandwich, the Unwich is a versatile and flavorful alternative that proves fast food doesn't have to be limited to bread-based meals. The nutritional benefits are clear, and with a few simple ordering tips, you can enjoy a perfectly constructed lettuce wrap every time.
For more detailed nutritional information, consult the official Jimmy John's nutrition guide here: https://www.jimmyjohns.com/documents/nutrition-info.
