What Exactly is a Sub in a Tub?
A "Sub in a Tub" is Jersey Mike's term for a sub sandwich served without the bread, essentially a chopped salad containing all the fillings of a regular sub. The ingredients—including meats, cheeses, and toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and dressings—are chopped and placed into a plastic take-out container or bowl. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake, avoid gluten, or simply prefer a lighter meal. Any regular or giant-sized sub on Jersey Mike's menu can be converted into a Sub in a Tub, giving you a huge range of customization possibilities.
How to Order a Sub in a Tub
Ordering a Sub in a Tub is simple, but communicating your request clearly to the staff is key to getting exactly what you want. The process is straightforward, whether you're ordering in-store, online, or through the app.
In-Store Ordering
- State your request clearly: When you approach the counter, simply ask for the sub you want to be made "in a tub" instead of on bread. For example, "Can I please get a #13 Original Italian in a tub?"
- Confirm toppings: Indicate if you want it "Mike's Way"—with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and spices—or specify your own desired toppings and condiments.
- Watch for dietary needs: If you have allergies or sensitivities (like celiac disease), politely inform the staff so they can take extra precautions, such as changing gloves and using fresh utensils, to avoid cross-contamination.
Online and App Ordering
- Select your sandwich: Choose any sub from the menu on the Jersey Mike's app or website.
- Choose the size: Select "Regular" or "Giant" depending on your preference.
- Specify "Sub in a Tub": Look for the "Style" or "Options" section on the customization screen. You will find an option to change the sub from "In a Sub" to "In a Tub".
- Add your customizations: Select all your preferred toppings, cheeses, and sauces, just as you would for a regular sub.
Popular Subs to Order in a Tub
Nearly any sub is a good candidate for a Sub in a Tub, but some are fan favorites due to their robust flavor profiles and fresh ingredients. Here are a few popular choices:
- #8 Club Sub: Features turkey, ham, provolone, and applewood-smoked bacon. When ordered in a tub and made Mike's Way, it's a hearty and flavorful salad.
- #13 The Original Italian: A classic combination of provolone, ham, prosciuttini, and cappacuolo. The oil and vinegar blend, along with the other toppings, gives it a robust antipasto feel.
- #7 Turkey and Provolone: A simpler, yet equally satisfying, option. The combination of fresh turkey, provolone, and your choice of toppings is a reliable go-to.
- #17 Mike's Famous Philly: This hot sub can be ordered in a tub as well. It comes with steak and cheese, making for a delicious, savory bowl without the bread.
Sub in a Tub for Specific Diets
The Sub in a Tub is particularly beneficial for those with specific dietary requirements, but it's important to be mindful of certain details.
Low-Carb and Keto Diets
Removing the bread instantly makes your order low-carb, but to ensure it's keto-friendly, you'll need to be selective with your add-ons. Skip any sugary sauces and opt for full-fat condiments like mayonnaise and the olive oil blend. A Sub in a Tub with a #8 Club sub, for example, can be a great way to meet your macros while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Gluten-Free Diets and Celiac Disease
Jersey Mike's does offer a dedicated Udi's gluten-free roll, but ordering a Sub in a Tub provides an even safer option by eliminating the bread entirely. However, cross-contamination is still a risk, especially in busy stores where breadcrumbs might get into other ingredients. It is crucial to inform staff about celiac disease or a severe gluten allergy so they can take proper precautions, such as cleaning the prep area, changing gloves, and using fresh ingredients from new containers.
Sub in a Tub vs. Traditional Sub: A Comparison
| Feature | Sub in a Tub | Traditional Sub |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Significantly lower | High due to bread |
| Gluten | None (if cross-contamination is avoided) | Contains gluten (unless a GF roll is requested) |
| Customization | Excellent; easy to add or remove items | Excellent |
| Messiness | Less messy to eat | Can be messy with wet ingredients |
| Portability | Good for on-the-go (in a secured tub) | Good for on-the-go (in its wrap) |
| Experience | Salad-like, lighter meal | Classic sandwich experience |
Customizing Your Sub in a Tub
The beauty of the Sub in a Tub is its versatility. Beyond the standard Mike's Way, you can tailor your meal to your exact preferences:
- Add extra vegetables: Load up on extra lettuce, tomatoes, onions, or any other vegetable on hand for added crunch and nutrition.
- Include pickles and peppers: For a tangy, spicy kick, ask for banana peppers or jalapenos. You can also get the cherry pepper relish for an extra kick.
- Choose your dressing wisely: Control your calorie and carb intake by picking your dressing carefully. Stick with the olive oil and red wine vinegar blend, or request a lighter amount of mayo or mustard.
- Double the meat or cheese: For a higher-protein, more filling meal, you can request double meat or extra cheese.
Conclusion
Yes, you can absolutely get a Sub in a Tub at Jersey Mike's, and it’s a smart choice for a variety of dietary needs. This popular menu hack allows you to enjoy all the flavor of your favorite subs without the bread, making it perfect for low-carb, keto, and gluten-free diets. By communicating your order clearly and understanding the available customization options, you can create a delicious and satisfying breadless meal. The next time you visit Jersey Mike's, don't hesitate to ask for your sandwich "in a tub" for a fresh, flavorful, and healthier alternative.
For more detailed nutritional information and allergen notes, you can check Jersey Mike's official website.
