Does Jersey Mike's Have Subs Without Bread? The 'Sub in a Tub' Explained

November 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 40% of American adults are trying to lose weight, and many are seeking lower-carb meal options at fast-food restaurants. This is great news, as yes, Jersey Mike's does have subs without bread through their well-known "Sub in a Tub" option. Any cold or hot sub can be prepared in a bowl, perfect for those following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet.

Quick Summary

Jersey Mike's offers a popular "Sub in a Tub" option, serving any sub's fillings in a bowl instead of on bread. This customizable dish is an ideal solution for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free dietary needs, featuring all the signature meats, cheeses, and toppings.

Key Points

The 'Sub in a Tub' is Real: Yes, Jersey Mike's has a specific option to serve any sub's ingredients in a bowl without bread.
Perfect for Various Diets: This breadless format is ideal for low-carb, keto, and gluten-free dietary needs.
Easy to Order: Simply ask for your sub "in a tub" when ordering in-store, online, or through the app.
Customize Any Sub: Nearly all cold and hot subs can be prepared this way, allowing for full customization with your choice of meats, cheeses, and toppings.
Lower Risk for Gluten Intolerance: For those with Celiac disease, the tub is a safer option than gluten-free bread, as it reduces the risk of cross-contamination during preparation.
A Fresh, Salad-Style Meal: The final product is a satisfying, chopped salad-style meal that delivers all the classic Jersey Mike's flavors without the carbs.

Your Guide to Ordering a Breadless Sub at Jersey Mike's

For anyone on a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diet, finding satisfying fast-food options can be challenging. Jersey Mike's makes it easy with their "Sub in a Tub"—a creative and flavorful way to enjoy a sandwich without the bread. When you order this way, your chosen meat, cheese, and toppings are served in a container on a bed of fresh, chopped lettuce. This provides all the flavor and satisfaction of a classic Jersey Mike's sub but in a delicious, salad-style bowl.

How to Order Your Sub in a Tub

Ordering is straightforward, whether you're in the store or placing an order online or through the app. The key is to simply specify "Sub in a Tub" to the staff. From there, you can customize your meal just as you would a regular sandwich. This includes choosing your protein, cheese, veggies, and dressings. The crew will chop up the ingredients and serve them mixed together, often "Mike's Way," which includes lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, vinegar, and spices.

Pick Your Protein: Almost any cold sub, including the Classic Italian or Club Sub, can be made into a tub. Hot subs, such as the famous Philly Cheesesteak, also translate well into a bowl.
Choose Your Toppings: Load up on any of the standard sub toppings, including lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, banana peppers, and jalapeños.
Select Your Dressing: Finish with Jersey Mike's signature olive oil blend and red wine vinegar, or opt for a different dressing. Just be mindful of carb and sugar content if you're on a strict diet.

Popular Sub in a Tub Combinations

Some sub options are particularly well-suited for the breadless format, with their flavors and textures creating a satisfying bowl that doesn't feel like a sacrifice.

#8 Club Sub: A hearty mix of turkey, ham, bacon, and provolone, chopped together with your favorite veggies. Request it "Mike's Way" for a fantastic combination.
#7 Turkey and Provolone: A simpler but equally delicious option. The combination of sliced turkey and provolone with crisp lettuce and tomatoes makes for a classic, clean meal.
#13 Original Italian: Enjoy the robust flavor of provolone, ham, prosciutto, and salami, served antipasto-style over fresh greens.
#55 Big Kahuna Chicken Cheese Steak: This can be ordered hot in a tub, with grilled chicken, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and cheese melted together for a warm, savory bowl.

'Sub in a Tub' vs. 'Sub with Gluten-Free Bread'

For those with gluten sensitivity, Jersey Mike's also offers certified gluten-free bread from Udi's. While this is another great option, there are key differences to consider.


Feature	Sub in a Tub	Sub with Gluten-Free Bread
Carbohydrate Content	Extremely low, as it contains no bread.	Low to moderate, depending on the serving size and bread.
Texture	Crunchy, fresh, and salad-like. All ingredients are chopped and mixed.	Softer, bread-like texture. Holds ingredients together like a traditional sub.
Dietary Suitability	Perfect for strict keto and low-carb diets.	Suitable for gluten sensitivity and some low-carb diets, but not strict keto.
Ingredient Safety	Generally safer for severe gluten allergies, as there is no bread to cause cross-contamination on the cutting surface. Staff will use fresh gloves and can use a clean bowl.	Potential for cross-contamination from communal toppings or shared prep surfaces. Extra precautions, like using a paper barrier, are necessary.

A Great Option for Diverse Dietary Needs

The "Sub in a Tub" option is more than just a menu hack; it's a staple offering that caters to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're actively monitoring your carbohydrate intake, have a gluten allergy, or just want a lighter, fresher meal, the breadless sub is a flavorful and satisfying choice. The ability to customize any sub on the menu ensures you won't get bored with the options.

In addition to dietary benefits, the sub in a tub is a convenient on-the-go meal. Unlike a bread sub that can get soggy over time, a tub holds its texture and freshness well, making it a great option to take to the office or pack for a healthy lunch.

Conclusion

To answer the question, yes, Jersey Mike's offers subs without bread, providing a versatile and satisfying alternative called the "Sub in a Tub." This option is ideal for those on low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, delivering all the signature flavors of a Jersey Mike's sub in a convenient bowl. With the ability to choose almost any sub and add your favorite toppings, you don't have to miss out on the fresh, delicious taste you love. It's a testament to Jersey Mike's commitment to accommodating its diverse customer base and their nutritional needs. So next time you visit, don't hesitate to ask for your favorite sub "in a tub" for a fresh, healthy, and flavorful experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 'Sub in a Tub' is Jersey Mike's term for a sub sandwich served without the bread. The meat, cheese, and desired toppings are chopped and served in a bowl on a bed of lettuce.

Yes, almost any cold or hot sub on the menu can be converted to a 'Sub in a Tub.' You can get any of your favorite combinations in a bowl instead of on a roll.

Yes, the 'Sub in a Tub' is a perfect option for a keto diet because it removes the carbohydrate-heavy bread. You can further reduce carbs by selecting low-carb toppings and dressings.

The 'Sub in a Tub' is often a safer option for those with severe gluten allergies, as it eliminates the need for bread. However, it is crucial to inform the staff of your allergy so they can take extra precautions against cross-contamination, such as changing gloves and using a clean prep area.

Absolutely. You can customize your 'Sub in a Tub' just as you would a regular sub. All of Jersey Mike's standard toppings, like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and various peppers, are available.

Yes, hot subs such as the Philly Cheesesteaks can be ordered in a tub. The hot meat, cheese, and veggies are served in a bowl, creating a warm, satisfying meal.

Pricing for a 'Sub in a Tub' is generally consistent with a regular sub, as it uses the same core ingredients. The cost depends on the size and specific sub you choose.