Calorie Count by Size and Bread
To understand the caloric content of Mike's Famous Philly, it's essential to consider the different sizes and bread choices available at Jersey Mike's, the restaurant that offers this sandwich. The preparation, and particularly the absence or presence of bread, drastically affects the final numbers. Jersey Mike's provides clear nutritional information, allowing customers to make informed decisions based on their dietary needs.
The Regular Sub
The standard, regular-sized Mike's Famous Philly is a hearty meal, and its calorie count is influenced by the type of bread used.
- A regular on seeded Italian bread contains approximately 700 calories.
- On white bread, the calorie count is slightly higher at around 720.
- The wheat bread option is comparable to white, also containing roughly 720 calories.
- The highest calorie regular option is the rosemary parmesan bread, with about 750 calories per sandwich.
Beyond just calories, these regular subs also deliver a considerable amount of protein, typically around 45 grams, but also come with very high sodium levels, sometimes nearing the full recommended daily intake.
The Giant Sub
For those with a larger appetite, the giant size of Mike's Famous Philly offers a significantly higher calorie and macronutrient load. The calorie count nearly doubles compared to the regular size.
- A giant sub on seeded Italian bread has approximately 1450 calories.
- Choosing white bread for your giant sub results in a similar count, around 1440 calories.
- The wheat bread giant sub also provides roughly 1440 calories.
- The giant size is a substantial meal, providing a large portion of a person's daily caloric needs and a considerable amount of fat and sodium.
The Sub in a Tub (Low-Carb Option)
For diners watching their carbohydrate and calorie intake, Jersey Mike's offers a highly customizable option called the "Sub in a Tub". This version replaces the bread with a bowl containing all the delicious fillings.
- A Mike's Famous Philly served in a tub has a dramatically lower calorie count of approximately 430-440 calories.
- The sub in a tub is a great source of protein, while significantly reducing the carbs and overall calories.
- This is an ideal choice for those following a low-carb, keto, or reduced-calorie diet.
Macronutrient Breakdown by Size
| Nutrient | Regular Sub (Seeded) | Giant Sub (Seeded) | Sub in a Tub (Bowl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 700 | 1450 | 430 |
| Total Fat | 31g | 63g | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | 28g | 13g |
| Carbohydrates | 62g | 124g | 13g |
| Fiber | 3g | 6g | 1g |
| Sugar | 8g | 16g | 6g |
| Protein | 45g | 90g | 35g |
| Sodium | 1960mg | 3920mg | 1370mg |
Tips for a Healthier Mike's Famous Philly
Here are some actionable tips to reduce the caloric impact of your cheesesteak:
- Choose the "Sub in a Tub": The simplest way to cut calories and carbs is by foregoing the bread entirely.
- Ask for Less Cheese: Reducing the amount of American cheese is a direct way to decrease fat and sodium.
- Load Up on Veggies: Adding extra grilled onions, bell peppers, or other vegetable toppings increases fiber and volume without adding significant calories.
- Opt for Wheat Bread: While the calorie count is similar, wheat bread offers a slight increase in fiber compared to white bread.
- Control Your Portions: Consider ordering a mini size if your local Jersey Mike's offers it, or share a regular sub with a friend.
- Hydrate Strategically: Drink water instead of high-calorie sodas to keep your overall meal calories lower.
Conclusion
How many calories are in Mike's famous Philly is not a single, fixed number but a range depending on your choices. From the calorie-conscious Sub in a Tub with approximately 430 calories to the indulgent Giant sub exceeding 1400, there's a significant difference. By paying attention to size, bread type, and customizing your ingredients, you can control the nutritional impact of this popular sandwich. For those on a diet, the breadless "tub" option remains the clear winner for saving calories and carbs while still enjoying the flavor. For a full nutritional guide, visit Jersey Mike's official nutrition page.