The concept of the "Sub in a Tub" at Jersey Mike's is a clever and delicious solution for enjoying your favorite sub flavors without the bread. This option is particularly favored by those following low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, offering all the fresh meats, cheeses, and toppings in a convenient, fork-friendly bowl. It's a testament to Jersey Mike's commitment to quality ingredients and customer satisfaction, allowing for a nutritious and customizable meal. The versatility means you can transform virtually any sub on the menu, hot or cold, into a satisfying salad.
How to Place Your Order In-Store
When you walk into a Jersey Mike's, the ordering process for a sub in a tub is straightforward once you know the steps. It begins at the front counter where the sandwich artisans are ready to slice your meats and cheeses fresh.
Step-by-Step In-Store Ordering
- Specify Your Sub and Format: Approach the counter and tell the team member that you would like a "sub in a tub." Mention the sub number you want, such as the #7 Turkey Breast and Provolone or the #13 The Original Italian.
- Choose Your Cheese: Confirm your cheese choice. For a cold sub like the Italian, this might be provolone. For a hot sub like the #17 Steak Philly, your cheese will be melted in the back.
- Order It "Mike's Way" (or not): The next station is where the magic happens. You'll be asked if you want it "Mike's Way," which adds onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and the signature blend of red wine vinegar and olive oil. You can either say "yes," specify which of those you want, or request none. For a low-carb approach, you might skip the oil.
- Add Your Toppings: This is the best part of the sub in a tub experience—you can load up on fresh veggies. Without the constraints of bread, you can add more toppings than a traditional sub might allow. Popular choices include pickles, banana peppers, and jalapeños. Don't be shy; Jersey Mike's is generous with toppings.
- Confirm the Tub: The team member will construct your order, placing a bed of shredded lettuce in the tub and layering all your customized ingredients on top. Be sure to remind them that you want it chopped, which is a common request that helps mix the flavors perfectly.
Ordering on the Jersey Mike's App
For those who prefer the convenience of technology, the Jersey Mike's app makes ordering a sub in a tub seamless and precise.
- Select a Regular Sub: First, choose any regular-sized sub from the menu that you want to convert. For most subs, the "Sub in a Tub" option is tied to the regular size, though you can request extra meat for an additional charge.
- Change the Size to "Sub in a Tub": On the item customization screen, look for the 'Size' options. You should see a choice for "Sub in a Tub." This automatically removes the bread and prepares the order as a salad.
- Customize Your Toppings: The app provides a full list of toppings, dressings, and extras. You can easily add or remove onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and Mike's Way ingredients. You can also specify special requests in the comments section if needed.
Customization and Dietary Considerations
One of the greatest benefits of the sub in a tub is the level of customization available. This flexibility caters to various dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- Keto-Friendly: For a keto meal, stick to meats, cheeses, and low-carb vegetables like lettuce, onions, and peppers. Skip sugary sauces and be mindful of high-carb vegetables like tomatoes if you are strictly tracking macros.
- Gluten-Free: By default, the sub in a tub is a gluten-free option, as it contains no bread. Always verify with the store that there are no hidden gluten ingredients in dressings or cross-contamination concerns if you have celiac disease.
- Flavor Boosting: Beyond the standard Mike's Way, consider adding extras like cherry pepper relish for a spicy kick, or bacon for a smoky flavor.
Sub vs. Sub in a Tub Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Sub Sandwich | Sub in a Tub (Salad Bowl) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | High (from bread) | Low (eliminates bread) |
| Gluten | Contains gluten | Gluten-free |
| Preparation | Ingredients layered on a roll | All ingredients served in a bowl |
| Customization | Good, but limited by bread size | Excellent, can pile on more veggies |
| Portability | Can get messy | Convenient, easy to eat with a fork |
| Dietary Use | General meal | Ideal for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets |
Conclusion: Your Next Satisfying Meal Awaits
The Jersey Mike's sub in a tub is more than just a sandwich without bread—it is a smart, satisfying, and highly customizable meal option. Whether you are aiming for a lighter lunch, following a specific dietary plan like keto, or simply craving the delicious fillings in a new way, ordering a sub in a tub is an excellent choice. With the ability to perfectly tailor your order in-store or on the app, you can enjoy all the fresh, high-quality ingredients Jersey Mike's is known for in a format that fits your lifestyle. For more information on menu items and ordering online, visit the official Jersey Mike's website.
Tips for Building the Perfect Tub
- Request your vegetables to be chopped, especially if you want the flavors to be evenly distributed throughout the bowl.
- Consider adding extra meat for a more filling, protein-packed meal, which is a great option for those focusing on muscle maintenance.
- Always ask for a side of dressing or condiments if you prefer to control how much liquid is on your salad bowl. This prevents it from getting soggy.
- Try a hot sub in a tub, like the Big Kahuna Cheesesteak, for a unique twist that delivers amazing flavor.
- Explore various add-ons, such as avocado, crispy bacon, or different cheeses, to find your perfect flavor combination.
By following these steps and tips, you are well-equipped to experience the best of what Jersey Mike's has to offer with their fantastic sub in a tub option.