For many, eating out while counting macros feels like a dietary landmine. However, with a few clever ordering strategies, Jersey Mike's can become a go-to spot for a high-protein, satisfying meal. The key is to deconstruct your order and rebuild it as a nutrient-dense 'Sub in a Tub' bowl.
The Power of the 'Sub in a Tub' Bowl
By forgoing the bread, you immediately eliminate a significant portion of carbohydrates and calories. This simple substitution shifts the focus to the fresh, quality ingredients inside the sandwich, allowing you to maximize protein and healthy fats while controlling carbs. Jersey Mike's serves these bowls on a bed of fresh lettuce, ensuring you get a satisfying, hearty portion of food without the carb-heavy roll.
Best Macro-Friendly 'Sub in a Tub' Bowls
- #7 Turkey Breast & Provolone: A fan favorite for a reason, this option is high in lean protein and relatively low in calories, especially when ordered without oil. Many report macros around 310 calories and 42g of protein with extra turkey.
- #6 Roast Beef & Provolone: For a delicious, savory meal, the Roast Beef and Provolone bowl is an excellent choice. Lean roast beef provides a significant protein boost, making it ideal for post-workout fuel.
- #16 Mike's Chicken Philly: The Chicken Philly is a satisfying hot sub that translates perfectly into a macro-friendly bowl. With grilled chicken, onions, peppers, and cheese, it's a flavorful, high-protein meal without the bread.
- Club Sub: The Club Sub in a Tub combines lean turkey, ham, provolone, and bacon. You can request extra meat for a higher protein count or skip the bacon for lower fat, depending on your goals.
Customization is Key to Macro Success
To fine-tune your meal, customization is critical. Start with a solid foundation and then add or subtract ingredients to fit your specific needs.
- Maximize Lean Protein: Request extra meat on any of the sub-in-a-tub bowls, particularly with lean options like turkey, roast beef, or grilled chicken. This significantly boosts your protein intake without adding many calories.
- Control Calories with Toppings: The standard 'Mike's Way' includes oil and vinegar. While delicious, the oil adds a substantial number of calories. Ask for no oil or light oil to save hundreds of calories. Instead, add flavorful, low-calorie toppings like banana peppers, cherry pepper relish, or mustard.
- Add Flavor, Not Fat: Pile on all the fresh veggies, such as onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and bell peppers. These add volume, fiber, and nutrients for minimal calories. The signature spices and herbs are also a zero-calorie way to pack in flavor.
- Beware of High-Calorie Add-ons: Options like chipotle mayo, creamy dressings, and extra cheese can quickly increase the calorie and fat content. Be mindful of these or ask for them on the side.
Comparison: Sub vs. 'Sub in a Tub'
Here is a side-by-side comparison of a regular Turkey & Provolone sub versus the macro-friendly 'Sub in a Tub' version to illustrate the difference.
| Item | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #7 Regular Sub (on White Bread) | ~530 | ~40 | ~67 | ~11.5 |
| #7 'Sub in a Tub' Bowl | ~245 | ~29 | ~8 | ~10 |
Note: Macros for the 'Sub in a Tub' bowl vary based on customization, such as adding extra meat or condiments.
Conclusion: Your Macro-Friendly Strategy
The best macro friendly option at Jersey Mike's is not a specific sub number but rather a customizable strategy: the 'Sub in a Tub' bowl. By starting with a lean protein like turkey, chicken, or roast beef and loading up on fresh vegetables while controlling your condiments, you can craft a delicious, satisfying meal that perfectly aligns with your nutritional goals. Whether you are aiming for low-carb, high-protein, or calorie control, the ability to build your own bowl puts you in the driver's seat of your diet. Don't be afraid to ask for extra meat and skip the oil to get the most bang for your macro buck. With this approach, you can enjoy a fresh, fast-food meal without derailing your diet.
For additional nutritional information, you can always check the official Jersey Mike's website for their complete nutrition guide.