Midtown Lunch

We’ve had many sandwich chains open shops in Downtown Lunch territory, including the much-hyped Potbelly, but Jersey Mike’s Subs rolled into Maiden Lane (at Gold) with little fanfare. The first sign they were coming wasn’t a press blitz, but a red awning going up a few paces from many other chain spots on the same block. A look at the menu online showed hot and cold subs, cheesesteaks and wraps – nothing to get too excited about. But some of you vouched for the fact that Jersey Mike’s was better than the Subways and Blimpies of this city.

There was a line when I got there, but plenty of workers directing people to the hot or cold sub ordering counter moved things along nicely. You can choose a mini, regular or giant sandwich with your choice of cold cut or hot meat and cheese combo. Or you can get everything but the bread put into a container as a sort of manly salad. The minis are about what you’d get on a roll at the local deli, and mostly priced below $6 with the regulars sized between $7 and $8.

I ordered a mini original Italian which contains ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, pepperoni and provolone ($5.65). There’s a generous slice of each meat, cut fresh for each sandwich, along with a thin layer of provolone. If you get it “Mike’s way” you get shredded lettuce, tomato and onion slices, Italian seasoning and oil and vinegar on the top. You can also get pickled peppers and a hot relish if you want.

The bread and meat were leagues above what you find at most sandwich shops during a lunch rush, and although it may be a buck or two more than Subway, you’ll be happier with your lunch here. The line moved nicely even during prime lunch time, so if you are in the mood for a sub for lunch, Jersey Mike’s is worth a try.

Jersey Mike’s Subs, 80 Maiden Lane (at Gold), (646) 833-7560