University Subs is a popular destination for students, faculty, and local residents seeking fresh, filling, and affordable meals. Known for their generous portions and variety, these sandwich shops offer a wide range of options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch between classes or a hearty dinner, understanding the menu can help you make the best selection.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you can expect to find on a typical University Subs menu. We will cover signature cold subs, hot specialty sandwiches, customization options, and side dishes. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to navigate the menu to create your perfect sandwich.
Signature Cold Subs
Cold subs are the foundation of the University Subs menu. These sandwiches are typically made with high-quality deli meats and fresh vegetables, served on your choice of bread. They are an excellent option for those who want a refreshing meal that is easy to eat on the go.
The Italian Sub is often the most popular cold option. It usually features a combination of salami, ham, capicola, and provolone cheese. It is traditionally topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, and a signature oil and vinegar dressing.
For those who prefer poultry, the Turkey Breast sub is a classic choice. It is lean, protein-rich, and pairs well with almost any topping. Many customers choose to add Swiss cheese or avocado to enhance the flavor profile.
Other common cold subs include:
- Roast Beef: Thinly sliced, rare roast beef often paired with horseradish sauce.
- Ham and Cheese: A simple, kid-friendly favorite featuring honey-glazed or smoked ham.
- Tuna Salad: Made fresh daily with mayo, celery, and a touch of black pepper.
- Club Sub: A triple-threat combination of turkey, ham, and crispy bacon.
Hot Specialty Sandwiches
When you need something more substantial, the hot sub menu offers grilled and toasted options. These sandwiches are prepared to order, ensuring that the cheese is melted and the meats are warm and flavorful.
The Steak and Cheese is a staple of the hot menu. It features thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak grilled with onions and peppers. You can usually choose between American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz to top it off.
Chicken Philly sandwiches are a popular alternative to the traditional steak version. These use grilled chicken breast strips and are often seasoned with lemon pepper or buffalo sauce for an extra kick.
Meatball Parmigiana is another heavy hitter. It consists of Italian-style meatballs simmered in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. It is best served on a toasted baguette to handle the weight of the sauce.
Additional hot favorites include:
- Chicken Parmesan: Breaded chicken cutlets with marinara and melted cheese.
- Buffalo Chicken: Grilled or fried chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with blue cheese dressing.
- Pastrami Melt: Sliced pastrami grilled with Swiss cheese and spicy mustard on rye or a sub roll.
- Vegetarian Griller: Grilled mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach with melted provolone.
Customization: Building Your Own Sub
One of the best features of University Subs is the ability to customize every aspect of your meal. This ensures that your sandwich meets your specific cravings and dietary restrictions. The process usually begins with choosing your bread.
Most locations offer several bread varieties, including white, whole wheat, honey oat, and Italian herbs and cheese. For those looking to reduce their carb intake, many shops also offer wraps or the option to turn any sub into a salad bowl.
After choosing your base and protein, you can select your cheese. Common options include American, Provolone, Swiss, Pepper Jack, and Cheddar. Some specialty shops may also offer Feta or Fresh Mozzarella for an additional charge.
The “Toppings Bar” is where you can truly make the sandwich your own. Standard toppings usually include:
- Shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes
- Red onions and green peppers
- Pickles and banana peppers
- Black olives and jalapeños
- Cucumbers and spinach
Finally, you can choose your condiments. Beyond basic mayo and mustard, look for chipotle aioli, honey mustard, ranch, or pesto. Don’t forget the seasonings like salt, pepper, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian and Healthy Alternatives
University Subs caters to health-conscious diners and vegetarians with several dedicated menu items. The “Veggie Delight” is a popular choice, packed with every vegetable available on the line and topped with a light vinaigrette.
For a protein boost without meat, many locations offer plant-based options such as black bean burgers or seasoned tofu. Some even provide vegan cheese alternatives for those following a strictly plant-based diet.
If you are watching your calorie intake, consider ordering your sub “scooped.” This is a technique where the server removes some of the soft bread from the inside of the roll, leaving more room for healthy fillings while reducing total calories.
Salads are another excellent healthy alternative. Most sub shops will take the ingredients of any sandwich and serve them over a bed of fresh greens. This allows you to enjoy the flavors you love without the heavy bread base.
Sides, Drinks, and Meal Deals
No sub meal is complete without the right sides. University Subs usually offers a variety of potato chips, ranging from classic sea salt to kettle-cooked barbecue and salt and vinegar flavors.
For a warmer side, check if the location offers french fries, onion rings, or mozzarella sticks. These are often available as part of a “Combo Meal” or “Value Deal,” which includes a side and a fountain drink at a discounted price.
Freshly baked cookies are a signature dessert at many sub shops. Chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and white chocolate macadamia nut are standard offerings that provide a sweet finish to your meal.
Beverage options typically include a self-service fountain with various sodas, iced teas, and lemonades. Bottled water, sports drinks, and fruit juices are also commonly available in the refrigerated section.
Ordering Tips and Catering
To save time, many University Subs locations offer online ordering through their website or mobile apps. This allows you to skip the line and pick up your food at a designated counter. It is especially helpful during busy lunch rushes on campus.
If you are feeding a large group, look into their catering menu. Most shops offer “Sub Platters,” which include a variety of pre-cut sandwiches, or “Box Lunches” that come with a sub, chips, and a cookie. These are perfect for study groups, club meetings, or office events.
Always check for daily specials or student discounts. Many shops located near universities offer specific deals on certain days of the week, such as “Meatball Monday” or “Two-Sub Tuesdays,” which can significantly lower your meal cost.
In conclusion, the University Subs menu is designed to be versatile and satisfying. By exploring the various cold and hot options, taking advantage of customization, and looking for value deals, you can enjoy a delicious meal that fits your budget and lifestyle. Next time you visit, try a new topping or a different bread to keep your lunch routine exciting.
For more helpful guides on local dining and food tips, explore our other articles on meal planning and quick recipe ideas.