When it comes to choosing the perfect sandwich from a deli menu, the plethora of options can be overwhelming. From the simplicity of a turkey and cheese to the hearty appeal of a meatball sub, there's something for everyone. Yet, among the myriad of choices, the Italian sub holds a special place in the hearts of sandwich aficionados, including myself. Its unique combination of meats, cheese, and dressing sets it apart, making it a top choice for many.

The Italian sub's appeal lies in its versatility, perfectly enjoyable whether served toasted or cold. My fondness for this sandwich has led me to seek it out in various settings, from sports bars to sandwich chains. With several chains offering their own take on this classic in my Columbus, Ohio area, I embarked on a mission to find the best Italian sub out there.

Starting with Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs offers a unique fire station-themed atmosphere, complete with firefighter-founded origins. Their Italian sub, featuring a mix of meats and cheeses topped with Italian dressing and seasonings, promised a hearty meal. However, the sandwich's compact size and unexpected sweetness from the honey ham, coupled with an odd choice of deli mustard, left it falling short of expectations.

Jersey Mike's Steps Up

With a long-standing reputation, Jersey Mike's Original Italian aims to deliver an authentic Jersey-style experience. Despite its generous meat layers and "Mike's Way" toppings, the sandwich struggled with bland bread and an overpowering amount of Italian seasoning, making it just average.

Subway's Take on the Classic

Subway's Ultimate B.M.T. offers a modern twist on their classic Italian B.M.T., featuring an array of meats and a special MVP Parmesan Vinaigrette. Despite its messy presentation, the sandwich's balanced meat flavors and fresh ingredients made it a strong contender, albeit slightly overwhelmed by the dressing.

Panera's Toasted Italiano

Panera's newcomer, the Toasted Italiano, boasts a classic Italian feel with a selection of meats and bold flavors. While the sandwich delivers on taste, its bread-to-filling ratio and abundance of Pepperoncinis highlighted minor flaws when compared to other Italian subs.

Jimmy John's Italian Night Club

Jimmy John's Italian Night Club combines quality meats with fresh toppings, all nestled in fluffy French bread. The sandwich offers a satisfying experience, though its cold presentation slightly hinders its overall appeal compared to warmer options.

Potbelly's Unique Approach

Potbelly's Italian sub allows for a semi-customizable experience, with a focus on high-quality meats and a perfectly toasted bread. The result is a flavor-packed sandwich that stands out for its meaty goodness and balanced toppings.

Penn Station: The Clear Winner

Penn Station's classic grilled Italian sub, with its blend of meats, cheese, and carefully selected toppings, delivers an unbeatable combination of flavors. The sandwich's fresh bread, juicy bites, and the perfect hint of banana peppers make it the top choice, reaffirming my long-held appreciation for this chain.

In the quest for the best Italian sub, each chain offered its own unique take, but Penn Station emerged as the clear victor, proving that sometimes, the classic approach is best. Pairing the sandwich with the chain's hand-squeezed lemonade and thick-cut fries only enhances the experience, making it a meal to remember.