Mesa’s sandwich scene demands discernment. These are the shops worth braving Arizona heat for, where we’ll gladly queue under desert sun for that perfect bite. Whether you crave artisanal deli creations or simply a transcendent lunch, these spots define sandwich excellence in Mesa.
Ned’s Krazy Sub
$ | (480) 464-0033 | WEBSITE
If you’ve been disappointed by soggy, uninspired sandwiches before, the ones at Ned’s Krazy Sub will restore your faith. The Poorboy here is generously stuffed, fresh, and satisfyingly hearty, with a perfectly balanced combination that goes especially well with a side of chips or a cold soda.
This no-frills spot in Mesa serves a reliable selection of subs as well as that classic marinara meatball option, and it’s the kind of place you’ll want to simultaneously keep a local secret, and also recommend to every visitor in town.
Sam’s Famous Subs
$ | (480) 907-8415 | WEBSITE
At Sam’s Famous Subs inside a Chevron gas station, you’ll see fresh meats being sliced and sandwiches assembled with the care of a master craftsman. That’s probably because these subs are, indeed, very special. If you’re looking for lunch, there’s a large variety of toppings, dressings, and mustards, and you’ll also find some standout sandwiches like the Buffalo chicken, Sam’s Big Boy, and turkey/roast beef with provolone.
Try any one of these things, and you’ll feel compelled to come back once a week. (We suggest the perfectly balanced turkey/roast beef on that fresh baked Italian white bread.) Before any road trip or casual gathering, stop by for a sandwich that will make your companions forget they’re eating in a gas station.
Firehouse Subs Signal Butte
$ | (480) 833-0215 | WEBSITE
There’s no sandwich shop with an atmosphere so inextricably bound to nostalgia as Firehouse Subs on Signal Butte, and the best subs are found right here in Mesa. They’ve been serving up these hearty sandwiches for years, so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing. The Firehouse Meatball sub has a rich tomato sauce flavor and manages to be satisfyingly substantial yet surprisingly balanced at the same time.
The mac and cheese is on the creamier side (if you prefer the baked crust variety, this might not be for you), but it’s well-executed. They also offer the chicken club limited, which is essentially a more elevated version of a classic club sandwich. The great BBQ brisket and other excellent sub sandwiches should not be skipped here, either. The friendly and accommodating staff creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, though the ordering kiosk can be frustrating for those less tech-savvy.
Many people come in for take-out orders, which speaks to the quality you can expect.
Firehouse Subs Superstition Springs
$ | (480) 534-7031 | WEBSITE
For far too long, subs were pretty much reserved for quick lunches. But at Firehouse Subs Superstition Springs in Mesa, subs are for whenever you damn please. The friendly sandwich shop offers hot subs with signature sauce, and impressive creations that win over even those who typically don’t enjoy subs. You can still find great subs elsewhere, but visiting this spot and ordering one more sub than you really need is more fun.
Firehouse Subs Stapley Center
$ | (480) 497-4005 | WEBSITE
Firehouse Subs Stapley Center is best-known for its hearty sandwiches that capture an authentic East-coast deli feel with higher-caliber meats than typical chains. You’ve probably seen their signature Steamer or Hero sandwiches around town, and for anyone craving a substantial lunch they’re worth trying at least once. Their vegetarian options are solid too, like the extensive combo selections, which are a protein-lover’s delight, and the steak & cheese.
Schlotzsky’s
$ | (480) 833-6540 | WEBSITE
You’ll find the best (and possibly only) giant original sandwich in all of Mesa at this friendly, welcoming spot. It’s unique, tasty, and generously portioned, and like everything else here, you might feel compelled to share it with someone after picking up your order. Schlotzsky’s offers seamless online ordering, and it’s worth planning ahead to pick up a large original sandwich, chips, a drink, and maybe some breakfast tacos or burritos.
Firehouse Subs Southern & Dobson
$ | (623) 270-7794 | WEBSITE
Once a beloved chain with a loyal following for its firefighter-themed mission, this sandwich shop in Mesa makes some of the city’s best, most meticulously constructed subs. Made with fresh ingredients and toasted to order, they might come perfectly layered, or with their flavors balanced by the hot sauce bar’s peach variety on the club sandwich.
But Firehouse Subs’ entire menu—also featuring drinks and special requests—is satisfying, especially the tasty options and the sleeper hit: the kind service that accommodates needs and rounds up for donations.
Steve’s Krazy Submarine
$ | (480) 984-7827 | WEBSITE
Even on a random weekday with bad weather, there’s going to be a line at Steve’s Krazy Submarine in Mesa. However, the wait isn’t atrociously long. The speciality here is the #10 pastrami sandwich, and this hearty, generously-portioned, perfectly-toasted sub is second to none. Anything you order from the menu will be excellent, but you should also order a turkey and provolone (or two) and take it home to enjoy with your favorite condiments.
Steve’s Krazy Submarine has a friendly and efficient crew, including standout staff like Hallie, who ensure a personalized experience for both long-time locals and visitors.
Ike’s Love & Sandwiches
$ | (480) 610-6750 | WEBSITE
Born from the same creative spirit that made it a cult favorite in California, Ike’s has developed a devoted Arizona following thanks to its much-praised tuna sandwich (imagine the perfect marriage of fresh fish and just-right seasoning). But this compact sandwich shop in Mesa offers more to enjoy, like vegan and vegetarian options, and nostalgic lollipops at checkout. While you’re there, you should also grab a caramel apple sucker and an extra sandwich to share with friends back home.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (480) 357-8664 | WEBSITE
Jersey Mike’s Subs is oh so Jersey, not only because they make exceptional sandwiches like the giant club on white bread “Mike’s Way,” but because they serve them with genuine care when you need it most. This Mesa sandwich shop’s service shines through consistently, and during lunch rushes the line often snakes toward the door for the entirety of the peak period. Suck it up and wait. You’re going to get a fantastic sandwich out of it.
Jersey Mike’s also demonstrates good customer care, as seen when a roasted chicken sandwich was replaced promptly after being served ice-cold.
Krazy Sub
$ | (480) 835-0330 | WEBSITE
You might know Krazy Sub as the sandwich shop in Mesa where you can eat a Poor Boy sub and drink a root beer float. But they also have a freezer case that’s quietly making some of the best frozen treats in the city. Try the root beer ice cream, and a simple scoop that tastes like it went to a county fair, began wearing paper hats with sprinkles, and got a little nostalgic. They also make kid-friendly meals, and you should get your hands on a Turkey sub if you can.
There’s plenty of parking, so grab some sandwiches and a treat for the road. Some of the menu items, including the Chicken Pesto, are also available with extra toppings.
Firehouse Subs Dana Park
$ | (480) 539-4322 | WEBSITE
There will be a line at Firehouse Subs Dana Park on a weekend afternoon, but it moves quickly, and the wait is worth it for things like the Hook & Ladder Sandwich, which is damn delicious and delectable. The restaurant is run by a very kind staff, with manager always super friendly and super helpful, and employees like Alisha B and Christine go above and beyond to assist customers.
Despite having just a few counter stools and simple tables in a clean, welcoming space, it’s a great spot to romanticize your lunch break sandwich ritual.
Knuckle Sandwiches
$ | (480) 630-4132 | WEBSITE
At Knuckle Sandwiches in Mesa, nobody just gets one sandwich. Everybody gets a combo, and everybody fills that plate with delights like the classic and excellent French Dip, a BLATT piled high with hand-carved turkey that tastes like Thanksgiving leftovers, and a fresh potato salad that you could easily overlook, but might end up being your favorite thing here. If the owner Roscoe throws a large peanut butter cookie onto your tray “because we just baked them,” do not stop him.
Knuckle Sandwiches—pronounced with a smile—is having a lot of fun. Whenever you visit, you will too.
Subway
$ | (480) 497-9440 | WEBSITE
This strip mall spot in Mesa used to be home to a generic sandwich chain (a former staple of quick lunches, until they upgraded their service). Now, it’s where helpful employees like Jon, Lawanna, and a kind worker with a star on their name prepare and assemble exceptional fresh items, like customizable subs with quality ingredients, as well as more classic things, like crisp salads and warm cookies.
If you think fast food is usually impersonal, try their quick service with friendly attitudes and willingness to offer suggestions on menu items.
Worth Takeaway
$ | (480) 833-2180 | WEBSITE
Try to visit Worth Takeaway on days when they feature their specials, because that’s when this popular Mesa spot showcases their creativity. On regular days, it’s their famous concha sandwich, with soft, flavorful layers packed with delicious fillings, and on special occasions it’s something unique, like the Bob’s Burgers pop-up, or other rotating themed offerings. But don’t stop at sandwiches—their attentive, friendly service is our favorite in the area.
They also create a comfortable, casual atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable.