When comparing Firehouse Subs vs Potbelly Sandwich Shop, the biggest differences lie in portion size, flavor profile, and menu variety. Firehouse Subs is known for hot, steamed sandwiches with premium meats, artisan cheeses, and bold flavors, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal. Potbelly focuses on toasted sandwiches, soups, and salads, offering lighter portions and a casual dining experience.
Firehouse Subs typically delivers larger sandwiches with generous toppings, making them ideal for lunch or dinner that truly fills you up. Potbelly prioritizes moderate portions, fresh ingredients, and a mix of toasted flavors, appealing to those who prefer lighter meals. Choosing between them depends on whether you value substantial, flavor-packed sandwiches or smaller, customizable meals.
| Feature | Firehouse Subs | Potbelly Sandwich Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Items | Hook & Ladder®, Meatball Marinara, Smokehouse Beef & Cheddar Brisket | Italian, Turkey, and Roast Beef toasted sandwiches |
| Meat & Cheese | Premium meats and select cheeses (Monterey Jack, Provolone) | Fresh deli meats, variety of cheeses |
| Customization | Limited toppings, focus on bold flavor | Moderate toppings, choice of toasted bread |
| Pricing | Moderate to higher prices, larger portions | Moderate pricing, smaller portions |
| Menu Focus | Hot subs and hearty sandwiches | Toasted sandwiches, soups, and salads |
Menu and Ingredients Comparison
Firehouse Subs specializes in hot, steamed sandwiches like the Hook & Ladder® and Meatball Marinara, using premium meats and select cheeses. Potbelly focuses on toasted sandwiches, fresh salads, and soups, offering lighter portion sizes and more casual meal options. While Firehouse prioritizes bold, hearty flavors, Potbelly emphasizes variety and freshness in every meal.
Signature Sub Offerings
Firehouse Subs highlights signature sandwiches like the Smokehouse Beef & Cheddar Brisket and the Meatball Marinara, all steamed for maximum flavor. Potbelly features toasted sandwiches including Italian, Turkey, and Roast Beef, along with soups like chicken noodle and tomato basil. Firehouse focuses on substantial, indulgent meals, while Potbelly caters to those seeking lighter, toasted options.
Freshness and Customization
Firehouse Subs emphasizes steaming meats in-house and using fresh vegetables for consistent bold flavors. Potbelly offers moderate customization, letting you choose toppings and bread for your toasted sandwiches. Both chains ensure freshness, but Firehouse Subs leans toward hearty, flavor-packed meals, whereas Potbelly prioritizes light, fast, and customizable options.
Portion Sizes and Pricing
Firehouse Subs generally serves larger sandwiches with generous fillings, which is reflected in moderate to higher prices. Potbelly offers smaller portions, making their sandwiches and meals more budget-friendly and easier to finish. If portion size is your priority, Firehouse Subs wins, while Potbelly is ideal for those who prefer smaller, lighter meals.
Store Availability
Firehouse Subs has over 1,200 locations in North America, mainly in traditional restaurant settings, making it widely accessible for hearty meal seekers. Potbelly operates roughly 400–500 locations, mostly in the U.S., with a focus on casual dining and quick-service settings. Firehouse offers more substantial meals with broad availability, while Potbelly focuses on lighter, convenient dining experiences.
Deals and Offers
Firehouse Subs provides attractive promotions like the 2 Can Dine for $19.99 Offer and the Hot Turkey Combo for value-conscious customers. Potbelly occasionally offers limited-time discounts but generally relies on menu variety and combo deals. These deals enhance the overall value of Firehouse Subs’ larger portions and premium ingredients.
Final Verdict
Firehouse Subs is perfect for those craving hearty sandwiches with generous portions and bold, steamed flavors. Potbelly is ideal for customers who prefer toasted sandwiches, lighter meals, and customizable options.
When weighing Firehouse Subs vs Potbelly, portion size, flavor intensity, and menu variety are key factors. If you want filling, indulgent sandwiches, Firehouse Subs wins; for lighter, customizable toasted meals, Potbelly is a better choice.
