Fast Food Corner

Living in (or near) Philadelphia is a good thing, especially if you like hoagies (subs, heroes, etc.). Philly has some of the greatest hoagie shops in the world, and that's really why some of these chaings like Subway and Quiznos have a tough time penetrating this market. However, there are a few that have popped up, and even though I generally focus on supporting the local mom and pop stores, I have gone to both Subway and Quizons from time-to-time. No, they are nowhere near as good as Philly's home-grown delis, but both have a few decent "inventions."

Quiznos started the toasting of the subs idea (at least from a chain perspective), and it was a huge success - toasted rolls just seem to taste better for some reason. Subway followed, but their toasting process, which really just looks like some kind of heavy-duty microwave, isn't nearly as good. And Quiznos does seem to pile on more meat on the sandwiches than Subway does.

However, Subway has the better rolls. Not sure if Quizons makes their own fresh rolls, but Subway kills them with this ... it is important to note that in making a good hoagie, you CANNOT NEGLECT THE ROLL. The roll is the foundation of the sandwich. It should have a crispy feel on the outside and a nice fluffy feel on the inside. Tangeant - This is why most areas around the U.S. fail when they try to make a "Philly Cheese-steak," they neglect getting good rolls (or don't have access to them).

Also, Subway has the Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki hoagie ... this hoagie alone beats any hoagie that Quiznos can offer - just the right blend of sweetness and bitterness. So, for those non-Philadelphians who have to choose between chains, (New Yorkers have great delis too, by the way), let me suggest Subway.