Craving a sandwich that captures holiday vibes any time of year?
The Publix Turkey Cranberry Holiday Sub blends savory turkey, smoky bacon, and sweet cranberry relish for a mouthwatering experience.
I dove into this limited-time delight, plus some sides and alternatives, to give you the full scoop on taste, texture, and value in this easy-read review.
What Is the Publix Holiday Sub?
This standout sub features oven-roasted turkey breast layered with smoked Gouda cheese, crispy bacon, and a tangy cranberry orange relish, all slathered in mayo and served on your choice of bread—like Italian five-grain or classic white. It’s a full-sized powerhouse, often around $8, packing generous portions that make it a meal in itself. The combo of salty, smoky, and sweet elements creates a festive twist on a classic deli sandwich.
First Impressions and Ingredients
Right out of the wrapper, this sub impresses with its size and vibrant colors—the cranberry relish peeks through, promising a burst of flavor. Key ingredients include high-quality turkey (sometimes Boar’s Head if available), thick-cut bacon for that extra smokiness, and the star: cranberry orange relish that adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering. Opt for it toasted to melt the cheese and warm everything up, enhancing the overall texture from crunchy bread to tender fillings.
Taste Test: The Main Event
Biting in, the turkey delivers a hearty, savory base, complemented by the bacon’s rich flavor that ties everything together. The cranberry relish surprises with its balanced tang—not too strong, but enough to evoke holiday cheer. On Italian five-grain bread, you get a dense, seedy crunch that elevates each bite. If you add lettuce, it brings a fresh crispness. Overall, it’s flavorful and satisfying, though the bacon can sometimes blend into the mix. Pro tip: Skip extras like gravy or stuffing if you want the pure sub experience.
Sides to Complement: Onion Rings Spotlight
No sub adventure is complete without sides! Publix’s onion rings offer a nice batter with strong onion flavor, but grab them fresh from the fryer for maximum crunch—they cool quickly in the heated cabinet. At about $2.75, they’re a budget-friendly add-on. If they’re not piping hot, the texture softens, but the taste still shines. Pair them with the sub for a fun, casual meal upgrade.
Bonus Try: The Italian Sub Alternative
For variety, the Boar’s Head Italian sub is a solid contender at around $10. It piles on salami, tavern ham, capicola, and cheese (try white American or pepper jack for kick), plus banana peppers and lettuce on chewy white bread. The salami dominates with bold, spicy notes, while the peppers add a vinegary zing that can overshadow the meats. Toasted lightly, it’s hearty and flavorful—perfect if you’re in the mood for something Italian-inspired alongside the holiday option.
Overall Ratings and Recommendations
On a 5-star scale, the Holiday Sub earns a solid 4.5—it’s delicious, well-balanced, and worth the hype for its unique flavors. The onion rings get a 3.5; they’re tasty but need that fresh heat. The Italian sub also hits 4.5 for its meaty punch. At these prices, they’re great value. Go for the Holiday Sub heated, and ask for fresh sides. If supplies run low, it’s a limited gem, so snag one soon!
