In the heart of the South, few things evoke as much passion as a fresh Publix Pub Sub—those oversized, customizable deli masterpieces that turn a simple lunch into an event.
With freshly baked bread, premium meats, and endless toppings, these sandwiches have cult status, drawing fans from afar for their unbeatable value and flavor.
Whether you’re a newbie or a devotee, dive into what makes them iconic, plus our curated list of must-try varieties complete with taste insights and tips.
Contents
What Are Publix Pub Subs?
Publix Pub Subs are made-to-order deli sandwiches crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients on in-house baked bread.
Shoppers can mix and match meats, cheeses, veggies, and sauces—or turn them into wraps or salads.
Known for generous portions and unmatched freshness, these subs deliver a personalized, nostalgic, and satisfying meal experience
Why Are Pub Subs So Popular?
Publix Pub Subs earn their hype with fresh-baked bread, premium Boar’s Head meats, and hand-breaded chicken tenders at an affordable $6.59–$9.59.
Highly customizable and flavor-packed, they’re praised for quality, value, and variety—offering hearty portions, weekly deals, and a homemade taste that easily outshines rival sandwich chains
Pro Tips for Ordering the Perfect Pub Sub
To elevate your experience, order ahead via the Publix app to skip lines. At the counter, layer wisely: mayo first, then cheese and meat, veggies (hold pickles), oil/vinegar or Boar’s Head Deli Dressing, and salt to make it stick—essential for seasoning tomatoes and cukes. Add banana peppers for zing, toast for crunch, or press at home for a panini twist. For chicken tender subs, skip oil/vinegar. Request individual wrapping for sharing, and don’t forget garlic pickles—they’re a fan-favorite topping.
Chicken Tender Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Crispy, hand-breaded tenders on fluffy white bread with lettuce, tomato, and customizable sauces like honey mustard or ranch. The chicken shines with juicy tenderness and proper seasoning, offering a crowd-pleasing crunch that’s versatile hot or cold. Add provolone for meltiness or pickles for tang—it’s hearty without overwhelming.
- Take away: This legendary staple tops many taste tests for its sublime quality and mod potential, making it a must-try for fried chicken fans seeking value and satisfaction.
Ultimate Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: A meat-lover’s dream with smoky tavern ham, maple-sweet turkey, and roast beef on Italian five-grain bread, topped with provolone, lettuce, tomato, and sub sauce. Balanced flavors with a creamy dijonnaise tang; not overly stacked, but generous and fresh for all-day eating.
- Take away: Ranked as the best in some reviews for its perfect harmony and no-need-for-mods appeal, it’s the ultimate choice for a reliable, flavorful deli experience.
Italian Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Layers of tavern ham, Genoa salami, and capicola with provolone on five-grain bread, zested up with banana peppers, tomatoes, onions, and vinaigrette. Zesty and crunchy without greasiness; oregano and parmesan add bold Italian flair for a satisfying bite.
- Take away: A fan-favorite for its spicy, customizable punch, it ranks high in taste tests as a messy but worthwhile upgrade over basic options.
Buffalo Chicken Tender Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Fried tenders tossed in buffalo sauce with provolone, lettuce, and tomato on white bread. Tangy heat meets juicy chicken; request extra sauce for bolder kick, creating a spicy, satisfying twist on the classic.
- Take away: Excels for buffalo lovers with flawless tenders, but shines brighter with mods— a strong contender for game-day indulgence.
Hot Honey Chicken Tender Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Tenders drizzled in hot honey with mayo, pickles, and onions on toasted white bread. Sweet-spicy harmony with tender, flavorful chicken; 3-pepper cheese adds extra zing for a bold, addictive profile.
- Take away: Stands out for its intense sweet-heat combo, ranking high as the best chicken tender variation for those craving novelty.
Cuban Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Sweet ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed white bread. Tangy bliss with melty cheese and crunch; the ham-pork balance creates pure comfort.
- Take away: A Florida classic that rivals the original Cubano, praised for its flavorful simplicity and portability.
Havana Bold Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Spicy peppenero ham, tavern ham, chipotle gouda, pickles, and mustard on pressed white. Heat-forward with lingering burn; crunchy and punchy for spice enthusiasts.
- Take away: Near-top in tests for its bold Cuban twist, offering high value through intense flavors.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Rotisserie chicken, Swiss cheese, hot tavern ham, and bacon on Tutto Pugliese bread with pickles and sub dressing. Melty and savory with a gourmet touch.
- Take away: Unique for its comforting, cheesy depth, a Reddit fave for elevating everyday meals.
Tuna Salad Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Fresh tuna with light mayo on Italian five-grain bread, boosted by dill pickles and vinegar. Salty, textured, and satisfying like ocean-fresh fish.
- Take away: Surprisingly high-ranked for its balanced, non-fishy appeal—great for lighter days.
French Onion London Broil Sub ($6.59 half / $9.59 whole)
- Description: Roast beef with crispy onions, Swiss, and onion jam on pressed bread. Soup-like richness with melty, yummy depth.
- Take away: Bold Boar’s Head innovation that’s sacrilegiously great, perfect for flavor adventurers.
Final Thoughts
Publix Pub Subs aren’t just sandwiches—they’re a Southern tradition blending quality, customization, and affordability. Whether grabbing a classic Chicken Tender or experimenting with Boar’s Head twists, they’re worth the hype. Next time you’re at Publix, customize one and see why fans are obsessed!
