Additional Coverage:
- I ordered BLT sandwiches from Cousins Subs, Jimmy John’s, and Subway. Only one chain let me down. (businessinsider.com)
Local Sandwich Showdown: The Quest for the Best BLT
The BLT. A lunchtime classic.
Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and a smear of mayo – simple perfection. But when a craving hits and a homemade sandwich isn’t an option, where can you find the best BLT in town?
I embarked on a local BLT quest, comparing offerings from three popular chains: Cousins Subs, Jimmy John’s, and Subway.
Cousins Subs: A Worthwhile Trip
My first stop was Cousins Subs. While primarily located in Wisconsin, I managed to find a local Indianapolis storefront.
For $9, I enjoyed a 7.5-inch sub. The bread was the star – fresh, light, and reminiscent of a high-quality bakery.
The bacon was crispy and plentiful, the tomato slices generous, and the lettuce perfectly chopped. A subtly seasoned mayo added another layer of flavor.
Overall, this was the most flavorful BLT of the three, making it worth the trip.
Jimmy John’s: A Bacon Lover’s Dream
Next up was Jimmy John’s. This widely available chain offered an 8-inch BLT for $8.
The applewood smoked bacon was the highlight – savory and bursting with smoky flavor that perfectly complemented the French bread. A generous portion of lettuce and thick-cut tomatoes made this sandwich feel like a salad on a bun, but with plenty of bacon to keep it a true BLT.
Subway: A Disappointing Finish
My final stop was Subway. While convenient with its numerous locations, my footlong BLT (upgraded from a 6-inch thanks to a current deal) for $7.90 was a letdown.
The bread tasted sugary and chewy, the bacon greasy and flimsy, and the vegetables lacked freshness. I wouldn’t recommend this BLT, and likely won’t be returning to Subway anytime soon.
The Verdict
Cousins Subs and Jimmy John’s both delivered satisfying BLTs. While I preferred the bacon at Jimmy John’s, the overall flavor profile and bread at Cousins Subs edged it out as my top pick.