Tasting the Best BLT: A Culinary Showdown Between Cousins Subs, Jimmy John’s, and Subway
Are you a fan of the classic BLT sandwich, with its crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a touch of mayo? If so, you’re not alone! This beloved lunch staple is simple yet satisfying, making it a top choice for many. But if you think making a perfect BLT is easy, think again! To discover which major sandwich chain offers the finest rendition, I set out on a flavorful expedition, sampling BLTs from three popular chains: Cousins Subs, Jimmy John’s, and Subway. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
The Search Begins: The Quest for the Ultimate BLT
While preparing a BLT at home is straightforward, I couldn’t resist the allure of a taste test! My journey took me to locations in Indiana, where I can confidently say one chain left me feeling underwhelmed. Here’s how each sandwich fared.
Cousins Subs: A Bread Winner!
My taste tour kicked off at Cousins Subs, a chain recognized for its dedication to quality since its inception in 1972. Founded by two cousins longing for the authentic East Coast sandwich experience, Cousins has successfully established a loyal following across Wisconsin and beyond.
I ordered a 7.5-inch BLT for $9, and soon discovered this sandwich had the best bread of the bunch. The freshness of Cousins’ signature bread was reminiscent of what I’d find at Pret a Manger in London—light and fluffy with no chewiness.
The long, crispy bacon filled the sandwich, complementing the perfectly sized tomato slices and neatly chopped lettuce. To top it off, the mayo had a delightful seasoning that enhanced the sandwich’s overall flavor. Each bite was a burst of deliciousness! If you’re in the vicinity of a Cousins Subs, I recommend this BLT with no hesitation.
Jimmy John’s: Bacon That Steals the Show
Next up was Jimmy John’s, which boasts over 2,600 locations nationwide since its launch in 1983. I sampled their 8-inch BLT during my visit to Carmel, Indiana, costing me $8.
What captivated my taste buds was the applewood smoked bacon—savory with a hint of zest that perfectly matched the fluffy French bread. My sandwich had an abundance of crispy lettuce and generous tomato slices, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. It felt less like a classic BLT and more like a salad between bread slices! The balance of flavors was delightful, and their bacon definitely won my heart.
Subway: A Mild Disappointment
Finally, I made my way to Subway, a chain known for its expansive reach with nearly 37,000 locations worldwide. On this occasion, I visited a store in Carmel and placed an order for a 6-inch BLT, which was conveniently upgraded to a foot-long for $7.90.
However, I was sadly let down by Subway’s offering. The bread tasted sugary and was chewy, detracting from my overall enjoyment. The bacon lacked the flavor and crispness I expected, appearing slightly greasy. Even the vegetables felt less than fresh. Regrettably, this sandwich was my least favorite.
Conclusion: The Verdict Is In!
In summary, if you’re on the hunt for the best BLT, my taste test concludes that both Cousins Subs and Jimmy John’s deliver excellent sandwiches. For my personal favorite, I have to lean slightly towards Cousins Subs for its outstanding bread and seasoning, though I thoroughly enjoyed Jimmy John’s bacon.
On the flip side, Subway’s lackluster sandwich leaves me hesitant to return anytime soon.
For fellow BLT lovers, I highly recommend giving these local favorites a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
For additional sandwich insights, check out the original article on Business Insider here.
