The results of a reader-driven poll conducted by City Pulse in partnership with WKAR have put a spotlight on five sub sandwich outlets across the Lansing area, showcasing a mix of independent shops and regional chains. The list highlights local favorites that range from family-owned storefronts to national franchise counters operating downtown and in nearby suburbs.
Local variety, familiar flavors
The top five ranking reflects what many Lansing residents already know: sub sandwiches are a staple across the city’s dining landscape. Leading the list is Babe’s Corner, an ice cream and hoagie shop known for vegetarian and vegan options that opened in 2021 and now operates at 331 S. Washington Square in downtown Lansing. Babe’s Corner co-owner Aharon Hebert is also tied to Bangos, a sibling operation that has been serving customers inside Strange Matter Coffee since 2023.
Also on the list are downtown and regional options that provide quick, made-to-order service suitable for a weekday lunch or an after-hours bite. Firehouse Subs holds a downtown location at 200 S. Washington Square, offering its counter-serve format daily. The local list also includes Jersey Giant Subs, a Michigan-based chain known for large submarine sandwiches; Jimmy John’s in Okemos; and family-owned King Subs on North Grand River Avenue.
"Bon appétit!"
Practical details for readers
Below is a quick reference to the five places named in the poll, including addresses, typical hours and contact numbers where available. Hours reflect those listed in the City Pulse compilation and may vary by location; readers should call or check the businesses' websites for the latest information.
- Babe’s Corner — 331 S. Washington Square; (517) 939-9598; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Noted for vegetarian and vegan options.
- Firehouse Subs (downtown) — 200 S. Washington Square; (517) 316-0483; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Chain offering hot and cold made-to-order subs.
- Jersey Giant Subs — multiple locations; see jgsubs.com for hours and phone numbers. Local chain serving very large made-to-order subs.
- Jimmy John’s (Okemos) — 3450 Okemos Road; (517) 347-3232; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. Counter-serve sandwich chain.
- King Subs — 2602 N. Grand River Ave.; (517) 321-1441; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Family-owned shop favored for its bread and quick service.
| Shop | Address | Hours | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Babe’s Corner | 331 S. Washington Square, Lansing | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue-Sat | (517) 939-9598 |
| Firehouse Subs (downtown) | 200 S. Washington Square, Lansing | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily | (517) 316-0483 |
| Jersey Giant Subs | Multiple locations | See jgsubs.com | See jgsubs.com |
| Jimmy John’s (Okemos) | 3450 Okemos Road, Okemos | 10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily | (517) 347-3232 |
| King Subs | 2602 N. Grand River Ave., Lansing | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat | (517) 321-1441 |
What the list means for Lansing
Reader-driven lists like this one serve several functions for the community. They spotlight small businesses that may be newer to downtown Lansing — like Babe’s Corner, which opened its doors in 2021 — and they acknowledge established outlets and chains that remain popular for convenience and consistency. For downtown workers, students and residents, the compilation is a quick guide to places that can handle both dine-in and grab-and-go demand.
For independent operators, a nod from readers can translate into greater visibility and foot traffic, particularly during off-peak seasons. For chains, rankings reinforce brand recognition and may boost visits from people searching for familiar menu options. The mixture of shop types on the list underscores a broader trend in Lansing’s food scene: a balance between new, local entrepreneurship and established foodservice that together serve a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Readers seeking more detail on the poll’s methodology or results should consult City Pulse and WKAR. For the most current hours and menu offerings, contacting the individual restaurants or checking their official websites and social channels is recommended.
