- Attraction: Tastee Sub Shop
- Location: 267 Plainfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08817
- Industry: Deli
- Website: https://tasteesubshop.com/
Lines stretching out the door are a badge of honor at Tastee Sub Shop, where locals have been flocking since 1963 for submarine sandwiches that’ve earned legendary status across New Jersey.
This no-frills Edison institution became part of presidential history when Barack Obama stopped by in 2010 to discuss small business with co-owners David Thornton and Carl Padovano—and to grab a half Super Sub to go.
But don’t let the famous visit fool you into thinking this is some trendy spot trading on past glory.
Walk in on any given afternoon and witness the true magic: generations of families who’ve been coming here for decades, some traveling from states away just to taste what many call the best submarine sandwich they’ve ever had.
The shop operates with straightforward efficiency—you order by number, the meat gets sliced fresh for your sandwich, and you walk out with a sub so generously stuffed that a half-size can easily feed two people.
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Keep Exploring →Tastee has mastered the art of doing one thing exceptionally well, and after more than six decades in business, they’ve clearly figured out the secret formula.
The Legendary Lineup
The Number 5 (Super Sub): This is the crown jewel that even a sitting president couldn’t resist. Piled high with pressed ham, boiled ham, capicola, salami, prosciuttini, and your choice of provolone, Swiss, or American cheese, it’s an Italian meat lover’s dream.
When you order it with “everything”—the standard preparation that includes shredded lettuce, onion, tomato, oil, vinegar, salt, and oregano—you get a perfectly balanced bite where the seasonings complement rather than overpower the quality meats.
The Tuna Sub (Number 9): This is the sandwich that creates devoted fans who keep coming back year after year. Made fresh every morning with just tuna and mayonnaise, the simplicity is deceptive.
The filling hits that sweet spot—enough to satisfy without being overwhelming, and the freshness shines through with every bite. Former Edison residents who’ve relocated across the country often make pilgrimages back just for this particular sandwich.
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Discover MoreThe Turkey Options: You have choices here—honey roasted, oven roasted, or smoked turkey—and each delivers tender, generously portioned meat sliced to order.
The turkey subs are consistent neighborhood favorites, with the honey roasted version being particularly popular for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness against the tangy vinegar and oil.
The Roast Beef (Number 6): Thinly sliced and stacked high, this sandwich showcases quality beef that doesn’t skimp on portions. Getting it with Swiss cheese and hot peppers creates an excellent flavor combination that adds extra dimension.
The Meatball Sub (Number 11): Hot, juicy meatballs swimming in just the right amount of tomato sauce make this a comforting choice.
The meatballs are notably generous in size, and adding provolone cheese creates a gooey, satisfying experience. Just be prepared—the sauce can make the bread a bit soggy if you’re not eating it right away.
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Keep Exploring →Customization Options: Beyond the standard “everything,” you can add mayo, mustard, honey mustard, Russian dressing, or hot peppers. The hot peppers come particularly recommended for anyone wanting to amp up the flavor profile.
The Tastee Experience
The Bread: This might be the not-so-secret weapon. The rolls stay remarkably soft and fresh, providing just enough structure to hold the generous fillings without becoming tough or chewy. You’ll find the bread maintains its quality regardless of season, though it will soften if you wait too long to eat your sub.
Portion Sizes: Get ready for serious value. The whole subs are massive—16 inches of sandwich that can genuinely feed two to three people.
Even the half subs are substantial enough that many find them more than filling. At around $9-12 for a half and $16-20 for a whole, you’re getting exceptional bang for your buck considering the quality and quantity.
The Assembly Line: Service moves with practiced efficiency. During peak times, the line extends outside, but the operation runs smoothly enough that waits rarely feel excessive.
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Discover MoreThe assembly-line style means your sandwich gets made quickly and consistently, with meat sliced fresh for each order rather than sitting pre-sliced in a case.
Practical Details
Pricing & Value: Expect to pay roughly $9-12 for half subs and $16-20 for whole subs, placing Tastee squarely in the affordable-to-moderate range.
When you factor in the generous portions and quality ingredients, the value proposition becomes even stronger. You’ll also get a 5% discount if you pay with cash, which is worth keeping in mind.
Peak Hours: Lunchtime, particularly on weekends, brings serious crowds. Calling ahead for pickup is highly recommended and can save you from standing in a lengthy line. Phone orders typically take about 15-25 minutes during busy periods.
Parking Situation: There’s a parking lot, though finding a spot during lunch rushes can be challenging. Arriving slightly off-peak makes the experience much smoother.
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Keep Exploring →The Setting: This isn’t the place for Instagram-worthy interiors or trendy décor. The space is straightforward and functional, with a focus squarely on the food rather than the ambiance.
It’s the kind of old-school sub shop where character comes from the quality of what’s between the bread, not from the dining room aesthetics.
Catering Options: Tastee offers party subs in 3-foot or 6-foot sizes, plus sub trays, making them a popular choice for events and gatherings. These larger orders have become go-to options for office lunches, birthday parties, and family events throughout the area.
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, giving you flexibility whether you’re craving a sub for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack.
Tastee Sub Shop
📍 267 Plainfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08817
