Chesapeake is where you’ll find sprawling suburban estates that look like country clubs, an excessive number of lifted pickup trucks, and locals who treat a trip to Greenbrier Mall like a daily commute. There’s plenty to do here, like exploring the Great Dismal Swamp or admiring the working boats along the Intracoastal. But at some point, all that time navigating neighborhoods requires a proper sandwich.
Firehouse Subs Crossways Center
$ | (757) 222-9466 | WEBSITE
With its bright red walls and firefighter memorabilia, Firehouse Subs Crossways Center could be mistaken for a fire station’s rec room. Expect to see families grabbing quick lunches, office workers on their breaks, and hungry folks who know a good sandwich when they taste one. The move? Get your order in via the app and grab one of the plastic fireman’s hats if you’re dining with kids.
We’re fans of the Firehouse Steak and Cheese, the New York Steamer with its corned beef and pastrami, and the awesome Italian sub. Sandwiches arrive fresh and satisfying, so you might have to clear space on the table like you’re at a busy deli counter.
Zeros
$ | (757) 842-6642 | WEBSITE
No, not that Subway. Zeros Subs was serving Chesapeake decades before the national chains arrived, which makes this unassuming sandwich spot the true local original. Tucked into a strip mall on Cedar Road, this essential neighborhood pitstop always has a packed parking lot and a steady stream of regulars at the counter, so expect a short wait even during off-hours. The menu is straightforward with subs, fries, and a few classic American additions.
The Philly steak and cheese is a solid hot sub, but the real reason to visit (besides the friendly staff) is their crispy, crunchy fries with that flavorful twist—they’re so good you’ll want to dip your sub in them, too. It’s kind of an unwritten rule here.
Taste
$ | (757) 424-4583 | WEBSITE
Taste sits in Chesapeake, but it’s really in that fresh-ingredient zone where quality is always front and center. There’s a Fresh Market-like dining area with artwork for sale, but make use of the convenient take-out for those working nearby. The crowd is a mix of regulars grabbing their go-to sandwiches and newcomers exploring the wide menu. Go heavy on anything involving pimento cheese, like the Lynnhaven sandwich or the jalapeno popper dip starter.
The roasted shrimp wrap with pineapple salsa and the Route 11 Dill Pickle chips are good adds, too. And know that the lemon blueberry bar, large enough for two, is best when shared with someone who appreciates a standout dessert.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (757) 698-4532 | WEBSITE
You might be coming from the Philadelphia area for this one, but trust us—Jersey Mike’s is worth the trip across town to Chesapeake. This straightforward sandwich shop has a clean, orderly workspace, a friendly staff that handles the lunch rush with ease, and a steady stream of customers grabbing quick, satisfying meals. Both the classic subs and the authentic Philly cheesesteaks are excellent, with fresh ingredients that pack flavor into each bite.
The bread has a nice chew with just enough structure to hold everything together without getting soggy. The cheesesteak is half the experience here, so make sure to unwrap, bite, and savor the authentic taste.
Dominic’s of New York
$ | (757) 549-0918 | WEBSITE
Dominic’s of New York comes from a one-man operation in front of Lowes on Battlefield Blvd, so plan on ordering their famous Philly cheesesteak off the bat. But there’s more to try from the counter, too. The straightforward menu lists classic sandwiches like burgers, hot dogs, and gyros, but your priorities should be the hot pastrami and Caribbean jerk chicken. Dominic’s occupies a modest spot in the Lowes parking lot, though it’s so popular you might still have to wait for your order.
If so, check out the made-to-order process up front where the friendly operator prepares everything fresh so you can watch your meal come together right before your eyes.
Zero’s Subs
$ | (757) 483-6743 | WEBSITE
Zero’s Subs sits in a modest Chesapeake shopping center surrounded by chain eateries, but don’t be deceived: the spotless interior hums with cheerful chatter, and even the waiting area is playfully decked out with retro arcade machines and local sports memorabilia.
Begin with classics like the phenomenal chicken Philly or the mouthwatering Philly steak and cheese sub, add a grinder for a satisfying, hands-on experience of stacking fresh meats and veggies into hefty bites, then stick with the consistently delicious subs and pizza. Our go-to is the chicken Philly, which hits all the right notes (tender chicken, melted cheese, and crisp veggies on a soft roll).
Chicken Salad Chick
$ | (757) 550-4499 | WEBSITE
Chicken Salad Chick offers a solid lunch spot that will leave you in a state of chicken salad bliss without taking up a whole afternoon. The cozy, cheerful interior is located in a family-friendly strip, and though it looks as welcoming as its neighborhood, it operates with cheerful efficiency. The chicken salad (sandwich options start at $8 for lunch) is uncomplicated and excellent, with fresh, flavorful scoops and a balanced bread-salad ratio.
And since there’s no barrier between you and the counter, you’ll see the staff preparing each order—but this also means they occasionally hover and double up on the pickle spears they put on your plate.
Subway
$ | (757) 413-9060 | WEBSITE
As the spotless counter and neatly arranged ingredients suggest, Subway takes freshness seriously. This efficient chain has a location on Indian River Road in Virginia Beach—complete with a drive-through option for those in a hurry. Even during busy times, customers are served promptly, and the veggie delight sandwich shines with super fresh vegetables that taste like they were picked just hours ago (and honestly, probably were).
The staff here, including an older gentleman and a young lady, provide great customer service, taking pride in their work and paying attention to detail. Their efficient yet friendly approach makes customers feel valued, whether you’re grabbing a quick sandwich or using the convenient drive-through.
Mister Jim’s
$ | (757) 482-1333 | WEBSITE
Although the name sounds like a friendly neighborhood guy, Mister Jim’s is a very authentic sandwich shop, with clean booths and nostalgic vibes of high school football games lingering in the air. The outdoor tables are casual enough for a quick family lunch, while the inviting dining area feels more suited for grabbing a classic sub after work. Focus on the Italian grinders, like the Mr. Jim’s Special packed with ham, salami, and melty provolone, and the Philly spring rolls with crispy wrappers.
The burger portions are fairly standard, so we’d suggest the personal pizzas as meals—they come out fresh with flavorful toppings and great texture.
Gourmet Gang
$ | (757) 361-0482 | WEBSITE
You can grab a quick sandwich anywhere, but the superior creations at Gourmet Gang are a much better investment. This casual counter-service spot is the go-to lunch destination for locals looking for a flavorful boost during their workday, but aside from the convenience appeal, their sandwiches are fresh, taste delicious, and come packed with quality ingredients.
All options include classics like Turkey & Provolone or Blackened Chicken (we always choose the Santa Fe), and they also make great weekly specials, too. Maybe just don’t tell your dietitian they come with chips and pasta sides.
Jimmy John’s
$ | (757) 547-0850 | WEBSITE
Some sandwich shops seem stuck in a loop of the never-ending loop of turkey subs and ham sandwiches. But Chesapeake favorite Jimmy John’s excels at delivering classics with speed. Their rendition of the Toasted Chicken Bacon Ranch is essentially a masterpiece, with a pile of chicken and bacon that soaks up a creamy ranch sauce, and the lovely Picklewich is practically a snack, topped with cucumbers and pickles that crunch with each bite. Even bread and condiments get an upgrade.
Though the dining area is packed with lunch crowds and the counter line features a steady stream of regulars, the lively music and fun staff keep the experience from feeling rushed.
