Quick answer: The Potbelly menu centers on toasted sandwiches served in Skinny, Original and BIG sizes. The most popular picks are A Wreck®, the Mediterranean, Chicken & Cheddar and the Pizza Melt. The menu also includes soups, salads, shakes and cookies. Prices vary by location, so check the Potbelly app or website before you order.
The Story Behind Potbelly
Potbelly began as a Chicago antiques shop. According to Wikipedia’s Potbelly entry, founder Peter Hastings used an old potbelly stove in the store to toast sandwiches for shoppers. In 1977 the shop was retooled into Potbelly Sandwich Works. Axios reports that regular customer Bryant Keil bought the shop in 1996 and grew it to more than 250 locations over the next 12 years.
The chain kept growing. In September 2025, Potbelly announced it had more than 445 shops in the U.S., over 105 of them franchised. It also announced a deal to be acquired by RaceTrac for about $566 million, as stated in Potbelly’s official press release. The company’s long-term goal is 2,000 shops. That push includes new markets such as a multi-unit franchise agreement for Seattle.
Potbelly Menu Overview
Potbelly’s menu is simple to navigate. Sandwiches come in three sizes (Skinny, Original and BIG), per the 2021 menu update. Everything else is built around them.
| Category | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Sandwiches | A Wreck®, Italian, Turkey Breast, Mediterranean, Chicken & Cheddar, Pizza Melt, vegetarian options |
| Soups and Mac | Rotating soups such as broccoli cheddar, plus mac and cheese |
| Salads | Chicken and vegetable-based salads with dressing on the side if you prefer |
| Sides and Chips | Bagged chips and cookies |
| Shakes and Drinks | Hand-dipped shakes, bottled sodas and fountain drinks |
Browse the full, current list on Potbelly’s official menu. If you’re comparing other eateries, our restaurants hub has more menu guides.
9 Best Potbelly Menu Items to Order
Menus change by region and season, so confirm availability at your local shop.
1. A Wreck®
This is Potbelly’s signature sandwich. It layers salami, Angus roast beef, turkey, hickory-smoked ham and Swiss cheese. Toasting melts the cheese and crisps the bread. Add lettuce, tomato and hot peppers for freshness. The BIG size is a lot of sandwich, so most people go with an Original.
2. Mediterranean
This one is a pleasant surprise for people expecting a bland veggie sandwich. It combines hummus, roasted red peppers, feta, cucumbers and artichokes, often with grilled chicken. Ask for it without chicken and it becomes a flavorful vegetarian option.
3. Chicken & Cheddar
This is the simple, satisfying pick: grilled chicken, melted cheddar and bacon on toasted bread. Add pickled jalapeños for heat. Cheese is the star here, and our cheese shop guide explains how to choose and pair cheddar and other styles.
4. Pizza Melt
Think of it as a meatball sub in pizza form. It brings together pepperoni, meatballs, capicola, marinara and melted provolone. It’s warm, saucy and filling. Ask staff about vegetarian adjustments.
5. Turkey Breast
A lighter choice built on sliced turkey and Swiss. It’s not toasted by default, but you can ask for it toasted. Pickles and tomato add moisture, and whole-grain bread suits it well.
6. Bacon and Avocado Sandwich (verify name)
Bacon and avocado make a creamy, crunchy combination on toasted bread. Confirm the exact current name and recipe on the menu before publishing (see Flags below).
7. A Hearty Salad
If you skip the sandwich, Potbelly’s salads are built with grilled chicken, vegetables and a choice of dressing. Order the dressing on the side to control how much you use.
8. Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy, cheesy and comforting, it’s a good match for a cold day. Soup selections rotate, so check what’s available at your location.
9. Vegetable Sandwich (verify name)
For vegetarians, Potbelly offers a vegetable-forward sandwich. Check the current menu for its exact name and ingredients.
How Much Does Potbelly Cost?
Prices depend on location, size and add-ons. Industry data from Toast puts fast-casual sandwiches at roughly $8 to $12. Use the Potbelly app to see your local price. To plan a full outing, our trip cost calculator helps estimate food budgets.
Is Potbelly a Good Stop on a Road Trip?
Yes. Sandwiches travel well and orders are quick, which makes Potbelly a handy lunch stop between destinations. If you’re packing for a drive, our road trip essentials list covers what else to bring.
Potbelly FAQs
What is Potbelly known for?
Potbelly is known for toasted deli sandwiches, especially A Wreck®. The chain started in Chicago in 1977 and now has more than 445 shops across the U.S.
What sizes do Potbelly sandwiches come in?
Potbelly offers Skinny, Original and BIG sizes. Skinny is lighter, Original is the standard portion and BIG is the largest for bigger appetites.
Who owns Potbelly?
RaceTrac agreed to acquire Potbelly in a roughly $566 million deal announced in September 2025. Potbelly says it intends to keep its neighborhood sandwich shop identity.
Does Potbelly have vegetarian options?
Yes. The Mediterranean can be made without chicken, and Potbelly also offers a vegetable sandwich. Ask staff to confirm ingredients, since menus can vary.
What is the best sandwich at Potbelly?
A Wreck® is the most popular choice, with four meats and Swiss. If you prefer something lighter, the Turkey Breast or the Mediterranean are good alternatives.
Does Potbelly offer franchising?
Yes. Over 105 shops are franchised, and the company has a long-term goal of 2,000 shops. Contact Potbelly directly for current franchise requirements.
Final Verdict
Potbelly works because it’s simple: toasted sandwiches, flexible sizes and a handful of reliable favorites. Start with A Wreck® or the Mediterranean, add a cup of soup, and check the app for local prices. For more food guides, browse our food section.
Usman is a travel writer at Trip Guiderz, covering destination guides, travel planning, seasonal advice, and practical tips to help travelers plan better trips.
