Celebrate National Sandwich Day with Flavor & Savings: A Guide to the Best Deals (and How to Enjoy Them)

Celebrate National Sandwich Day with Flavor & Savings: A Guide to the Best Deals (and How to Enjoy Them)

Every year on November 3, sandwich lovers across the U.S. mark the occasion of National Sandwich Day. It’s a fun opportunity to treat yourself — and thanks to eager restaurants looking to boost business, it’s also a great chance to score a deal. But the promotions can be tricky: some are for app users only, some span several days, some vary by location. Below, I’ll walk you through what this year’s deals look like, how to make the most of them, and how you can also celebrate by making your own epic sandwich at home.

Why National Sandwich Day matters

Sandwiches are one of the most ubiquitous meals: portable, customizable, and satisfying. The holiday itself may feel informal, but it has real traction. Restaurants use it as a marketing moment to spotlight their signature subs, to bring in traffic, and to reward their loyalty-members.

For example, some chains this year offer BOGO deals, or super-low-priced sandwiches for members.

It's a win-win: the consumer gets a deal, the brand gets more visits or downloads of its app/rewards program.

Big Deals to Know for 2025

Here are some of the top deals for National Sandwich Day, Nov 3 and around that date. Note as always that it's participating locations only, and offers may vary by region, app vs in-store, etc. We'll break down the highlights.

Highlights

Schlotzsky's: Rewards members receive a medium sandwich for $5 between November 1–3 at participating locations.

McAlister’s Deli: From Nov 3–9, rewards members can buy one sandwich and get another at 50% off. New rewards sign-ups, between Nov 3 – 16, also get a BOGO 50% off.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop: Buy any Big or Original sandwich/wrap and get an Original Sandwich or Wrap free on Monday, Nov 3, using code BOGO via their app or website.

Subway: For MVP Rewards members, there’s a deal: buy one foot-long, get another for $1 when using code BOGO1. Another recent deal was a $6.99 meal deal.

Popeyes: Although the chain is really touting its “fried chicken sandwich day”, they still offer a free chicken sandwich with a $10 minimum purchase (via app or online) from Oct 27 through Nov 9 in many participating U.S. locations.

What makes these good deals?

Because sandwiches are relatively low-cost items, adding a “free or half-off” primary sandwich is an obvious incentive from the consumer's perspective.

Many of these require membership in the restaurant's rewards or app program-in effect, the deal both rewards loyalty and encourages sign-ups.

Some deals span more than one day (or a range) giving you more flexibility.

It pushes customers into online/app ordering, which has operational advantages to the chain.

What to watch out for

Exclusions: A lot of deals exclude certain sizes-such as 12″/King sandwiches-add-ons, delivery fees-or are only available via the app. For instance, Schlotzsky's $5 sandwich deal excludes add-ons and extras.

Location participation: The chain may advertise the deal, but your local store may or may not participate. Always check.

Timing: Some deals extend for days; others are only on Nov 3.

Exclusivity: Some offers are only for existing rewards members, and some require you to have signed up before the date to take advantage of the benefit.

How to Maximize Your Sandwich-Day Deal

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of National Sandwich Day:

Join the rewards app/program in advance.

If you aren't already a member of the chain's loyalty program, join before Nov 3: many offers require membership or sign-up date well in advance.

Set a reminder for Nov 3 and surrounding days.

Some deals start on or about Nov 3 and run for a few days, while others end that day. Early morning check helps.

Compare deals between chains.

If two deals both look good in your area, compare which gives the best value (free sandwich vs half price vs $5 special).

Check local store participation & terms.

Call your local store or check the app to confirm “participating location,” “exclusions,” “online only or in-store,” etc.

Calculate the minimum spend.

Some deals require a minimum purchase; for example, Popeyes requires $10 min. Make sure to factor that in to decide if the deal is truly “free” or just “discounted”.

Consider add-ons carefully.

Some deals don't include add-ons or upgrades (premium bread, extra meat, etc.). If you go beyond the base sandwich, you could lose value.

Be flexible with time and the ordering channel.

App orders may have different pricing/fees than walk-in; delivery may add fees. If you want the best value, pick up in-store if feasible.

Plan for crowds.

Popular items may mean more customers. Expect delays, or there may be a limited amount of the item on sale.

Bringing It Home: Host Your Own Sandwich Party

While the chain deals are fun, why not lean into the spirit of the day and make an awesome sandwich at home, too? Here are some ideas to elevate your sandwich-game:

Focus on good bread: a hearty ciabatta, focaccia, or multi-grain loaf can instantly lift your sandwich.

Layer flavors and textures: think roast turkey + cranberry sauce (holiday-style), or slow-roasted pork + pickled onions + peppery arugula. Add a crunch: pickled vegetables, crispy bacon, fried onions, or even SubKrunch-style toppings (see Subway’s “SubKrunch” ingredient) add dimension. Balance the sauces: don't overdo it with only mayo; consider mustard-honey, chipotle aioli, or pesto. Don't forget sides: A good sandwich deserves a companion, like crisps, kettle chips, sweet-potato fries, or a light salad. Elevate your drink: A craft soda, iced tea with a splash of citrus, or even a simple sparkling water can complete the meal. Make it celebratory: Since it's National Sandwich Day, invite a friend over, make it a small "sandwich-bar" with optional toppings, or pair it with your favorite podcast or show while you indulge in it. Why It's More than Just a Deal National Sandwich Day isn't just about cheap food; it's a chance to reflect on how such a simple meal has become a staple in our culture. Sandwiches are compact comfort food: they travel well, they're endlessly customizable, and they can be simple or gourmet. Celebrating it gives us a moment to appreciate this humble meal. Also, from a consumer point of view, deals like these remind us how restaurants are increasingly using digital tools-apps, loyalty programs, and online ordering-to drive traffic, and how we can benefit if we stay plugged in. Final Word If you were thinking of getting lunch on November 3 anyway (or that week), National Sandwich Day offers an extra incentive: savings + a fun reason to indulge. Whether you take advantage of the BOGO at Potbelly, the $5 medium at Schlotzsky's, or treat yourself to your own gourmet sandwich at home, you have options. Just remember: check the fine print, join the loyalty programs ahead of time, and make sure your local location is participating. Then lean in, enjoy the flavors, and raise a sandwich to one of the most underrated food holidays out there. Quick Recap of Top Deals Schlotzsky's: $5 medium sandwich (Rewards members) - Nov 1-3. McAlister's Deli: Buy One Get One 50% Off sandwiches – Nov 3-9. Potbelly: Use code BOGO to get a free sandwich with purchase – Nov 3 only. Subway: Foot-long deal (buy one get another for $1) or membership mapping. Check the code & terms. Popeyes: Free chicken sandwich with $10 purchase via app, through Nov 9 Enjoy your favorite sandwich in all its classic or daring glory, and let the savings be the cherry-or pickle-on top. ????