Penn Station – East Coast Subs

Penn Station East Coast Subs is an independent fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in grilled-to-order hot subs, classic cold sandwiches, fresh-cut fries, and hand-squeezed lemonade. The company was founded in 1985 by Jeff Osterfeld, who opened the first location in Cincinnati after being inspired by the sub shops he visited in Philadelphia. This single store quickly gained a following, and over the years, Penn Station grew from a local favorite into a recognized national brand.

A key milestone in the company’s history was its transition from a regional operator to a national franchise system, which began in earnest in the decades following its founding. As of November 2025, Penn Station operates more than 320 locations across the United States, with its strongest presence in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. In the past five years, the brand has accelerated its expansion, entering new markets such as North Carolina, South Carolina, and Michigan. This recent growth has been driven by a focus on attracting both new franchisees and experienced multi-unit operators.

Penn Station’s menu centers on its signature grilled subs, including the Philly Cheesesteak and Classic Italian, complemented by fresh-cut fries and lemonade prepared in-house each day. The company’s reputation for quality ingredients and made-to-order food has helped it build a loyal customer base and earn multiple industry awards.

The brand continues to pursue new opportunities in both suburban and urban settings, particularly in shopping centers and near major commuter routes, to maximize visibility and convenience. With a flexible approach to store formats and an active growth strategy, Penn Station has established itself as a credible and stable tenant for a variety of retail environments. Its established operational model and ongoing expansion offer strong potential for landlords, brokers, and developers seeking proven foodservice anchors in both established and emerging markets.