Sobik’s Subs

Sobik’s Subs began in 1969, when John Sobik opened the first shop in Orlando. The brand quickly became a local favorite, known for its made-to-order submarine sandwiches and a focus on fresh ingredients. Through the 1970s and 1980s, Sobik’s expanded across Central Florida, at one point operating more than 30 locations and becoming a familiar name in the region’s quick-service dining scene.

By the late 1990s, Sobik’s introduced franchising, which helped the brand grow its footprint and recognition throughout the Orlando area and surrounding counties. However, as larger national sandwich chains entered the market in the 2000s, competition intensified. In 2004, Sobik’s Subs was acquired by Franchise Brands, LLC, a move intended to support the brand’s continued growth. Despite these efforts, the number of locations gradually declined, with many stores closing or rebranding over the following decade.

As of November 2025, Sobik’s Subs operates a single location at 5,648 E Colonial Dr in Orlando. The company is not pursuing new store development or franchise expansion, and there are no active corporate operations. The remaining shop continues to serve longtime customers with the original menu and recipes, reflecting the brand’s legacy in the community.

Sobik’s Subs stands as a long-running independent operator with deep local roots and a history of adapting to changing market conditions. Its story illustrates the evolution of a regional quick-service concept, the impact of industry consolidation, and the realities faced by legacy brands in a competitive landscape. For those considering retail or restaurant tenancy, Sobik’s represents a legacy format with a loyal following, but no current plans for growth or new market entry.