Business Profile: Wally’s Subs

Wally’s Subs

By Richard Martinovich

The submarine sandwich is believed to have originated in the Italian-American community in the early 20th century. Some claim it was Italian immigrant Dominic Conti who named his elongated sandwich a “submarine” after seeing a real submarine vessel in a museum! Submarine sandwiches were quickly adopted by the public and sub sandwich franchises began popping up around the US. The neighborhood sandwich shop still thrived by offering their own version of the traditional sub sandwich. Find a locally-owned shop that makes sub sandwiches and it is usually a real treat. In Kalamazoo, that is Wally’s Subs. Wally’s Subs started in 1983 in a small brick building on the corner of Stadium Drive and 9th Street in Oshtemo. I can easily devour a foot-long sub sandwich, so I was pleasantly surprised when I ordered a 7-inch sub at Wally’s packed with enough meat to fi ll me up! The bread was airy, light and perfect for a sub sandwich. The meat is sliced by a staffer when you order, not pre-cut. Only high quality meats are used, and you can taste the difference. Wally’s Subs has established a local clientele over the years who stop in on a regular basis. Eat inside and enjoy the same 1980’s decor that gives Wally’s the atmosphere of an authentic down-home sandwich shop! The selection of sandwiches at Wally’s Subs is almost endless! There are one-meat, two-meat, threemeat subs and specialty sandwiches like a Reuben and Gyro; more than 60 choices on the menu! There are also daily specials. A trip to Wally’s Subs will take you back to when you fi rst discovered a greattasting sub sandwich, and will keep you coming back!

Stadium Drive & 9th Street, Oshtemo • 269-375-0994