Launched in 1994 in Jacksonville by two legacied firefighting brothers following in the footsteps of their dad, the brothers broke ground thinking they would own the one Firehouse Subs store. Fast forward 22 years later to 2016 as the boys behind the brand open their 1000th store in Rowland Heights, CA, and you realize the power in keeping it simple and serving consistently good food. When that first store opened back in '94, word about a "great new sub-shop" where they steam the meat and cheese, toast your bun and keep the keep the produce cold spread like a wild-fire. As more and more people stopped in, tried and liked what Firehouse offered, the boys took their message to the airwaves, promoting their unique brand on TV and radio leading to digital advertising and an app to spread the word! Something is working, because you can now find Firehouse subs as far as Canada and in Puerto Rico!
Named "Company of the Year" by KPMG back in 2006, and "National Chain" winner for the National Restaurant Association’s 'Restaurant Neighbor Award', we learned it's that second one they are most proud of! Back in 2005, thanks to the success of their stores, brothers Robin and Chris created the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, Inc., a non-profit providing funds, equipment, and support to local firefighters and public safety organizations. When you visit a Firehouse Subs look for a donation canister and you too can help by donating directly, or tell the cashier you want to 'Round -Up" your order and they will put the difference in the bucket for you!
Not looking to finish off a piled high Hook & Ladder smothered in melted Monterey Jack cheese, a Meatball sub or hearty New York Steamer with corned beef brisket, pastrami, melted provolone, mustard, mayo, and Italian dressing? Want something lighter? Try one of many salads or subs under 500 calories, like my favorite: Smoked turkey, Monterey Jack, cranberry spread, lettuce, tomato, onion, light mayo, on a light wheat roll for only $5.89! The lower calorie subs contain the same amount of meat as that of a medium-sized sandwich, but are made using smaller portions, and come on a roll that is 1/3 smaller than the bread used for medium-sized subs. Salads are made to order with a variety of new ingredients including romaine lettuce, pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, mozzarella cheese, green bell peppers, cucumbers and a new lite Italian dressing.
Hungry yet? If you have not had the pleasure of eating at a Firehouse Subs you will find each restaurant adorned with firehouse photos and collectibles; each store is extremely clean and well organized. You will always be greeted by friendly staff, happy to help you get exactly what you want; And don't just think Lunch - Firehouse does a brisk dinner business too, They are the perfect place to take kids for dinner, you should check out their Loyalty Program!
Less than 40 brands in America have opened more than 1000 stores, it is a huge feat! Stop in to the Firehouse Subs near you and meet the crew! You will quickly see why they are so incredibly popular, why the franchisees LOVE their businesses and why 22 years later, Jacksonville's Firehouse Subs hit a milestone with their 1000th store!
There are currently SIX Firestone Subs in Tampa:
- Near Downtown: 2317 W Kennedy Blvd, on
- Hillsborough at 8428 W Hillsborough Ave,
- University at 2710 E Fowler Ave #3,
- New Tampa at 1824 Bruce B Downs Blvd,
- Carrollwood at 13236 N Dale Mabry Hwy
- South Tampa at 2227 S Dale Mabry Hwy
We visited the South Dale Mabry store for this interview and a tasty lunch! Celebrate with Firehouse this weekend as Firehouse Subs Hits a Milestone with Their 1000th Store!
