You’ve seen the lines. If you live anywhere near Middlesex County, you know the deal with the little brick building on Plainfield Avenue. It’s been there since 1963. It doesn't look like much from the outside, just a simple storefront with fluorescent lights and a cramped interior, but Tastee Subs Edison New Jersey is basically a local religion at this point.
Honestly, it’s one of those places where time just stopped. You walk in, and it feels like the 70s. The air smells like vinegar, oregano, and freshly sliced deli meats. There are photos of Giants and Jets players on the wall. And then, right there, is the framed bag. The one Barack Obama signed in 2010 when he dropped by to talk about the economy. Think about that. The President of the United States had a choice of anywhere in Jersey, and he ended up in a tiny sub shop in Edison.
The Secret of the Number 5
Most people don't even look at the menu board anymore. They just walk up and say "Give me a Number 5."
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It’s the only sub with an actual name: the Super Sub. It’s a monster. You’ve got pressed ham, boiled ham, cappacola, salami, and prosciuttini. It’s basically a meat-lover's fever dream. If you ask for it with "the works"—and you really should—they load it with shredded lettuce, onions, tomatoes, oil, vinegar, salt, and a heavy-handed dusting of oregano.
The bread is the real hero here though. It’s got that perfect Jersey crust. It's chewy but not so tough that it destroys the roof of your mouth. They get it fresh, and you can tell. When the oil and vinegar soak into the crumb of that roll? That’s the magic.
What’s actually on the menu?
While the Super Sub gets all the glory, the rest of the list is solid.
- The Number 7: This is for when you want to feel slightly less like you need a nap. It’s turkey breast, and they have options like honey roasted or oven roasted.
- The Number 6: Roast beef. It’s sliced thin, juicy, and honestly better than what you’ll find at 90% of the delis in the state.
- The Salad Sub: Weirdly popular. It’s just the veggies and the dressing. No meat. No cheese. It sounds boring, but the way they season the lettuce and onions makes it weirdly addictive.
- The Number 11: Meatball and sweet Italian sausage. It’s messy. Bring extra napkins.
Why Everyone Still Goes There
In a world full of Jersey Mike’s and QuickCheks, Tastee Subs Edison New Jersey feels like an anomaly. It’s owned by David Thornton and Carl Padovano, who have been running the show since 1972. They haven't changed the formula because they didn't need to.
You pay cash, you get a 5% discount. That’s a very "Jersey" move. It’s fast, too. Even when the line is snaking toward the door on a Saturday afternoon, the guys behind the counter move like a well-oiled machine. They slice everything to order. No pre-cut meat sitting in a tub. That makes a difference. You can taste the freshness of the capicola when it's sliced seconds before hitting the bread.
The Obama Visit
People still talk about July 28, 2010. Obama didn't just pop in for a photo op; he sat down with small business owners. He ate. He signed the bag. It cemented the shop's status as a landmark. It’s not just a sub shop; it’s a piece of local history.
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Things to Know Before You Go
If it’s your first time, don't be that person holding up the line.
- Cash is King: Seriously, bring bills. That 5% discount adds up, especially if you're buying a 3-foot sub for a party.
- The Size Factor: A whole sub is 16 inches. A half is 8 inches. Unless you're an offensive lineman, a half is usually plenty for lunch.
- Parking is Tight: The lot isn't exactly a Walmart-sized space. Be prepared to squeeze in or find a spot nearby.
- The "Works": If you don't want onions or vinegar, speak up early. Their default is "everything," and they move fast.
The shop is open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM. That's a lot of sandwiches. Whether it's a late-night craving or a quick lunch, it's always there.
There's something comforting about a place that doesn't try to be "artisanal" or "fusion." It’s just a sub shop. It’s simple. It’s loud. It’s cramped. And it’s arguably the best sandwich you’ll find in the Garden State.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
- Order the Super Sub (#5) with everything if you want the authentic experience.
- Have your cash ready before you reach the front of the line to save 5%.
- Check out the wall of fame while you wait to see the Obama memorabilia and local sports history.
- Grab a side of macaroni or potato salad; they are the unsung heroes of the sides menu.
- Try the whole wheat roll if you're there early enough—they often run out by mid-afternoon.