The 5 Essential Subs At New York City Sub Shop Jackson Hole: An Epic Wyoming Institution Since 1985
For over three decades, the New York City Sub Shop in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, has been a culinary anomaly, serving up authentic, East Coast-style submarine sandwiches in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. This iconic establishment, founded in 1985, is far more than just a sandwich shop; it’s a slice of Manhattan hustle transplanted to the high-altitude, rugged landscape of Teton County, offering a vital, no-nonsense refueling station for locals, skiers, and Grand Teton National Park visitors alike. As of late 2024, the shop is still thriving, a testament to its enduring quality and unique appeal, proving that a great sub can truly transcend geographical boundaries.
The shop’s longevity and loyal following are rooted in its commitment to quality ingredients, generous portions, and a menu that pays homage to the Big Apple, all while operating from a humble location that began as a tiny 110-square-foot space. This deep dive explores the history, the man behind the brand, and the must-try subs that have cemented the New York City Sub Shop as a true Wyoming institution.
The Unexpected Origin Story: Bruce Tlougan and the 1985 Founding
The story of how a New York-style deli became a staple in the mountain town of Jackson, Wyoming, is intrinsically linked to its founder, Bruce Tlougan. Tlougan established the original New York City Sub Shop in 1985, a period when the culinary landscape of Jackson Hole was vastly different from today's vibrant scene.
- Founder & President: Bruce Tlougan
- Original Founding Year: 1985
- Original Location: Glenwood Street, Jackson Hole, WY
- Initial Size: A remarkably small 110 square feet
- Current Jackson Hole Address: 20N Jackson St, Jackson, WY 83001
- Business Status: Active and thriving, celebrating over 30 years of business in the region.
- Sister Locations: Hood River, Oregon; Bend, Oregon; Redmond, Oregon.
- Mobile Unit: A dedicated food truck affectionately named "Betsy."
Tlougan’s vision was to bring the authentic, piled-high, and flavor-intensive submarine sandwich experience, often associated with East Coast delis, to the Rocky Mountain West. Starting in that minuscule space, the shop quickly gained a reputation among skiers, hikers, and the local community for its hearty, satisfying meals—a perfect antidote to a long day on the slopes of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort or exploring the Grand Teton wilderness. The concept of an NYC-style deli in Wyoming was a hit, offering a unique contrast to the traditional Western fare of the region.
The shop’s success led to its expansion, not only within Jackson but also across the Pacific Northwest, with multiple locations now operating in Oregon. This growth is a clear indicator of the brand's powerful, quality-driven appeal, all stemming from that original, tiny shop in Teton County.
The Iconic Menu: A Culinary Tour of New York City
What truly sets the New York City Sub Shop apart and provides its deep topical authority is the menu, which uses the geography of Manhattan and its boroughs to name its signature subs. This clever nomenclature transforms a simple ordering process into a mini-tour of New York City, appealing directly to the customer's curiosity and sense of adventure.
The menu is built around the fundamental choice of a cold sub or a hot sub, often prepared Hot off-the-grill for an extra layer of flavor and texture. These aren't just names; they represent specific, beloved combinations that have been perfected over decades. The shop's commitment to using high-quality meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables ensures that every sub lives up to the expectations set by its iconic namesake.
The 5 Must-Try NYC Sub Shop Sandwiches
To truly experience the essence of this Wyoming landmark, customers must navigate the menu's star attractions. These five subs are consistently cited in Jackson Hole reviews as the essentials, perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner.
- The Bronx (The Local Favorite): Often highlighted in reviews, the Bronx is a classic combination, typically featuring turkey and cheese, available either cold or hot. It’s a solid, reliable choice that embodies the everyday, working-class spirit of its namesake borough.
- The Cheese Steak (The Hot-Off-The-Grill Star): While a nod to Philadelphia, the Cheese Steak at NYC Sub Shop is a local legend. It’s a hot-off-the-grill masterpiece, featuring thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and often a choice of peppers and onions, offering a rich, savory, and filling experience that rivals any East Coast version.
- The Manhattan: Named after the central borough, this sub often represents a classic, comprehensive offering, likely featuring a variety of premium deli meats like ham, salami, or roast beef, reflecting the diverse and packed nature of the island. It’s the quintessential New York City sub.
- The Broadway: Reflecting the famous theater district, the Broadway sub is often a showstopper—a large, complex sandwich that might feature multiple meats and toppings, designed to satisfy the biggest appetite after a long day of skiing or hiking in the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
- The Brooklyn: Known for its robust and hearty character, the Brooklyn sub typically features a dense, flavorful combination, perhaps a meatball sub or a classic Italian cold cut, emphasizing bold, traditional flavors that resonate with the borough's strong culinary identity.
Other notable menu items that reinforce the thematic depth include the Fifth Avenue and the Park Avenue, suggesting premium or specialized ingredient combinations that cater to a slightly more refined palate, while the Plain Steak offers a simpler, yet equally satisfying, grilled option.
More Than Just Sandwiches: The NYC Sub Shop Experience
The enduring success of the New York City Sub Shop in Jackson Hole goes beyond the ingredients. It’s about the unique atmosphere and the efficient, friendly service that makes it a true hidden gem in Wyoming's culinary landscape.
A Taste of the East in the West
The shop’s location in downtown Jackson, often described as a welcoming, whimsical spot, provides a stark contrast to the rugged Western aesthetic of its surroundings. It’s a place where you can call your order ahead of time—a classic deli move—and pick up a massive, custom-made sub, perfect for taking on an adventure into the Wyoming wilderness. The focus on To Go orders caters perfectly to the active, on-the-move lifestyle of the Jackson Hole community.
The shop has become a local landmark, frequently mentioned among the best sandwich shops in Jackson Hole, competing successfully against other popular spots like Creekside Market and Sweet Cheeks Meats. Its reputation is built on consistency and a singular focus: delivering a high-quality, authentic sub sandwich experience.
The Extended Family: Oregon and 'Betsy'
Bruce Tlougan’s brand has successfully replicated its unique formula in the Pacific Northwest. The Oregon locations in Hood River, Bend, and Redmond carry the same menu and commitment to quality, demonstrating the universal appeal of a well-crafted sub.
Furthermore, the introduction of the mobile food truck, "Betsy," allows the New York City Sub Shop to bring its famous submarine sandwiches to events, festivals, and other areas, expanding its reach and catering to a broader audience across its service regions. This mobile unit is a testament to the brand's adaptability and continued growth in the competitive food service industry.
Whether you're a local looking for a familiar favorite or a tourist seeking a hearty meal before a day of exploring Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton, the New York City Sub Shop remains a mandatory stop. Its history, tied to a tiny 1985 storefront, and its current status as a multi-state operation, solidify its place as one of the most successful and beloved deli concepts to ever emerge from the mountains of Wyoming. The next time you are in Jackson Hole, grab a Bronx or a Cheesesteak and taste a piece of history.
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