Stacking up the subs

If you work in (or near) an Italian neighborhood boasting a good deli-bakery — or there happens to be such a deli close to your office — then you’re set in the sub-for-lunch department. What you will probably get is a long, wonderfully crusty chunk of bread, a stack of meats, tomato slices, a handful of shredded lettuce plus a tangy oil-vinegar mix to play off those rich sausages. Maybe some hot peppers, maybe cheese, usually a sprinkle of Italian herbs.

But if you’re time-crunched (hello, it’s the holidays) and want to grab a “sub,” there are several quick-serve chains stacking them up as fast as you can order them.

We deconstructed a trio to find out what you get for your money — as far as the quantity, quality and nutrition. All three offer online ordering at most locations, which helps if you hate being away from your cubicle for too long.

And remember: If you’re watching your weight, your sodium or whatever, the little things (cheese, dressings, etc.) can add up.

--Judy Hevrdejs, Tribune Newspapers

Sub: Italian BMT on Hearty Italian

What’s inside: 3 slices salami, 2 slices ham, 3 slices pepperoni, 3 slices tomato, 1 slice cheese, lettuce shreds, mayo

Length: 6 inches

Weight: 7 1/2 ounces

Cost: $4 (53 cents per ounce)

Calories: 500

Total fat: 25.4 g

Sodium: 1580 mg

Pros: Fast service

Cons: Really soft bread, too little flavor, counter server said get mayo  (Bill Hogan/Chicago Tribune)

Sub: No. 5 Vito

What’s inside: 4 very thin slices salami, 3 slices capicola, 2 slices provolone, 3 tomato slices, thin white onion slices, lettuce shreds, Italian vinaigrette

Length: 8 1/4 inches

Weight: 10 3/4 ounces

Cost: $5.39 (50 cents per ounce)

Calories: 600.14

Total fat: 28.37 g

Sodium: 1376.82 mg

Pros: Nice tangy dressing

Cons: Add hot peppers, you’ll pay 50 cents extra  (Bill Hogan/Chicago Tribune)