As a kid, I used to love eating at Potbelly Sandwich Works. I still do! The live music, tiled booths, and good food...what’s not to love? When I was eight years old, I wasn’t thinking about the nutritional value of my meals, nor should I have been.
But looking back at it now, I probably wouldn’t regularly order what I used to as a kid: an Italian sub with salami, mortadella, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, oil and Italian seasoning, topped off with a mocha milkshake. If I was lucky, I’d get chips on the side too.
While Potbelly makes some seriously delicious sandwiches and dishes, they can be quite unhealthy if you don’t pay attention. But, have no fear. Potbelly makes it super easy to eat healthy and still have a darn good meal. Here are my suggestions.
Nutrition Calculator
If you go on the Potbelly website, you can use their nutrition calculator. You can see the exact nutritional value for all of their items and compare. It’s actually kinda fun! Potbelly also posts caloric values on their menu boards in the stores.
Sandwiches
While I still dream of my Italian every now and then, I’ve moved on to bigger and better things. Well, smaller, actually! Potbelly offers skinny sandwiches, which have less meat and cheese on their thin-cut bread, all under 400 calories. The thin-cut bread is 1/3 less bread than the original, so you could also get any sandwich on that. Also, go for the multigrain bread over the white bread.
My favorite skinny is the T-K-Y: turkey breast with swiss cheese. Add a few toppings and you’re good to go.
Salads
If you’re in the mood for a salad, props to you. All of the salads are solid options, mostly made with grilled chicken for your protein. Stick to the vinaigrette dressings to lighten it up. They even have a non-fat vinaigrette. Thanks, Potbelly!
Soups
Potbelly soups are underrated. They have so many delicious options. I like their chili the best. It’s hearty, full of protein, and tasty, of course. Another great thing about their soups is the sizing. You can get a regular bowl, cup, or a skinny pair side. Options on options on options.
Shakes
Well, folks. Unfortunately, there isn’t a magical alternative to one of Potbelly’s magical shakes. It wouldn’t be as good if there was an alternative. My thoughts? Share a shake with a friend instead of having a whole one.
Chips
It’s hard to walk by the chip shelf and say no. They are indeed the perfect pairing to a sandwich. The good news is that Potbelly’s carries Baked Lays, which are significantly lower in fats and calories than other chips. Right on.
Well, there you have it. There are ways to eat right at Potbelly. That’s not to say you should never get that Italian or those sea salt and vinegar chips. It’s all about moderation. So eat well, but enjoy yourself!