Nothing beats a hot summer beach day with a side of your favorite deli sandwich – especially if that sandwich is done “Mike’s way.” The sandwich chain Jersey Mike’s is known for its fully customizable made-to-order sandwiches that range from 5 inches to 15 inches and can famously be topped off if you say the code term “Mike’s way” when ordering. Recently, customers have taken to TikTok to explore the socially acceptable ways to ask for their sandwiches “Mike’s way.”
What is “Mike’s way”?
When you order a sandwich Mike’s way, it will be topped with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, a signature blend of oil and red wine vinegar, and spices. This combination of fresh toppings and zesty flavors created the perfect balance of crunch, tang, and savory goodness with just a simple phrase. This saying is more than just a shortcut to a better sandwich. It plays into the playful and supportive culture that Jersey Mike’s prides itself in and customers are taking it to the next level by seeing just how many ways they can say “Mike’s way.”
How do you ask for a sandwich Mike’s way?
The trend isn’t just about what ends up on your sandwich, it is about how you ask for it. The popular approach appears to be letting this hypothetical Mike — a nod to the original founder who opened his first deli on the Jersey Shore in 1956 – take creative liberty over the sandwich. The saying, “Tell Mike to do his thing” has been repeated time and time again since this trend has come to fruition.
People have been getting hilariously creative with their word play. One TikTok user said, “Can I get that in Mike’s modus operandi?” while another shared, “I’m gonna relinquish full custody of the sub to Michael.” There are even some other options that are NSFW such as “Can you let Mike have his way with my sub?” and “Can you let Mike have some alone time with my sub?” From invoking Mike as a sandwich deity to bestowing legal guardianship of their sub, customers are taking it upon themselves to personalize their orders to themselves.
What started as a simple way to enhance your sandwich has now become a cultural phenomenon. The “Mike’s way” trend ties together the joy of food and the humor of consumers. Whether you’re a first-time customer or a Jersey Mike’s veteran, take this opportunity to make your order your own and let Mike – whoever he may be – do his thing. Next time you’re at the counter, don’t just ask for your sub Mike’s way. Say it with flair, say it with creativity, and let the spirit of Jersey Mike’s move you because it is truly one of a kind.