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oChef » Subway – San Diego
Subway - San Diego
Photo from Subway
Subway at a glance
San Diego Otay Mesa
- 🥪 Sandwich Shop
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 6 of the guests
#678 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#30 Sandwich Shop out of 39 in San Diego
Average
5.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
55
Reviews
49.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Fresh ingredients
- Fast service
Frequently criticized
- Poor attitude
- Hygiene issues
The sandwich shop Subway in San Diego’s Otay Mesa neighborhood is your go-to spot for a quick and satisfying meal. You’ll find a casual atmosphere perfect for grabbing a healthy option or a quick bite.
Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this location offers a convenient and fresh experience.
Overview: Introducting Subway
Subway offers a quick meal option, often praised for its fresh products and the variety of healthier choices available. Many appreciate the speed and organization of the service, making it a convenient stop for those on the go.
However, experiences can vary, with some customers encountering issues like poor staff attitude or concerns about overall hygiene. There have also been reports of inconsistent food preparation, which can detract from the meal.
Average
5.1
out of 10
55
Reviews
49.1%
Satisfaction
27
negative
1
neutral
27
positive
Subway generally lands in the average range, with a Restaurant Score of 5.1 out of 10 and Customer Satisfaction at 49.1%, indicating a mixed reception. This feedback comes from 55 customer observations, split evenly with 27 positive and 27 negative remarks.
Looking closer at specific areas, Food scores an average (5.8), often highlighted for its fresh ingredients and variety. Ambience also sits in the average category (5.1), though cleanliness can be a point of contention.
Service is rated average (4.5), with efficiency often praised but staff demeanor sometimes criticized. Finally, Value is perceived as average (3.8), with some finding prices a bit high despite accessible options.
What people like
- Fresh, healthy options
- Efficient, fast service
- Accessible pricing
What people don't like
- Poor staff attitude
- Hygiene concerns
- Inconsistent food quality
If you’re seeking a quick, customizable meal with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, Subway can be a convenient choice. The efficient service often ensures you’re in and out quickly, making it suitable for a fast lunch or dinner.
However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service attitude and food preparation, and keep an eye out for cleanliness issues. With a Recommendation Score of 5.2, it’s a place that serves its purpose for many, but it might not consistently exceed expectations.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Subway
Food (5.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 60% of the guests
It seems like the food here is a bit of a mixed bag, with a 5.8 score putting it squarely in the average category, and customer satisfaction sitting at a 56.5% mixed rating based on 23 customer opinions. On the upside, 13 positive comments highlight the quality vegetables, fresh products, and great vegetarian options, with the broccoli soup often singled out as a favorite and a healthier choice. However, 9 negative comments reveal some definite areas for improvement.
Diners have encountered issues with meat quality, describing it as frozen or discolored, alongside complaints about small portions and preparation mishaps like burnt bread or incorrect orders.
Food
23
Reviews
56%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Quality, fresh vegetables
- Great vegetarian options
- Good variety offered
What people don't like
- Poor meat quality
- Small portion sizes
- Preparation errors
Often praised
- breadI liked the bread, the vegetables, and the fresh products they use. My favorite is the broccoli soup.
- broccoli soupthe broccoli soup my favorite
- fast foodIn particular, one of the best places for fast food. I go very often.
- foodfood was good
- fresh productsthe fresh products that they use
- good varietyHas good variety
- healthier optionIf you're looking for a healthier option for a meal, this place could be a quick choice! It offers a good variety and the establishment is very clean.
- healthiest foodAs a local resident says: This is the healthiest food in the country. Perhaps the only chain that offers quality and quantity of vegetables.
- quality vegetablesAs a local resident says: This is the healthiest food in the country. Perhaps the only chain that offers quality and quantity of vegetables. They were also pioneers in vegetarian fillings, although fortunately, vegetarian options can now also be found at Burger King and McDonald's, at least in California.
- quantity vegetablesAs a local resident says: This is the healthiest food in the country. Perhaps the only chain that offers quality and quantity of vegetables. They were also pioneers in vegetarian fillings, although fortunately, vegetarian options can now also be found at Burger King and McDonald's, at least in California.
Frequently criticized
- breadshe burned the bread on the other pannini
- burnt paperdidn't even bother to remove the burnt paper from the bread
- grey discolored stinky meatGrey discolored stinky meat to people
- mayoasked her for no mayo on one of the panninis and she still put mayo on it
- meatthe meat that I received was a bit frozen
- ovenMy son looked upset, and I immediately sensed something was wrong. He told me the oven wasn't working, so his sandwich wouldn't be toasted. Then, we both noticed several green flies flying around and landing on the meats and vegetables in both display cases.
- portionssmall portions
- sandwichmy sandwich was rotten
- turkey slicesnot enough turkey slices
If you're seeking a quick, healthier option with good vegetarian choices and fresh produce, this spot might be worth a try. However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies in meat quality and portion sizes, and double-check your order for accuracy.
Service (4.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 73% of the guests
Alright, let's talk service! This spot gets an average score of 4.5 with a mixed customer satisfaction of 42.9%, making it a bit of a mixed bag. On the bright side, 9 positive comments highlight great attention and speed from the staff, often praising fast service and accurate orders.
When things go well, the team is well organized and provides a quick choice experience. However, 12 negative comments reveal a different story. Some customers faced pésima attitude from the staff, leading to poor customer service and even reports of yelling.
Concerns also arose about hygiene, like a sandwich artist not wearing gloves, and frustrating instances where the place closed early.
Service
21
Reviews
42%
Satisfaction
12
negative
0
neutral
9
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fast service
- Accurate orders
- Organized staff
What people don't like
- Poor staff attitude
- Hygiene concerns
- Closed early
Often praised
- attentionthe attention is good
- speedla rapides con la que preparan los alimentos
- accurate ordergot mi order right
- fast serviceMy experience at this restaurant was defined by fast service and an accurate order. That's all I can ask for at this place!
- organizationMy experience at the Otay location was very positive. The place is super organized and fast. There was a young lady named Avigail who provided very friendly and quick service.
- quick choiceIf you're looking for a healthier option for a meal, this place could be a quick choice! It offers a good variety and the establishment is very clean.
- staffall the staff well organized
Frequently criticized
- attitudebut with a pésima attitude and with a pésimo service
- Start to finishwasted 20mins from Start to finish
- closed earlyThey closed 30 mins early
- customer servicebut with a pésima attitude and with a pésimo service al cliente
- customer service experiencecontrataron a cualquiera sin experiencia con servicio al cliente
- glovesdidn't even put on gloves until I asked her to
- ownerold lady apparently the OWNER tell me
- sandwich artistThe sandwich artist did not bother to wash her hands
- staffthese 2 ladies saw me and ignored me
- staff attitudeActitud del personal pésimo
If you catch them on a good day, you'll likely get quick and accurate service. But be prepared for the possibility of encountering staff with less-than-stellar attitudes or even hygiene issues, which could definitely sour your experience.
Ambience (5.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 40% of the guests
The overall vibe gets some love for its clean environment and place cleanliness, with many appreciating that everyone speaks Spanish in the area. While the score is an average 5.1 and customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 57.1%, the 4 positive observations out of 7 total remarks highlight these welcoming aspects. However, there are some areas needing attention, particularly concerning hygiene and restroom access.
Some visitors noted issues with green flies flying around and landing on meats, which is definitely a concern. The policy of restrooms being only for Clients also drew some criticism, as highlighted by 3 negative observations.
Ambience
7
Reviews
57%
Satisfaction
3
negative
0
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Clean environment
- Spanish spoken here
What people don't like
- Green flies present
- Limited restroom access
Often praised
- cleanit's usually clean
- everyone speaks SpanishAccessible prices, for the country. And in this area, everyone speaks Spanish.
- place cleanlinessclean the place
- very cleanvery clean the place
Frequently criticized
- green fliesseveral green flies flying around and landing on the meats
- hygieneprioritize hygiene, as flies are a significant source of contamination
- restroom accessrestrooms where only for Clients
If youre looking for a clean spot where Spanish is spoken, youll likely feel at home. However, be aware that hygiene, especially regarding flies and restroom access, could be a drawback. It's a mixed bag, so weigh your priorities before heading over.
Value (3.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
While the overall value score sits at a 3.8, indicating it leans towards poor, theres a silver lining! Based on 4 customer remarks, one guest found the prices quite accessible, especially when considering the local area. It seems some feel you get a decent deal for the country.
However, the majority of feedback, with 3 negative comments, points to some issues. Customers felt overcharged, with one specific incident involving a rejected buy one get one' coupon despite prior assurances. Others simply found it pricey, contributing to a low customer satisfaction of just 25%.
Value
4
Reviews
25%
Satisfaction
3
negative
0
neutral
1
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Accessible prices
What people don't like
- Feeling overcharged
- Coupon issues
- Can be pricey
Often praised
- Accessible pricesThey were also pioneers in vegetarian fillings, although fortunately, vegetarian options can now also be found at Burger King and McDonald's, at least in California. Accessible prices, for the country. And in this area, everyone speaks Spanish.
Frequently criticized
- couponnot accepting a buy one get one coupon, even though she said that they accepted those coupons
- overchargedshe overcharged me by not accepting a buy one get one coupon
- priceyit was pricey
If you're looking for truly budget-friendly options, this might not be your best bet, especially given the low customer satisfaction. While some prices are accessible, be wary of potential issues with coupons or feeling overcharged, as many have experienced.
How are the prices at Subway?
You’re looking at roughly 32 per person – reported by 6 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Sandwich Shop, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 32, the individual prices reported are quite spread out, ranging from budget-friendly options to a more premium experience. While the data is limited, it gives us a good indication of the spending landscape.
This chart shows what people usually spend per person, based on the 6 most recent reviews. While the data is limited, it gives a good indication of the spending patterns.
Heres how this Sandwich Shops value stacks up against similar spots in San Diego.
Overall, we think the pricing feels fair for a Sandwich Shop, especially considering the range of options available. It seems like there’s something for different budgets here, which is always a plus!
Customer Reviews: what people think about Subway
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
6
Good Food, Small Portions, Pricey
My experience at the restaurant was mixed. The food was good, earning a 5/5 rating. However, the portions were small, and there weren't enough turkey slices.
The meal was also quite pricey. The service received a 4/5, and the atmosphere was also rated a 4/5.
- food10
- portions2
- turkey slices3
- pricey3
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
1
Ignored by staff, closed early
My experience at the restaurant was disappointing. They closed 30 minutes early, and despite seeing me and four other families, the two ladies working there ignored us. This happened on Monday, July 22, 2024, during dinner.
- staff1
- closed early1
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
1
Terrible Service, Avoid This Place
My experience at this restaurant was awful due to the terrible staff attitude. I don't understand why they aren't trained properly and hire anyone without customer service experience. The women working here are a disgrace to those who are respectable.
I advise you not to go to this place; you'll be left with a bad taste in your mouth from an attitude that kills your appetite.
- staff attitude1
- customer service experience1
- attitude1
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Takeout
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
1
Rotten Sandwich and Wasted Time
My experience was a complete waste of time, taking 20 minutes from start to finish. The sandwich I received was rotten. I was shocked that they would serve grey, discolored, stinky meat to customers.
It was truly nasty. 🤬
- sandwich1
- grey discolored stinky meat1
- Start to finish2
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
1
Terrible Service and Hygiene Issues
I visited this Subway on October 4th, 2021, around noon with my son, shortly after crossing from Tijuana to San Diego via the Otay border crossing. This used to be one of our favorite spots, but after this experience, we will never return, even if paid. While I went to the restroom, I asked my son to order his food.
He ordered a footlong teriyaki chicken. When I returned, the employee had only placed the chicken on the bread. My son looked upset, and I immediately sensed something was wrong.
He told me the oven wasn't working, so his sandwich wouldn't be toasted. Then, we both noticed several green flies flying around and landing on the meats and vegetables in both display cases. My son stated he wouldn't eat the food because of the flies and didn't want to get sick.
The employee watched us intently, waiting for my son to finish his order with toppings. I suggested to my son that we go eat elsewhere, and he agreed. When my son asked the employee to cancel the order, she started yelling and insulting us as we walked towards the exit, in front of other customers.
Among other insults, she called us "MENDIGOS VIEJOS BABOSOS! " (roughly translated to "Stupid drooling old men! ").
We were stunned and left feeling very humiliated. I want to clarify that we never disrespected her or used any foul language. I hope this feedback reaches the management so they can review the cameras and fire this vulgar and rude employee, who will eventually drive away all customers over minor issues.
I also hope they improve their hiring process, repair their equipment (the oven), and prioritize hygiene, as flies are a significant source of contamination.
- attitude1
- customer service1
- green flies1
What Subway offers
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Coffee
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Catering
- Breakfast
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Parking
- Free parking lot
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Subway in Otay Mesa?
At Subway in Otay Mesa, you can enjoy a casual dining experience with counter service. You’ll find comfortable seating available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a great spot for a quick bite. They also offer delivery and outdoor seating options.
Does this San Diego Subway location offer healthy or vegetarian options?
Yes, this Subway in San Diego provides a variety of healthy options and vegetarian choices to suit your preferences. It’s an ideal spot if you’re looking for a quick and fresh meal that caters to specific dietary needs.
What are the main strengths of Subway's food offerings?
Customers often appreciate Subway for its fresh products, good variety, and the availability of healthier options, including quality vegetables.
Are there any common issues with service at Subway?
While service is frequently noted for its speed and organization, some customers have reported negative staff attitudes and issues with order accuracy or hygiene practices like glove use.
How does Subway generally score with customers?
Subway receives an overall Restaurant Score of 5.1, indicating an average experience. Food scores 5.8, Ambience 5.1, Service 4.5, and Value 3.8, suggesting a mixed bag across different aspects.