Well today's review isn't going to be much different thanks to my current obsession: Dave's Cosmic Subs.
This NE Ohio-based sub shop blows Subway, Jersey Giant, and all the other sub chains away.
When I first moved to Cleveland almost 3 years ago (holy crap, hard to believe I've been here that long), I noticed Dave's as it sat on the Detroit Rd. "strip" in Lakewood. It was one of those places that I asked friends about, some swore by it, others said it was bland.
So, given that I'm not a huge sub person anyway, I decided to spend that $5 elsewhere.
And then came the day I was introduced to Dave's. My boyfriend and I were out in Mentor, heading to Pennsylvania to skydive, and decided to grab sandwiches on the way out to the dropzone.
At first, I wasn't thrilled with the sub, but in my defense, a friend of mine had passed the night before and my appetite just wasn't up to it's usual standards.
But the customer service experience was good, so I was willing to go back when the boy recommended it a couple weeks later.
To my surprise, I fell in LOVE with these subs!
As a vegetarian, I have multiple menu options to choose from, all of which include the incredible and addicting Dave's sauce. Mmmm...I can't even explain how yummy it is!
The bread is always fresh and they're totally cool with swapping out wheat bread upon request.
All that combined with the fresh veggies and cool, laid back atmosphere, it makes for a great dining experience.
As a west sider, I'm still very partial to the Dave's in Mentor where I've come to know one of the owners, Anthony, and his crew. He always remembers what the bf and I are going to get when we come in - even my substitution with no artichoke hearts on the #12.
(Some of the guys from the Mentor Store. Photo from Facebook Fan Page.)
It's this type of neighborhood feel that keeps me coming back to Dave's in Mentor.
Occasionally I'll hit up the Lakewood location out of convenience to my place - and to get my fix when I'm not on the bf's side of town - but it's not nearly as chill, friendly and laid back as the Mentor location that I have come to love.
Here's an overview:
Price: $$ (Right on par with other sub shops)
Menu Selection: **** (even for a vegetarian there are plenty of options)
Taste: ***** (not a single complain on the freshness and taste)
Service: **** (especially at the Mentor store)
Atmosphere: **** (chill!!)
If you're in the NE Ohio area, I can't recommend Dave's enough. It's quick, it's fresh, and it's freaking delicious.
In fact, I might just be getting some tonight.
Cheers!
-A
