The Sub Station

4.3 (449 reviews)

ModerateSandwiches, Caterers, Salad

Updated 1 month ago

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Canary H.

The nostalgia is something that fuels this place for a lot of individuals. Located across UCR campus, the Sub Station was a pinnacle sandwich shop for students and those who reside in Riverside. I wasn't a UCR alumni, but my fiancé was; he wanted to visit the Sub Station one last time before it closes down this summer. We came on a Saturday afternoon and it was very busy. The parking was only difficult because of the random students going in and out of the lot. Luckily, we found a parking spot right in the front and were able to enter the shop. The shop was full of customers awaiting for their food. We then realized that they were pushing more orders than being able to fulfill them. We ere expecting quite a wait for our food, and it was worth the trip since we were here for a last hurrah. We ordered their Big Dude sandwich which came with a few meats and their special lettuce with dressing in the sub. We waited probably 20 minutes for our food. We also had their macaroni salad and their chocolate chip cookie. Their sub was subpar, pun intended... I only say that because my fiancé all agreed that the memory of eating it as a student was engraved into his mind, but when he ate it, he was also unimpressed. The bread is tough but the whole sandwich itself was okay. Their macaroni salad was also just okay and their cookie was very soft. Again, for memory's sake, we made a pitstop. Overall, it was okay. 50 years is definitely a long time as a shop! Best wishes.

Elizabeth T.

Sad this place is closing. Been coming here for decades. The sandwiches are good, made with fresh ingredients. The owner is always there working hard and keeping the place vibrant. The staff is always friendly and you can tell they happy to work there. The inside looks like you're stepping into a college sandwich shop. It's always kept clean. Substation will be missed.

Yohonna B.

I'm so sad to see this place go . I had always wanted to check out the sub station and heard great things about it . I heard this place was closing so I wanted to go and check it out. I came around 11 and there was already a ton of people and it seemed to be students and locals alike . You stand in line to order but the line moves fairly quickly . I decided on the lunch special they had which was the turkey sandwich and it came with chips and a drink . The sandwich comes with meat cheese lettuce tomato pickles and you have to put the mayo and mustard on yourself . The order came out pretty quickly . Overall I really enjoyed the sandwich I thought it had good flavor and the bread was super soft .

Rhiannon H.

I love the Sub Station!!! So sad they are closing their doors this summer. I've used them for catering (3 large platters) & they're my go-to for a quick, yummy sandwich. My favorite is their turkey salami. Their ingredients are always fresh and delicious. I love the carrots & pepperoni peppers that come with your sandwich. Service is friendly. I hope they re-open in a new location.

Jacob C.

The subs are good and people are typically happy with their order. The interior was pretty packed on a weekday afternoon. There's outdoor seating, unfortunately they're closing for-everrr in June. :******[

Gabriela S.

Stopped by on a way to Arizona. Fresh bread, good amount of meat, could use more veggies but the sauce was overpowering... vinegar pouring out after each bite. The young staff could use better friend attitude and brush up on customer service. Overall, good spot for fresh deli sandwich!

Kristie T.

I came here to try sub station before it closes forever. unfortunately, it was not very good. I can tell the meat, cheese, and toppings are good quality but the bread really ruined it for me. It was dry and dense and almost stale. Also, they cut it so that one half was a lot thicker than the other. I ended up eating the sandwich open faced and throwing out the bottom bun because it was so thick and dry. The service was fine, I didn't wait as long as other reviews on here said they did but maybe it's because I came in the morning.

Monica C.

Ordered Sub Station on DD, for the first time, and it was delicious. I ordered a turkey sandwich, and I appreciated the size as well as the amount of meat and cheese. I also enjoyed how thinly the turkey and cheese were sliced. The only thing I would ask for is any vinegar/oil to be on the side as it makes the bread soggy, especially if you don't eat it all at once. Otherwise, a really solid and tasty sandwich!

Craig G.

Ordered the big dude to go by phone and it was ready when I got there. Although the sub was as good as always, fresh soft bread, fresh sliced meats, shredded lettuce and tangy dressing. The best part are the pickled carrots and yellow chilies. At just about $20 it's not an every day treat but I hope it is around for 50 more years!

Chad T.

This sandwich spot is a great place for college students to hang out and do studies outside. This food would score higher on my review but if they only offered different types of bread and put more oils/ vinegar/ mayonnaise on the subs/ sandwiches. My daughter and my sandwiches were very dry and had to ask for condiments and only pre packaged were available. This establishment has cornered the market at UCR being across from the college and within walking distance of most college housing.

Jeremy C.

First time going here and didn't know this place was here. The place is great, owner is great and will talk to you, workers there are great as well and are all very helpful. I had the hot pastrami sandwich a which was good and the bread was soft and crispy at the same time. There is indoor and outdoor seating. If you need to use the bathroom it is in the back and someone there needs to let you in. There is a lot to look at inside the place and there are some cool shirts. I might need to pick up the Endless Summer one. If you are around the area, stop by.

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Shal J.

Elite 26

0

158

790

20 days ago

Encore Opening June 22-23rd! 1972-2026 Substation Farewell Food- this place fed me post breakups, midterms, etc. Always ordered the same sub with a side of potato salad. On June 20th, 2026, Substation has closed its doors after a fantastic run! Service- owner was always so personable and remembered a face! The staff was united because he build a community and special outings for employees. The memories were always posted on the wall. Ambiance- the owner and family made the seating and tables I recall. Very simple with patio seating available. Amazing job! You will be sorely missed. read more

The Sub Station - Sandwiches galore - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Made with love - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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The Sub Station - 12. Club Sub - Turkey, Ham and Cheese Sub - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - 50th Anniversary! - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Owner - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Jeremy S.

Elite 26

154

265

340

26 days ago

Sad to hear this spot was going and had to go back one last time! Got the big dude on this occasion which is one of my go to's. Subs are always fresh and packed with toppings here. I hope they find another location on campus or in Riverside to continue! read more

The Sub Station - The Big Dude - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Kayden L.

Elite 26

19

62

114

3 months ago

Came back because I heard this UCR gem was closing and had to go back to reminisce some memories and even brought my fiancé with me to try it out. Upon returning, it was very busy with both the inside and outside seating filled up around the afternoon on Saturday. It's been so long I don't know why sandwiches I used to get. This time decided to get the big dude. It took about 10-15 min to get our food. Needless to say, I think subs definitely tasted better back in the day or my taste in sandwiches has changed. It had its run and loved the memories here. read more

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Canary H.

Elite 26 All-Star

1143

429

1128

3 months ago

The nostalgia is something that fuels this place for a lot of individuals. Located across UCR campus, the Sub Station was a pinnacle sandwich shop for students and those who reside in Riverside. I wasn't a UCR alumni, but my fiancé was; he wanted to visit the Sub Station one last time before it closes down this summer. We came on a Saturday afternoon and it was very busy. The parking was only difficult because of the random students going in and out of the lot. Luckily, we found a parking spot right in the front and were able to enter the shop. The shop was full of customers awaiting for their food. We then realized that they were pushing more orders than being able to fulfill them. We ere expecting quite a wait for our food, and it was worth the trip since we were here for a last hurrah. We ordered their Big Dude sandwich which came with a few meats and their special lettuce with dressing in the sub. We waited probably 20 minutes for our food. We also had their macaroni salad and their chocolate chip cookie. Their sub was subpar, pun intended... I only say that because my fiancé all agreed that the memory of eating it as a student was engraved into his mind, but when he ate it, he was also unimpressed. The bread is tough but the whole sandwich itself was okay. Their macaroni salad was also just okay and their cookie was very soft. Again, for memory's sake, we made a pitstop. Overall, it was okay. 50 years is definitely a long time as a shop! Best wishes. read more

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Helpful 45

Thanks 16

Love this 30

Oh no 6

Elizabeth T.

Elite 26

3

47

92

24 days ago

Sad this place is closing. Been coming here for decades. The sandwiches are good, made with fresh ingredients. The owner is always there working hard and keeping the place vibrant. The staff is always friendly and you can tell they happy to work there. The inside looks like you're stepping into a college sandwich shop. It's always kept clean. Substation will be missed. read more

The Sub Station - Menu - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Packed on its last week open - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Inside dining area - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Yohonna B.

Elite 26

22

114

408

1 month ago

I'm so sad to see this place go . I had always wanted to check out the sub station and heard great things about it . I heard this place was closing so I wanted to go and check it out. I came around 11 and there was already a ton of people and it seemed to be students and locals alike . You stand in line to order but the line moves fairly quickly . I decided on the lunch special they had which was the turkey sandwich and it came with chips and a drink . The sandwich comes with meat cheese lettuce tomato pickles and you have to put the mayo and mustard on yourself . The order came out pretty quickly . Overall I really enjoyed the sandwich I thought it had good flavor and the bread was super soft . read more

The Sub Station - Line - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Helpful 2

Thanks 0

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Rhiannon H.

Elite 26

136

822

582

3 months ago

I love the Sub Station!!! So sad they are closing their doors this summer. I've used them for catering (3 large platters) & they're my go-to for a quick, yummy sandwich. My favorite is their turkey salami. Their ingredients are always fresh and delicious. I love the carrots & pepperoni peppers that come with your sandwich. Service is friendly. I hope they re-open in a new location. read more

The Sub Station - 9. Roast Beef, Turkey and Cheese Sub - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Jacob C.

Elite 26 All-Star

27

426

3590

2 months ago

The subs are good and people are typically happy with their order. The interior was pretty packed on a weekday afternoon. There's outdoor seating, unfortunately they're closing for-everrr in June. :******[ read more

The Sub Station - 12. Club Sub Turkey, Ham & Cheese - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Exterior - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Interior with the goods - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - 1 ton of sammiches - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Thanks 4

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Oh no 2

Gabriela S.

Elite 26

75

458

4692

4 months ago

Stopped by on a way to Arizona. Fresh bread, good amount of meat, could use more veggies but the sauce was overpowering... vinegar pouring out after each bite. The young staff could use better friend attitude and brush up on customer service. Overall, good spot for fresh deli sandwich! read more

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Kristie T.

Elite 26

4

68

243

2 months ago

I came here to try sub station before it closes forever. unfortunately, it was not very good. I can tell the meat, cheese, and toppings are good quality but the bread really ruined it for me. It was dry and dense and almost stale. Also, they cut it so that one half was a lot thicker than the other. I ended up eating the sandwich open faced and throwing out the bottom bun because it was so thick and dry. The service was fine, I didn't wait as long as other reviews on here said they did but maybe it's because I came in the morning. read more

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Ann B.

1

39

4

8 days ago

I'm wishing I could go get a "Big Dude" sub today on this 4th of July . Richard thank you so much for having & creating such an awesome down home family place. My Son & I will carry these memories. I've been coming since this location was opened, then had my Son and started taking him, then when he started driving, he took all his friends and introduced them to this great place (who came from various towns & also, Albuquerque for the final Big Dude, before the end of an Era) . I wish you (or your Daughter(s) & grandkids) would open a lil food truck, but that's just my dream and I know you will enjoy being retired. Richard your delicious, no nonsense run,family gathering place is so so missed already. Happy 4th of July. read more

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Thanks 1

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Monica C.

Elite 26 All-Star

8

123

500

2 months ago

Ordered Sub Station on DD, for the first time, and it was delicious. I ordered a turkey sandwich, and I appreciated the size as well as the amount of meat and cheese. I also enjoyed how thinly the turkey and cheese were sliced. The only thing I would ask for is any vinegar/oil to be on the side as it makes the bread soggy, especially if you don't eat it all at once. Otherwise, a really solid and tasty sandwich! read more

The Sub Station - 19. Turkey & Cheese - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Thanks 1

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Pete F.

Elite 26

375

859

3089

3 months ago

I heard about Sub Station's secret sauce on their sandwiches and had to give it a try. I ordered a 7-inch Big Dude, which is an Italian hero sub. When I unwrapped it, it looked much bigger than a 7-inch. I only ate half and was fully satisfied. I loved the shredded lettuce soaked with the secret oil and vinegar dressing. Next time, I'm asking for extra dressing. It was delish. I also tried a side of the potato salad which was also very good. At lunch, the place was hopping with the UCR crowd. But they were very efficient and the wait for the food wasn't bad at all. Highly recommend. read more

Business owner information

Richard M.

well thank you very much for "seeing" and experiencing The Sub…

Helpful 5

Thanks 0

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Craig G.

Elite 26

64

318

1348

4 months ago

Ordered the big dude to go by phone and it was ready when I got there. Although the sub was as good as always, fresh soft bread, fresh sliced meats, shredded lettuce and tangy dressing. The best part are the pickled carrots and yellow chilies. At just about $20 it's not an every day treat but I hope it is around for 50 more years! read more

The Sub Station - 30th anniversary T-shirt. - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - 51st year. - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Libby R.

Elite 26

1953

846

1221

5 months ago

I was taking my step daughter to UC Riverside for a tour and asked my co-worker - who was an alum - about what I should make sure to check out. "Oh you gotta go to the Sub Station." I'm glad I listened. That was 8 years ago. I don't get out to Riverside often, but when I do the Sub Station is a required stop. The style of sandwich was popular when I was growing up - and it is a great place. In fact, I recently was able to go twice in less than a year, and the second time, the owner was at the register and said, "I've never met you before, where are you from?" I thought it was cute and we were able to chat. He gifted me a bag of chips and thanked me for my patronage. Love this place. read more

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Thanks 2

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Chad T.

Elite 26

142

89

130

5 months ago

This sandwich spot is a great place for college students to hang out and do studies outside. This food would score higher on my review but if they only offered different types of bread and put more oils/ vinegar/ mayonnaise on the subs/ sandwiches. My daughter and my sandwiches were very dry and had to ask for condiments and only pre packaged were available. This establishment has cornered the market at UCR being across from the college and within walking distance of most college housing. read more

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Jeremy C.

Elite 26

69

339

582

1 year ago

First time going here and didn't know this place was here. The place is great, owner is great and will talk to you, workers there are great as well and are all very helpful. I had the hot pastrami sandwich a which was good and the bread was soft and crispy at the same time. There is indoor and outdoor seating. If you need to use the bathroom it is in the back and someone there needs to let you in. There is a lot to look at inside the place and there are some cool shirts. I might need to pick up the Endless Summer one. If you are around the area, stop by. read more

The Sub Station - Hot Pastrami and Cheese Sub - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Allan Y.

5

17

60

3 months ago

Across from Uc Riverside, this place looks like it's pretty popular with the students. I thought the staff was pretty friendly and my food came out quickly. I ordered the steak and cheese sandwich. The sandwich was ok but I didn't think it was worth how much they are charging. I personally felt that you can get a better sandwich for less at Jersey Mikes. read more

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Chris B.

Elite 26

12

213

43

4 months ago

I have been coming to this place for the last couple years, especially for catering orders and would say my experience has been mostly positive. They are usually able to accommodate as long as you connect a week or two in advance. The food is always amazing. Never wilted or old, and always made that day. On a few occasions we have been missing a sandwich or two, but they are always very easy to work with and connect back to. Some items like the big dude are a bit on the salty side, however, order to your preference. I recommend making your way through the menu, because there will be an item that grabs your attention. read more

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Saif L.

0

14

8

5 months ago

The best. I'm from NY, this is a real sandwich, authentic cold cuts, very high quality food. If there's any business I would spend money on food for in the UCR area it would be at the Substation. Richard, the owner, is a campus legend and a very nice guy, extensively knowledgeable about food and a veteran! He's a real American, with real integrity, and this is a real business everyone should support. The food is genuinely good, and actually high quality. I've eaten here multiple times, it's a go-to for lunch, it's superior to everything else in this area. It's the only place that's somewhat notable and is genuinely something to write home about When I think of a sandwich, it's this read more

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Amy

0

2

0

2 months ago

So sad to see it go! Sub Station is the best!The Big Dude is the original and the Club Sub is delicious

Helpful 1

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Jose G.

11

2

0

2 months ago

I have great memories of substation since I was in high school. I'm 54 years old now at this place will always be my favorite spot for a good sandwich. I wish it wasn't closing, but it would always be in my heart. Thank you for your service. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

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Debby C.

0

38

0

1 month ago

Have been going for a melted cheese and avocado sandwich since 1978. I will miss it tremendously and the wonderful atmosphere lead by Richard and the student workers. read more

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Tanya T.

0

55

20

4 months ago

The substation truly has the best subs on the planet! My family and I have been enjoying them for generations The service is always friendly and professional. I love all the original tables and the patio is great place to enjoy your food. Thank you for being the best! read more

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Shirley L.

15

8

0

2 months ago

It is closing, sadly in 2 weeks. The grinders are very good! I am sad to see them go! I love the college vib there. It is fun to talk to the kids 50+ years younger than I am now! read more

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Marc G.

14

9

3

5 months ago

Food is amazing. Service is outstanding and the owner is always there. Love coming here.

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Donna K.

0

16

4

5 months ago

My absolute favorite sub place. I always get the melted cheese and avocado. I haven't found it anywhere else. Staff is always very friendly.

Helpful 0

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Daniel L.

7

141

12

11 months ago

Wow. What's the story. And why haven't I been here before. Amazing amazing. Busy for lunch. As it should be. Great customer service. Great fresh food. Taste was of the best quality. Prices are decent and I plan on returning to try as many as I can. Do yourself a favor. Eat here Turkey lunch special with some chips and pickles. Proper indeed read more

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Georgiy T.

164

11

5

10 months ago

There are a lot of good sandwich spots in Riverside California. But I have to say this is one of the best I've been to the bread was warm all the way through the inside soft and moist and the outside crispy and crunchy. The staff was amazing funny helpful and all around amazing. The one bad thing I have to say is the staff needs to be a little more clear on how to get to the restroom since this an establishment on a college campus other than that I have not one single negative thing to say about this place I will definitely be back whenever I'm in the area. Thank you substation for as awesome as y'all are. read more

The Sub Station - Pastrami with macaroni, salad, carrots, and pepper Cheaneys - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Denyse H.

106

23

29

1 year ago

The best Sub Sandwiches around. We live an hour away and it's totally worth the drive to enjoy our favorite sandwiches-the Hot Pastrami, and the Melted Cheese with Avocado. The sandwiches are freshly made while you wait. I've been going here since 1975 and at every visit the "Subbers" who took my orders and made my sandwiches gave me wonderful service. Today was no exception- there was a large order before me and the employees were working! I had one sandwich to go and they prepared it just as I ordered with the oil & vinegar on the side (for the hour drive back home), and gave me extra chilies for me to enjoy while I ate my melted cheese and avocado while enjoying the outside patio. The Subbers working today were attentive, pleasant and efficient. Kudos to Richard (the owner) for serving wonderful food, and always having wonderful people working at THE SUB STATION. read more

The Sub Station - Melted Cheese and Avocado (no lettuce by choice) - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Ashley A.

74

12

4

3 months ago

This place was delicious!! The sandwiches are amazing!! Service was amazing! The place is low key cute.

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Mary S.

0

38

12

4 months ago

Yes, 1st time here cut little place love the shop. Ran by I guess students very polite and friendly. Sorry to see it go. Sandwiches are delicious. read more

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Mary T.

25

47

28

7 months ago

We ordered a large meatball sub. It was delicious!! Thick sauce, tasty meatballs, even the bread was delicious! AND it was less than $20.

Helpful 1

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Sophie S.

0

16

12

7 months ago

Throughout my years of living in Riverside, never have I come across a sandwich spot that's very consistent with their quality such as The Sub Station. I come here once every 2-3 weeks, sometimes more often and they never fail to meet my expectations. The workers are nice people and the area gives off casual dining atmosphere. read more

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Nancy T.

Elite 26

33

213

331

2 years ago

Delicious sandwiches. The four of us split two 12" sandwiches, one steak and cheese and one chicken pesto. Service was fast and friendly. Sandwiches come on white waxed butcher paper, which makes it easy to carry and clean up after, either at tables inside or out. Although the menu board says they offer soup, the cashier said they haven't had soup in months. read more

The Sub Station - Menu board - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Chicken Pesto Sub - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

The Sub Station - Steak and Cheese Sub - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

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Business owner information

Richard M.

Thank you for your support!

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Moritz W.

0

15

0

4 months ago

I always enjoy eating at the substation! The crew is always friendly and the food is great! Probably one of the best sub sandwiches out there. read more

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Paul A.

Elite 26

583

1386

1602

1 year ago

Tasty little sandwich spot with a ton of inside and outside seating. Cold cut big guy sandwich was text book. My wife had hot pastrami which was just right. If you are in the area check it out, parking is tight because students use the free parking that is for the sandwich spot... read more

Business owner information

Richard M.

The Big Dude and Hot Pastrami are some of our best! Thank you and…

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

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Tyler H.

60

130

81

1 year ago

Still 5/5 and love they are open Sundays now, because the cravings don't end on Saturday. read more

The Sub Station - #19 and a Diet Coke - Sandwiches Near Me - Riverside, California

Business owner information

Richard M.

We appreciate the years of support! We strive on quality and ensure…

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Lisa M.

0

20

10

7 months ago

Always has the best sandwiches. I've been going here for years and they never disappoint.

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Keith H.

33

23

1

10 months ago

The sub station is a local favorite. I've been coming here for 30 years and it never disappoints. They extended their hours till 4pm and they always have a great vibe inside. The big side sandwich is my go to sandwich. Their hot steak and cheese is also delicious. I've used this place for many catered events through the years like baby showers, birthdays and graduations. Richard the owner is in the shop frequently and is always greeting people when they come in. Can't recommend this place enough. Support small local business like this. read more

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More info about The Sub Station

3663 Canyon Crest Dr
Riverside, CA 92507
Directions
(951) 683-4523
Call Now
Visit Website
https://substationucr.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does The Sub Station open?

The Sub Station opens at 9:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does The Sub Station close?

The Sub Station closes at 4:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Payment methods

Does The Sub Station take credit cards?

Yes, The Sub Station takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does The Sub Station serve alcohol?

No, The Sub Station does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does The Sub Station allow dogs?

Yes, The Sub Station allows dogs.

Does The Sub Station have TVs?

No, The Sub Station does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does The Sub Station have bike parking?

Yes, The Sub Station has bike parking.

Does The Sub Station have outdoor seating?

Yes, The Sub Station has outdoor seating options.

Does The Sub Station have parking?

Yes, The Sub Station has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is The Sub Station wheelchair accessible?

Yes, The Sub Station is wheelchair accessible.

Does The Sub Station have free WiFi?

Yes, The Sub Station has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

We seat over 100 people in a casual old school environment with an outdoor filtered patio. We serve great tasting "East Coast style" sub sandwiches,soups, salads and Bottled beer. Our sandwiches start with a fresh Italian roll filled with your choice of meats and cheese, garnished with shredded lettuce, fresh cut tomatoes, seasonings and our signature "Secret Sauce" dressing. We serve up Hot , Cold and Vegetarian sandwiches. Our Avocado and cheese with marinated cucumbers on the Wheat roll is one of our popular health conscious options. Other healthy options include our selection of salads. Try our Chicken Garden Salad w/ 7 vegetables, a pair of bread sticks and your choice of ranch, Italian or balsamic vinaigrette. Our "lean" pastrami comes from the eye of the round, a special cut w/ little or no fat, East Coast style, with mustard and a pickle or West coast with lots of veggies on it. Our Meatball sub is in a rich red sauce with 3 kinds of cheese on the Italian roll.

History

Established in 1972.

The Sub Station is one of the oldest eateries in the city of Riverside. Founded right here near UCR in 1972 we have a stout reputation for great food, fun and employees. Under the same ownership for 42 years our East coast style subs have remained the same for 4 decades, because of our uncompromising effort and passion for serving great food. Everything in the restaurant that you see and sit on is original. Every table and bench was built by hand by Richard and his Father. With a small budget Richard had to rely on all the carpentry experience he gained from his Dad growing up. Today his fathers passion for wood continues to live on through him. The sub station has always been about people. Our great employees and "you " our loyal old friends and soon to be "new friends". Come experience the Sub Station...its like coming home!

Meet the Business Owner: Richard M.

Although Richard grew up a "Jersey Boy " he started college in Colorado and finished by graduating from Chico State up in Northern California. He was immediately drafted and spent 12 months in Vietnam. Upon returning home he grew a bodacious "afro"and shortly thereafter opened The Sub Station along with his college roommate who left the company a year later. Over the last 42 years The Sub Station has become a local favorite and one of the oldest eateries in Riverside.

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44 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Richard C.

0

1

5 years ago

Do you like giving your money to people who are rude to their employees? Do you like overly oily sandwiches on stale bread? Mold in your drink? If so, this is the place for you! In seriousness this is hands down the worst sandwich shop in Riverside. At first I thought maybe I received a bad sandwich, however when I went back it was 10x worse. First off the owner (old white dude) abuses his employees (I've witnessed him berate employees on each occasion I've been there). He also seemed a bit creepy in how he interacted with the younger female employees, it gave a creepy feeling. Not a good dude. Secondly, this place is not clean. I ordered a pink lemonade (10-21) and received mold in my drink. Turns out the Ice machines are not cleaned out and the nozzles cleaned with soda water.... (S/o to the employee who was honest about it) News flash to owner, it's a myth that soda water can clean/disinfect things. The only people who go here are usually people who have Stockholm syndrome from coming here for their whole lives. Delias is 10000x better and the bread is not stale. read more

Debra H.

0

1

0

5 years ago

I have been coming to this wonderful joint for about 2 years since moving into the area and I have always received nothing but the best of service each visit! I haven't felt the urge to write a review until today because of a terrible interaction between another customer and an employee. This customer was wearing a Kentucky American flag shirt and was extremely rude and demeaning towards one of the female employees their entire stay. I was shocked to see how belittling one can be towards another human being. I was even more shocked to see how well the employee handled the situation, I was able to catch her name when placing my order, and apologizing on the rude customers behavior! so Angelica I salute you for being as kind as you are and you deserve a pay raise! read more

Michael W.

0

1

0

2 months ago

I've been coming here for awhile now and it's always been pretty good except yesterday my girlfriend went for a sub . And it was honestly not good whoever made it put SOOO MUCH turkey on it it was ridiculous how much they put , they put like a whole pound or so of turkey and they weren't even thin slices they were thick like I should have taken a picture they were THICK Smh not enjoyable. No seasoning AT ALL just not what I like . Im Gonna try 1 more time before they close hope they don't let me down like this time ... I kno they are closing down but I hope they don't go out like that . I wanna positive good experience next time please read more

Gretchen L.

3

11

2

11 years ago

I have been going to The Sub Station since I was about 10 years old !!!. Thank goodness my friends sister brought us to this place, way back then :). I always order "The Big Dude", (Ham, Capicolla, Genoa Salami and Pepperoni, lettuce, oil and vinegar and nice spices) it is delicious and they do not skimp on the meat. A fresh brewed Iced Tea and a bag of Lays BBQ chips and I am pretty happy. On a nice day, sit outside, relax and enjoy the pretty trees. I have introduced this place to alot of people and now my son and his friends enjoy the Sub Station as well. Mmmmmmmmmmmmm Delicious... read more

L O.

0

14

1

14 years ago

I went to this place to get sub. It was my first time here; so I waited about 10 minutes for the guy to stop talking to his co-worker until he made my sandwich. After it was done, I asked him for sauce. The black guy gave me an attitude; what kind of sauce? I asked for anything; he looked at me; no we don't have it (with attitude). I said: alright, thanks. When I was walking out, he whispered "Bitch". I thought that was inappropriate, plus I am customer who just bought a sub from you, and I didn't ask for money. I asked for a sauce. read more

M P.

0

14

0

10 years ago

I really do not get all the good reviews for this place. they do not even put mustard and mayo on the sangwich. The people that work there are really nice I honestly think subway is just as good. lol. That is no saying much. They give you a few carrots with your meal. Big woop. The prices are a bit high. My meal came with potato salad and you can tell it is just from the store bought. They do put a really good vinaigrette on the sangwich. read more

Jake A.

0

15

0

14 years ago

I went to this place around 2 in the afternoon, I had nothing the whole day but coffee. After I got the Butch Grinder, 15 minutes later I was throwing up. I got food poisoning from this place. I kind of have an idea why; I was watching the employees talk to each other and the same guy who worked the register, touched the counter top, also made my sub without washing his hands or wearing glove. read more

Kristine P.

0

14

9

4 months ago

I used to love this place, but today's lunch was really disappointing. It took over 40 minutes to receive a single 12" sandwich, which is far too long. The staff seemed either new or in need of better training, as the sandwich preparation was so slow. There was also no apology or explanation for the delay. Overall, the service was very poor, and sadly, I won't be returning. read more

Jeff J.

0

8

2

14 years ago

There is nothing great about this place; there is not much food diversity in Riverside for people to even bother judging it. So a lot of students think this is a great place. In Riverside, this place with mediocre sub and being unhygienic will survive. In LA, this place will not survive 1 month due to lack of hygiene and high price for mediocre subs. read more

Tanya K.

2

4

0

7 years ago

Big portions and super fresh. Very good quality of the meats and the bread. You can dine in or eat outside in a patio setting. By default they do not add a lot of oil/vinegar, so if that's your thing, ask for more! We will DEFINITELY go back to try other subs. Thanks Sub Station... read more

Susie J.

0

12

3

3 years ago

First of all the sandwiches taste horrific, bread is always stale. The owner richard is a horrible person. i have witnessed him harass both the employees and the customers. Sorry to tell you bud butno one wants your disgusting sandwiches and terrible attitud read more

Michele W.

1

8

1

19 years ago

Ok folks, I used to go to this place when it was in the shopping center with Waldo's Market! Remember that! So I'm aging myself, oh well... This place is great! I love the sandwiches, I love the sandwiches, I love the sandwiches! What more can I say! read more

MiYong E.

Elite 9

118

270

337

19 years ago

One star for location. One star for it wasn't horrible. They were right there, and I only went three times. Each time I tried something different. I was honestly never impressed. It's just a sandwich. Nothing to it. read more

Monette K.

68

3

40

13 years ago

Love this place! I've eaten here once, twice a week for the last 10 years. The sandwiches are delicious and the owner is always so friendly. The staff remembers my usual order and my quirky little requests with my meal. read more

Aiden D.

0

7

0

9 years ago

Being going here my whole life and have never once been let down. Every sandwich is amazing. And the staff is always up beat and happy. The owner even comes out and helps when things get to busy. read more

Collin F.

0

5

0

9 years ago

Big Dude is excellent! They had a problem with soda machine. They gave me another drink while they fixed it. Owner/Manager came out, apologized and gave me a soda to go! Great customer service! read more

kia m.

0

7

0

18 years ago

i ate there one time and i will never EVER!! go back again.someone needs to tell the owner to get a better quality meat for your sandwich!the meet is worse than subway meat!! read more