Focus Brands owns Schlotzsky's, and it's clear this isn't the same establishment that used to have "Funny name. Serious sandwich" as their slogan. Focus owns a number of quick service, and mall cohabitation type chains. Carvel, Jamba Juice, Cinnabon, McAlister's Deli, Moe's Southwest Grill, Auntie Anne's etc.
I've always liked the Schlotzsky's concept, mixed meats, variegated cheeses, signature black olives all on a freshly made sourdough bun. I do also enjoy their pizzas, which while a somewhat recent addition, remind me of their distinctive bread. I believe the dough is the same, just stretched out and proofed differently. Packets of hot sauce are an absolute must if I visit, and I try to score more than a few for use later. It's a vinegar based sauce similar to Frank's Red Hot.
Texas originally had few chain quick service sandwich businesses, with Schlotzsky's being one of the first in my recollection. This landscape has changed prominently in the last 5 to 10 years, with many competing options emerging. Schlotzsky's is still able to stand out however, with their integration of Cinnabon into the restaurants, as well as a kenspeckle taste that most of their offerings have (I believe the sourdough itself is responsible).
While I'm partial to a fresh veggie with ham, genoa & cotto salamis, cheese, and bacon (I'm aware this is an oxymoronic sandwich) most of their prefabricated selections are fairly good. Pair one of these with the Caramel PecanBon and you've got yourself a very serious lunch or even dinner. Despite the menu proving efficacious, I do have some criticisms. The price is relatively high, compared to Subway, which of course is of inferior quality, but Schlotzsky's can be almost twice the price per person. $3.99 for a basic Cinnabon also seems skewed rather high, though the portion size is generous. The amount of protein served on all but the large sandwiches is also second-rate, and opting for double meat quickly becomes a pricey endeavor. I do have to applaud them for their Insider Rewards program, as you can get $7 off after 7 visits (minimum spend of $6 per qualified visit). This is roughly 15% off if you keep up with it in the online app, or web portal.
While I don't believe they will be expanding vigorously like they did in the 90s, I do enjoy my visits to Schlotzsky's, and this particular location is one of the cleanest and significantly renovated franchises in the area. It would be a shame if they went the way of Blimpe in the Metroplex. read more