Potbelly Sandwich Shop announced the opening of its newly redesigned store in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago (2739 N. Elston Avenue). The prototype debuts a streamlined ordering experience for customers and a new overall modern look and feel, while maintaining the unique charm of Potbelly.

“Potbelly Sandwich Shops have been an integral part of our Chicago neighborhoods for more than forty years and many of our most loyal and dedicated fans are based here,” says Alan Johnson, CEO, Potbelly Sandwich Shop. “That’s why we’re debuting our newly redesigned store right here in our hometown. After months of research and testing, we’re eager to hear the feedback from our top customers here in Logan Square.”

Johnson continues, “We’ve spent the last few months actively engaging with our loyal customers, and through this research, have uncovered a number of opportunities to make their experience even more enjoyable. One of those areas was the ordering process and we believe our new shop will simplify and enhance this critical first step in the Potbelly experience. We will continue to strive to create a relaxed, comfortable environment where customers feel confident in the choices they make, whether they come to Potbelly every week or are trying us for the first time.”

A new streamlined ordering process, designed to provide a more effortless experience for consumers, will make its debut at the new store. This includes a cohesive menu board that presents all of Potbelly’s delicious menu items including hot sandwiches, soups, shakes and cookies in one area, and glass counters that allow customers to follow along and see their food being made. Customers will also complete their order and payment first, so they can relax and watch as their hot, toasty sandwich comes out of the oven and is carefully topped with fresh ingredients (like sliced avocado) before their eyes.

“Potbelly was founded in an antique shop and we’ve often kept antique décor in our shops to keep that spirit alive,” adds Johnson. “The new design maintains the warm, established feel Potbelly is known for, but with less clutter for a cleaner, more modern take on comfort.”

Guests will find that the new store design maintains Potbelly’s hallmark comfortable booth seating, but pairs it with wood and natural elements to create a more modern aesthetic. Additionally, the new design separates the ordering process from the dining room, so once guests get their food, they have a cozy spot that’s uninterrupted by others waiting to order, while enjoying their delicious meal.

In addition to working on the customer experience and overall look of Potbelly stores, the brand has also been focused offering nationwide delivery through several partners, including Grubhub and DoorDash, in addition to Potbelly.com, and introducing a Pick-your-Pair menu. This new menu feature allows consumers to pair a toasty Potbelly signature sandwich with soup or salad.

Potbelly remains committed to delivering the tastiest, freshest menu options including:

  • Toasty sandwiches packed full of quality ingredients like hand-sliced meats and fresh veggies.
  • Real avocados freshly cut and hand-sliced in-shop.
  • Melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are baked fresh daily in-shop.
  • Real hand-scooped ice cream shakes topped with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and a classic butter cookie on the straw.

To celebrate today’s opening, Potbelly will be giving the first 100 guests goodie bags including a free sandwich and a few other surprises! Visit Potbelly’s new store at 2739 N. Elston Avenue in Chicago. A second redesigned location is slated to open by the end of November in Park Ridge, Illinois at 107 S. Northwest Highway #10.

Design, Fast Casual, News, Potbelly