Pat's Sub Shop in South Carolina — Where to Find Them and What to Order

Pat's Sub Shop locations and what makes them different

Pat's Sub Shop operates a small chain across South Carolina, known for hand-rolled submarine sandwiches made fresh to order. The shops focus on quality ingredients and customization — you tell them what you want on your sub, and they build it in front of you. Unlike chains that assemble from pre-made components, Pat's rolls their own bread daily and slices meats and cheeses as orders come in.

The menu centers on classic sub combinations, but the real draw is flexibility. You can order a signature sandwich exactly as listed, or modify it completely. Portions are generous, and the bread holds up to loaded toppings without falling apart — a detail that matters more than it sounds when you're eating a sub that weighs half a pound.

Key Takeaways

• Pat's Sub Shop makes sandwiches to order with fresh-rolled bread and sliced-to-order meats, so expect a few minutes' wait during lunch rush.
• Most locations are independently owned, so hours and exact menu offerings vary by shop — calling ahead is worth the time.
• Signature subs like the Italian and the Steak and Cheese are popular starting points, but you can customize any sandwich with different meats, cheeses, or toppings.
• Prices are moderate for a made-to-order sub shop, and many locations offer combo deals that bundle a sandwich with chips and a drink.

Finding a Pat's Sub Shop near you

Pat's Sub Shop locations are scattered across South Carolina rather than concentrated in one region. You'll find shops in the Midlands, the Lowcountry, and the Upstate, though the chain is smaller than national sandwich franchises. The best way to find the nearest location is to search online for "Pat's Sub Shop" plus your city or county, or call directory assistance if you know the general area.

Because many Pat's locations are franchised or independently operated, hours and services vary. Some shops close on Sundays or have limited evening hours. A few locations may offer delivery through third-party apps, but not all do. Calling ahead before you visit — especially if you're making a trip specifically for lunch — saves disappointment.

What to order and how to customize

The Italian sub is the signature order at most Pat's locations: Italian meats (usually a mix of ham, salami, and capicola), provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and oil-and-vinegar dressing on a fresh roll. The Steak and Cheese features thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions. Both are solid choices if you're new to the shop and want to taste what they do well.

The customization option is where Pat's shines. You can swap proteins (turkey, roast beef, chicken), add or remove vegetables, choose your cheese, and pick your dressing. If you're particular about bread — some people prefer theirs toasted, others want it soft — most locations will accommodate that request. The staff can usually suggest combinations if you're undecided, and they're used to building subs that don't appear on the menu.

Pricing and what to expect when you order

A regular sub at Pat's typically costs between $7 and $12, depending on the protein and toppings you choose. Premium meats like roast beef or steak cost more than basic ham or turkey. Many locations offer a combo that adds chips and a drink for a few dollars more, which is a reasonable value if you're making it a full meal.

When you order, expect to wait a few minutes while your sandwich is made. During lunch hours (noon to 1 p.m.), the wait can stretch to 10 or 15 minutes if the shop is busy. If you're in a hurry, calling ahead to place an order for pickup can cut the wait time significantly. Some locations will hold a pre-ordered sub for a short time, though policies vary.

Dining in versus takeout

Most Pat's Sub Shop locations are small — seating is limited or nonexistent at some shops. Many customers order for takeout or to eat in their car. A few locations have a handful of tables or counter seating, but don't count on it. If you want to sit down and eat, call ahead to confirm the shop has seating, or plan to take your sub elsewhere.

Takeout is the standard way to order. Subs travel well if you're eating within an hour or so, and the paper wrapping keeps your hands clean. If you're planning a picnic or a road trip through South Carolina, a Pat's sub is a solid choice — it holds up better than many sandwich shop options and tastes good at room temperature.

Dietary preferences and modifications

Pat's can build vegetarian subs if you skip the meat and load up on vegetables, cheese, and dressing. Vegan options are more limited since most subs rely on cheese, but you can ask what's possible. Gluten-free bread is not standard at most locations, so if that's a requirement, call ahead to check whether your nearest shop offers it.

Allergies and ingredient concerns should be discussed directly with the staff when you order. Because subs are made to order, you can see exactly what goes on yours and request changes. If you have a severe allergy, mention it clearly — the staff handles multiple orders at once, and cross-contamination is possible in a busy shop.

Why Pat's matters in South Carolina's sandwich culture

Pat's Sub Shop represents a style of sandwich making that's less common now than it was 20 or 30 years ago — the independent, made-to-order sub shop where the owner or staff know regular customers by name. In an era of chain restaurants and assembly-line food, these shops preserve a more personal approach to lunch. The quality difference between a sub made fresh in front of you and one assembled from pre-made components is noticeable, and that's what keeps people coming back.

For travelers exploring South Carolina or locals looking for a solid lunch, Pat's offers the kind of straightforward, customizable meal that works whether you're eating at your desk, on a hiking trail, or sitting by the water. The shop doesn't try to be trendy or complicated — it just makes good subs, and that consistency is part of why the chain has survived and grown in a competitive market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a Pat's sub online or through a delivery app?

Some Pat's locations partner with delivery services, but not all. Call your nearest shop directly to ask whether they take online orders or work with apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats. Many independent locations still take phone orders only, which is often faster than waiting for a delivery service to process your request.

What's the difference between a regular sub and a large?

Most Pat's shops offer two sizes — regular (usually around 6 inches) and large (usually around 12 inches). The large is roughly double the price and double the food. A regular is a solid lunch for one person; a large can be split between two people or eaten as a hearty meal with leftovers.

Do Pat's subs come with toppings included, or do I pay extra?

Standard toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and dressing are included in the base price. Premium add-ons like extra cheese, bacon, or additional meats usually cost extra. Ask the staff what's included before you order, since pricing can vary slightly by location.

Are Pat's subs good for a group order?

Yes. If you're ordering for several people, call ahead so the shop can prepare multiple subs without a long wait. Most locations can handle group orders, and some offer small discounts for larger purchases. Placing the order by phone also lets you customize each sub exactly as each person wants it.

What should I know about Pat's bread?

Pat's rolls their bread fresh daily, which is a major part of what sets them apart. The bread is sturdy enough to hold wet toppings without falling apart, but soft enough to bite through easily. If you have a preference for how your bread is prepared — toasted, extra soft, or anything else — mention it when you order.