The Story of Submarina California Subs

Two Postal Workers Who Were Driven to Deliver More Than Just Mail.

Back in 1976, Les Warfield and Ron Vickers were two U.S. Postal workers from Reno with a shared passion. No, it wasn't delivering mail. It was a passion for a properly made sub sandwich. Maybe passion isn't a strong enough word. It was more like an obsession really. When they both decided to move to the West Coast for a better lifestyle, their search for prosperity and a decent sandwich in San Diego began. Problem was, they had a heck of a time finding either one. That's when an idea hit Les and Ron like a tubular wave crashing onto Wind-n-Sea Beach: Pursue their passion and open up their own sub shop that would deliver unique, California inspired sandwiches. Talk about going postal.

"The secret of our success is a quality product."

One year later, along with their wives Lynn Warfield and Maureen Vickers, Les and Ron opened their first Submarina California Subs®. As word began to spread, a second location was opened in 1979. It didn't take long before Submarina California Subs® became a local favorite, with numerous stores opening quickly throughout San Diego County. No matter how many stores were added, each restaurant shared a common philosophy: Only the freshest California produce, from local growers whenever possible, would do. The meats and cheese had to be premium quality and hand-sliced for every sandwich ordered, and the bread - freshly baked. This attention to local ingredients and regional culture is what launched the California Sub phenomenon.

With regional offices in San Marcos, California, Submarina California Subs major presence is still in sun drenched Southern California. Today, there are more than 50 restaurants located from Guam to New York. Founders Les and Ron each still own a Submarina California Subs franchise, and Les' son Jeff is currently a proud multi-unit franchisee and an Area Developer for Riverside, Orange and LA County.

Controlled Growth Results in a Mature Brand

For 2012, Submarina is planning to open more locations including Central and Northern California, Oklahoma, Texas and Florida. It's taken us time to perfect the California sub concept, but under the leadership of Mr. Bruce Rosenthal (our President) and his entire management team, we believe it's time everyone should discover what millions already know: Submarina California Subs® is a Better Built Sub®.