My 4/5 rating applies to Jersey Mikes as it compares to other sandwich chains.
As a New Yorker living in Madison for nearly a decade, I have long suffered that Madison has no real sandwich shops. Sure, there are plenty of places that make ok sandwiches, but these are all most likely restaurants with big menus. There are no real east coast style delis.
As far as sandwich chains go, Subway is hot garbage. Quiznos isn't far behind. Same goes for Cousins. I guess Potbellys and Which Which are ok, but they all lack that fresh, full deli sandwich vibe.
While I can't in good conscience compare a large chain to the brilliance of an authentic local deli, Jersey Mikes is the only sandwich chain worth eating at. The long rolls are deli quality, and they use fresh cut sandwich meat like the kind you SHOULD be getting at the deli counter at your local grocery.
We've trekked from the east side (about 25 mins drive each way) on a lazy Saturday/Sunday a few times in the short time they've been open, just to get a quick solid sandwich.
Owner of this franchise seems like a good dude. Staff has always shown fantastic hustle when I've stopped in.