Jimmy John’s, a U.S.-based sandwich chain known for its fast service and fresh ingredients, is planning to open its first location in Ottawa in 2025.
The Ottawa restaurant is part of a broader Canadian expansion by the company’s Canadian operator, Quebec-based Foodtastic, which recently opened Jimmy John’s second Canadian location at Niagara Falls’ Fallsview Casino, according to the Ottawa Citizen. The Ottawa opening is scheduled for later in 2025, with approximately a dozen locations planned nationwide by the end of the year, including in Winnipeg, Edmonton, Barrie, Windsor, and the Greater Toronto Area. Customers can expect Jimmy John’s signature cold and toasted subs, in-store baked bread, and the Unwich lettuce wrap option, along with sides such as kettle-cooked chips and cookies.
Jimmy John’s was founded in 1983 in Charleston, Illinois, and currently operates nearly 3,000 locations across the U.S., where it is known for fast sandwich preparation and its signature pickles. The brand debuted in Canada in 2024, starting in Toronto, and expanded shortly after with the addition of a Niagara Falls location.
The Canadian rollout is managed by Foodtastic, which also operates other chains like Pita Pit, Milestones, and Freshii. While the Canadian sandwich market is competitive, with chains like Jersey Mike’s also expanding aggressively, Jimmy John’s plans to build regional clusters as part of a long-term strategy to open up to 200 stores nationwide over the next decade.
The company is moving forward with the expansion despite some Canadian consumers avoiding U.S.-based brands due to political reasons. Foodtastic typically launches new locations as corporate-owned to refine operations and ensure consistency before offering franchise opportunities.
The Jimmy John’s menu features sandwiches made with premium meats and fresh vegetables sliced in-house. The brand’s focus on fast service and quality ingredients has earned it a growing following. What Now Toronto previously reported on Jimmy John’s rapid growth across the Greater Toronto Area, highlighting the brand’s Canadian debut and regional ambitions.
