Ever stood at the counter at Potbelly Sandwich Works and wondered if the meatless option will actually fill you up? The potbelly mediterranean sandwich is the answer most regulars point to. It is one of the few subs on the menu that leans fully into bold flavor without relying on meat.
This guide breaks down everything you need before you order. You will get a full ingredient list, price by size, calorie details, and real tips from someone who has ordered this sandwich more times than they can count. If you are vegetarian, plant based, or just want a lighter lunch that still tastes like a proper deli sandwich, you are in the right place.
What Is the Potbelly Mediterranean Sandwich?
The Mediterranean is Potbelly’s go-to vegetarian sub. It is built around creamy hummus instead of meat, then layered with crisp vegetables and tangy cheese for balance.
Unlike heavier options like the A Wreck or Mama’s Meatball, this one feels fresh but still satisfying. It is toasted like most Potbelly sandwiches, which brings out the flavor in the bread and warms the hummus slightly.
You will usually find it listed alongside other signature items like the Italian and Powerhouse Salad. It has been a steady part of the menu, even after updates like the Sweet Heat refresh.
If you want something meatless that does not feel like an afterthought, this is the one.
What’s In It, Full Ingredient Breakdown
Core Ingredients
The potbelly mediterranean sandwich includes:
- Hummus (the base spread)
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh cucumbers
- Artichoke hearts
- Roasted red peppers
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Italian seasoning
Each ingredient plays a role. The hummus brings creaminess, feta adds salt and tang, cucumbers give crunch, and roasted red peppers add a slightly sweet roasted flavor.
Flavor Profile
Think bright, slightly tangy, and herb-forward.
It is not spicy unless you add hot peppers or giardiniera. Compared to something like the Italian, it is lighter but still layered.
Texture Notes
- Soft from hummus and bread
- Crunch from cucumbers and lettuce
- Slight chew from artichokes
It holds up surprisingly well, especially if you do not overload it with wet toppings.
Is the Mediterranean Sandwich Vegetarian or Vegan?
Vegetarian Status
Yes, the potbelly mediterranean sandwich is 100% vegetarian as listed on the official Potbelly menu.
There is no meat, no hidden meat-based sauces, and no broths involved.
Vegan Modifications
It is not fully vegan by default because of the feta cheese.
To make it plant-based:
- Ask to remove feta cheese
- Double the hummus if you want more richness
- Skip any dairy-based sauces
Once you remove feta, the sandwich becomes a solid vegan option.
Pro Tip: Ask for oil and vinegar instead of creamy dressings. It keeps the sandwich light and fully plant-based.
Potbelly Mediterranean Sandwich Price by Size
Potbelly uses three sizes: Skinny, Original, and Big.
Prices vary by location, but here is a realistic range based on April 2026 menu data.
| Size | Description | Estimated Price |
| Skinny | Thin-cut bread, lighter portion | $6.49 – $7.29 |
| Original | Standard size, most popular | $7.99 – $9.49 |
| Big | Double portion, more filling | $10.49 – $12.29 |
Which Size Should You Pick?
- Skinny: Best for calorie control or a quick lunch
- Original: Best balance of price and portion
- Big: Only worth it if you are very hungry or splitting
If you are pairing it with soup or a shake, stick with Original.
Nutrition Facts and Calorie Breakdown
Calories depend on size and bread choice. These are average estimates based on Potbelly nutrition data.
| Size | Calories | Protein | Notes |
| Skinny | 350–420 | 10–13g | Light and snackable |
| Original | 500–620 | 14–18g | Balanced meal |
| Big | 750–900 | 20g+ | Very filling |
Key Nutrition Points
- Hummus adds healthy fats
- Feta adds sodium and fat
- Veggies keep it lower in calories than meat subs
If You’re Watching Calories
Go for:
- Skinny size
- Thin-cut wheat bread
- No feta or light feta
- Skip extra sauces
This can bring the sandwich closer to 300 calories.
Best Bread Pairing for This Sandwich
Potbelly’s bread makes a big difference.
Top Picks
- Multigrain Wheat: Best overall, adds nutty flavor
- Thin-Cut Wheat: Great for lighter meals
- White Bread: Classic, softer, slightly sweeter
What Works Best?
Multigrain wheat is the best match for Mediterranean flavors. It complements hummus and veggies without overpowering them.
White bread works if you prefer a softer bite, especially when toasted.
Pro Tip: Always get it toasted. It improves texture and brings out the roasted red pepper flavor.
How It Tastes, Honest Review
This is not a boring veggie sandwich.
You get a creamy base from hummus, then a sharp hit from feta, followed by crunch from cucumbers and freshness from lettuce and tomato.
The roasted red peppers and artichokes add depth that most veggie subs lack.
Compared to meat-heavy sandwiches:
- Less greasy
- More refreshing
- Still satisfying
It is one of the few vegetarian options that regular meat eaters order again.
How to Customize Your Order
You can turn this sandwich into something much better with small tweaks.
Smart Add-Ons
- Hot peppers for spice
- Giardiniera for a Chicago-style kick
- Extra hummus for more richness
What to Skip
- Too many wet toppings, makes it soggy
- Heavy dressings, they overpower the hummus
Step-by-Step Ordering Tip
- Choose multigrain wheat bread
- Ask for toasted
- Remove feta if vegan
- Add hot peppers if you like heat
- Request oil and vinegar on the side
This setup works every time.
Ordering for Plant-Based Eaters
If you follow a plant-based diet, Potbelly is not the easiest place, but this sandwich makes it doable.
Vegan-Friendly Setup
- Mediterranean sandwich
- No feta
- Extra hummus
- Add avocado if available
- Oil and vinegar
Watch Out For
- Cross-contact on shared prep surfaces
- Dairy-based dressings
If you want a safer order, use the Potbelly app and customize it clearly.
Best Pairings, Soup, Sides, Drinks
The Mediterranean sandwich works best with lighter sides.
Top Pairings
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup (if vegetarian, not vegan)
- Garden side salad
- Baked chips
- Pickle spear
Drinks
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Or go all in with a hand-dipped shake
If you are trying to keep calories low, skip the shake and go with tea.
Who Should Order This Sandwich?
You’ll Like It If:
- You want a vegetarian sub that actually tastes good
- You prefer lighter, fresh flavors
- You like hummus and Mediterranean ingredients
Skip It If:
- You want a high-protein meal
- You prefer heavy, meat-loaded sandwiches like A Wreck
- You do not like feta or hummus
Common Questions About the Mediterranean Sandwich
Is the potbelly mediterranean sandwich healthy?
It can be, especially if you go skinny and limit feta. It is lower in calories than most meat sandwiches.
Does it come toasted?
Yes, by default. You can request it not toasted, but it tastes better warm.
Can you add protein?
You can add chicken or turkey, but that defeats the vegetarian purpose.
Is it messy?
Not really. It is cleaner than meatball or Italian subs, especially if you go light on sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Potbelly use fresh vegetables?
Yes, cucumbers, lettuce, and tomatoes are fresh and prepped daily in most locations.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Some locations offer gluten-free bread, but availability varies.
Can I order it as part of a combo?
Yes, use the Pick Your Pair or Make It A Meal option.
Does it qualify for Perks rewards?
Yes, you can earn and redeem points through the Potbelly Perks app.
Final Thoughts
The potbelly mediterranean sandwich proves that a meatless sub can still feel like a full meal.
Here is what matters most:
- It is one of the best vegetarian options on the menu
- Easy to make vegan with one simple change
- Balanced flavor, not boring
- Works well with lighter sides and combos
If you are tired of heavy sandwiches or just want something different, this one is worth trying.
Next step: check out other menu favorites like the Italian or A Wreck, or browse the latest deals on potbellymenu.org before your next order.
Disclaimer: Prices and menu items vary by location. Prices updated April 2026.