It Wouldn't Feel Like Central New York Without JRECK Subs

If you grew up in Central New York, there's a good chance you've eaten at JRECK subs.

Maybe it was after a soccer game, on your lunch break, or simply because you were craving your favorite sub. Whatever the reason, JRECK is one of those places that's been part of life in Central New York for as long as many of us can remember.

What you might not know is that the story behind JRECK is just as memorable as the food.

It All Started with Five Teachers

JRECK Subs was born in 1967 when five teachers from Carthage Central High School started selling submarine sandwiches out of a converted school bus.

Their names were Jerry Haley, Robert Martin, Ellis Martin, Charles Lehman, and Keith Waltz. Take the first letter of each of their names and you get "JRECK."

Nearly 60 years later, what started as a small idea has grown into locations across New York, serving fresh, made-to-order subs and salads to loyal customers.

while a lot has changed since 1967, one thing hasn't: JRECK has always been rooted in the communities it serves.

More Than a Great Lunch Spot

There are plenty of places to grab a sandwich, but JRECK has managed to stick around for nearly six decades for a reason.

Whether it's your favorite sub, a fresh salad, or the familiar experience of stopping into your local JRECK, it's easy to see why so many people have made it part of their routine over the years.

When our founder, Alex Canavan, recently stopped by JRECK, she got to experience it for herself. But what stood out to Alex wasn't just the food.

A Program That Deserves More Attention

One of the things she appreciated most was learning about JRECK sub's Winning Attitude Award.

Since 2003, the program has recognized graduating seniors across 26 high schools in New York, awarding more than $70,000 in scholarships to students who demonstrate resilience, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic.

What makes the award stand out is who it celebrates. Rather than focusing solely on academic or athletic achievement, the Winning Attitude Award recognizes students whose character and attitude make a difference in their schools and communities.

What has kept JRECK Subs around for nearly 60 years isn't just what's on the menu. It's the way the company has stayed connected to the communities that have supported it through the years.

The next time you're deciding where to grab lunch, consider choosing a Central New York original.

Whether you're ordering your go-to sub or trying one of their fresh salads, you'll be supporting a business that's been serving—and giving back to—this region for nearly 60 years.


about jreck subs

Founded in 1967, JRECK Subs is a New York-based sandwich shop known for its fresh, made-to-order subs, salads, and commitment to the communities it serves.

What began as five teachers selling submarine sandwiches from a converted school bus has grown into a regional favorite with locations across New York.

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