Submarina California Subs Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Founded in 1977 in the San Diego area by Ron Vickers and Les Warfield, Submarina California Subs began as a local sandwich shop built around high-quality ingredients and freshly baked breads. It opened its first location in Poway, California, a suburb of San Diego, and over time developed into a regional brand.
The company is privately held and headquartered in San Diego, California, serving as the central base for its operations and franchise support.
The brand’s franchise system officially began in 1988, when the first Submarina franchise store was opened under the founders’ guidance and away from their original company-owned prototype.
Submarina focuses on submarine sandwiches, offering a menu of hot and cold deli-style subs, salads, and soups, all prepared with premium meats and cheeses, crisp produce, and breads baked in-house or delivered fresh each day.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Submarina California Subs franchise? It costs on average between $183,000 – $370,000 to start a Submarina California Subs franchised restaurant.
This includes costs for construction, kitchen equipment, furnishings, signage, initial inventory, and opening operating expenses. The total amount varies depending on several factors, such as the size and layout of the Submarina California Subs restaurant, the specific market location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fees | $10,000 to $15,000 |
| Document Preparation Fee | $250 to $750 |
| Site Selection Assistance | $0 to $1,000 |
| First Month’s Rent and Security Deposit | $2,000 to $14,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $95,000 to $190,000 |
| Store Design Consulting Services | $5,500 to $11,500 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Signage | $47,500 to $65,000 |
| Initial Training Costs | $0 to $5,000 |
| Pre-Opening Consultation | $0 to $1,000 |
| Opening Assistance Costs | $0 to $5,000 |
| Computer Hardware and Software | $2,500 to $10,000 |
| Initial Inventory/Supplies | $3,500 to $7,000 |
| Professional Services | $2,500 to $7,000 |
| Opening Advertising Expenses | $3,500 to $5,000 |
| Insurance | $250 to $3,000 |
| Additional Funds | $10,000 to $30,000 |
| Total | $182,500 to $370,250 |
Submarina California Subs Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Submarina California Subs franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Submarina California Subss investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure. See SharpSheets financial model hub for guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Submarina California Subs franchise investment?
Payback periods typically run 3-7 years depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Submarina California Subs?
Submarina California Subs franchise is owned by Submarina Franchise of California, LLC.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: July 2026
Disclaimer
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Research Submarina California Subs franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Submarina California Subs FDD Review.
