Firehouse Subs Downtown Lansing — Restaurant in Lansing

We meet again, Firehouse Subs. After having moved away from a conveniently located one in Metro Detroit, I'm happy to see this one in Downtown Lansing. Firehouse arguably has the most flavorful, most senses-satisfying sandwiches of all the chains. I rate them #1 and Potbelly's #2. This is the only place that steams the sandwiches as opposed to toasting. Their finished products are consistently well-assembled, similar to Potbelly's, but unlike all other sandwich chains. The ingredients are fresh, and the pickle spear is a nice touch. They also put the sandwiches in paperboard boxes as opposed to simply wrapping them; this prevents the bread from getting soggy during transport.

The service is not as quick as other chains, but this is purely due to the fact they take their time preparing each sandwich. We need to slow down in life and enjoy a good sandwich, and this is the place to do it.

I have two negative comments/suggests for this establishment: First, I saw two employees wipe their face with the back of their wrist on multiple occasions. This is certainly better than using the gloved hands, but it's a bit close for comfort. It's not an easy gig, but they might choose to use the crack of their arm or shoulder for attending to their face while making sandwiches. Second, the pickle spears are wrapped in a plastic bag. I think this is a waste. The pickles can be set next to the sandwiches, or maybe separated by one of the paper liners inside the paperboard box. This would save them some money and not contribute more plastic waste to landfills. Pretty minor issues, and it doesn't take away from my strong recommendation to visit...

I hate writing poor reviews....but... unfortunately this location has gone downhill fast. I waited writing a review, but nothing has changed in the last 8-12 months. I use to go here regularly 5/6 years ago and it was top notch. Now you walk in and are greeted by glass doors covered in scum, and floor mats caked in debris, neither of which have been cleaned in months. These pics are from Monday late morning, so I was one of the 1st customers, so I cant blame the mess on the "morning rush". The manager is a super nice guy, and can only work with what he is given I suppose. He always greets you with an attempted smile. Had to fire someone on the spot yesterday while I was there as it is understandably tough to hire/maintain good employees. So Ill give an extra star for him trying his best. But the food as well, has gone downhill. Nothing seems as fresh as it once was, shrinkflation has reached their sandwiches, and quality overall has diminished. And if you do choose to eat there, the eating area is horrible. Again, the floors/tables have not been cleaned in weeks, probably months. And I don't recommended the restrooms.... The walls have holes in them from where they removed the TV"s a few years ago. And if you choose to grab a soda, I recommend closing your eyes before reaching into the Coke machine.... I would hope corporate realizes that there is potential in "fast food" in Downtown Lansing and puts some extra money into getting things back in order, otherwise this place will be gone...

I just got my food and the guys behind the counter were friendly, quick, and just around awesome. The girl that was sweeping was rather unpleasant. She was having an attitude with what I assume is the manager. It appeared she was asked to sweep the floors as they were dirty. "Fine! I guess I just won't have a break then! I guess I just don't deserve it!" And other comments along the lines of "doing what she wants". I don't know the full story obviously but I can say that as a customer with a background in customer service, her behavior and language was unnecessary and looks bad. Not only that but it seems her bad mood affected her cleaning ability as she can't sweep for anything. The place was still a mess. Not sure who she was but she wore her hat backwards and wore a shirt that said "stay 200 feet away". She doesn't really add to the welcoming atmosphere that a business wants....