Firehouse Subs a hit on opening day

For those who have seen the sign for Firehouse Subs on the Fry’s Marketplace center marquee for months and salivating at the idea of a new gourmet sandwich shop coming to town, your wait is over. Firehouse Subs is open.

Owners John and Becky Beveridge live in Maricopa and have wanted to open a Firehouse Subs for some time.

“We had considered a few different territories in the East Valley but with no location in the Maricopa and Casa Grande area, and the fact that we live here and could easily service the location ourselves, we thought it was a great opportunity,” John said.

They were right, as Firehouse Subs seems to be an instant hit. People were lined up outside the door for lunch at noon today, and the crowd was a mix of families, firefighters and people on their lunch break.

“This is great, we have a great mixture of families here, we really feel like we have something to eat for people of all ages,” John said.

“This place is packed; it’s awesome,” customer Susan Cameron said. “Anytime there is a good business coming to town, I’m all for it.”

John thought opening a local location just made sense.

“We love the small and hometown feel of Maricopa. We grew up in a small town,” John said. “We felt like the Maricopa market is underserved with food options and this will be great for us and the community.”

“This is something new, and I’m excited to have a new place to eat,” customer Carrie Mase said.

Every Firehouse Subs location has a different look and way to pay homage to firefighters and first responders, and the Maricopa location is no different.

The restaurant features hats, jackets, an axe and other equipment donated by the Maricopa Fire Department.

All locations are charged with raising money for local public safety departments, and John said they are selling $5 medallions to benefiting first responders.

“Our mission is to provide people with good, gourmet sandwiches that are filling, and help support the local community and public safety,” John said.