I had a fantastic lunch experience today that warrants recognition on The Good Life blog. I was in Murray for an appointment around lunchtime, and when my appointment finished, I deliberated about where to stop for lunch. South to Fashion Place Mall, across the street to Cafe Rio, or east to Millcreek? While walking and browsing online for inspiration, I passed Gaetano’s Sub Shop. A small, unassuming establishment on State Street raises questions about whether it would be a dive or a decent meal. I looked up its rating and reviews and saw that it has 4.5 stars. That’s a good start! Next, I checked its online menu. I am not rigid about my dietary choices, but I always strive to find healthy options. Also, as a Catholic observing Lent, I am eating a mostly vegetarian diet until Easter. Could an Italian sub shop handle these requirements? I was delighted to find out that it could!
I decided to try a 6-inch Fungi Philly, which is a vegetarian spin on a Philly cheesesteak. (10-inch subs also are available.) Grilled mushrooms replace the meat, and melted provolone, grilled onions, bell peppers, sliced tomatoes, and mayo top the sandwich. I ordered a “small” salad as a side, and the young woman who took my order suggested that I add olives, which come as part of a “giardiniera” — an Italian relish of pickled vegetables in vinegar or oil. The ingredients on the sandwich and in the salad were fresh and flavorful. Calling the salad “small” is a bit of a misnomer as it comes in a large to-go box and could easily be shareable. The mix of olives in the giardiniera were a particular treat, having a little kick that was equal parts savory and spicy. I also absolutely loved the soft, fresh bread for the sandwich whose texture was consistent throughout.
Gaetano’s Sub Shop offers a good variety of options to meet different diners’ needs. Vegetarians will love the Fungi Philly as I did. It could easily be made vegan by removing the provolone and mayo. The Herbivore, a cold sub with provolone and an assortment of vegetables, is another worthy choice. Meat lovers will enjoy a wide selection, ranging from meatball subs to steak, chicken, hotdogs, or fried fish. Crispy fries or chips are popular sides.
The restaurant’s warm hospitality matches its satisfying food. The young woman at the counter greeted me promptly upon entering, and both she and the cook, whom I think is the owner or manager, checked on my satisfaction with everything several times during my visit. Their conversation was welcoming and authentic, a breath of fresh air and a welcome change from the scripted conversation employees at chain restaurants are trained to use. The staff at Gaetano’s Sub Shop genuinely seemed to care about accommodating their customers, several of whom appeared to be regulars. The restaurant did a steady business while I was there.
I thoroughly enjoyed my spontaneous vist to Gaetano’s Sub Shop, and I look forward to returning. Gaetano’s Sub Shop has two locations, one in Murray and one in Salt Lake City. Click here for more information, and consider stopping in for a great experience.
- Gaetano’s Sub Shop – Murray
5823 South State Street
Murray, Utah 84107
(385) 425 3516 - Gaetano’s Sub Shop – Salt Lake City
1618 South State Street
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
(801) 467-3676
The Good Life 
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