Sandwich fans, prepare for some exciting news! One of the most unique bottom chains in the game right now is taking its popular sandwiches to more parts of the country — and it could be headed to an area near you.

Cheba Huta cannabis-themed chain known for its toasted sub sandwiches, only announced an exciting new expansion deal that will introduce the brand to Virginia for the first time. Franchisee group WAHI Brands Inc. will develop ten Cheba Hut locations in the state through the deal, with the first of the planned stores expected to open in Richmond or Hampton Roads in 2025.

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WAHI, an existing franchisee with the chain, will have eight Cheba Hut locations under its belt when the first Virginia store begins serving customers next year — and more openings will follow soon after. In the longer term, WAHI CEO Isaac Montoya wants to own up to 35 Cheba Hut stores in Virginia, New Mexico, Texas and Montana.

The sandwich chain unveiled its upcoming Virginia debut just a month after announces plans to enter another new state: Iowa. Franchisee and Iowa native Mistene Nugent will open the Hawkeye State’s first Cheba Hut in Des Moines before the end of 2024 and plans to open two more in the surrounding area next year.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Overall, Cheba Hut’s ambitious growth pipeline in Virginia, Iowa and other markets will significantly expand its footprint in the US and introduce its innovative sandwich line to many more customers. The chain currently operates over 70 locations in 15 states, serving a variety of subs with unique flavor combinations and cannabis-inspired names.

For example, Cheba Hut sells a “Sensi Kush” sandwich (910 calories), which is essentially a souped-up BLT with bacon, honey sriracha, mayo, avocado, provolone, lettuce, tomato, house dressing and a parmesan blend called “Shake.” There’s also a “Thai Stick” sandwich (420 calories) that includes grilled chicken breast, teriyaki, green pepper, pineapple, pepper jack, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, shake and house dressing. No matter which variety you order, Cheba Hut will serve your sandwich on its hand-rolled, hand-decorated bread sourced from a bakery that is over 50 years old.

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Besides the sandwiches themselves, another quality that makes Cheba Hut stand out from rival chains is its range of drinks. Most locations have bars serving local beers, signature cocktails and spirits. Participating restaurants and bars also have Happy Hour from 15-18

Cheba Hut isn’t the only popular sandwich chain making big expansion moves in 2024. Jersey Mike’s expects to open a whopping 350 new locations by the end of the year, according to CEO Peter Cancrowhile Firehouse Subs plans to open 300 net new restaurants annually over the next few years. Potbelly, Port of Subs and Jimmy John’s are among the others sandwich chains that are growing fast right now.

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Zoe Strozewski