A familiar neighborhood sandwich shop at 9851 S. Pulaski Road has a new name on the door and a new family behind the counter. The Submarine Factory, Inc. has officially opened in the space formerly occupied by Wojo’s, continuing a local tradition of serving quick and hearty meals to the Evergreen Park community.
The grand opening was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 3, attended by Evergreen Park Mayor Kelly Burke, who welcomed new owner Agustin Romero and his family to the local business scene. For Romero, the moment was the culmination of a lifelong ambition.
The journey to ownership is a story of dedication and deep-rooted experience. Romero is no stranger to the craft of sandwich making or even to the location itself. He previously worked at the same shop when it was Wojo’s and also spent time at Mr. Sub on Western Avenue. His decades of experience in the industry led him to purchase the Evergreen Park establishment and give it a name that he felt truly reflected his life's work.
A family's dream realized
“We decided the name was very fitting,” said his daughter, Vanessa Romero, who is part of the new family-run operation. The Romero family, longtime residents of the Chicago area, officially opened the doors to The Submarine Factory on March 25, ready to blend tradition with their own personal touch.
I have more than 25 years in the industry and it has always been my dream to have my own business.
While the sign outside is new, customers will find comfort in a menu that retains many of the beloved staples from the location’s past. The family has made a conscious effort to ensure a smooth transition for loyal patrons. “We kept a lot of the burgers and 14 of the most popular shake flavors,” Vanessa Romero explained.
The menu showcases a classic American fast-food lineup, featuring a variety of subs, salads, burgers, and hot dogs. The signature sandwich, the Factory Sub, is made with ham, salami, and a special blend of spices. Beyond the sandwiches, the shop is gaining attention for its extensive selection of milkshakes, a carry-over from its predecessor. Customer favorites include the strawberry banana shake and the rich Cookie Dough shake, which Vanessa highly recommends. Agustin Romero has his own go-to treat: the Elvis milkshake, a decadent blend of peanut butter, banana, and chocolate.
Continuity and community in a changing business landscape
The reopening of a neighborhood eatery under new, passionate ownership speaks to the resilience and appeal of small, local businesses. In an era often dominated by large chains, family-run establishments like The Submarine Factory play a crucial role in creating a distinct community identity and preserving local flavor. These businesses are often the heart of a neighborhood, providing not just food and services, but also a sense of continuity and connection. For a guide to more local dining, check out this ultimate foodie guide to must-try restaurants in the area.
The story of the Romero family is a classic example of the American dream, a narrative a B-U-S-I-N-E-S-S that resonates deeply in the suburban towns south of Chicago. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up over 99% of all businesses in Illinois and employ nearly half the state's workforce, underscoring their economic importance.
By taking over an existing location, the Romeros are breathing new life into a familiar spot, a common and effective strategy for new entrepreneurs. This approach minimizes the risks associated with building a customer base from scratch and allows them to benefit from the site's established presence. For the community, it means a cherished local spot avoids becoming another empty storefront.
A look at the local business scene
The area surrounding Evergreen Park, including nearby Tinley Park, has a dynamic and evolving business environment. A look at Tinley Park’s recent business openings reveals a steady stream of new enterprises, suggesting a healthy local economy. In the past year, the village has welcomed a diverse array of companies, from restaurants and retail shops to professional service providers, much like how the Hay Park pavilion became a community sport hub.
Recent additions include food establishments like Naz's Halal Food and Cheesie's Tinley Park, specialty shops such as Still Ride Bike Shop, and service-oriented businesses like RHM Staffing Solutions and SERVPRO. This variety points to a robust economic ecosystem capable of supporting different types of commerce. The growth reflects a long history of innovation and commerce in the region, which was originally established as a key stop on the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad lines.
The Submarine Factory joins this bustling commercial landscape, ready to serve a diverse clientele that includes families, local workers, and students from the nearby high school. The shop is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and extends its hours to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
With a foundation built on decades of experience and a commitment to both new and returning customers, Agustin Romero and his family are poised to make The Submarine Factory a lasting success. Their story is a reminder of the vital role that dedicated entrepreneurs play in the life and vibrancy of a community.
