Cousins Submarines, more commonly known as Cousins Subs or even just Cousins, was founded in 1972 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by two cousins Bill Specht and James Sheppard. The company operates a chain of restaurants whose main focus is submarine style sandwiches.
The chain is perhaps best known for using fresh bread, baked at local bakeries and delivered fresh daily. The company was forced to close about 40 locations in 2009 due to the recession. As of May of 2017, the company operates about 95 locations in 3 states. Restaurants in Milwaukee are company owned, the remainder are franchises.
Cousins Submarines are usually made with food from local farmers or dairies, such as Wisconsin cheese, Badger Ham, and Sprecher Root Beer. In addition to sandwiches, the company also serves soups and salads.
In April 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic, Cousins Subs raised money to help frontline healthcare workers.
In June 2020, the company launched its first “Delivery Only” sandwich location.
