Subway Cafe: Sandwiches Go Upscale in South Beach

Comras Company

Subway Cafe to serve espresso with your subs.

Subway has come a long way from the lone Bridgeport, Connecticut sandwich shop that was opened by 17-year-old Fred DeLuca and partner Dr. Peter Buck in 1965.

Today, the brand is the world's largest sandwich chain with over 34,000 locations worldwide. Now, they're is poised for the next step in worldwide fast food domination ... a cafe. And South Beach will be a testing ground for the concept

Subway Cafe will occupy a 1,238-square-foot space on the corner of 15th Street and Washington Avenue in South Beach. In a partnership with Seattle Coffee, the cafe will serve baked goods, dessert items, and a full line of espresso-based creations in addition to the regular Subway menu of sandwiches and salads.

The Subway Cafe will feature wood paneled walls, lounge-style seating with armchairs, and high-end lighting. There's even talk of a fireplace. We're dreaming about WiFi ...

The lease deal was just inked, with the Comras Company representing both landlord and tenant in the transaction. No word yet on when the cafe will serve its first latte.

Subway Cafe will join Five Guys Burgers and Fries, Cocolimon Frozen Yogurt, and 100 Montaditos in the building, which will make this part of town the "go-to" place for backpackers, college students, and the budget-conscious looking for a lunchtime respite from the high prices at tonier establishments on the beach and Lincoln Road.

Follow Short Order on Facebook and Twitter @Short_Order.