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Team behind one of Vancouver's favourite fried chicken spots opens sub sandwich shop

You might already think the folks who brought us the DL Chicken Shack and Downlow Burgers are local heroes, but now heroes - hero sandwiches, that is - are their new beat.
venniesubshop-classic-credit Rich Won 2
The Classic Deli is an Italian-style hoagie on the menu at the new Vennie's Sub Shop

You might already think the folks who brought us the DL Chicken Shack and Downlow Burgers are local heroes, but now heroes - hero sandwiches, that is - are their new beat.

Vennie's Sub Shop has now officially opened its doors at 1692 Venables Street, and it's a sub sandwich spot created by Doug Stephen and Lindsey Mann, who can't keep their hoagie project on the "DL" any longer. And yes, it gets its name from the street. 

The menu features hoagie-style subs and other sandwiches, Vennie's has been a project in the works for some time, with some pop-ups cropping up around town in recent weeks.

You'll find an Italian sub called The Classic Deli at Vennie's, featuring Mortadella, Genoa Salami, Spicy Calabrian Soppressata, slivered onions, shredduce, Provolone, pepper relish, EVOO, balsamic, and herb seasoning. There's also the corned beef and sauerkraut loaded "The Lucky," (and its meat-free mushroom-based alternative), a Soy Poached Chicken hoagie, and a sub made in partnership with Aftermath BBQ featuring brisket and the works. There's also a "Ramen Egg Salad" on Japanese milk bread, as well as sandwiches on potato buns from local baker Livia, like roasted pork or fried bologna.

venniesubshop-meatloaf-credit Rich Won 3A meatball sandwich on a potato bun from Vennie's. By Rich Won/courtesy Vennie's Sup shop

“We’ve always loved sandwiches, and Vennie’s is our ode to all those underrated, unsung heroes out there,” says Stephen, who co-owns DL Chicken Shack and Downlow Burgers with Mann. “There is just so much potential and versatility in building a great hoagie, sub, submarine, hero, or sandwich - no matter what you call it. Think of the sauces, the meats, the veg, the cheese. Of course, it takes some finesse in how you build it. Once you’ve got it figured out, you get a taste of everything in each bite!”

Vennie’s Sub Shop is open Monday to Friday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.