Cheba Hut Emphasizes ‘Toasted’ and Expands in Iowa

We've been hearing stories all year about chains closing locations or going away entirely.

If you enjoy a good sandwich and you don’t mind a little cheeky cannabis theme sprinkled in, you might want to clear your lunch plans.

Cheba Hut: the "toasted sub" shop famous for its laid-back, weed-inspired branding, is officially making the trip to Iowa. Um, insert Beavis & Butt-Head giggles here?

If the name rings a bell, it should. Cheba Hut actually had a location in Iowa City years ago, but it shut down back in 2014.

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Now, the chain is back and poised to stay, and they’re starting in the capital city.

Cheba Hut Returns to Iowa

The first new Iowa Cheba Hut quietly opened in Johnston at the end of 2024.

If you aren't familiar, and I wasn't, expect giant subs with names like "Thai Stick" and “Sensi Kush,” plus a bar where you can grab a drink to go with your sandwich.

The vibe seems very "college town meets chill lunch spot."

Think colorful murals, pun-filled menus, and, I guess, subs, too.

READ MORE: Iowa Has Tons of Locations of the Top-Ranked Pizza Chain

More Locations Are Coming

And they’re not done yet. According to company plans, Cheba Hut wants to open two more Iowa locations sometime in 2025, giving more of us a taste of their toasted sub culture.

Nationwide, the chain has been experiencing significant growth, with plans to triple its shops to over 200 by 2030.

READ MORE: McDonald's Reopens Remodled Eastern Iowa Location

I admit, I'm a bit curious. I don't remember the Iowa City locations, and I'm not sure if in 2014 I'd have cared all that much, honestly.

If you're like me, you’ll soon have more chances to grab a giant sandwich, no secret handshake required.

Are you excited to see Cheba Hut back in Iowa? Or, just in general?