Potbelly Introduce
In the bustling landscape of Midtown East, New York, where every minute counts, finding a reliable and satisfying meal can be a challenge. That’s where Potbelly comes in. Located just steps from Grand Central Terminal, this popular sandwich shop has carved out a reputation as a go-to spot for a quick, fresh, and flavorful meal. More than just a place to grab a bite, Potbelly offers a casual and cozy atmosphere that feels like a pleasant escape from the city’s frantic pace. While it is a chain, this specific location has a unique charm, often described by customers as a "hidden gem" that feels almost private and exclusive. This is a place where you can enjoy a peaceful lunch, either solo or with a companion, and still be back to your busy day in no time. Potbelly is known for its signature toasted sandwiches, but their menu extends far beyond that, offering a variety of salads, soups, mac and cheese, and delicious shakes and cookies. The core of their appeal lies in the quality of their ingredients and the speed of their service, making it a reliable choice for the countless office workers, tourists, and students who frequent the area. It is a place that understands the needs of its urban clientele, delivering comfort food with a healthy twist, and doing it all with a friendly smile.
Potbelly's philosophy is built on serving up simple, good food with a side of warmth and fun. The inviting atmosphere, with its clean surfaces and a mix of booth and stool seating, provides a comfortable spot for diners. A standout feature that sets this location apart is the presence of live music, which adds a unique, enjoyable element to the dining experience. While some customer experiences have varied, particularly regarding online order pickup during peak hours, the general consensus is that the food itself is a hit. The staff, known for being fast and friendly, works hard to keep the line moving and orders flowing. The menu's focus on customizable, made-to-order items means you can get your sandwich exactly how you like it. Whether you are craving a hearty, meaty sandwich or a lighter, veggie-packed option, Potbelly has you covered. The combination of a relaxed environment, quality food, and the distinct touch of live music makes this particular Potbelly location a memorable stop on your food journey in the city. It's a place that caters to a diverse crowd, from business people on their lunch break to families looking for a convenient and kid-friendly spot, making it a true community hub.
Potbelly is conveniently located at 150 E 44th St, New York, NY 10017, placing it in one of the most accessible and high-traffic areas of Midtown East. Its location is ideal for anyone navigating the city's complex transit system. The restaurant is just a stone's throw away from Grand Central Terminal, a major hub for commuter trains and multiple subway lines (4, 5, 6, 7, S). This prime spot makes it an incredibly easy destination to reach from almost anywhere in Manhattan, the outer boroughs, and even the suburbs. For those who prefer to walk, it's situated right off the main thoroughfare of Lexington Avenue, surrounded by countless office buildings, shops, and other attractions. The restaurant is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that it can accommodate a wide range of customers. While paid street parking is available in the area, it can be scarce and expensive, so taking public transportation is often the best and most convenient option. The ease of access, combined with its central location, makes Potbelly a natural choice for a fast and reliable meal during a busy day in the city.
The strategic location of Potbelly on E 44th St is a key component of its appeal. It serves as a perfect escape for the countless professionals working in the surrounding corporate towers. Its proximity to landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the United Nations also makes it a convenient and practical stop for tourists. The ability to grab a quick, satisfying meal without a long commute is a major selling point. The restaurant’s efficiency is a perfect match for the fast-paced energy of the neighborhood. The option for curbside pickup and delivery further enhances its accessibility, allowing you to enjoy their food without even having to step inside. The combination of a centrally located physical space and a robust digital presence through various delivery platforms ensures that Potbelly can serve a broad audience with speed and ease. The neighborhood itself is a blend of commercial and residential, attracting a diverse crowd, and Potbelly’s offerings and atmosphere are well-suited to this mix. It is this understanding of urban life and its demands that makes this Potbelly location a successful and enduring fixture in the Midtown East dining scene.
Potbelly provides a comprehensive list of services to ensure a seamless dining experience for all its guests:
Service options: The restaurant offers a variety of service options to fit your needs, including dine-in, takeout, and both standard and no-contact delivery. Curbside pickup is also available for added convenience.
Dining options: You can visit for a satisfying lunch or a casual dinner. They offer catering services for office parties and events, providing a great option for feeding a group. Desserts are also available to round out your meal. Seating is provided for those who wish to eat on-site.
Offerings: The menu includes a variety of comfort food items, healthy options, and vegetarian choices. From classic sandwiches to flavorful salads and hearty soups, there is something for everyone. They are a great spot for a quick bite.
Amenities: The restaurant features a clean restroom and comfortable seating, with both booths and stools available. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it a comfortable place to relax and eat.
Planning: While the business description does not mention accepting reservations, the focus on fast service and efficient order management means you can generally get your food quickly without a long wait, especially when ordering ahead online.
Potbelly is celebrated for its unique features and highlights that set it apart from other sandwich shops:
Fast Service: The service is consistently fast and efficient, which is crucial in a neighborhood of busy professionals. While there have been some isolated issues with online order pickup, the staff is generally quick to get orders ready and out to customers.
Live Music: This location features live music, a truly unique highlight that turns a simple lunch into a more enjoyable and relaxing experience. It adds to the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it more than just a place to eat.
A Wreck® Sandwich: This is a fan favorite and a must-try. The A Wreck® is a signature sandwich packed with turkey, ham, roast beef, and salami, making it a hearty and flavorful choice that perfectly represents the Potbelly experience.
Wide Menu Selection: Beyond sandwiches, Potbelly offers a variety of delicious options, including hot soups (like Chili Mac and Chicken Pot Pie) and a selection of fresh salads. The addition of shakes and cookies makes it a great spot for a full meal with a sweet finish.
Customization: The menu is designed to allow for easy customization. You can choose from a variety of bread types, cheeses, and toppings, ensuring your sandwich is made to your exact preference.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a variety of options that are "Good for kids" and a casual, relaxed vibe, Potbelly is a great place to bring the whole family for a stress-free meal.
To place an order or get in touch with the Potbelly location in Midtown East, you can use the following information:
Address: 150 E 44th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Phone: (646) 289-4202
Mobile Phone: +1 646-289-4202
These contact details are your direct connection to the restaurant, whether you need to place a catering order for a large group, inquire about the day’s soup specials, or check on the status of a delivery. The presence of both a landline and a mobile number provides an easy way to reach them from any device, a small detail that speaks to their focus on accessibility. It is highly recommended to call ahead or order online, especially during the busy lunch rush, to ensure your meal is ready when you arrive. While online ordering has had some hiccups according to customer reviews, communicating directly with the store can help clear up any issues. The staff’s willingness to address customer concerns, even if they have to remake a stolen order, shows a commitment to customer satisfaction. The ease of contact, combined with their various service options, makes Potbelly a convenient and reliable choice for a meal in the area. This seamless communication is part of the reason why it remains a staple for many locals and professionals in Midtown East.
When it comes to choosing what to try at Potbelly, the menu offers a fantastic range of options. The absolute must-try is the **A Wreck®**, a fan-favorite that lives up to its name with a generous combination of turkey, ham, roast beef, and salami. For a savory and comforting choice, the **Mama's Meatball** sandwich or a bowl of their creamy **Mac & Cheese** are excellent options. If you're looking for something with a bit of a kick, the **Sweet Heat Pork BBQ** or the **Fireball** sandwiches are great choices. For those seeking a healthier meal, the **salads** are fresh and flavorful, with the **Apple Walnut Salad** and **Powerhouse Salad** being popular picks. Their **soups**, like the **Broccoli Cheddar** and **Chicken Pot Pie**, are also a highlight and are perfect for a cold day. Don't forget to complete your meal with a side of their signature **Zapp's chips** and a freshly baked cookie or a hand-scooped shake. The **OREO® Cookie Shake** is a particular delight. With so many great choices, Potbelly offers a consistently satisfying meal that caters to a wide range of tastes, making it a top choice for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner in Midtown East.
Potbelly Food & drink
Combos & Deals
- Pick Your Pair Skinny Sandwich + Soup $12.99
Choose any skinny sandwich and any cup of soup, chili, or mac & cheese
- Pick Your Pair Salad + Soup $12.99
Choose any half salad and any cup of soup, chili, or mac & cheese
- Pick Your Pair Skinny Sandwich + Salad $14.99
Choose any skinny sandwich and any half salad
Sandwiches
- Prime Rib Steak
Tender sliced prime rib steak, swiss, housemade caramelized onions, garlic aioli. Want to turn up the heat? Try it with our signature Hot Peppers.
- Cubano
Slow-cooked pulled pork, hickory smoked ham, swiss, deli mustard, pickles
- Sweet Heat Pork BBQ
Slow-cooked pulled pork, cheddar, pickles, and sweet heat BBQ sauce made with our signature hot peppers
- A Wreck
A meaty fan favorite! Turkey breast, hickory smoked ham, Angus roast beef, salami, swiss. Want to spice it up a little? Try it with our NEW Hot Pepper Ranch.
- Italian
Salami, old-world capicola, pepperoni, mortadella, provolone. Want to add even more flavor? Try it with Oil and NEW Red Wine Vinegar.
- Avo Turkey
Hand-sliced turkey breast, swiss, fresh-sliced avocado, cucumbers. Want to spice it up a little? Try it with our NEW Hot Pepper Ranch.
- Chicken Club
All-natural grilled chicken, applewood smoked bacon, cheddar. Want sweet with a little spicy? Try it with our NEW Sweet Heat BBQ Sauce.
- BLTA
Applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, fresh-sliced avocado. Want to spice it up a little? Try it with our NEW Hot Pepper Ranch.
- Veggie Melt
Fresh-sliced avocado, swiss, cheddar, provolone, mushrooms. Want to add even more flavor? Try it with our NEW Roasted Garlic Aioli.
- Pizza Melt
Pepperoni, old-world capicola, crumbled meatball, smothered in marinara sauce, provolone, Italian seasoning, mushrooms [can be made vegetarian]. Want to turn up the heat? Try it with our signature Hot Peppers.
- Mediterranean
All-natural grilled chicken, feta, zesty hummus, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, cucumbers (can be made vegetarian)
- Mama's Meatball
Homestyle beef + pork meatballs smothered in marinara sauce, provolone, Italian seasoning. Want to turn up the heat? Try it with our signature Hot Peppers.
- Turkey Breast
Hand-sliced turkey breast, swiss. Want to add even more flavor? Try it with our NEW Roasted Garlic Aioli.
- Smoked Ham
Hickory smoked ham, swiss. Want to add the perfect companion? Try it with our Deli Mustard.
- Roast Beef
Angus roast beef, provolone
- Grilled Chicken
All-natural grilled chicken, cheddar. Want sweet with a little spicy? Try it with our NEW Sweet Heat BBQ sauce.
- Tuna Salad
100% albacore tuna salad, swiss. Want a little crunch? Try adding some Cucumbers.
- Chicken Salad
Chicken salad, provolone. Want a little crunch? Try adding some Cucumbers.
- PB&J
Creamy peanut butter, grape jelly
- Grilled Cheese
Melted cheddar
Underground
- Barnyard
Turkey breast, hickory smoked ham, Angus roast beef, salami, meatballs, applewood smoked bacon, Swiss. Want to turn up the heat? Try it with our signature Hot Peppers.
- Smokestack
Slow-cooked pulled pork, sweet heat barbeque sauce, and our signature mac & cheese
- Chicken Cordon Bleu
All-natural grilled chicken, hickory smoked ham, Swiss cheese, deli mustard, lettuce and tomato served on our toasty bread
- Clubby
Oven roasted turkey breast, hickory smoked ham, applewood smoked bacon, provolone, and creamy buttermilk ranch. Want to spice it up a little? Try it with our NEW Hot Pepper Ranch.
- Lucky 7
Turkey breast, hickory smoked ham, Angus roast beef, salami, old-world capicola, pepperoni, mortadella, provolone. Want to add even more flavor? Try it with Oil and NEW Red Wine Vinegar.
- Sicilian
Crumbled meatballs, marinara, salami, old-world capicola, pepperoni, mortadella, mushrooms, provolone. Want to turn up the heat? Try it with our signature Hot Peppers.
- Wrecking Ball
Crumbled meatballs, marinara, turkey breast, hickory smoked ham, Angus roast beef, salami, provolone. Want to turn up the heat? Try it with our signature Hot Peppers.
- Fireball
Homestyle beef + pork meatballs, chili, Potbelly hot peppers, cheddar
- A Wreck® Salad
Our fan favorite…now in a salad! Turkey breast, hickory smoked ham, Angus roast beef, salami, swiss, hard-boiled egg, cucumber and tomatoes, served on a bed of field greens with creamy buttermilk ranch. Want to spice it up a little? Try it with our NEW Hot Pepper Ranch.
- Pork BBQ Mac
Our signature three-cheese mac topped with slow-cooked pulled pork and our sweet heat BBQ sauce.
Salads
- Farmhouse Salad
All-natural grilled chicken breast, bacon, crumbled blue cheese, hard-boiled egg, cucumber and tomatoes, served on a bed of field greens with creamy buttermilk ranch. Want to spice it up a little? Try it with our NEW Hot Pepper Ranch.
- Apple Walnut Salad
All-natural grilled chicken breast, crumbled blue cheese, grapes, apples, dried cranberries and candied walnuts, served on a bed of field greens with balsamic vinaigrette
- Powerhouse Salad
All-natural grilled chicken breast, fresh-sliced avocado, hummus, hard-boiled egg, cucumber and tomatoes, served on a bed of field greens with non-fat vinaigrette
- Chicken Salad Salad
Freshly made chicken salad, provolone cheese, dried cranberries, cucumber and tomatoes, served on a bed of field greens with balsamic vinaigrette
Soups & Macs
Mac & Soups available after 10:00 am
- Chili Mac
Hearty beef chili with kidney beans, bell peppers and onions topped with our creamy, three-cheese mac
- Mac & Cheese
Creamy, three-cheese mac
- Broccoli Cheddar
Creamy cheese soup with tender pieces of broccoli and carrots
- Chicken Pot Pie
Tender, slow-roasted chicken breast and veggies topped with crumbles of fresh-baked pie crust
- Chili
Hearty beef chili with kidney beans, bell peppers and onions
- Garden Vegetable
Beans, carrots, celery, corn, mushrooms, onions, peppers, potatoes and zucchini in a light tomato broth
- Loaded Baked Potato
Hearty potato soup with bacon, cheddar cheese and green onion
Drinks
- Fountain
- Fountain Large
- Coke $3.79
20 oz. Bottle
- Diet Coke $3.79
20 oz. Bottle
- Sprite $3.79
20 oz. Bottle
- Coke Zero Sugar $3.79
20 oz. Bottle
- 16 oz. Bottled Water $2.49
16 oz. Bottle
- 25 oz. Bottled Water $2.99
25 oz. Bottle
- IBC Cream Soda $3.79
12 oz. Bottle
- IBC Root Beer $3.79
12 oz. Bottle
- San Pellegrino $3.79
16.9 oz. Bottle
- San Pellegrino Blood Orange $3.79
11.15 oz Can
- Gold Peak Sweet Tea $3.79
18.5 oz. Bottle
- Arizona Tea $3.69
16oz Bottle
- Peach Tea Snapple $3.49
16oz Bottle
- Nantucket Nectars Orange Mango $3.79
16oz Bottle
Chips & Sides
- Chips + Drink $4.79
Make it a Meal Deal! Choose any chips and a drink.
- Chips + Bottled Drink $4.79
Make it a Meal Deal! Choose any chips and a drink.
- Chips + Shake $4.79
Make it a Meal Deal! Choose any chips and a shake.
- Zapp's Regular Chips $2.59
- Zapp's Salt & Vinegar Chips $2.59
- Baked Lay's $2.59
- Utz Cheese Curls $2.59
- Zapp's Hotter 'N Hot Jalapeño Chips $2.59
- Zapp's Mesquite BBQ Chips $2.59
- Zapp's Hot Pepper Chips $2.59
- Zapp's VooDoo Regular Chips $2.59
- Hot Peppers Jar $7.49
Our famous giardiniera hot peppers, ready to spice up your kitchen at home. A perfect gift, too.
- Potbelly Whole Pickle $1.59
Cookies & Shakes
- S'mores Cookie $2.79
Chocolate chunks, graham crackers and marshmallows
- 6-Pack Cookie Box
Choose 6 of your favorite cookie or an assortment of our fresh-baked cookies
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie $2.79
A Potbelly favorite! Freshly baked oatmeal chocolate chip cookie
- Sugar Cookie $2.79
Baked fresh daily
- Chocolate Brownie Cookie $2.79
Baked fresh daily
- Dream Bar $2.79
Rich, chocolatey oatmeal bar with sweet caramel
- Bag of Mini Cookies $5.69
Dozen mini oatmeal chocolate chip cookies
- Root Beer Float Shake
The classic flavor of a soda shop favorite in a creamy hand-dipped shake.
- Banana Pudding Shake
The creamy vanilla and sweet banana flavors of the dessert classic, now in a delicious hand-dipped shake
- Cold Brew Shake
Cold-brewed Arabica coffee and hand-dipped vanilla ice cream. Shake and wake!
- OREO® Cookie Shake
Made with hand-dipped ice cream. OREO is a trademark of Mondelez International group, used under license.
- Chocolate Shake
Made with hand-dipped ice cream
- Strawberry Shake
Made with hand-dipped ice cream
- Vanilla Shake
Made with hand-dipped ice cream
Upsells
- Chips + Drink $4.79
Make it a Meal Deal! Choose any chips and a drink.
- Chips + Bottled Drink $4.79
Make it a Meal Deal! Choose any chips and a drink.
- Cookie
- 6-Pack Cookie Box
Choose 6 of your favorite cookie or an assortment of our fresh-baked cookies
- Mac or Soup Cup
- Half Salad
Potbelly Details
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Live music
Popular for
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Paid street parking
Potbelly Photos










Potbelly Location
Potbelly Reviews
lunchpricehot peppersshakessaladsubspatientsmoothiemac and cheesechicken sandwich
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Great little hidden gem that seems almost private and exclusive. The food is great, the staff were really nice and there was ample seating. The surfaces were clean but a few of the stool seats were broken but there are booth seats as well. It was nice to have an uninterrupted, peaceful lunch with my husband here, right off the beaten path of Lexington ave.
April 09 · Amelia PHWFor context, I've worked in the area for over 15 years. This location has been on my regular lunch rotation since they opened. That of course changed over the pandemic, and this location has not been able to recover. Unfortunately it has taken a turn for the worst over the past couple years with the current shift manager.Over the past couple years, I've had consistent bad experiences with them. Everytime I visit, something is wrong. I tend to forget about it 2-3 months later and visit again, but the last 2 experiences in particular are prompting me to write this review.Over the past 2 years, they have been consistently late in having your order ready - I always order ahead online. Due to that, I figured I would come 10-15mins after it would be ready. About 6 months ago I popped in about 10mins after the sandwich was supposed to be ready. After waiting and the staff looking around, they stated someone had stolen my sandwich, and to please wait they will make me a new one. Shift manager was not apologetic, simply matter of fact. I got my food about 45mins after I should have gotten it.Today the same thing happened - my sandwich was supposed to be ready at 11:57am, I showed up around 1210pm and no sandwich. Staff looking around, same Shift Manager got to me around 1230 after I'd showed them my email confirm multiple times to state it was stolen. There was another guy in the same situation. Got my sandwich at 1245. Complained to the Manager who stated there is "nothing" she can do other that remake the sandwich since it was stolen. Well here's and idea - how about you guys have an employee hand out the orders so people don't take them. Happened twice today and to me before! She was not rude but just unemphatic.I typically don't like to write negative reviews, but this bad service has gone on for a while. After coming here to write the review, I noticed there are similar reviews. The food has also been hit or miss over the past couple years. Management really needs to review this location!! Since I spent the time to write this review, I won't be forgetting nor returning to this location!
July 29 · Ash MajidLove this place, used to get potbelly back when I lived in Chicago. I come after work to beat the lunch rush. Uges, who has helped me the last two times has been really excellent, Friendly and makes a delicious sandwich. I rec this spot especially when served by Uges.
July 18 · maor gutwaksNow this Potbelly location is fantastic. Service was nice great atmosphere and the food was fresh not all locations are the same but 44th St. and Lexington hands-down five star.!!! Thanks to the staff thereKyle, Ms. Carmen, Tae and EsmeraldaAmazing fun and so polite and they greet you all with a smile….
May 15 · Shine WilliamsI think this is a great Pot Belly. They have plenty of seating, and the customer service is usually good. 5 stars because the combo of good food, seating, and cool environment make it so for a chain sandwich shop.
December 05 · Corey Cherrington
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