A DCist correspondant recently a spotted a sign hanging at 1635 Connecticut Ave, the future location of D.C.’s sixth Potbelly Sandwich Works restaurant. (The seventh is also in the works – at 1660 L Street) The sign read “If we were a chain, we’d be open already.” Unfortunately, as far as DCist is concerned, they are a chain, with over 50 locations in six states – including the District, Minnesota, Texas, Michigan, and Illinois.
Pictured is Bryant Keil, Potbelly’s CEO who proudly boasts on the company website that he took the idea from a young couple who remain conveniently anonymous, and that the chain will be expanding into new markets. On their “real estate” page, Potbelly’s says they’re looking for ” ‘urban’ suburban locations” as well as ” ‘”Hot,” “hip” or “funky” neighborhoods.” Not a chain, eh?
