Searcy received a new dining option on Thursday, Sept. 19 when Jimmy John’s opened on Race Street. The new “gourmet sandwich” establishment offers students a fresh place for dine-in or delivery.

According to manager Jonathan Gonzalez, Jimmy John’s offers speed and quality that is unmatched. He says that a big priority for the restaurant is making sure all of their ingredients are best in class. Jimmy John’s proves that you do not have to sacrifice health for speed.

“I locally purchase three to four times a week,” Gonzalez said. “Typically it’s going on someone’s sandwich and out the door the same day. Quality ingredients are huge, and if they aren’t ‘Jimmy Fresh’ then I don’t feel comfortable serving them.”

While Jimmy John’s is located on Race Street where the old Sonic used to be, students seem to be taking advantage of their convenient delivery option. Delivery driver Amber Betts says that she has been on Harding’s campus a lot since starting the job.

“Harding is my biggest place for delivery,” Betts said. “I’m actually starting to get to know the campus a little better.”

Jimmy John’s also provides another job opportunity for Harding students needing to make some extra money. Sophomore Sara Wittler said that she has had a positive experience working for Jimmy John’s and can already see that the restaurant will continue to be popular among students.

“It gives you the option of having healthier food options delivered to you instead of pizza and things like that,” Wittler said.

Employees like Betts and Wittler have been adjusting to the new location and their new positions. Betts said that she enjoys being employed at a new establishment because no one feels like they are less than anyone else.

“Brand new staff, equipment and most importantly new customers,” Gonzalez said. “I love seeing new faces every day and helping them walk through their first experience of our ‘freaky fast’ culture.”

Jimmy John’s is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.