No. 2 Jason's Deli

206 locations in the West, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, South

How did this up-and-comer snag second place? Largely because of its devotion to organic food: About one-fifth of all Jason's Deli ingredients are organic. Plus, its creative salads - like the Nutty Mixed-Up Salad - make you actually want to order the greens.

Our judges applauded the portion-control option: Reduced sizes of items, say, a stuffed baked potato, are $1 less. Jason's menu also highlights ultrahealthy sandwiches and provides the nutritional info.

We love: Being able to build any sandwich on an organic whole-wheat wrap.

Danger zone: High-sodium counts on some sandwiches; if sodium is a concern, stick to the ultrahealthy choices.

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Credit: Jason's Deli