Subway might have just met its match, with the news that cult-US sandwich chain Firehouse Subs is planning a rapid expansion in Australia.

Retail Food Group (RFG), the company behind Gloria Jean’s and Donut King, plans to open 165 new Firehouse Subs shops across the country over the next decade.

The favourite American chain specialises in hot, made-to-order sandwiches such as the Beef & Cheddar Brisket and the mysteriously-named New York Steamer. We won’t have to wait too long to try these all new subs, either. The first shop expected to open in Southeast Queensland in late 2025.

Related story: Golden Rough chocolate block returns, and it’s brought some friends with it

Over the next three years, 15 company-owned restaurants are set to open, before franchising opportunities are launched in the fourth year.

Founded in Florida in 1994 by two former firefighter brothers with a vision to be a restaurant where people can come and enjoy “hot and hearty subs piled high with the highest quality meats and cheeses”, Firehouse Subs has grown into a thousand-strong restaurant network.

Related: Do we need caviar on our chicken nuggets?

The restaurants use a “steam-based” cooking technique for serving up their meats and cheeses.

RFG Chief Executive Officer Matt Marshall said the introduction of Firehouse Subs to the growing $1.7bn sandwich market in Australia is an “exciting opportunity for Australians to enjoy this iconic food brand”.

“I am convinced that Australians have never tried anything like the quality and flavour of Firehouse Subs,” Mr Marshall said.

“This is a brand that is all about the highest quality sandwiches with exceptional service.”

Related: Macca’s favourite finally lands in Australia

There are 1300 Firehouse Subs restaurants across the US, Canada, Switzerland, Mexico, Albania and the United Arab Emirates.

The launch of Firehouse Subs in Australia comes a month after US burger chain Wendy’s opened in Brisbane, years after it left the local market. Carl’s Jr is also planning an Aussie expansion.