# Southern-Inspired Cuban-Style Subs The Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban Sub Has Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2021-10-01 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bbq-cuban-sub References: [chewboom](https://www.chewboom.com/2021/10/01/firehouse-subs-introduces-new-bbq-cuban-sub/) & [firehousesubs](https://www.firehousesubs.com) The [Firehouse Subs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/firehouse-smokin-triple-stack) BBQ Cuban Sub is a new offering from the brand that's focused on providing patrons with a premium option to try out when seeking a twist on some of their favorite flavors. The sub is positioned as a Southern-inspired take on a classic Cuban sandwich, and features slow-coked pulled pork along with freshly sliced Virginia honey ham and melted Swiss cheese. The sub then comes topped with [smoky chipotle slaw](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/baja-chipotle-turkey-sub), mayo, [sweet mustard BBQ sauce](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hardees-menu-items) and spicy pickle chips on a toasted sub roll. The Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban Sub is arriving at participating locations nationwide, but will only be around for a short while. The fresh take on the Cuban classic ham and cheese sandwich helps to offer avid foodies with a new must-try option. Image Credit: Firehouse Subs ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.4/10 - Popularity: 37% | Activity: 85% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Southern-inspired Fusion Foods:** Restaurants and food companies can innovate by blending Southern cuisine with other cultures to create unique and exciting flavors. - **Limited-time Menu Offerings:** Providing exclusive and short-lived menu items can create a sense of urgency and exclusivity for customers, driving more sales and excitement. - **Gourmet Comfort Foods:** Adding premium ingredients and gourmet twists on classic comfort foods can attract foodies and upscale customers looking for a unique experience. ### Where This Applies - **Fast Food:** Fast food chains can draw in customers by offering fusion foods and exclusive menu items that provide a change of pace from their regular offerings. - **Casual Dining:** Casual restaurants can appeal to foodies and upscale diners by offering gourmet twists on classic comfort foods, particularly if they incorporate Southern-inspired flavors. - **Food Trucks:** Mobile food vendors can create buzz and generate excitement by offering limited-time fusion menu items that are exclusive to specific events or locations. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Cuban Pulled Pork Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-cubano.md) - [Hefty Pork Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/potbelly-cubano.md) - [Cuban-Inspired Sub Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cubano-sub-sandwich.md) - [Triple-Meat Submarine Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/firehouse-smokin-triple-stack.md) - [Prime Rib Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prime-rib-steak-sub.md) - [Smoky BBQ-Inspired Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/subway-the-smokehouse-edition.md) - [Dippable Roasted Beef Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/french-dip-sandwich.md) - [Oven-Roasted Chicken Subs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/firehouse-captains-club.md) - [Pasta-Topped Pulled Pork Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mac-cheese-pulled-pork-sub.md)