Family opens sub sandwich shop in Crystal Lake
The Galloway family has been making craveable subs for its family and friends for years.
Now the family is bringing those subs to you at the new Galloway's Chicago Subs along Randall Road in Crystal Lake.
The shop, which also serves soups, salads and ice cream treats, opened in May.
And so far, it has seen a steady stream of regulars and new customers each day stopping in to try their deli fare.
Chances are if you've stopped in, it's one of the Galloways or one of their relatives who's helped make your sandwich, mix your milkshake or ring up your order.
T. J. and Judy Galloway run the shop with the help of their six children and many of their relatives, including a nephew and a brother-in-law who comes out from Chicago to help.
Judy said with the big family they have, they always thought it would be ideal to open their own business.
"With all of the kids, we thought it would be fun," she said.
With their three oldest kids - T. J., 19; Cory, 18; and Ellen, 16; getting old enough to work, they decided to take the plunge.
Their son T. J. found their spot, which is just north of CVS along Randall, a few years ago. The family secured the spot and then had to decide what to open.
"We knew we wanted to open a business and were trying to figure out what to do," said Judy, a teacher, who had worked in the restaurant business for years.
"We decided it had to be subs. We love our subs. We've been making them for years."
The family built out the spot themselves, and now that it's open, all are working together to make it a success. Even the younger ones - Gregory, 13; John, 12; and Jack, 10; help out when they can, Judy said.
The restaurant's sign has been up for months and months, and Judy Galloway said people are finally realizing they are now open.
They like their spot just down the road from Crystal Lake High School. Though they normally close at 8 p.m., once football season starts, they plan to stay open later for the games.
Before they opened, one of the teachers at the high school conducted a class on the new business, surveying students on what they'd like to see on the menu. After their input, the Galloways added smoothies and shakes to the menu.
They even have a Gator sandwich, which is billed as a sandwich for "those After Game Appetites."
Their specialties, Judy Galloway said, are the classic and the Italian subs.
For information on Galloway's, at 1295 Randall Road, Crystal Lake, call (815) 356-7833.
Ladies' night: Gibby's Wine Den along Randall Road in Geneva is hosting a Ladies' Night on Aug. 11.
To help you cool off during August, the shop is offering you a chance to try out some new sangria recipes which will be specially prepared for the night. Visitors can sample foods and hang out with friends.
Reservations are required and can be made by calling (630) 208-6424.
• Amy Williams' column covers all the news of business along the Randall Road corridor from Batavia to Crystal Lake. Contact her at randallbiz@comcast.net or (847) 894-5036.