Potbelly Gift Cards: 5 Must-Know Tips to Save Big in 2025
Imagine surprising a friend with a card that unlocks a warm, toasty Potbelly sandwich like the meat-packed Wreck or a creamy shake, turning an ordinary lunch into a memorable moment. This guide covers all you need about Potbelly gift cards: where to buy them, how to use and check balances, top deals, comparisons with competitors like Subway, real user experiences, and smart saving strategies for 2025. With five actionable tips, you’ll master gifting and dining at over 400 locations while avoiding common issues, all backed by reliable sources.

Table of Contents
What Are Potbelly Gift Cards?
Picture a small Chicago shop from 1977, starting as an antique store and growing into a nationwide chain known for its toasty sandwiches and cozy vibe. Potbelly gift cards are your pass to that experience, perfect for gifting or treating yourself. They come as physical cards for a personal touch or digital e-gifts for instant delivery, with values from $5 to $100 or custom amounts. These cards never expire, work at all U.S. locations for anything on the Potbelly menu, and can be reloaded for repeated use. They’re not cash-redeemable unless required by state law.
Choosing the Right Card:
- Physical: Great for holidays, available at Potbelly shops or select retailers.
- Digital: Ideal for quick gifts, sent via email with a custom message.
Pair with the Potbelly Perks program to earn 10 points per dollar spent, redeemable at 1,000 for a free entree.
Where Can You Buy Potbelly Gift Cards?
Think of gifting your team cards for a hassle-free lunch. You can purchase Potbelly gift cards directly from potbelly.com/gift-cards, where you select an amount, add a message for e-gifts, and pay securely. In-store, find them at any of the 427 Potbelly locations with no extra fees. For bulk or corporate gifting, contact Potbelly for personalized options, perfect for events or catering orders.
Retailers and online platforms also stock these cards, often at a discount. Look for them at:
- Amazon: Offers e-gift and physical cards, sometimes bundled.
- Costco: Two $50 e-gifts for $100, often reduced to $75.
- Sam’s Club: Two $25 cards for around $37 (26% savings).
- Target and Kroger: Physical cards in-store.
- Discount Sites: CardCash and GCX offer up to 23% off.
Buying Steps:
- Visit the website, app, or a trusted retailer.
- Choose card type and amount.
- Add recipient details for e-gifts.
- Pay securely—watch for promo codes like 25OFF tied to catering.
Tip: Buy from reputable sellers and check ratings on sites like BBB to avoid fakes.
How to Use and Redeem Potbelly Gift Cards
Recall a family outing where a gift card made ordering a Cubano or a Farmhouse salad effortless. In-store, swipe or scan the card for any item on the Potbelly menu, from $11.29 sandwiches to $5.99 shakes. For online orders or app-based pickup, delivery, or catering, enter the card code at checkout. Use the balance across multiple visits and link to Potbelly Perks for points.
Gifting Ideas:
- $25 for a quick birthday lunch.
- $50 for group events or employee rewards.
If a third-party card (e.g., from Costco) doesn’t work in the app, try in-store or contact support—PIN mismatches can occur but are fixable.
Solution: Make a small purchase first to confirm the card works.
How to Check Your Potbelly Gift Card Balance
Avoid surprises at checkout by keeping tabs on your balance. Check it online at potbelly.com/giftcards by entering the card number, call 312-951-0600, or ask at any Potbelly location. App users can link cards for real-time tracking.
If the balance shows zero unexpectedly, double-check the number or email customerservice@potbelly.com. Theft is uncommon but reportable.
Tip: Set a monthly reminder to check balances, especially for bulk purchases.
5 Must-Know Tips to Save Big with Potbelly Gift Cards
One user stretched a $25 card into weeks of meals by snagging a deal during a holiday sale. Here’s how to maximize value:
- Find Discounts: Purchase from Sam’s Club (26% off) or CardCash (up to 23% off) for instant savings.
- Buy During Sales: Look for Black Friday or year-end deals, like $5 off per $25 e-gift.
- Use with Perks: Link to Potbelly Perks for 10 points per dollar, earning free items faster.
- Stack with Surveys: Complete potbellylistens.com surveys for free cookies or discounts.
- Resell Leftovers: Sell unused balances on safe platforms like CardCash.
Savings Comparison:
Strategy | Example | Estimated Savings |
---|---|---|
Discount Sites | $25 card for $18.50 | $6.50 (26%) |
Seasonal Promo | $5 off $25 e-gift | $5 (20%) |
Perks Points | Free entree ($11.29) | $11.29 after 1,000 points |
Potbelly vs. Competitors: Why Choose These Cards?
Picture a cozy Potbelly meal with toasty bread and live music compared to a quick Subway stop. Potbelly’s cards have no expiration and tie to Potbelly Perks, unlike Subway’s varied policies. Jersey Mike’s cards are similar but offer fewer bulk discounts and lack Potbelly’s shakes. Check Potbelly’s menu for unique items like the Banana Pudding shake.
Comparison Table:
Feature | Potbelly | Subway | Jersey Mike’s |
---|---|---|---|
No Expiration | Yes | Varies | Yes |
Loyalty Points | Perks (10/$1) | Limited | Points-based |
Discount Availability | Up to 27% | Rare | Occasional |
Unique Menu | Shakes, cookies | Basic subs | Premium meats |
Choose Potbelly for: Variety and deals; opt for others for speed or more locations.
Real User Stories
A user turned a $50 Sam’s Club card into weekly Avo Turkey lunches, boosted by Potbelly Perks for a free salad. Another hit a snag with a Costco card not loading in the app but resolved it via support. Users love the value and taste but note occasional PIN issues with third-party cards—verify upon purchase.
Tip: Review 2025 feedback on Yelp or BBB before buying bulk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which stores sell Potbelly gift cards?
Buy them at Potbelly shops, online at potbelly.com/gift-cards, or from retailers like Amazon, Costco, Sam’s Club, Target, and Kroger. Discount sites like CardCash also offer them.
Where can I purchase Potbelly gift cards?
Get them directly from potbelly.com/gift-cards, any Potbelly location, or trusted retailers like Amazon, Costco, Sam’s Club, Target, Kroger, or CardCash.
Can I reload my Potbelly gift card?
Yes, add funds in-store or online via the website or app.
What if my card is lost?
Without a receipt, it’s not replaceable—keep it safe like cash.
Sustainability Note: Opt for digital cards to minimize plastic use.
Final Tips for Maximum Value
A savvy user stretched a $50 card into months of meals by buying during a sale and using Potbelly Perks. Do the same: grab discounts, complete surveys at potbellylistens.com for free cookies, and resell unused balances on safe sites like CardCash. Check nutrition info to plan healthy meals.
Action Plan:
- Buy a discounted card today from Sam’s or CardCash.
- Check balance before use.
- Redeem with Perks for rewards.
- Share your story in comments to inspire others.
For more details, download the Potbelly menu PDF or explore catering options.