U.S.-based sandwich chain Jimmy John’s opens first Ottawa store Friday in Riverside South

Ottawa's first Jimmy John's restaurant will open in the Armstrong Plaza in Riverside South. (Foodtastic/release)

U.S.-based fast food chain Jimmy John’s will officially open its first Ottawa store in Riverside South on Friday.

The restaurant is located at 120 Blanca St., near the intersection of Earl Armstrong and Limebank roads in the Armstrong Plaza, the company said in a news release Thursday. Doors open at 11 a.m.

The chain, known for its sandwiches and pickles, has announced plans to open 12 locations across Canada by the end of the year. Locations are also planned for Winnipeg, Edmonton, Barrie and Windsor, in addition to restaurants in Niagara Falls and Toronto.

The first Jimmy John’s opened in Charleston, Illinois in 1983.

“This opening marks another exciting phase in our expansion across Canada,” said Peter Mammas, President and CEO of Foodtastic, the company responsible for Jimmy John’s Canadian expansion, in a news release.

“Canadians have shown tremendous enthusiasm for Jimmy John’s since our first locations opened, and we’re proud to bring the brand’s signature quality, speed, and freshness to our nation’s capital.”

The company says the first 100 visitors on opening day will receive a free sandwich and a 16 oz fountain drink. After the first 100, a $5 Classic Sandwich deal will be in place from Friday through Sunday.

With files from CTV News Ottawa’s Josh Pringle

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