Carrie and Steve Sobieski, owners of Carmine’s Subs, 2672 DeKalb Ave., picked Sycamore as the location for their first Carmine’s because of its sense of community.

“The people of Sycamore have been awesome,” Steve Sobieski said. “It’s just so fun to be in such an awesome community. They’ve really welcomed us with open arms.”

Carmine’s opened on April 10, and Steve said the eatery has been exceeding sales expectations. Carmine’s is selling about 250 subs each day.

“I’ve been wanting to try it,” said DeKalb resident Pete Morgano. “I’m a sandwich guy.”

Carrie Sobieski said what makes Carmine’s different from other sandwich restaurants is its bread and meats, which are imported from the East Coast, and its superior customer service. The idea for the restaurant came to Carrie and Steve Sobieski about one year ago.

“We literally bring everything in from the East Coast,” Carrie Sobieski said. “We ship our bread dough in from New York, and we make it fresh every day.”

The Sobieski family lives in Wasco, but Carrie grew up in New Jersey.

“Our goal is to definitely expand and possibly turn into a nice little family chain,” Carrie said.

Carmine’s boasts a Huskie sandwich for NIU. It contains turkey, roast beef, ham, salami and swiss cheese.

Carrie Sobieski said students have embraced their new establishment, and regulars have begun to materialize.

Steve Sobieski has been in the restaurant business for 28 years and has owned other fast food restaurants.

“We know what it takes to operate at a high level and to deliver customer service at the top level,” Carrie Sobieski said. “It’s probably what sets us apart.”

Each item on the menu was created by the Sobieskis. Steve Sobieski said he wanted to cater healthier food to the community.

“Its quality, and it beats Subway,” said Sycamore resident Alicia Natalino.