Firehouse Subs returns as owners expand Fairview Heights footprint
Two years after its abrupt closure, Firehouse Subs is open again in Fairview Heights.
The store reopened Friday under the ownership of franchisees Evelyn and Chris Steinacher, who own two other locations and an Atomic Wings location.
Evelyn Steinacher said their first day went well and they are looking forward to welcoming back their customers.
The shop has new staff, new management and new equipment, she said.
The Steinachers fully remodeled the store, which was previously owned by another franchisee before its closing.
The couple planned to take over the franchise from Rod Wanjala. Chris Steinacher told the News-Democrat in spring 2024 that he and Evelyn were “trying to pursue the location,” but hadn’t heard back from Wanjala.
Firehouse Subs was shut down by the company soon thereafter, and all signage was removed from the site.
The Steinachers did not give up on their plans, even after switching gears to open an Atomic Wings restaurant in Fairview Heights last June.
Earlier this year, the Steinachers began remodeling the store with plans to open by the end of the summer.
About Firehouse Subs
Firehouse Subs is at 5909 N. Illinois St. in Fairview Heights. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Atomic Wings is across the street at 6100 N. Illinois St. The Steinachers’ other Firehouse Subs locations are in Collinsville and Edwardsville.
Eveyln Steinacher said all of their businesses are doing very well.
Orders can be placed by phone at 618-213-6408 or online at firehousesubs.com. Delivery is available through third-party services such as DoorDash.
This story was originally published July 11, 2026 at 1:08 PM.
