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When Michael Jamieson opened his first Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop in Anoka, Minnesota, earlier this year, it wasn’t just about launching a new restaurant.
For Michael, it was the chance to combine his entrepreneurial spirit with a brand he believed had the product, opportunity, and momentum to thrive. With additional Capriotti’s locations planned for the Twin Cities, he’s not just building a business, he’s creating a lasting impact in his community.
From Business Coach to Business Owner
Originally from New Zealand, Michael came to the U.S. at 18 to play men’s fast-pitch softball. He eventually settled in Minnesota, where his career path took him through a wide range of experiences in foodservice. For three years, Michael worked as a Business Coach for Jimmy John’s, overseeing 35 locations, helping franchise owners improve compliance, streamline operations, and boost profitability.
After leaving that role, Michael launched his own businesses, including food trucks selling New Zealand meat pies and, later, a ghost kitchen concept during the pandemic. Those experiences gave him both entrepreneurial grit and operational knowledge. But when the opportunity arose to open a Capriotti’s, Michael saw a chance to apply everything he’d learned to a proven system with strong growth potential.
“I’ve always had an entrepreneurial drive,” he shares. “Leaving the security of a paycheck for the unknown is never easy, but once you do it, there’s no going back. If you have a plan and stick to it, things tend to work out.”
Why Capriotti’s?
Michael knew he wanted to return to the sandwich category, but this time he wanted to do so with something different that would make an impact and provide him with fresh opportunities for growth. That’s why he chose Capriotti’s.
“Capriotti’s is young compared to some of the other sandwich brands, and that means opportunity,” Michael explains. “The product is incredible. If your product is good, you can figure everything else out. And Capriotti’s has one of the best menus in the industry with our cheesesteaks, the Capastrami, the Bobbie®, all made with premium ingredients like whole roasted turkeys and Wagyu beef.”
Beyond the food, the timing was right. Michael found the perfect location in Anoka and saw Capriotti’s as the ideal fit. “If it could succeed here, I knew it could succeed anywhere,” he says.
Early Wins and Community Connection
Since opening, Michael has leaned into Capriotti’s brand values of community and quality. Sponsoring the local high school basketball team is just one way he’s building connections and showing that his shop is part of the community. Michael also finds energy in handing over sandwiches to guests and seeing their reactions.
“There’s something special about knowing your regulars and being present in the neighborhood. That kind of connection goes a long way,” he shares.
“When people then come and unwrap one of our subs and see how loaded it is, their faces light up. At our price point, you’re getting way more food than anywhere else. Some guests say it’s the best sandwich they’ve ever had, and I agree with them.”
Lessons Learned
Like many new operators, Michael faced challenges early on—from managing a buildout to finding the right staff. But he views these lessons as critical stepping stones for long-term success.
“Staffing is tough, especially with younger workers. But when you find the right people, they’re amazing, and you build around them,” he says. “As an owner, you’ve got to pay attention to the details. Take care of the small things today, because tomorrow always brings new challenges.”
Looking Ahead
Michael isn’t stopping with just one location. He plans to open his second store in mid-2026, with further expansion plans in Minnesota.
“In a new market like this, one store isn’t enough,” he explains. “You need that triangle of locations to build awareness and maximize marketing. My goal is to grow rapidly while consistently maintaining high quality. We want to be the best-run sandwich shops in town.”
For Michael Jamieson, Capriotti’s represents both opportunity and pride. He’s confident in the brand, the food, and the support, and he sees the potential for growth across Minnesota.
“We may not be the biggest sandwich brand out there,” he says. “But my team and I are committed to being the best. That’s what will set us apart, and that’s why I believe in Capriotti’s.”
Are you interested in growing an impactful business that’s dedicated to delivering premium experiences? Learn how you can expand your portfolio with Capriotti’s today.
