Jonathan McCabe believed Pullman needed another sandwich shop. That’s why he founded Heros N Sports in 2001 after working in the food industry for most of his life.

The business originally tied the sports world and food together, a reality that no longer exists in the shop. A beverage cooler now sits in front of the wall where the sports cards were displayed as they were phased out of the business.

McCabe was a sports card collector his whole life and hoped he could make a business out of them.

“The sports cards did not last very long, only a few years after opening,” McCabe said.

Sports cards are still part of McCabe’s life. He has a huge collection, which he trades to collectors and gives to children.

McCabe believes his quality products and friendly staff make the business truly stand out.

“It is not enough to have good food. You need good service and to be firing on all cylinders to make the business work,” McCabe said.

Heros N Sports is a spot the WSU men’s baseball coaching staff visits in the spring. The team recently visited the shop to film an introduction video for their home games.

WSU Men’s Baseball Head Coach Nathan Choate loves the small-town feel and close-knit community at the shop.

“As we are doing this intro video, we really wanted it to represent people in the community. I think they are a community-oriented, blue-collar restaurant, and I thought it would be neat to pay them respect,” Choate said.

McCabe said the bestselling items are the homemade soups and paninis, which keep customers coming back.

Customer Joan Felipe Castaneda enjoys the All-American and BLT sandwiches.

“Everything tastes so fresh. The store is the perfect blend of local and freshness, which makes you feel at home,” Castaneda said.

Castaneda enjoys the atmosphere and decorations inside the shop.

“Everyone is very welcoming, and you are greeted with a smile,” Castaneda said.

“When I walk in, they know everything I want on the sandwich,” Choate said.

Choate’s favorite menu items are the Palouse Blaster and the cheesy potato soup. He said he prefers Heros N Sports over other sandwich shops because of the quality ingredients and friendly staff.

McCabe compares the atmosphere of his shop to the TV show “Cheers.”

“It is easygoing, and we have many regulars,” he said.

Heros N Sports is open 10:30 a.m.—4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.—4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sunday.