Kate Reid, co-owner of Kate’s Jersey Subs and Righteous Pie in Manette, says that her deli offers what few others in Kitsap do.

“People can come in and get the East Coast style of food with a West Coast attitude,” she said, describing her sloppy East Coast-style sandwiches made custom to order.

That uniqueness is noted by customers.

“It’s different than most sandwiches,” said Lynette Frum, a Port Orchard resident who sat down with an Italian Stallion sandwich Tuesday. “You get more for your money.”

Perhaps that’s why Reid’s business continues to grow in an economic climate in which most restaurants are suffering. Her deli’s space has been expanded for more seating and she added thin crust pizza to her menu this year.

“Most are grateful to keep the status quo,” Reid said of the recession.

Not bad for someone who’s never been to New Jersey.

Kate’s Jersey Subs opened on East 11th Street in 2003 after the previous restaurant in the building, Pete’s Jersey Subs, closed down. Kate Reid’s husband, Brad Reid, had enjoyed Pete’s sandwiches and wanted to see them continue.

“When it was closed, he decided he needed a sandwich and bought it,” Kate Reid said.

Since then, Kate Reid retained much of Pete’s legacy, continuing the Jersey-style subs and expanding the previous offerings with more cheesesteaks and salads.

Though Kate Reid, a Kitsap native, isn’t from Jersey, the deli’s East Coast flair is still approved by Eastern natives who come to find familiar food.

“Military folks like the flavor of home,” Kate Reid said of her East Coast customers.

For customer Luke Reeves, who ordered a Bremerton Nuke sandwich Tuesday, his penchant for the subs is simple.

“They’re delicious,” he said during his lunch break.

The same went for his co-worker, Sam Kamla.

“Good food, good atmosphere,” he said. “Excellent sandwich.”