#8 of 10 Top Food Franchises of 2017 - Founded in Beaumont, TX, in 1976, Jason's Deli is a chain of casual, fast deli-style restaurants with 266 locations in 28 states. The company offers a standard deli menu with traditional sandwiches such as muffalettas, club sandwiches and paninis. Each franchise location also has a salad bar and selection of soups that change daily. Other menu items include vegetarian sandwiches, baked potatoes, salads and pastas. The chain prides itself on being on of the first restaurant franchises to remove trans fats from its food. Other ingredients that are not present include processed MSG, high-fructose corn syrup, dyes, artificial colors and flavors.