sandwich

Claires at the Depot (update), Warrenton, VA., 11/13/25

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building – 65 S 3rd St., Warrenton, VA., 20186

We visited Claires in 2021 (you can read that by clicking here)  It looks very much the same in the century old train station only I think it’s gotten more popular and the town built up more, so there’s less parking.  We sat at a high top table which was one of the options you can pick when you make your reservation.  The large bar seemed to be a place for solo diners and walk-ins.  Claire Lamborne purchased the property in 2005 and was still there but we didn’t see her polishing glassware this time.  Service was efficient, friendly and opinionated.  We liked it enough to go back so if you need a fun place to eat when you’re in the area put this one on your list. Continue reading →

Delishh, Sagamore Beach, MA., 6/5/25

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exterior – 41 Meetinghouse Ln Unit B, Sagamore Beach, MA 02562

Delishh sets out to serve fine specialty sandwiches and prepared foods with fresh ingredients and a creative flair.  The small location in a strip shopping center is open every day but Sunday.  They did a lot of take out orders so I’m guessing it’s popular to stop and pick up a sandwich to take with you to the beach.   Inside there are just a few tables and a TV with the volume up.  The counter where you place your order had a few dessert options pre-wrapped and ready to go.  Another wall had a small place where you could dump your trash and pick up paper napkins.   Very few decorations were on the walls and it took a minute to get someone to take our order.  They brought ours out to us since we were eating there.  There is a cooler with cold drinks and a couple prepared salads were in another cooler.   Overall the sandwiches were quite edible but not as special as they billed them to be.  All sandwiches came with housemade chips, which were thick and most were crispy and very lightly salted. Continue reading →

McLoon’s Lobster Shack, South Thomaston, ME., 9/27/24

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line up to order – 315 Island Rd, South Thomaston, ME 04858

McLoon’s started in 2012 as a family-owned Maine lobster shack on the tip of Spruce Head Island across from the area’s oldest working lobster wharf.  It’s what a city would call a food truck except it doesn’t move.  You line up at the order window, order and pay and then another person calls out your name when it’s ready and they bring it to your table.  There was a tent over many large picnic tables next to the building but also an assortment of tables, some with umbrellas around the basic area.  Some have wonderful views of the harbor and many enjoyed full sun, if that’s your thing.  There were also wooden chairs that just faced the harbor without having to be seated at a table.  There was a line waiting for it to open and the line continued throughout our lunch.  It moved quickly and it didn’t take long to get your food.  They had a service stand by the tent which supplied salt, pepper, wipes, toothpicks and a container and cups for water.  Also for sale were several Whoopie pies which they touted at the Maine dessert but they also had pies and cookies.  We passed on that.  The food we had was fabulous, fresh and I’d go back any time I am in the area and it’s open, as it does operate only seasonally. Continue reading →

The Meating Place Café, Hillsboro, OR., 8/13/24

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cafe exterior – 495 NW Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124

The Meating Place first opened in 1974 and was in business until 1998.  It re-opened in 2011 as a small custom meat shop and within a few years expanded into a 20,000 sq. ft. store offering smoking, curing and sausage making along with a separate cafe.  Now with their own herd and ability to process other small rancher’s meat, they are working to reduce the carbon footprint of meat packing and slaughterhouse processes.  Their beef goes “straight from our farm to the Meating Place where it’s cut and wrapped for customers without ever hitting a piece of plastic.”   The huge meat market was in a separate building just down a small hill from the good-sized café.  It offered plenty of indoor and outdoor dining spots and also did a healthy take-out business.  It takes a while to get your order so many have learned to call ahead or order online.  Music was in the background and a huge mural filled one wall.  The kitchen was next to the long order counter and mostly walled off from view.  The smells were fantastic as you entered and Frankie enjoyed all the pig decorations.   They are open Tues through Sunday for breakfast and lunch from 9 to 3.   A special sandwich is offered some days and many are available in a half size.  The sandwiches and burgers come with a bag of chips and a pickle spear.  If I lived nearby I’m sure I’d shop at their market because I admire what they’re doing.  Not so sure about their sandwiches but it’d be worth it to try a burger and if you do please let me know how it was. Continue reading →

Outpost Sandwiches, Tacoma, 7/9/24

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exterior – 1102 A St #104, Tacoma, WA 98402

Outpost Sandwiches is open weekdays in downtown Tacoma and offers a variety of sandwiches, salads and also pizza but only on Fridays.  It’s a hole in the wall place that’s underground near the courthouse.  Parking is on the street as you can find it.  Once you enter you’ll find the menu on a large sign and a window to order.  Some wooden benches and tables are in front if you want to eat inside with as many eating there as taking orders to go.  Music was in the background and the folks at the window will give you a code if you want to use the bathroom down the hall.  It was quite busy but if you find yourself in town and need a quick snack I highly recommend the chicken melt and fresh baked cookies. Continue reading →

Country Skillet, Cumberland, WI., 5/18/24

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building – 1233 2nd Ave., Cumberland, WI., 54829

Country Skillet is a medium sized place that serves all day breakfast and lunch everyday except Wed (when it’s closed) and offers dinner on Thursday and Friday till 8 pm.  They do have daily specials and lots of baked goods.  The main room has a few tables but mostly has counter seating and the service area.  A second room had more tables and the corridor to the bathrooms.  New owners took over in 2023 and have worked to update the place, food and staff.  They did pretty well in my opinion.  Service was a bit slow but it was pretty crowded and only one server seemed to be taking orders, delivering food and cleaning tables – so with that in mind service was good.  She was very pleasant and efficient.   The walls have lots of signs with cute sayings and one TV was above the bar but it was muted.  The food was good enough that I look forward to going back and trying more options and maybe a baked item.  Let me know what you think if you get there. Continue reading →

Good Bones, Casper, CA., 5/10/24

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building – 14957 Caspar Rd, Caspar, CA 95420

Good Bones was in a turn of the century roadhouse, the Casper Pub House(and music venue) and is currently only open for lunch Friday to Sunday.  They plan to open for dinner soon and bring live music to their stage area too.  Owner Miles McCreary has a background in cooking (as well as ceramics) and his crusty sourdough is for sale also as a loaf.   The large place opened last May after a series of pop-ups.  I loved that a large martini glass still was stenciled on the top of the roof.  A long bar with stools leads to the open room in back which has the stage area and a raised area that seemed to be for kids.  Various sized bare wood tables were available for you to chose from and art was on the walls.  A couple tables did have some of McCreary’s vases on them.   It’s definitely an out-of the way location but it’s worth the trip.  We both got a half-sandwich with soup, which does up the price to $18 if you want the pork sandwich.  The place had good honest food and the bread was outstanding.   It is a wonderful and tasty lunch spot. Continue reading →

Summer’s Market & Deli, Healdsburg, CA., 5/8/24

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exterior – 557 Powell Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Summer’s Market and Deli was an “old-fashioned neighborhood market.”  They sold a variety of snacks and drinks as well as sandwiches and wraps, coffees and ice cream.   The day we went they also had smoked sandwiches but had already sold out of some meats.  It was a large place with a number of tables to eat at and some interesting decorations.   Brightly lit, it was helped by a wall of windows across the front.  Friendly staff took the order and prepared our selections quickly.  The bread on both was quite soft and a tad floury.  The crunch roll was supposed to be topped with crunchy stuff but it was just as soft.  The bread overall was too much in proportion to the fillings.  They had quality ingredients but none of them stood out on the flavor scale.  It felt like a healthy quick snack but not a place I’d frequent regularly.  Maybe with different choices I could have left with a better impression.  Let me know if  you go and have other reactions. Continue reading →

That Guy’s Bistro, Bend, OR., 5/3/24

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exterior – 61147 Bend Parkway, Bend, Oregon 97702

That Guy’s Bistro has 3 locations, one of which is in Redmond.  It started as a food truck in 2018 and now has a brick and mortar location, where we ate,  in addition to the 2 food trucks.  They serve salads, pizzas, burger and Philly sandwiches – which are offered with a variety of fillings.  In addition to the large menu they also have a variety of liquors.   It was a medium sized place in a shopping center that felt to me a little like a “bubba bar”.  Several large TV screens were on each of the walls, mercifully silent, playing a variety of sports and a life guard show that seemed to focus on bikini clad women.  It got a good crowd of working men.    The counter people were very friendly.  We wanted to try the basic TG Burger which was a 1/4 pound beef patty with American cheese, onions, tomato, lettuce, pickle and TG sauce on a grilled brioche bun.  The burger comes with fries or mac salad.  We chose fries and they were a fun curled variety that were dusted with seasoning and nicely crisped.  The burger was cooked to ‘pink’ and loaded with other ingredients.  The bun was nicely toasted and tasty but too big for the patty.  They gave you extra sauce which did have a nice spice to it.  A fine burger, but next time I’ll try one of the Philly options. Continue reading →

Farmer’s Deli, Bend, OR., 5/2/24

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truck – 925 NW Brooks St, Bend, OR 97703

Farmer’s Deli is a breakfast or lunch spot brought to you by Chef/owner Justin Halvorsen.  Opening in summer 2023 it is the result of 24 years of cooking in various capacities for others and now he has his own gig.  The place highlights locally sourced food and ingredients.  It is a food truck behind Bar Rio and next to the restaurant Dear Irene.  There are no tables right next to it but there are tables by a coffee shop 30 feet away where you are welcome to sit and enjoy your food but many seemed to take it to go.  Halvorsen was raised in Vermont so there are numerous East coast inspired items on the menu.  It’s a small menu but the ingredients are quality indeed, even bread from Sparrow Bakery.  Both sandwiches we tried were generous portions and could have easily been split.  They each came with a nice pickle spear.  A fun off-the-beaten-track place to grab a quick bite to eat. Continue reading →

Americana Burger, Bend, OR., 5/1/24

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food truck  – 536 NW Arizona Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Americana food truck is in The Podski Lot,  a small lot with several food trucks and one brick and mortar place where you can buy drinks or grab a glass of water.    A bunch of colorful picnic tables are on a combination of artificial grass and concrete for a place to eat.  Parking is tricky as it’s just what you can find on the street, but most have a 2-hour free parking zones.  Owner Joe Franco wanted to offer an affordable burger where anybody could come out and eat and opened this venture in 2020 then moved to the Podski in Nov. 2022.  The basic OG Burger is only $8 and includes caramelized onions, American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato and secret sauce and is served on a toasted brioche bun.   Each burger includes two 2-ounce patties which are only cooked on one side to form a crust on the bottom of the patty yet keep the beef moist.    For the vegetarians he offers a grilled cheese and for burger lovers there are variations including BBQ or jalapenos.   It made a great lunch. Continue reading →

Parkway Bakery and Tavern, New Orleans, 12/20/23

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exterior – 6100 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70118

Parkway Bakery and Tavern opened over 100 years ago and became a part of the ‘poor boy’ sandwich movement.  There was a strike of streetcar drivers and motormen in the 1920s and The Martin Brothers Coffee Stand and Restaurant developed a sandwich of french fries topped with a little beef gravy on French bread.  The owners would call out “Here comes another poor boy” when one of the strikers approached and they would get a free sandwich.  Parkway began selling these sandwiches to the nearby American Can Company workers and added the free sandwich for striking workers.  The Great Depression made the workers lose this strike but the invention of the “poor boy” won these places lots of loyal customers.  This sandwich was more like the oyster loaves, also seen in San Francisco, than the Italian sub sandwich.  A need arose to develop a bread that was squared off at the end to maximize the filling-to-bread ratio.   The sandwiches could be filled with any number of things and the name morphed into several variations like po-boy, that we see today.  This large place has a bakery as well as offering daily special fillings.  Adapting to the Covid pandemic they set up outside tents to eat in which have stayed on.  As you enter you can either go through the bar area where you order drinks and food or just the food line where non-alcoholic beverages are available.  There is seating inside in addition to music in the background and walls covered with photos and memorabilia.  A separate pick-up window looks into part of one kitchen.  Sandwiches are small(5 inches) or large(10 inches) size and the small was generous for 2.  We tried several smalls and had to feed the trash a lot of leftovers.

Set-Up

menu on the outside
Frankie found some info on the fence
directions
tent seating
drink side
interior
kitchen
interior
interior
interior
menu

 

Food

order comes out like

Sandwiches come wrapped in paper.  You order them “dressed” if you want lettuce, tomato, pickles and mayo included.  The oyster po’boy is made with fried Gulf Oysters and only available on Wed and Thurs.  These oysters are harvested locally and flash-fried to order. They were excellent oysters both in flavor and in frying preparation.  There were so many that they spilled out of the bread as soon as you unwrapped it.  It was delicious.

Oyster Po’boy small
opened

 

The shrimp po’boy also uses wild-caught Gulf shrimp that are flash-fried.  Like the oysters, their preparation was superb and they were also spilling out of the bread here.  I would have enjoyed a basket of these alone without all the bread and dressing.  These are always available.

Shrimp po’boy small
opened

 

One of the place’s specialties is the beef po’boy made with roast beef and gravy.  This uses a slow-roasted beef that is soaked in a savory gravy.  While it was tender and well cooked it paled in comparison to the shellfish sandwiches.  I found the beef dull and dry, but it didn’t help to be full and have the other 2 options so perfectly done.  They are really proud of this product so it may speak to you more if you don’t visit New Orleans for seafood.

beef po’boy small
Frankie pointed out the condiments

Fink’s Delicatessen, Bozeman, 10/24/23

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building – 600 N Wallace Ave #4, Bozeman, MT 59715

Fink’s Delicatessen is a small place serving specialty sandwiches, soups and salads in addition to cured meats and cheeses sold by the pound.  Located in an area that has residential and warehouse buildings, it is in the same building as Wild Crumb the artisan bakery that supplies its breads.  Wild Crumb was opened by twin sisters Lauren Heemstra and Caroline Schwitzer, who is married to Jonathan Finkenauer who opened Fink’s Deli.  Lauren’s sister-in-law is the manager and cheesemonger at Finks – a truly family-owned business.  As you wind your way through the building you find the long room that houses Fink’s  Two refridgerated cases are at the end, one with pre-made sandwiches and salads and one with cheeses.  Bench seating lines one wall and a few small tables are around the various racks of good for sale.  Open every day except Sunday, the cold sandwiches are ready at 8 but the warm ones are available at 10.  They do make the warm ones while you wait and they are large and delicious.  I would be a frequent customer here if I lived closer.  I snapped some photos of the bakery but was way too full to try any of the stuff. Continue reading →

Schnitz Delicatessen, Grand Rapids, 9/29/23

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exterior – 1315 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Schnitz Deli  seemed to be a local favorite with good sized portions and moderate prices.  It’s an old-school deli where you line up along the meat, cheese counter to place your order.  They did a steady to go order business also.  Lots of sandwich combos are in a numbered format but you can also order it your own way or by the pound.  They say the Reuben is the most popular, estimating they go through 300-400 pounds of corned beef and 100 pounds of pastrami a week.  The bread is from Schnitz Bakery that is close by.  The sandwiches come in half or full size with half sandwiches the same size but with half the meat.  Most of the sandwiches charged an extra dollar to go to full – to me that was a no-brainer.  Inside are scattered tables with extra condiments at the order counter, as is the drink dispenser.  The interior room opens into the “Common Ground Coffee House” space,   There were some fun decorations on the walls along with windows that looked out to the street.  It wan’t the best deli sandwich I’ve ever had but certainly good enough for me to go again if I’m in the area and I hope you’ll visit too. Continue reading →

Trading Post Cafe, Taos, 9/14/23

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exterior – 4179 NM-68, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557

The Trading Post Cafe was an eclectic cafe with a deli offering meats and cheeses by the pound as well as coolers selling produce and other supplies.  There were several rooms with the main one having a long bar in front of the grill area.  The aroma of cooking burgers greeted you when you walked in.  We were there to have a snack and mostly visit with some friends so we didn’t try too many things.  I gather it’s only recently opened as they did not yet have a license for beer or wine, but that is in the process.  Also when I googled it to get details it sent me to a coffee roasting site and then another linked me to an Italian restaurant.  Regardless, if you’re in Taos and looking for a little spot to eat I’d give this one a try. Continue reading →

Louie’s (update), Dallas, July- August 2023

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building – 1839 N. Henderson Ave., Dallas, TX., 75206

Louie’s has been written up here before but it was time for an update.  It’s one of our favorite spots, we probably go weekly.  The ambiance is dark and friendly and the martinis are first rate.  All the staff know us and that probably helps but the food is good, although there have been some changes since Covid came through.  They are now closed Monday and Tuesday as well as most major holidays.  You must be over 21 to enter and parties cannot be larger than 6.  The school building nearby has remodeled their parking lot but for now seems to be a regular spot where you can still park, as street spots are limited.  The pork chop is totally different from before and not as juicy and the baked potato is off the menu.  Menus are by icon/link to be viewed on a smartphone rather than printed.   They are still fairly busy but now often have a waiting list at the door which helps.  We generally eat sandwiches there rather than the pizza and if we eat pizza we ask for it to not be heavily browned on the edge.  It’s hard for me to judge how it would seem to a stranger but for newbies or singletons,  I’d recommend sitting at the bar.  Casey, one of the bartenders will help guide your journey and he’s suggested many new options for us to try, food-wise. All the table servers are friendly and helpful too if you go as a couple.  It’s not a great wine spot but they have it.  I encourage you to go for the martinis and strike up a conversation with whoever is sitting next to you.  I hope you like it as much as I clearly do. Continue reading →

Elk Store, Elk, CA., 8/24/23

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building – 6101 CA-1, Elk, CA., 95432

The Elk Store is not just a deli but also a grocery and a general store, selling lots of specialty and locally made goods.  The old building has a good selection of meats, cheeses and breads some ready made into sandwiches which they will heat for you.  Filled with charm and a creaky old floor it is fun to browse around while you’re waiting for your order to be filled.  Near the cash register the 2 menu boards hang overhead and the counter on the opposite side holds the ingredients and heating area.  Other parts of the store have fresh produce, wines, dry goods, beans, teas and a surprising selection of things.  The people were all very friendly and I’d go if you’re in the area.  Such a unique little place and the sandwiches have good ingredients. Continue reading →

Troubadour Bread and Bistro, Healdsburg, CA., 8/23/23

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entrance – 381 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, CA., 95448

Troubadour, in downtown Healdsburg, is owned by Single Thread veterans Melissa Yanc and Sean McGaughey who bring the quality that their past experience would lead one to expect at a tiny bakery/sandwich shop by day and a French inspired prix fixe menu at night.   Founded in 2021, the place is getting lots of press and people for their evening service as well as their ready made sandwiches.  Desserts are on display, if you desire that too, as well as a huge array of beverages, stocked mostly for the evening service but available to daytime visitors.  It’s a small place with counters facing the windows on 2 sides and one larger middle table.  There were also some tables outside that people took their food to eat at. Music is in the background and a large jug of ice water is available with cups.  You place your order with the friendly clerks and pay up at the same counter and then it’s time to enjoy some really delicious sandwiches.  They were thoughtfully assembled and cut in half.  Both were on fabulous breads made in house.  This has my highest recommendation as well as me hoping I’ll get back for dinner too! Continue reading →

Pickles Deli of Whidbey Island, Clinton, WA., 8/19/23

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exterior – Kens Korner Shopping Plaza, 11042 WA-525 STE 122, Clinton, WA 98236

Pickles Deli is in a strip shopping center and open every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., except Sunday.   You can order in or call ahead and get your order to go.  The space has a high ceiling and a variety of pickle decorations as well as souvenirs for sale.  Lots of tables of different sizes in addition to a few outside are available.  In the entry room the walls are hung with bead-art pictures for sale and music is in the background.  The counter was busy filling to-go orders when we arrived and so it took a minute to get our order taken but it gave me time to look around and admire the beautiful cash register as well as the many containers of pickles.  They had a 3D hanging sign of a girl riding a pickle that was like the flat one on the wall outside the building. The people were friendly and the order came out pretty quick.  After you pay at the counter they bring the food out to your table.  The sandwiches were well stuffed with nice flavor so add this to your list when you visit Whidbey Island.  My main criticism of the place involves the assembly of the sandwich.  It was not evenly done, which is tough if you want to split one but it also changes the balance of the flavors. Continue reading →

Langley Kitchen, Langley, WA., 8/17/23

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building – 138 Second Street, Langley, WA 98260

Owner Jim Goodall opened Langley Kitchen in November 2020 after running a restaurant in Seattle.  He thought Langley needed more baked goods, especially cookies and set up shop there during the pandemic.  He was ready for portable food with the inside having no tables just the kitchen and items for sale.  You line up and order at the counter, then they call your name out a back window where there is a lovely patio to eat on.  The metal tables are surrounded by red Japanese maple trees with overhead heaters for when needed.  They offer a variety of salads, baked goods and sandwiches for both breakfast and lunch.  Their logo features an owl with a quiver holding a spoon and fork, rather than arrows.  We tried 2 of their sandwiches a bar cookie and it was all delicious.  This place should be on your list if you’re on Whidbey Island. Continue reading →

Meat & Bread, Calgary, 6/15/23

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building – Grain Exchange Building, 821 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2P 7N2, Canada

Meat and Bread started in Vancouver and now has a number of locations in Canada but this one is in the old grain exchange building and opened in 2017.  Stylishly designed and decorated they make everything themselves.  They prided themselves on the simplicity of their products  – offer just a few things but use the highest quality ingredients and make it yourselves.  That simplicity is seen in the efficient layout of the space.  You enter and immediately see the porchetta roast and some sandwiches being assembled for to-go orders.  The menu is on a blackboard-like surface above the long prep area and the sides and drinks are arranged so you can see and pick.  You can watch your sandwich being made as you pay for it and then they’ll call your number when it’s ready.  We were there when they first opened, so no line, but my understanding is that it can have long lines however they move quickly.  The staff were super friendly and loved showing off a whole roast ready to go to the slicer.  This is a wonderful place and I hope I get to eat their sandwiches again. Continue reading →

Alimentari Deli, Madison, 5/11/23

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exterior – 306 S Brearly St, Madison, WI 53703

Alimentari is basically Italian for food/groceries.  This deli is in an 1,800 square foot former laundromat space and sells fresh pasta, sauces, freshly cut meats and cheeses as well as sandwiches and other dry goods.  The sandwiches are made to order and there is no place to eat in the store.  They also had a gelato counter but we didn’t try it.  It looked like a great place to shop for Italian ingredients but for us we wanted a sandwich for the car.  Similar to last week, we wanted a snack before we went on a tour of a Frank Lloyd Wright site, but this time is was Taliesin.  I must say this sandwich was way better than the last both because of the filling but also the bread.  The buns for their sandwiches are made daily by Madison Sourdough.  They have a great chew with a crisp crust and a soft interior but it’s not too big that it dwarfs the fillings or hard to get your mouth around.  I actually found myself wanting to eat parts of the bread without any filling, it was that good.  If you need ingredients or just a snack, I’d head to this place right away. Continue reading →

Groceria Merante, Pittsburgh, 5/4/23

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entrance –3454 Bates St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Groceria Merante is an Italian grocery store selling supplies and sandwiches.  It started in the late 1950s and moved to its present location in 1979.   The family had seven children and some of them still take part in this family run business.  We were on our way to visit Falling Water, the Frank Lloyd Wright designed home about an hour and a half from Pittsburgh.  We wanted something we could keep in the car and eat before going in and this was perfect.  The little corner store had wonderful products and a deli counter in back.  Some sandwiches were ready made and in the cooler.  At check out she gave me napkins and mayo for our meal.  The sandwiches were well stuffed but did want the mayo for extra moistness.  If you need Italian supplies I highly recommend this place and if you want a sandwich to go it’s a fine choice.  There is no place to eat at the store. Continue reading →

Primanti Bros., Pittsburgh, 5/3/23

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exterior – 46 18th Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

Primanti Bros. started in 1933 during the Great Depression.  Joe Primanti had a sandwich cart that was successful enough to turn into a storefront feeding shift workers and truck drivers.  Their signature is potato fries on the sandwich.  The story is that someone came to the restaurant during the winter with a load of potatoes.  He was concerned if they were frozen but when cooked on the grill they were fine.  As other customers came in they wanted some so Joe put them on the sandwich and it was a hit.  It allowed the drivers to eat with one hand while they drove.   They now have 40 restaurants in over 6 states.  We tried to hit the original location of this Pittsburgh icon.  It is definitely worth trying and they are open daily 8 am – 10 pm and even later on Fri and Sat. The interesting thing was their menu had no prices and the drink menu on the table didn’t either.  You can order extra meat or cheese on your sandwich but then I heard another patron asking how much and the server had to go to the register to check.   On the website, most of the sandwiches are around $9 with $2 for extra meat/cheese.  Service was super friendly and the place has murals you could study while you wait a short time for your order.  They also had a full bar and several options for draft beer, which is what I tried. Continue reading →

Wario’s Beef and Pork, Columbus, 4/26/23

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building – 111 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH

Wario’s Beef and Pork was created by Chef Stephan Madias, who wanted to bring a chef-driven sandwich shop to Columbus.  He wanted customers to feel like family and to serve them quality food that is responsibly sourced and made from scratch.  Their signature semolina roll is baked and delivered to the shop daily from Matija Breads and he makes, cures and smokes the other ingredients in-house.  They opened in late fall of 2020 as a little sandwich window that quickly became a new city food spot.  Named for a character in Nintendo’s Mario Brothers video game series, they are open Wed. through Sun. and have a few tables inside and a large patio outside.  A really friendly spot, we immediately struck up a conversation with one of their regulars and their counter person was also friendly and helpful.  The sandwiches are huge and excellent.  I would eat there often if I lived nearby. Continue reading →

Bluebeard, Indianapolis, 4/21/23

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entrance – 653 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203

Bluebeard is an amazing farm to table restaurant open for lunch and dinner.  They have a full bar as well as lots of wine.  It started as a European-style bakery, as one was not in Indianapolis in 2010.  Tom Battista found a 1924 factory building in an historic Italian neighborhood in downtown and started Amelia’s Bakery which now supplies all the bread for Bluebeard.  The space was large enough to house more so Tom brought in Chef Abbi Merriss and his son Edward to open a restaurant that would have the same artisanal approach to food, and they did just that in 2012.   They named it Bluebeard after a book by Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut.  Many of the decorations in the place reflect Vonnegut’s books.  The winding space moves through numerous cozy rooms packed with fun decorations and happy people.  They take no reservations so get there early if you don’t want to wait in line.  The food is fantastic as is the service.  It will be a memory you won’t forget.  We didn’t get dessert but I snapped a photo of the menu for reference. Continue reading →

Coat Check Coffee, Indianapolis, 4/20/23

~ hsnixon ~ 2 Comments
building – 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Coat Check Coffee is open daily in the historic Athenaeum building.    They offer pastries and bialy sandwiches in addition to coffee beverages.  There are tables in the lobby next to the counter as well as by the first-floor entrance.  They are located in what was the coat check area of the old theater.  It is a small counter but they are fairly quick.  We tried one of their sandwiches and some of their pastries.  It was mostly a younger crowd but with a variety of seating options.  I also saw groups with their computers possibly having a meeting at the one large table.  It is run by the Small Victories hospitality group that operates several other coffee shops in the area.  If you are nearby, stop by for a coffee and an almond croissant. Continue reading →

Goose the Market, Indianapolis, 4/19/23

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exterior – 2503 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46205

Goose the Market offers a daily selection of sandwiches, soups and small plates as well as a deli counter with meats, cheeses, breads, gelato, specialty foods and beer/wine.  The market and butcher shop are all about the love of good food and the people who produce it.  Housed in a corner building, there are a few stools by a counter at the window to the street and some outside seating.  Inside is a long counter where the meats, cheese, and gelato are displayed and you can place your order.  Across from that are shelves of specialty items and downstairs is the wine cellar.  You could see them slicing and assembling your sandwich while you waited.  Different sandwiches are specials daily.  It’s a wonderful shop and the sandwiches are quite good. Continue reading →

Garnett’s Cafe, Richmond, 4/8/23

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exterior – 2001 Park Ave, Richmond, VA 23220

Garnett’s Cafe is a small neighborhood sandwich/salad shop on the lower floor of a 1908 corner building.  Parking is on the street and seating is limited.  There are several small tables in addition to seats at the L-shaped counter.  Art and other objects decorate the walls.  Wine and beer are available and there was a special sandwich of the day on the chalkboard outside.  They are open daily for lunch and dinner and also have a selection of desserts from Laura Lee’s.  Opening in 2009 they received a local dining award, an Elby, as the city’s Favorite Neighborhood Restaurant in 2014.  The place was named for the owner, Kendra Feather’s, grandmother Garnett Beckham, who lived to 103.  The staff was friendly and the food was good, with large portions.  We were there to catch up with a friend so apologies in advance as my note-taking and photo taking were distracted. Continue reading →

Perly’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, Richmond, 4/6/23

~ hsnixon ~ 4 Comments
exterior – 111 E Grace St, Richmond, VA 23219

Perly’s is a Jewish Restaurant and Delicatessen serving “traditional Jewish cuisine with a twist.”  In the heart of downtown, they are open Wed. to Sun. from 9:00 am till 3:00 pm. The place originally opened in 1961 and has had 3 owners with the current ones taking over in 2014 and adding the twist.  It’s a long place with one side taken up by the long bar that ends in the kitchen space.  The area that’s left is divided in two with booths and tables.  The marble bar had stools opened and we took that as there was a wait for tables even later in the afternoon.  Music was in the background, windows to the street provided additional light to the many fixtures, a black and white movie played silently on the screen above the bar, the ceiling looked like an old tin one and a pair of larger semi-circular booths flanked the doorway. Continue reading →

Frank’s Deli, Louisville, 4/1/23

~ hsnixon ~ 3 Comments
exterior – 3342 Preston Hwy, Louisville, KY 40213

Frank’s Deli also sells meat and produce.  They offer a selection of made-from-scratch food choices, with sandwiches made while you wait.  Frank has been in business over 40 years.  His background was in butchering so he started the store with meat and produce in the late 70s.  The corner building offers an array of produce, meats, sauces, chips and snacks – as much locally sourced as possible.  Most of the folks in there were in the line to order food to go.  There is no seating inside or out but we were fine to eat in the car.  The line moved quickly and the person taking my order was nice enough to suggest the spicy mustard instead of regular with the corned beef.  The sandwiches were well stuffed and I bet if I lived in town I’d be there all the time getting something to bring home or eat in the car.   They do have a good-sized parking lot. Continue reading →

Ranelli’s Deli & Cafe, Birmingham, 3/17/23

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exterior – 1225 20th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205

Ranelli’s Deli has been on the southside of Birmingham serving sandwiches, salads and pastas since 1971.  It is family owned and operated and has live music some nights.  The place was a former gas station so there is parking on 2 sides.  Inside you approach the counter and make your order from the sign above and pay.  They will call out your name when it’s ready.  In the meantime, you can look around at the jam-packed room filled with music memorabilia and other things.  In the back of the room is a small stage where live bands can play.  There is an assortment of small tables crowded into the room with soft music in the background.  Their Italian dinners looked like quite a deal and they were served all day.  I’d go back and try those but we just wanted a sandwich midway through the day.  We should have split one – they are large and packed with ingredients.  Nothing outlandish here, just good solid plain food. Continue reading →

El Rey de las Fritas, Miami, 1/25/23

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exterior –1821 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL., 33135

La Rey de las Fritas has been serving Cuban food in Miami for 40 years.  They originated and are known for “La original Frita Cubana” – a Cuban-style burger they invented.  It is a ground beef patty with sautéed onions that is topped with a mound of shoestring fried potatoes on a fluffy Cuban roll. There are several locations but we visited what we think was the original.  Located in a strip shopping center, it was a large place with 2 U-shaped counters with stools facing toward the kitchen and the opposite wall had booth seating.  It was bright and a bit sterile, but managed to get a fair number of people both eating in and taking out.  Their famous burgers are offered with a number of variations and otherwise they had a large menu of Cuban dishes.  They also had shakes and drinks made from lots of different fruits and so we also tried a mango shake or Batidos.  The sandwich was interesting but not killer however the shake was lovely. Continue reading →

La Sandwicherie, Miami Beach, 1/24/23

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exterior – 229 14th Street, Miami Beach, FL., 33139

La Sandwicherie was started in 1988 to bring simple sandwiches at a good price point to Miami Beach.  Since then they have expanded to include several Florida cities.  The sandwiches are on crisp white or wheat baguettes or soft croissants and all have the signature dressing vinaigrette on the side.  All include veggie toppings of lettuce, tomatoes, green peppers, hot peppers, black olives, red onions, cucumbers, and  Cornichons (French pickle).  They also offer salads and a variety of fruit drinks, but no alcoholic beverages.  There is no interior; it’s simply a counter with a few stools and a space designated for ordering.  You can customize your French inspired sandwich in any way you’d like.  The counter workers take your order and make your sandwich and music is in the background.  They are super friendly and helpful.  The sandwiches are wonderful and on great bread. Continue reading →

Claudia’s Grinder Shop, Farmington, CT., 11/5/22

~ hsnixon ~ 3 Comments
exterior – 1035 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06032

Claudia’s Grinder Shop is a small house with five indoor tables and outdoor seating selling well-stuffed sandwiches, salads, and soups.   Opening in 1997 it’s on a reasonably busy road near other businesses.  Inside is the order counter with the menu on a chalkboard above the prep area.   They call your name when yours is ready, with everything made to order.  They had several popular sandwich combos as well as a build-your-own section.  The breads are fresh and the sandwiches are large and come cut in half.  Music was in the background and all the staff was friendly and happy to advise.  I would go often if I lived nearby and recommend you stop if you are passing through that part of Connecticut Continue reading →

Hero’s Welcome General Store, North Hero, VT, 10/19/22

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entrance – 3537 US 2, North Hero, VT., 05474

Hero’s Welcome General Store serves sandwiches on wonderful housemade rolls along with having a huge country store of Vermont products.  Other buildings house the bakery and marina – where you can gas up or rent a canoe/kayak.  The main building is over 100 years old and packed with items from wine, cooking supplies, toys, clothing to interesting gift items.  There really was a wide array of items which were fun to browse while you waited for your sandwich to be made.  There were about 3 tables at the front of the place where you could sit and eat with the register and order counter directly to your right as you enter.  We read about it also in the Washington Post article about the Champlain Islands of Vermont.  The sandwich was wonderful and the browsing was good. Continue reading →

Pasture PDX, Portland, OR., 7/29/22

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exterior – 1413 NE Alberta St., Portland, OR., 97211

Pasture PDX bills itself as “a whole animal butcher shop and restaurant that offers a wide variety of meat cuts, cured products and sausages”.  Owner Kei Ohdera and John Schaible met while working in New York in 2014.  In early 2019 they started doing pop-ups in Portland featuring meat of retired dairy cows and European-style butchery – in an effort to recreate the experience they had with high-quality meats offered in New York restaurants.  They opened the permanent location near the end of 2021, with the aid of a “Kickstarter” campaign, and now offer lunch and dinner on Thurs. and Fri and a butcher case as well as locally sourced products, beer and wine.  It’s a small yet very tasteful space with tables out front, meal supplies (including cloth napkins) on a cart, and the order counter behind all that.  Next to the area is the butcher counter and shelves of local products for sale.  The menu is via smartphone link but can be found on their website <pasturepdx.com>.  They ask you to bus your own tables and orders can be over the phone.  There is music in the background and both owners were working in the shop and very friendly.  The sandwiches were great.  I totally recommend the place. Continue reading →

Léa Parisian Sandwiches, Chicago, 7/14/22

~ hsnixon ~ 1 Comment
exterior – 70 E. Lake St., Chicago

Léa Parisian Sandwiches was inspired by simple peasant foods the owners, Nicolas and Colleen Caulliez,  enjoyed in France.  They wanted to bring the artisan breads and pastries of Paris to Chicago.  They make traditional French baguette bread and pastries, without preservatives, in-house daily.  They now have 2 locations and you can find their full menu on <Leafrenchcafe.com>.  We went to the location near the Chicago Cultural Center and it was on a corner.  Windows line two sides of the place.  When you walk in a wall of rolling pins greets you and below are several computers where you can place you order and pay your tab.  An abbreviated menu is overhead.  They call your name out when  yours is ready.  A number of small tables are along the windows and a bench lines the other wall.  The tile floor is the main decoration.  To use the bathroom you need to get a key from the counter people.  I give 2 thumbs up to this place. Continue reading →

Block 16, Omaha, 5/7/22

~ hsnixon ~ 1 Comment
exterior – 1611 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68106

Block 16 is in downtown Omaha and owned by Paul and Jessica Urban who met in a culinary program.  They have a family farm that supplies a lot of their produce and otherwise shop for local and sustainable food sources.  They like to feature a daily special and have offered a different one 1,400 times in the last four years; they call it fun, street-style food.  It’s a fairly small place of 2 rooms.  The first one is where you order and there are some stools around the edge and counters, also the hall to the bathroom.  The second room is where you wait for you food to be brought out and has small 2-tops along the edges with 3 larger tables in the center.  There were a couple tables outside also.  The dining room had large windows to the street and tables on one end, music in the background and bright interior lighting.  The person at the order counter was very helpful.  They do sell beer as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Continue reading →

Attman’s Delicatessen, Baltimore, 4/30/22

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exterior – 1019 E Lombard St, Baltimore, MD 21202

Attman’s Deli was established in 1915 by Harry Attman and is now run by the third generation of the same family.  It is the oldest continuously family-owned deli in the country.  They have 2 locations – the one we went to in Baltimore and another in Park Potomac.  The location on Lombard Street opened in 1933, on what was then known as “Corned Beef Row” because there were 7 delis on the street. (Now just 2 delis remain operational.) They are known for their corned beef and on a busy day can sell 2,000 pounds of it at the Baltimore location only.  Hot dogs are another signature and are topped with a slice of bologna or pastrami – a consistent favorite.  They also sell lots of sides and other meats.  When Harry’s son Seymour took over in 1968 he bought the building next door to open a place for customers to eat and talk, named the Kibbitz Corner, and established names for a number of sandwich combinations.  When we went the line was long, but people were friendly and it gave you a chance to walk by the counters and decide what to order.  The corned beef was worth the wait. Continue reading →

Carl’s Deli, Cincinnati, 4/23/22

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exterior – 2836 Observatory Ave # A, Cincinnati, OH 45208

Carl’s Deli dates back to 1938.  The owner Anne McManus was practically raised there as her parents owned the deli in 1968 but sold it in 1990.  When that owner decided to sell he contacted McManus first and she was then ready to take over.   Now a local hangout, there are tables inside and outside but they also do catering, ready to eat take out and gift baskets.  They also sell wine.  It’s a small place with most of the interior taken up by sales counters.  The menu on the wall lists lots of sandwich combinations or you craft your own combo.  We ordered at the counter and they pretty quickly had our delicious sandwiches ready to eat.  This is a good place.  I can see why it’s so popular. Continue reading →

Carmen’s Deli, Dayton, OH., 4/22/22

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exterior – 40 N Main St, Dayton, OH 45423

Carmen’s Deli is in downtown Dayton, opening in 2009.  Chef Haitham Imam was encouraged by his wife Carmen to leave corporate dining and open his own place.  When the downtown tower where they were located went into bankruptcy the owners of the Kettering Tower across the street, saw their popularity and offered them a spot in their building.  The deli is open 8:30 – 2:30 weekdays and the bar runs 4-9 on Thurs. and Fri.  As we entered we were greeted and directed to the counter where you place your order.  There you can watch you sandwich being made and direct the toppings.  After it’s ready you proceed to the register and pick a table.  There were also tables outside.  The pair cooking that day were personable and gave a good show.   The food was fine, not outstading but very edible and satisfying. Continue reading →

Blues City Deli, St. Louis, 11/19/21

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building

Blues City Deli opened in 2004 as a combination of the owners love of food and music in a New Orleans style sandwich shop.  There is no live music inside now because of the pandemic but piped in music plays.  There are lots of tables outside and seats inside the corner restaurant.  Lots of blues memorabilia decorate the walls and there is a long counter without seats, along the window wall to the street.  People often seemed to lean there while waiting for their number to be called.  The line to order stretches outside but it moves quickly as does delivery of your food.  They offer a large variety of sandwiches and muffulettas all made with top quality meats and cheeses. Bottled drinks and bags of chips are located along the line for you to pick up while you wait.  They also offer beer and wine.  It is a good place with a friendly vibe. Continue reading →

Gioia’s Deli, St. Louis, 11/17/21

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exterior

Gioia’s Deli on ‘The Hill’ opened in 1918 and the new owners took over in 1980 but they are still serving the original recipe of hot salami.  The Food Network named their hot salami sandwich as “one of  the best sandwiches in America.”   In 2017 they won the James Beard American Classic Award.  The meat is never frozen and once cooked stays warm till it’s served.  They go through 10,000 pounds a month and now that I’ve tasted the hot salami vs. one of their other sandwiches I can see why.  It is a delicious product and worth trying if you’re in the area.  It’s a small place with a line to the order counter aside a rack of chips and area for drinks.  There are seats inside as well as tables outside.  Windows to the street make up one wall.  Staff were all friendly and helpful.  When you get to the counter you have an option on bread, cheese, garnish and condiments.  The order person helped us with a recommended version and our food was ready with only a very short wait. Continue reading →

Victory Sandwich Bar, Atlanta, 11/9/21

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exterior

Victory Sandwich Bar was located near Inman Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library.  It offered a large covered porch, inside seating and a backyard patio filled with picnic tables, each having a dog bowl at the end.  Music from inside blended into the outside.  Inside was booth seating, high top tables and a long bar where you place your order.  You are given a number after you pay and then they bring it to your table.  The sandwiches are small but only cost $5 each.  They have a full bar but are known for their Whiskey Coke Slushie, made with Jack Daniel’s and Coke, which come in 2 sizes.  You get those when you finish placing your order so you can work on it while your sandwich is made.  They are just like the frozen drinks from convenience stores but these have that whiskey twist.  It’s a fun drink but you still have to be careful to avoid a ‘brain freeze or cold headache’.  It’s a  pretty place to sit and prices are reasonable but the food didn’t wow me. Continue reading →

Earl’s Steak Sandwiches, Dover, N.H., 6/11/21

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exterior (99 Oak St., Dover)

Earl’s Steak Sandwiches is family owned and specializes in shaved beef sandwiches.  Wife Mo (Maureen) Donovan works the floor, husband Jim cooks and their daughter Sophie, who is 10, makes rings and bracelets to sell in one of the booths.  Opening in October, in a location that had previously been a diner,  during the Covid pandemic they rose to the challenge by concentrating on take-out until indoor dining resumed.  The decor features a ‘vintage car theme’ with old hot rod magazines at the table and the walls decorated with oil signs and car parts.  The inside area is small, with a few counter stools, but there also is a good number of outdoor tables.  Behind the counter is a window to the kitchen where you can see, hear and smell the owner’s cooking.  One of the booths is “reserved for Earl” which is where the daughter assembles and sells her jewelry.  Earl has a photo but it is actually not a family member, they just liked his name.   They cure their own meats and make their own sauces. Continue reading →

Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia, 5/20/21

~ hsnixon ~ 6 Comments
Market exterior

Reading Terminal Market is one of America’s oldest and largest public markets in a National Historic Landmark building. They have produce, meats, fish, flowers, cheese, bread and sweets to create your own meal or they have a number of restaurants. While we enjoyed walking the aisles and seeing what was for sale we tried two of the most famous sandwiches there -Tommy DiNic’s and Hershel’s East Side.  Both often have a line but we got there early and were able to easily buy from both and find a table in the center dining area, where all the tables are separated by plexiglas. Continue reading →

HUDA, Philadelphia, 5/19/21

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exterior

HUDA is “fast casual concept by Philadelphia based Chef Yehuda Sichel” who loves sandwiches. The sandwiches come on homemade milk buns and sourdough and they also offer salads. It’s a small shop with one indoor table and 4 outside ones. They do a lot of takeout. The menu uses seasonal and local ingredients and the staff were all super friendly. You go inside to place and pay for your order and then they bring it to your table. We went there for a late afternoon snack to split and it was perfect and really tasty. I’d go often if I had the chance. Continue reading →

Roli Roti, San Francisco, 3/14/19

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stand
stand

Roli Roti is a food stand by the Ferry Building and the location does move, so just look for the line.  The secret is to get there when they first open, and then there is no line and it’s easier to find a seat somewhere in the area to enjoy your sandwich.  They are only open on Thursday (10 am – 2 pm)  and Saturday (8 am – 2 pm) but their signs encourage you to hire them to cater your next party.  They have the rotisserie going as you walk up and you can see the chickens and pork rotating slowing dripping their fat and juices on the potatoes below.  I have been many times and it’s a great snack – the smell is wonderful – but I’ve only tried their porchetta sandwich.  They cut the meat while you watch and load it onto a wonderful soft, chewy roll and then cover it with onion relish and arugula greens.  There are bits of the crackling crust of pork intermixed with the tender, juicy pieces of pork.  I will admit that some days have yielded a better tasting meat than others but it always is rich, decadent snack or meal.  Try it if you’re there at the right time and then on Saturday you can walk through the wonderful farmer’s market behind the building or cruise through the fun shops in the building. Continue reading →