Boy. Do I ever love a sandwich. I know I’ve talked about it before, but a few miles from us, when I was growing up, lived The Upper Crust. It has got to be the best sandwich shop in all of history. It is gone now. But I loved to eat there. Although it didn’t happen often.
These days, there are great restaurants everywhere. One chef, that crazy guy Guy Fieri, always comes up with lists. I just recently found an article where Guy Fieri gives us his “Favorite Sandwich Shops Across America.” I’ve never watched his show, but he seems to be pretty popular. He hosts Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and apparently has traveled the country in search of unforgettable local favorites.
Anyway. He rated the Top Sandwich Shops in the USA. The Red Front in Lakengren did not make the list, although I personally think it should be a strong contender and candidate.
In Hollywood, Florida, Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies has been serving its signature steak hoagies since 1958. Thinly sliced rib-eye, grilled onions, melted provolone, and a buttery homemade roll have made it a local institution.
• In San Carlos, California, Refuge is known for The Toasted Slaw #19, featuring house-cured pastrami that’s brined for a week before being piled onto rye bread with Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and crunchy coleslaw.
• At Smack Shack at the 1029 Bar in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Guy praised the unusual Leg of Lamb Sandwich, topped with harissa, fennel slaw, and saffron aioli.
• In Los Angeles, California, Beer Belly offers a unique Duck French Dip, replacing traditional roast beef with tender duck served alongside a rich au jus.
• Pica Pica Arepa Kitchen in San Francisco, California serves the Arepa Pabellón, a Venezuelan favorite filled with shredded beef, black beans, sweet plantains, queso fresco, and flavorful sauce.
• For a taste of New Orleans, Mahony’s Po-Boy Shop in New Orleans, Louisiana is famous for The Peacemaker, loaded with fried oysters, bacon, cheddar cheese, and served on French bread.
• In Lakewood, Ohio, Melt Bar and Grilled created the legendary Parmageddon, an over-the-top grilled cheese stuffed with pierogi, sautéed onions, cabbage, and sharp cheddar.
• Finally, Noble Pig Sandwiches in Austin, Texas serves the hearty Knuckle Sandwich, featuring slow-roasted beef knuckle, caramelized onions, cheddar, horseradish sauce, and house mustard.
Ohio DID make the list, which is pretty incredible. But given the other choices, I’d say Guy spends a lot of his time in California.
Where is your favorite sandwich shop?
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“People who love to eat are always the best people.” — Julia Child
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“The fondest memories are made gathered around the table.” — Clare Whitmore
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“Happiness is a really good sandwich.” — Ryan Foster
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“Travel is measured as much in meals as it is in miles.” — Earl Whitman
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