Even during this time of post Christmas no bread eating soup repent, I remain the sandwich’s biggest fan.
And by sandwich, I do not mean panini. I have nothing against paninis per se, but they have been wildly abused by over eager grillers in every cafe around Vancouver. I know. I know what you’re saying. What about Presto Panini? What about the turkey pesto panini at Liberty’s? These are exceptions. I don’t know how many times I have had some hot drippy mayonnaise or hot lettuce on a sandwich because the panini griller was just crying out to press some sandwich that had no business being pressed. It is becoming harder and harder to find a real sandwich. To wit, here are some sure fire hits on the sandwich parade:
VANCOUVER
Tomato cafe (3305 Cambie Street, 604 874 6020)
Turkey sandwich. The. Best. Cranberry. Sauce. Ever.
Finch’s (353 West Pender Street, 604 899 4040)
They have so many good combos here (but crazy slow service from the super cute shrunken cardi wearing staff), I feel bad picking out the most boring. But I’ll be damned if they don’t have the best straight up vegetarian sandwich I’ve ever had. I don’t know what they’re putting on this thing, but it is officially called the crack sandwich at my house.
Liberty bakery (3699 Main Street 604 709 9999)
I know, I know. It’s all paninis. And I like the Turkey here, but for a great unexpected combo I’m going to go for the black bean and feta sandwich that’s grilled on a little tiny bun. So cute. Perfect for snacks.
And if you’re dying for a sandwich in SAN FRANSISCO:
Mario’s Bohemian Cigar Store (566 Columbus Ave, 415 362-0536). Hot meatball sandwiches. Wine in tumblers. Bohemians.
Last but not least, the place where sandwiches go when they die: Sandwich and Friends in BARCELONA (Various locations www.sandwichandfriends.com).
This place is nothing but sandwiches. They have like, 50 different kinds. Oh ya, and ‘cause it’s Spain, you can smoke in there too. Sandwiches and smokes. They think of everything in Europe. One of the all time best sandwiches on the menu has to be The Hugo: roast pork loin, emmenthal cheese, cream of eggplant, garlic shoots and mayo. Unbelievable.
I will continue my research when I am done this horrid soup fast. In the meantime, I would love to hear your suggestions.
