How to spot a real New Yorker:
– He steps back just in time to avoid cab splashes
– He leaves town on Friday by 1 P.M. … or else waits until 8
– He calls the subway lines by their numbers or letters — never their colors
And he knows where to find the best sandwich in every neighborhood.
When it comes to the LES, there’s no doubting Russ & Daughters and Katz’s Deli are top of list. But for the NY Book of Sandwich, Vol. 2, we scouted out seven other bites between two slices that are close behind.
Cheeky Sandwiches
A Chicken Biscuit Sandwich for the soul. Topped with gravy and slaw between two perfectly moist meet crumbly biscuits, it’s the kind of sandwich that will have you writing a Yelp review — when you’re not pissed off. Bonus: if you’re not a jerk Anthony will likely give you free beignets.
Tiny’s Giant Sandwich Shop
Admittedly, a bit hipster. But, the heck with it. Even Teddy Roosevelt had a tattoo. If we’re walking through the door, it’s 100% for the Spicy Rizzak with turkey and bacon. Not for the faint at heart — she’s fiery. Additionally a stellar little go-to for the herbivores for their favored Veggie Meatball Parm and Humongous Hummus options.
Patacon Pisao
This is Venezuelan. So, know before you go that patacones are green plantain sandwiches. Like two big, soft plantain chips with whatever you want stuff inside. If you’ve yet to — you’ll be hooked. It’s quick, flavorful and customizable. Of note: the Patacon Cubano with pulled roast pork, ham and cheese.
An Choi
Trendy, but chill. And very friendly. Exactly what one wants out of a Lower East Vietnamese haunt. They’re known for their Half Phở, Half Bahn combo for which recommend the Bánh Mì Cá Basa (Catfish Po’Boy) with kewpie mayo and cabbage slaw.
Pause Cafe
Some may have wandered into to this sprite lil’ Morocco meets West eatery when they got the two-hour notice at Clinton Street Bakery. And then, we were hooked. With the Tuna Royal and the Merguez on rotation.
Shopsin’s
With 46 sandwiches to choose from — it’s difficult for us to tell if you could go wrong. Though, we’ve put in as much research as the waistline could handle. The results: surefire hits are the Daniel, the Gidget, the Say Yes and the High School.
Berkli Parc
A Cali-healthy spot and good for multitasking. With the kind of sandwiches that keep you going and are good for dropping on the laptop. The favored is the Golden Bear with roast beef, avocado, cheddar and dijon, but that’s only if you can pass up the Thanksgiving Year-‘round on leavain.
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