Jackson Heights Life

Get Connected => Restaurants & Food => Topic started by: toddg on March 28, 2008, 05:30:47 PM

Title: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on March 28, 2008, 05:30:47 PM
Stuck inside several other threads is a great discussion about sandwiches yearning to break free!

So here's a thread where it can take place.

What are the best (non-burger) sandwiches in JH, Queens, and the world?

Here's some food for thought...

1. Esquire's article on America's best sandwiches (http://www.esquire.com/sandwiches).

2. A quirky documentary, Sandwiches That You Will Like (http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Sandwiches_That_You_Will_Like/70025844).  Wikipedia has a list of the film's featured sandwiches (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwiches_That_You_Will_Like). 

What are your favorites?
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on April 09, 2008, 11:49:03 AM
Scattered across the board, we've had several recommendations for where to get Cuban sandwiches (cubanos).  Here's a quick review...




Any other suggestions?
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on April 09, 2008, 12:02:19 PM
I like the sandwiches at Iavarone Bros. located on the corner of 69th Street and Grand Avenue in Maspeth.  They specialize in Italian heroes and fresh, hot/cold pasta and antipasta platters.  We've purchased the 3 ft. Godfather heroes for parties, and they've always been a hit with our guests.  Iavarone also has a nice selection of fresh meats/chicken/sausages and also offers butcher services.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on April 09, 2008, 12:27:15 PM
I forgot to mention in my previous post that Cannelle, over by the Waldbaum's mall, is also serving sandwiches.  They have tuna, Genoa Salami, dijon and Provolone and the newest one is the fresh mozzarella, tomato and basil sandwich.

So far, I've tried the Genoa Salami sandwich and thought it was very good. By the way, they also serve quiche.  If you order the quiche, ask them to warm it up for you.  It's delicious!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Christine76 on April 09, 2008, 01:12:34 PM
A couple of my favorites that come to mind:

The paninis at Il Bambino in Astoria (31st Ave)
Also, I love the sandwiches (and soups and salads) at the Blue Dog Coffee Co on 25th St. and 6th Ave in Manhattan - everything is so fresh, sandwiches and salads are creative and the soup is amazing! 
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: NYCMacUser on April 09, 2008, 02:18:01 PM
On Astorians we have an Astorians Sandwich Society (ASS) that doesn't meet frequently any longer as we seem to exhausted our resources. ASS members are all sandwich lovers who like to experience all kinds off different pleasures stuck between delicious breads and rolls.

My personal favorite place is:
Sal, Kris & Charlie's Deli
3312 23rd Avenue
Astoria N 11105
718-278-9240

Their BOMB made the Esquire's article on America's best sandwiches. But my favorite is their fresh mozzarella (while it's still warm) and prosciutto with the fixin's. But be prepared to wait in line. Around noon the place gets really jammed up. All the local cops, ConEd, fire, DOT parking and sanitation folks double and triple park their cars and trucks and even use the sidewalk, to pick up orders for groups back at their locations, and every limo driver in the neighborhood gathers there for their orders! But it is so well worth the wait. Those sandwiches are HUGE. Pick up a small bag of chips and you've got lunch and dinner.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: eddiestjohns on April 09, 2008, 06:23:53 PM
Quote from: NYCMacUser on April 09, 2008, 02:18:01 PM
On Astorians we have an Astorians Sandwich Society (ASS) that doesn't meet frequently any longer as we seem to exhausted our resources. ASS members are all sandwich lovers who like to experience all kinds off different pleasures stuck between delicious breads and rolls.

My personal favorite place is:
Sal, Kris & Charlie's Deli
3312 23rd Avenue
Astoria N 11105
718-278-9240

Their BOMB made the Esquire's article on America's best sandwiches. But my favorite is their fresh mozzarella (while it's still warm) and prosciutto with the fixin's. But be prepared to wait in line. Around noon the place gets really jammed up. All the local cops, ConEd, fire, DOT parking and sanitation folks double and triple park their cars and trucks and even use the sidewalk, to pick up orders for groups back at their locations, and every limo driver in the neighborhood gathers there for their orders! But it is so well worth the wait. Those sandwiches are HUGE. Pick up a small bag of chips and you've got lunch and dinner.

I agree with every said and will add the following.  There is no place where you get bigger or fresher sandwiches.  The bread is also very fresh because they receive two bakery deliveries of bread a day.  Last fall I picked up some sandwiches for a tailgate in the Meadowlands and people couldn't believe the size, quality and price.  I don't know how they turn a profit on the sandwiches.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: buddy on April 09, 2008, 08:53:45 PM
I like peanut butter and jelly.  Wheat bread.  But when I'm in the mood for something different, I like Mangia's sandwiches.  Great, crusty bread.  I don't care what's on it as long as it's that bread.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: NYCMacUser on April 09, 2008, 10:29:02 PM
When I was a little girl we used to have wish sandwiches. We would wish Mom had some money to buy something to put between the 2 slices of bread!

When my twins were toddlers, getting them to eat was very trying. Every now and then I gave in to their whines. My Mom would call me every day at dinner time and ask what I made the boys for dinner. Should would be so pleased when I would tell her circle steaks. Circle steaks was our code word for bologna sandwiches!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Ernie on April 10, 2008, 02:02:09 AM
I go to La Flor in Woodside for the grilled chicken/fresh mozzarella/roasted pepper with chipotle mayo. it's really good, it comes with a salad, but you can substitute that with some really good fries! Don't forget to have a hot chocolate afterwards, they make their own blend of chocolate with cinnamon.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Dawnie on April 10, 2008, 10:23:06 PM
The best deli sandwich (Italian) is at "Mama's" (aka;Leo's Latticini) in Corona.  Home of the NY Mets to. Don't be surprised if you run into a Met player. There sandwiches are huge and delicious.  The hero's are huge but, worth the trip.  They also sell all types of Italian meats and make homemade mozzarella and next door is an Italian bakery and a pasta store.  Mama's is not open late so, call before going. :D

Leo's Latticini (Mama's). is located in Corona 4602 104th St Queens, NY (718) 898-6069.

After you had your sandwich take a stroll to 108th Street for some ices to
Lemon Ice King of Corona
52-02 108th St


Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: spaceboy on April 11, 2008, 10:14:08 AM
I will totally back up Dawnie on this one... Mama has the best sandwiches I've ever had. And I love the people working there too!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: buddy on April 11, 2008, 07:14:28 PM
Quote from: Dawnie on April 10, 2008, 10:23:06 PM
The best deli sandwich (Italian) is at "Mama's" (aka;Leo's Latticini) in Corona.  Home of the NY Mets to. Don't be surprised if you run into a Met player. There sandwiches are huge and delicious.  The hero's are huge but, worth the trip.  They also sell all types of Italian meats and make homemade mozzarella and next door is an Italian bakery and a pasta store.  Mama's is not open late so, call before going. :D

Leo's Latticini (Mama's). is located in Corona 4602 104th St Queens, NY (718) 898-6069.

After you had your sandwich take a stroll to 108th Street for some ices to
Lemon Ice King of Corona
52-02 108th St

Oh my god.. I forgot about this place.   I LOVE THEIR SANDWICHES.  And I go next door to buy fresh raviolis.  Never saw anyone from the Mets but the entire NY Police Dept and Fire Depts. get their sandwiches there so I know I'm in the right place.



Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on April 11, 2008, 11:03:41 PM
Quote from: Dawnie on April 10, 2008, 10:23:06 PM
After you had your sandwich take a stroll to 108th Street for some ices to
Lemon Ice King of Corona

Dawnie, I love the Lemon Ice King.  :smitten:  We go frequently during hot summer nights and enjoy our ices while watching the bocce ball games and listening to Frank Sinatra tunes.  Sorry.  I went off topic.  We'll definitely have to try Mama's!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on April 30, 2008, 08:04:37 AM

The New York Times
Dining & Wine
The Next Best Things in Sliced Bread (http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/30/dining/30sand.html)

By JULIA MOSKIN
Published: April 30, 2008

NEW YORK has long been a city of stand-up eaters, but that doesn’t mean people aren’t picky. To make it here, a sandwich has to work overtime, being portable, filling, interesting and tasty.

“What’s better than a really great sandwich?” said Alexandra Raij, the chef at Tía Pol and El Quinto Pino, who is hosting a sandwich potluck for friends at her apartment next week. “Nothing that I’ve ever made.”

It should be noted that Ms. Raij is the inventor of several memorable sandwiches, including one filled with sea urchin and drizzled with fragrant mustard oil. But with all respect to her uni panini, it is not a real New York sandwich. Slim and precise, it lacks the compressed, complete pleasures of the Cuban sandwich, the heft and chew of a fully loaded gyro, the cool crunch of a Vietnamese banh mi. Those three are two-fisted, five-minute complete meals with the kind of flavor and texture contrast available on, say, a seven-course tasting menu at Jean Georges.

A great New York sandwich is large; it contains multitudes. And new contenders are turning up all the time to challenge the mighty meatball parm and the elegant B.L.T. Whether invented, imported, or refined here — whether discovered in the boroughs or farther afield — the seven sandwiches here move the dialogue forward.

The research for this article produced as much regret as revelation, with unrequitable longings for far-away creations like Chicago’s jibarito (steak squeezed between thin, crusty slices of smashed plantain) and extinct species like the chacarero of Jackson Heights, Queens: a Chilean sandwich with a garnish of chopped green beans, the specialty of a bakery that is now closed.

Most of all, the research was extremely filling.

The ground rules: A sandwich had to be composed as such; mere food on bread did not count. (This left out, for example, pan de lomo saltado, a popular Peruvian stir-fry of beef, onions and peppers laced with soy sauce, typically served with French fries, but piled onto a crusty roll for sandwich purposes.)

Burgers and wraps were out of the running, as was the universe of empanadas, samosas, patties and arepas; the same went for any sandwich that had to be eaten inside a restaurant or was otherwise unavailable for travel to a picnic, a ballgame or a playground.


(Follow link for complete article)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on May 02, 2008, 05:03:10 PM
Chowhounders follow up with their favorites (http://www.chowhound.com/topics/515225).
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on April 08, 2009, 01:01:23 PM
The New York Times dissects the Vietnamese classic, Banh Mi.  There's also an accompanying cool graphic called Banh Mi, Unstacked (http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2009/04/07/dining/08banh.5.ready.html).

The New York Times
Building on Layers of Tradition (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/08/dining/08banh.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&sq=BAHN%20SANDWICH&st=cse&scp=2)
By JULIA MOSKIN
Published: April 7, 2009

FRED HUA’S banh mi pho does not look like a cultural revolution. But in its juicy, messy way, it is. Served at Nha Toi in Brooklyn, where he is the chef and owner, banh mi pho is stuffed with the ingredients for pho, the sacred soup of Vietnam: beef scented with star anise and cinnamon, fresh basil and crunchy bean sprouts.

“I could never get away with this in San Jose,” said Mr. Hua, referring to the city with a large Vietnamese-American community in Northern California, where he grew up. “New York has a history of being open to creative ideas.”

At 31, Mr. Hua is part of a rising generation of American cooks of Vietnamese descent who are tinkering with a once-rigid culinary tradition.

They start by reinventing the banh mi — the classic street-vendor Vietnamese-French sandwich. They are taking it back to its roots with house-cured meats that blend French, Vietnamese and Chinese influences, but also nudging it forward with cross-cultural fillings (Polish sausage), local breads (crisp rolls from Parisi Bakery in Little Italy), and American influences like the sloppy Joe.

“My mother worked so hard to recreate the flavors of Vietnam in America,” said Vinh Nguyen, the 29-year-old owner of Silent H, a few blocks away from Nha Toi. “We are doing it our way, but with respect.”

If you haven’t tried a classic banh mi, imagine all the cool, salty, crunchy, moist and hot contrasts of a really great bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich. Then add a funky undertone of pork liver and fermented anchovy, a gust of fresh coriander and screaming top notes of spice, sweetness and tang.

[Click on above link for complete article.]
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: NYC Peromyscus on April 08, 2009, 01:06:53 PM
Anybody tried Baoguette in Gramercy?  I've been eating there a few times a week since they opened.  Really love it! 

Would love to have a banh mi place in JH (are there any in Elmhurst?), but they need to sell volume to make money.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on April 08, 2009, 01:18:02 PM
There's a short discussion on the banh mi served at Thai Son in Elmhurst.

Vietnamese Restaurants (http://www.jacksonheightslife.com/community/index.php?topic=1138.msg8582#msg8582)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on April 09, 2009, 01:09:21 AM
Quote from: NYC Peromyscus on April 08, 2009, 01:06:53 PM
Anybody tried Baoguette in Gramercy?  I've been eating there a few times a week since they opened.  Really love it!

Believe it or not, I was on line there at precisely the moment that you wrote that message!

I've been there twice so far.  The "Baoguette" was yummy, but I was less thrilled with the "Sloppy Bao".  I'll try the catfish next time I get there. 

I've also been enjoying the not-quite-banh-mi sandwiches at Vanessa's dumplings at 14th & 3rd.  Sort of a greasier, cheaper version but so very good.


My favorite Manhattan sandwich of the moment is the Slow-Roasted Pork at 'Wichcraft.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: liam0925 on April 09, 2009, 01:42:54 AM
Quote from: Chuckster on April 09, 2008, 12:27:15 PM
I forgot to mention in my previous post that Cannelle, over by the Waldbaum's mall, is also serving sandwiches. 

I agree with Chuckster, Cannelle should not be overlooked.  Granted their main purpose in life is to destroy any diet you might be on by tempting you with their unbelievable sweets, but their sandwiches are not to be slighted.  I've enjoyed their salami and provolone, their quiche and their excellent variation on the traditional grilled cheese.  Enjoy, but make sure you leave room for dessert.   :P
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: NYC Peromyscus on April 09, 2009, 07:14:35 AM
Quote from: toddg on April 09, 2009, 01:09:21 AM
Believe it or not, I was on line there at precisely the moment that you wrote that message!

I've been there twice so far.  The "Baoguette" was yummy, but I was less thrilled with the "Sloppy Bao".  I'll try the catfish next time I get there. 

That's pretty funny!  I usually get the "Baoguette" because it's a deal at $5 for the quality of the ingredients.  I have had the catfish...it's tasty and has quite a bit of fish in it.  The marinade isn't that special...I think it's the yellow Thai curry paste that comes out of the plastic pot.  But still good.

FYI, the place next door ("Latin Thing" or something like that) has a decent pernil sandwich.  I'll have to try Vanessa's.  Greasy and cheap is my usual MO for lunch!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Metsboy on April 09, 2009, 05:10:54 PM
Quote from: Dawnie on April 10, 2008, 10:23:06 PM
The best deli sandwich (Italian) is at "Mama's" (aka;Leo's Latticini) in Corona.  Home of the NY Mets to. Don't be surprised if you run into a Met player. There sandwiches are huge and delicious.  The hero's are huge but, worth the trip.  They also sell all types of Italian meats and make homemade mozzarella and next door is an Italian bakery and a pasta store.  Mama's is not open late so, call before going. :D

Leo's Latticini (Mama's). is located in Corona 4602 104th St Queens, NY (718) 898-6069.

After you had your sandwich take a stroll to 108th Street for some ices to
Lemon Ice King of Corona
52-02 108th St




No doubt,,,Mama's ..its been there for over 50 years..right down the block from St Leo's
Sal's in Astoria is number 2...then you have Cherry Valley out in Whitestone
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Jeffsayyes on April 09, 2009, 11:08:13 PM
i got the bahn mi at thai son. it was just curry chicken on a hero. i don't know, nothing exciting. i thought htey all had pate in them, but nooooo. maybe bahn mi just means hero.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on April 14, 2009, 12:33:08 AM
Jeff:  Next time try the cold banh mi sandwich, and ask for it spicy.  It's not on the menu, but if I recall correctly, it's posted on the wall.  It's made with pork cold cuts, pate, various pickled vegetables, and hot sauce.  It's more typical than the curry chicken sandwich you had.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: cupcakeparade on April 14, 2009, 02:56:44 PM
my landlord who lives in jackson heights actually owns at least one, possibly two, banh mi places in manhattan. the one i know about is called saigon, www.vietnamese-sandwich.com.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Contessa on April 30, 2009, 05:04:14 PM
French Quarter Muffalettas but alias the only place to find these is in my kitchen.  Jackson Heights lacks a good deli!!!!!!!!!!!!! :'(
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Queenskid on May 01, 2009, 10:23:48 AM
What exactly is a "French Quarter Muffaletta"?
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Contessa on May 01, 2009, 10:51:36 AM
   Central Grocery in New Orleans is famous for this amazing sandwich which consists of mortadella, ham, salami, hot capicola, provolone cheese and olive salad which really makes this sandwich so special, all this is layered onto a large round rustica or peasant bread which is wrap tightly and weighted down for a few hours then cut into wedges .... hummmmmm a slice of HEAVEN!!!!!  I plan to make a large one today to take on our fishing trip up the Hudson tomorrow so even if the stripe bass aren't biting we will have a belly full of these wonderful muffulettas :smitten:.  Here's the recipe.............http://www.nolacuisine.com/2005/07/17/muffuletta-sandwich-recipe

Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: NYC Native on May 02, 2009, 10:20:36 PM
Quote from: Griswold Contessa on May 01, 2009, 10:51:36 AM
   Central Grocery in New Orleans is famous for this amazing sandwich which consists of mortadella, ham, salami, hot capicola, provolone cheese and olive salad which really makes this sandwich so special, all this is layered onto a large round rustica or peasant bread which is wrap tightly and weighted down for a few hours then cut into wedges .... hummmmmm a

DAMN!
Wrong topic to read....Now I have the munchies!!!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: NYC Native on May 02, 2009, 10:25:37 PM
Quote from: Queenskid on May 01, 2009, 10:23:48 AM
What exactly is a "French Quarter Muffaletta"?

French Muffaletta???  Italian French???

( I copied and pasted below)


Muffaletta Sandwich
Posted on Jun 03, 2008 under Cajun & Creole, Main Dishes



3 large garlic cloves, crushed
1 cup chopped green olives stuffed with pimientos
1 cup pitted and chopped “black-ripe” olives or Calamatas
1/2 cup roasted sweet red peppers, chopped
1 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/3 pound salami
1/2 pound provolone cheese
1/2 pound mild cheese
1/3 pound mortadella
1/3 pound prosciutto

Cook’s note: The roasted red peppers are Italian-style, available at many Italian delis.

Take one loaf fresh Italian bread (one big round for a traditional Muffaletta or individual sub loaves will do fine for smaller sandwiches). Cut the loaf ( or loaves) in half, and scoop out a little of the inside to make some room. Make the olive salad by combining the olives and roasted perrer, garlic and vinegar. Drizzle some of the olive oil and juice from the olive salad on each side of the open loaf — use plenty. On the bottom, place some salami, olive salad, provolone, mild cheese, and mortadella. Top with the other half loaf. Slice into wedges (or eat the individual loaves).
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Contessa on May 03, 2009, 10:43:52 AM
                Louisiana Creole cuisine originated mainly in the New Orleans area which is a melting pot that blends French, Spanish, Italian, Canarian, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Native American and African influences.  The Spanish and Canarian influences on Creole cuisine is most often seen in the use of hot peppers, citrus juice marinades, the all important rice, and the introduction of beans. The use of tomatoes came from the Spaniards and Italians, which were not typically used in Creole cooking but now remains an important ingredient in such dishes as Shrimp Creole, Jambalaya and Gumbo.  Pasta also began to make a show during the period when New Orleans was a popular destination for Italian and Greek immigrants after 1815. Many Italians and Greeks became grocers, bakers, cheese makers and orchard farmers, and so influenced the Creole cuisine in New Orleans and its suburbs.

                The first French, Spanish, and Italian Creole cookbooks date back to the era before the Louisiana Purchase.  Boy do I LOVE Google. For you jazz buffs, the famous jazz great Louis Prima was a .........Salut! As my Cajun friends often said "Laissez les bon temps roulet" which means "Let the Good Times Roll"  BON APPETIT!

      Oh and by the way my fishing trip up the Hudson was successful I came home yesterday with a 20 lb. striped bass......hummm Thai-style bass with coconut rice wrapped in banana leaf or maybe Peruvian Ceviche or possibly both!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Really4rob on May 04, 2009, 11:12:52 PM
Quote from: Griswold Contessa on May 03, 2009, 10:43:52 AM
      Oh and by the way my fishing trip up the Hudson was successful I came home yesterday with a 20 lb. striped bass......hummm Thai-style bass with coconut rice wrapped in banana leaf or maybe Peruvian Ceviche or possibly both!

Now I'm craving sea food!  :)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on December 23, 2009, 01:05:39 PM
Today's New York Daily News has an article on the late Nancy DeBenedittis, better known as "Mama" at Leo’s Latticini sandwich shop in Corona. According to the article, Mrs. DeBenedittis passed away earlier this month at the age of 90.

Owner of Leo's Latticini, best known as Mama's of Corona, will be missed (http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/queens/2009/12/23/2009-12-23_mama_of_corona_will_be_missed.html)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on February 17, 2010, 01:53:15 PM
Leo's Latticini (Mama's of Corona), is the recent subject of Joe DiStefano's World's Fare blog at Edible Queens.  Looks good!  I see Mama's is a lot more than just sandwiches.

There's No Place Like Queens...or Mama's (http://www.ediblecommunities.com/queens/348-theres-no-place-like-queensor-mamas.htm)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: earbears on February 17, 2010, 07:59:52 PM
Leo's is great.
The fresh made mozarella is outstanding. ;D
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Contessa on February 17, 2010, 08:14:59 PM
Buon Appetit deli on Ditmars and 36th St. in Astoria is without a doubt the BEST place for sandwiches.  Check out their selection there's something for everyone. Mangia!!

http://www.buonappetitny.com/
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on March 07, 2010, 03:19:12 PM
Does a Patacon Pisao qualify as a sandwich?  Hmmm...  Anyone try this one?

Serious Eats NY had a write-up on this Venezuelan eatery back in November, 2009.

Off the Beaten Path: Patacon Pisao's Carne Mechada Patacón (http://newyork.seriouseats.com/2009/11/off-the-beaten-path-patacon-pisaos-carne-mechada-patacon-elmhurst-queens.html)

The signature sandwich on this flickr pic looks YUM!

Signature Patacon from Patacon Pisao; Elmhurst, Queens (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7389692@N08/4325803864/)

Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Contessa on March 07, 2010, 08:56:46 PM
This sandwich looks and sounds so amazing.....I'm heading over there this coming week for taste!  Maybe I'll bring along my girlfriend who is from Caracas so she can break it down for me!

Quote from: Chuckster on March 07, 2010, 03:19:12 PM
Does a Patacon Pisao qualify as a sandwich?  Hmmm...  Anyone try this one?

Serious Eats NY had a write-up on this Venezuelan eatery back in November, 2009.

Off the Beaten Path: Patacon Pisao's Carne Mechada Patacón (http://newyork.seriouseats.com/2009/11/off-the-beaten-path-patacon-pisaos-carne-mechada-patacon-elmhurst-queens.html)

The signature sandwich on this flickr pic looks YUM!

Signature Patacon from Patacon Pisao; Elmhurst, Queens (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7389692@N08/4325803864/)


Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on March 07, 2010, 08:58:35 PM
Quote from: Griswold Contessa on March 07, 2010, 08:56:46 PM
This sandwich looks and sounds so amazing.....I'm heading over there this coming week for taste!  Maybe I'll bring along my girlfriend who is from Caracas so she can break it down for me!

Great!  Make sure you post your findings! 
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on March 09, 2010, 03:34:01 PM
This week's Edible Queens World's Fare blog entry is on Patacon Pisao!

Elmhurst's Venezuelan Snack Specialist (http://www.ediblecommunities.com/queens/364-elmhursts-venezuelan-snack-specialist.htm)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Girl on March 12, 2010, 09:25:25 AM
Mama's is the best.  Hands down.  They make a mean sandwich that surprisingly tastes like a muffaletta.  I did a little digging a while ago and apparently it was the Sicilians who brought the muffaletta to New Orleans.  Mama's is Sicilian.  They just don't make their sandwiches on the round loaf of bread but they are 100% just as good.  I dream about their sandwiches. :smitten:
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: dssjh on March 12, 2010, 10:28:53 AM
mmmm mama's! if there were a little drooly icon above, i'd use it  :smitten:
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on June 01, 2010, 11:13:57 PM
Grub Street has an epic slideshow of the 101 best sandwiches in New York (http://newyork.grubstreet.com/2010/05/the_101_best_sandwiches_in_new.html).  El Sitio's cubano made the list, as did Despana Foods (but I'm guessing they don't offer sandwiches at their JH location).

One of each, please!  This is a research assignment I really would have enjoyed.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Griswold Contessa on June 02, 2010, 08:08:02 AM
I am shocked that El Sitio made this list their cubanos are tired and tasteless!  So far I have not found a restaurant in NYC that makes great cubanos.  The best cubano I have ever had in my life was from Miami's Enriqueta's and since I can't afford to fly down to Miami whenever I need a cubano fix I bought a sandwich press and make my own.  The two most important parts of the cubano is the pernil (pork roast) which should be marinated overnight with sofrito and spices and slow roasted and pan de manteca (bread made with lard)   :smitten:

 
Quote from: toddg on June 01, 2010, 11:13:57 PM
Grub Street has an epic slideshow of the 101 best sandwiches in New York (http://newyork.grubstreet.com/2010/05/the_101_best_sandwiches_in_new.html).  El Sitio's cubano made the list, as did Despana Foods (but I'm guessing they don't offer sandwiches at their JH location).

One of each, please!  This is a research assignment I really would have enjoyed.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on June 02, 2010, 12:36:02 PM
Quote from: Griswold Contessa on June 02, 2010, 08:08:02 AM
I am shocked that El Sitio made this list their cubanos are tired and tasteless!  So far I have not found a restaurant in NYC that makes great cubanos.  The best cubano I have ever had in my life was from Miami's Enriqueta's and since I can't afford to fly down to Miami whenever I need a cubano fix I bought a sandwich press and make my own.  The two most important parts of the cubano is the pernil (pork roast) which should be marinated overnight with sofrito and spices and slow roasted and pan de manteca (bread made with lard)   :smitten:

I agree with you about the El Sitio sandwich.  Even the photo looks unappealing.  I also agree that Miami is probably the best place for a good Cubano. Believe me... hubby and I have searched the tri-state area high and low, and we have yet to discover any cafe/luncheonette serving a sandwich worth a second trip.  There used to be a fabulous place in Washington Heights, but I can't remember the name right now.  That was also a while back, so I'm not sure if they're still in business.  Their Cubanos coupled with a batido de fruta bomba were to die for!!  And I've never been a huge papaya fan.

Believe it or not, there's one place that hubby and I go to when the Cubano mood kicks in.  It's a pan-Latin restaurant in Park Slope, Brooklyn called Bogota Latin Bistro (http://www.bogotabistro.com/).  The sandwich is not entirely authentic, but it's probably the closest we've come to a nice attempt at a Cubano.  The pork has that marinated flavor and is juicy and tender.  So, even if you like sandwich de carne de puerco (lechon), you'd like this one.

Here's a pic of the Cubano from Bogota Latin Bistro.  In actuality, the sandwich is much larger than what appears in the photo, and we've never had it served with lettuce.  Nice sandwich nonetheless.

Sandwich @ Bogota Latin Bistro (http://www.foodspotting.com/reviews/20639Cubano)



Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: eddiestjohns on June 02, 2010, 12:46:32 PM
I used to work on 121st and Broadway in Manhattan and I used to go to Floridita (Cuban and Dominican cuisine) on 126 and Broadway and they had very good Cuban sandwiches.  Not as good as the ones I got on La Calle Ocho in Miami but pretty good.  That being said I won't make a special trip to either place just to get a good Cuban sandwich.  We should have a good one available in JH.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: eddiestjohns on June 02, 2010, 06:19:02 PM
I was discussing Cuban sandwiches at work with one of my Cuban Buddies this afternoon and he told me that Rincon Criollo on Junction just south of Roosevelt has really good Cuban food and sandwiches.  I am going to try one soon and report back.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: abee on June 02, 2010, 09:38:18 PM
I adore Rincon Criollo, though I have never tried their sandwiches. Their pork is excellent, I love their rice and beans, and mmm... now I'm totally in the mood to go back. It's been too long.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on June 02, 2010, 10:16:16 PM
Quote from: eddiestjohns on June 02, 2010, 12:46:32 PM
I used to work on 121st and Broadway in Manhattan and I used to go to Floridita (Cuban and Dominican cuisine) on 126 and Broadway and they had very good Cuban sandwiches.  Not as good as the ones I got on La Calle Ocho in Miami but pretty good.  That being said I won't make a special trip to either place just to get a good Cuban sandwich.  We should have a good one available in JH.

I used to work at 137th and Broadway, and fondly remember La Flor de Broadway / El Rey del Sandwich.  Unfortunately, I never made it to Floridita (which may not survive Columbia's expansion).
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: MarcusW on June 02, 2010, 11:09:38 PM
Just got back from Legends and had the "signature special" sandwich....fantastic...grilled chicken, peppers, bacon, chipotle on a chewy Portuguese roll.. Plus it's as big as a football, so I have the other half for lunch tomorrow!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Ernie on June 25, 2010, 11:35:25 PM
I had this great pork sandwich near the Sunday greenmarket...for $5

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v710/ernoe0716/DSC03079.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Jeffsayyes on June 29, 2010, 11:39:31 AM
sara under the 7 did a post on serious eats about cemitas.
she went to some of the big dogs.
http://newyork.seriouseats.com/2010/06/searching-for-cemitas.html

does anyone have any experience on ones other than here? the only one ive been to elsewise is el sol. which was not bad. my fav so far is from mi buella puebla.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: FoxyWiles on June 29, 2010, 02:14:52 PM
Quote from: Jeffsayyes on June 29, 2010, 11:39:31 AM
sara under the 7 did a post on serious eats about cemitas.
she went to some of the big dogs.
http://newyork.seriouseats.com/2010/06/searching-for-cemitas.html

does anyone have any experience on ones other than here? the only one ive been to elsewise is el sol. which was not bad. my fav so far is from mi buella puebla.

I am always disappointed with the buns and pick the delicious goodies out from between them.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: dssjh on June 29, 2010, 02:49:10 PM
yeah, the buns/rolls are kind of an acquired taste, a little....chalky or dry or something. i usually start deconstructing partway through as well.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: FoxyWiles on July 01, 2010, 05:55:27 PM
In the Serious Eats article, Sara Under the 7 mentions Panaderia Coatzingo. I've never been in there, but am curious to know if they bake their breads on premises. Does any bakery in JH (besides Cannelle)?
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Shelby2 on April 11, 2014, 11:01:34 PM
Quote from: Chuckster on April 09, 2008, 12:02:19 PM
I like the sandwiches at Iavarone Bros. located on the corner of 69th Street and Grand Avenue in Maspeth.  They specialize in Italian heroes and fresh, hot/cold pasta and antipasta platters.  We've purchased the 3 ft. Godfather heroes for parties, and they've always been a hit with our guests.  Iavarone also has a nice selection of fresh meats/chicken/sausages and also offers butcher services.

Have you been back to Iavarone Bros. lately?  I was just reading the reviews on Yelp and thought I might try to check the place out sometime.  Anyone else been?  http://www.yelp.com/biz/iavarone-bros-quality-foods-maspeth-2
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Chuckster on April 12, 2014, 03:07:18 PM
Quote from: Shelby2 on April 11, 2014, 11:01:34 PM
Have you been back to Iavarone Bros. lately?  I was just reading the reviews on Yelp and thought I might try to check the place out sometime.  Anyone else been?  http://www.yelp.com/biz/iavarone-bros-quality-foods-maspeth-2

Yes, I have!  If you stop by, try the quinoa salad... It's delicious! They'll let you try a taste before purchasing.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on January 31, 2019, 11:25:32 PM
Reviving this old thread because of this important news...

Robert Sietsema Is Going on a Mission to Find NYC’s Best Sandwiches (https://ny.eater.com/2019/1/29/18194492/nyc-sandwiches-rays-deli-liverwurst-sandwich)

Do we have any to nominate from Jackson Heights or elsewhere in Queens?

My personal favorites include: Kati rolls from Tawa Foods (to be honest, it's been a while, and I don't know if they still make these), Lomo Saltado sandwich at Juanita's, and Ramen Burger in LIC.  What are your picks?

Here's Yelp's list (https://www.yelp.com/search?cflt=sandwiches&find_loc=Queens%2C+NY).

If you're confused about what might count as a sandwich, please see this helpful website (http://cuberule.com/).
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Ms. Jackson on February 01, 2019, 06:22:48 AM
Katie Honan has a Google map of all her and her friend's fav sandwich places in NYC

https://www.google.com/maps/@40.7135773,-74.0989267,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!6m1!1s1Sn0IWAqJtCUCnnXWCbaoVjko4SY?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.7135773,-74.0989267,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!6m1!1s1Sn0IWAqJtCUCnnXWCbaoVjko4SY?hl=en)
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: toddg on May 07, 2019, 10:36:36 AM
Robert Sietsema's continuing exploration of NYC's best sandwiches brings him to JH's very own 969 Coffee (https://ny.eater.com/2019/5/7/18526998/969-nyc-coffee-fish-rice-sandwich-jackson-heights-nyc).

But he's confused about whether there can be a sandwich without bread.   This is easy: according to the Cube Rule (http://cuberule.com/), if there are two layers of starch, then it is a sandwich!
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: dssjh on May 07, 2019, 11:07:46 AM
a hot dog ain't nothin' but a sandwich, but a taco?
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Jeffsayyes on May 07, 2019, 04:41:33 PM
Quote from: dssjh on May 07, 2019, 11:07:46 AM
a hot dog ain't nothin' but a sandwich, but a taco?


If a taco can be something, so too can a hot dog
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: dssjh on May 07, 2019, 05:02:00 PM
these are philosophical discussions -- perhaps best accompanied by a dram of whiskey.
Title: Re: Best Sandwiches
Post by: Jeffsayyes on May 09, 2019, 05:52:08 PM
Quote from: dssjh on May 07, 2019, 05:02:00 PM
these are philosophical discussions -- perhaps best accompanied by a dram of whiskey.


i'd prefer weed