It feels like I haven’t blogged in forever. Partly because I haven’t blogged in forever. And oh yeah, Happy New Year all! (Yes, that long). My long list of excuses include the holidays, traveling, and then this Polar Vortex business which was not fun. How did you guys do anything in that mess? It was so cold I couldn’t even think. Seriously, even a girl from Chicago has her limits!
Good news though: I’m still eating my way through NYC. So I came across Spreads Sandwich Shop on Twitter of all places (which PS, you have to say the whole name or else my friends and their dirtbag minds think I’m referring to something very different). Their social media kept insisting they have the “best sandwiches in NYC” and other bold claims. The only other sandwich shop I’ve visited in NYC is Tiny’s Giant Sandwich Shop in the LES (another good spot, by the way), but turns out Spreads only opened early last year from the owners of Dishes so it’s still a baby. The food though is so delicious, I’m sure it’ll be one of the more coveted lunch spots if it isn’t already (I’m always on the West side, I know nothing about this Midtown East lunch time business, unfortunately).
Spreads graciously invited me and a friend to try their cuisine out and for some reason, Ariba and I picked a day of torrential downpour. When we scrambled in, the place was mostly clear — the weather made for a slow business day. But hey, more for us.
I met the co-owner, Mike Ezekiel, who told me they tested all the sandwich several times before coming to the perfect ingredients. Which wasn’t hard to tell — all the sandwiches had layers of textures and happily-married flavors that make each sandwich one like you’ve never tasted before. For a lunch spot, it feels like you’re getting something truly special with its farm-to-table goodness (and fast…there’s not a lot of seating so it’s a very in-and-out spot for most).
And we didn’t hold back in our sampling, trying the Truffled Grilled Cheese (aged cheddar, grilled asparagus, black truffle spread, house spread on a grilled pressed sourdough), the Fish Torta (panko-crusted tilapia, tortilla chips, kaleslaw, pickled tomato jalapeno salsa, house spread on a brioche bun), and the Vegan Coconut Bacon (applewood-smoked coconut “bacon,” avocado, tomato, house greens, house made vegan mayo on seven grain bread).
The last one I thought was so unique, and I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy it since I’m not accustomed to anything-bacon-flavored, but it was surprisingly not the overwhelming variety. It was delicious, really.
Whenever brussels sprouts is on the menu, I must have it (shallots, honey, and balsamic vinegar…loved, though wish it was also served warm!). Also the hibiscus tea is sweet and ridiculously refreshing. A must.
Being so sandwich-focused, you would think the desserts are an after-thought. But they are seriously worth the calories, namely the Chocolate Espresso Panna Cotta made with valrhona chocolate. If you’re more adventurous, check out their vegan Chia Seed Pudding with coconut and passion fruit or their Strawberry Tapioca with agave greek yogurt and strawberries (both are gluten-free).
Now I just wish I worked on the east side cuz I’d be stopping by here all the time. Even Mike couldn’t get over how much two small girls could eat. If you make food that good, expect it.
REPORT CARD
Meal: Early dinner
Occasion: Checking out the new restaurant
Price: $
(Out of three stars)
Ambiance: *** (Nice spread of desserts, and very casual for a bite-and-go.)
Food: ***
Service: ***
Would I go back?: Yes!
x
Shy
“Like” Beauty and the Feast on Facebook
Follow Beauty and the Feast on Twitter
Recent Comments