Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Paesano's

152 West Girard Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(267) 886-9556
Website

Ok, I am going to make a bit of a bit claim here. As far as I am concerned, Paesano's has effectively created the best sandwich in the world. Their self titled sandwich is quite possibly the best sandwich I have ever eaten. Ever. And this is in light of the fact that it was the third sample of their sandwiches I ate that day. So extreme hunger did NOT come into play. What came into play however, was perfectly cooked brisket, creamy ricotta and roasted tomato, the burn of a good horseradish mayo, and a perfectly fried, yolky egg delicately balanced on top. This is a change up from the original Paesano, and a welcome one at that. Don't get me wrong, the original was great, but you simply cannot, in good faith, compare it to perfection. I would gladly take on any and all competitors for greatest sandwich in the world, and watch the others, though delicious, fall short every time. This is like a rustic Italian gourmet cheesesteak, but I have never eaten any cheesesteak that can hold a candle to this beast. Well, now that I have gotten my boasting out of the way (as though I had something to do with it, besides being infatuated with it), look at some pictures, read about some other incredible sandwiches, and GO TO PAESANO'S.



On to the Zawzeech (which I am assuming is pseudo Italian for sawseege). This sandwich is simply sweet Italian sausage, caramelized peppers and onions, sharp prov, and marinara like the Italian grandmother of your dreams might cook up on a good day. Simple, perfectly executed, and delicious. One trick they have going for them is their pans. They are completely covered in caked on delicious, delicious grease. The other thing that really makes a sandwich here is love. Attention to detail might be a more objective term for it. They painstakingly make every sandwich perfect. And it shows. The sausage is fried for a couple of minutes to brown it up, and it is SO GOOD with the overly caramelized onions and peppers, sharp prov and the most delicious sauce make this one ANOTHER winner.




Last but certainly not least is the Daddy Wad. It sounds gross, but it is actually their name for a traditional Italian Hoagie. Mortadella, and salami with sharp provolone (can never go wrong with sharp prov) as a base, with sweet peppers, arugula, tomato, hot peppers, and onion, and a splash of house dressing. Delicious. A hearty traditional Italian, done with quality and love. I am already dreaming of my next visit. Also, they are soon to open another shop where the old Butchers Block cafe (good riddance), used to be in the Italian Market (9th and Christian). Apparently some problem with PGW running the gas lines, and giving them the run-around is the hold up to them opening. I can't believe PGW made something inconvenient. Strange.


4 comments:

Unknown said...

i tell anyone who will listen that the sandwiches at paesano's are the best ever; glad to hear some other people sharing the paesano's love. i am a bit partial to the arista though. can't get that lamb sausage out of my head

ar said...

ok, so unfortunately this is completely wrong. the best sandwich of all time is the paesano...with sriracha on it. holy moly.

Philly Phoodie said...

Cobin- The Arista was my all time favorite at first, now it is ONE of my all time favorites.

AR- I agree, except I would pass on the Sriracha, it's too over powering for me on a sandwich of this magnitude. Speaking of, I think I have to get lunch there today now!

FaithA said...

Hands down! Hands Up! Thee best sandwich/ hoagie/ hand held deliciousness to of tasted so far in all my phoodie years. All the "sandwiches" are fantastiq in the own unique way. All hail ( Girard) Paesanos! I bow to you and the happyness youve brought to my mouth and roaring belly. POW!