The People's Sandwich of Portland

53NW 1st Ave.
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 222-0525
Website

I wanted to make it to this sandwich shop on my last Portland trip, but unfortunately it never panned out. When I finally made it to Portland to meet up with some of the best people in the world, we needed some fuel for the party that was bound to ensue. The People's Sandwich more than did their part. You can get a micro brew with your meal about anywhere in Portland, but fortunately for the worker class, you can also score a Natty Light at this minimalist sandwich shop. The staff is extremely pleasant, and they give you fresh fried chips while you are waiting for your food.


However, there was no way we could pass up the famous fresh cut curly fries, and for good reason. They were decently fried and seasoned, but the real star was the spicy homemade ketchup/marinara. It was light, fresh and runny, but with an addictive spice blend that even had everyone dipping their chips in it.


I went for the Argento Arrabiata, basically an Italian hoagie. I was certainly glad that I did. The meat was fried, which brought out so much salt and flavor from the salami and ham, I couldn't put it down. It was served on a french roll and accompanied by lettuce, pepperocini, provolone, and mayo. It was touted as a spicy Italian sub, and they were not lying. The salami was quite spicy, and a trip to the flat top to crisp it up really brought out the heat. I was in heaven.


Below is the People Sandwich. It was about as good as you can get for a vegan sandwich. Their "soylent green" is pan fried OTA tofu covered in pesto. Genius. Add on some peppadews and filberts (hazelnuts), and it made for a great healthy-ish treat.


I was also able to try the Hammer and Pickle (Cuban), and the Portland cheesesteak. Everything was great, but the Argento took my heart. Well played, you shifty Commies!