This popular eatery now sits empty. (By Frank Sabatini Jr.)
The Beloved ‘Hillcrest Sandwich Shop’ Has Closed
Here Are 8 Alternative Spots for Scrumptious Consolation
By Frank Sabatini Jr.
Foodies who have satisfied their appetites at the tucked-away Hillcrest Sandwich Shop over the past 35 years are coming to terms that the family-owned business suddenly went poof. It shuttered recently without warning as devoted fans came knocking for their go-to French dips and California clubs.
Since 1992, the shop has operated within a two-level building that is slightly set back from Fifth Avenue near Robinson. According to the owner of Marigold boutique, which fronts the property, the sandwich shop owners “were ready to retire” and the entire plot of land was (or is about to be) sold to developers, which has put Marigold on a month-to-month lease.
While we chase down more details, we can’t do so without taking some time out to sink our choppers into equally praiseworthy sandwiches found at other places around town.
The Marketplace, Bankers Hill
Since the 1970s, this liquor store deli has been slinging well-endowed sandwiches at good prices. The “Christopher Columbus” with turkey, avocado and Swiss cheese is a top seller, along with the “beefeater” featuring a stack of roast beef, corned beef and pastrami. There are also lots of hot sandwiches and plenty of veggie options, all on your choice of bread.
Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich, North Park
Chunky claw and knuckle meat imported from Maine is used in Pete’s authentic lobster rolls, which are buttered and grilled to order. The naturally sweet lobster pieces are dressed lightly in mayo, and without celery as many New Englanders prefer. Other commendable sandwich options include chicken Parmesan and pulled pork.
Cafe Madeleine, South Park and North Park locations
Though famous for its crepes, the Croque Madame (or Monsieur without the egg) at Cafe Madeleine is difficult to resist. The kitchen uses potato bread, which pairs fabulously with the imported French ham and its other components. Additional shout outs go to the Moroccan lamb sausage on baguette; a hearty BLT on sourdough; and several exquisite paninis.
Carnivore Sandwich, Little Italy
Most of the sandwiches here are meat monsters with the exception of the vegetarian “Miss Angel Veggie” on sliced squaw (multigrain). Otherwise, expect hefty pilings of corned beef, roast beef, Italian cold cuts, and roasted turkey tucked into a variety of rolls and breads.
Rubicon Deli, Mission Hills
Since its launch in 1993, the deli has become known for layering fresh ingredients into whole loaves of house-baked breads that include everything from Dutch crumb and garlic-cheese to jalapeno-Jack, wheat, pesto and more. Even the half sandwiches are substantial in size. Our go-to is the “dapper dipper,” a simple construct of chipped tri-tip, Swiss cheese, tempura onions and horseradish sauce with a side of au jus for dipping.
Mona Lisa Italian Foods, Little Italy
The deli inside this longstanding Italian grocer slings classic Italian-style subs on freshly baked rolls. Imported meats and cheeses take center stage in their making. Added bonus: If you get there before 11:00a on any given day, you can score one of their highly satisfying pre-made sandies with salami, mortadella and Provolone cheese for only a few bucks.
Giorgino’s, Golden Hill
From back-East style breakfast sandwiches on Kaiser rolls to traditional cheesesteaks and meatball-Parmesan subs, this quaint eatery specializes in lots of other sandwiches that draw their inspiration from different locales throughout the Northeast.
The Deli Llama, Hillcrest
Rainbow flags and whimsical décor set the stage for a big variety of sandwiches using circus themes in their names. The “acrobat” brings together top round roast beef, cheddar, veggies and Parmesan-Dijon aioli. Or if you’re hankering for a hearty BLT with avocado, look no further than the “human cannonball.” The deli sources its meats and cheeses from Boar’s Head.
