John M.
Google
Last night I was scrambling to find a quick bite before an event at the Italian Cultural & Community Center. Somehow Yelp routed me to Main & Braeswood—about three miles from my destination—into a nearly deserted strip center. I’m sure it’s busier during the day, but at that moment my options were limited: Morningside Thai, which looked packed (and I was in a hurry), or Sarpino’s, which was completely empty.
I chose Sarpino’s, figuring I could grab a quick slice or sandwich.
I ordered the Italian sandwich on French bread with mayo. Normally I’d go oil and vinegar, but I didn’t want soggy bread in case there were leftovers. The receipt said the counter guy’s name was Santiago. He told me it would take about 12 minutes. I (politely) pushed back—really?—and asked if anything was faster. Santiago explained everything is made to order, but assured me the sandwich was the quickest option and said he’d make it personally.
What I didn’t realize is that they heat the sandwich in the oven, warming both the bread and the shaved meats. I’m usually not a hot-sandwich guy when it comes to Italian meats… but wow.
Santiago had it out in under 10 minutes, and it was fantastic. I’m not a huge eater, but I crushed half of that sandwich in minutes—and it’s a big sandwich. After that first round, I gave him a thumbs-up and told him, “Awesome sandwich.”
I made it to my event six minutes late, and for the next 90 minutes I thought about the rest of that sandwich sitting in my car. When I got home, I immediately ate another quarter and saved the rest. This morning (I’m not a breakfast guy), I reheated the final portion in the air fryer for about three minutes—and enjoyed every last bite.
Thank you, Santiago. I’ll absolutely go out of my way to come back and try more of the menu—want to check out the margherita pizza.
Only downside: no beer or wine. Otherwise, a great surprise and a seriously good sandwich.