People, Places & Pastrami

SAM LaGRASSA'S -  WORLDS #1 SANDWICHES — SAM LaGRASSA'S - *WORLDS #1 SANDWICHES*

When I visit Boston, I look forward to immersing myself into the culture by spending hours walking through the neigborhoods, stopping at the shops, landmarks and restaurants, conversing with the people and, of course, searching for delicious pastrami. Recently, my wanderings led me to a very special sandwich shop in the heart of the city, not far from Boston Common and the Financial District. It was the lunch hour and I walked into Sam LaGrassa’s sandwich shop. I was met by the aroma of fresh and appetizing deli meat and a menu board featuring their signature offerings. I saw at least six counter persons, enthusiastically preparing sandwiches for individuals who appeared to be regular customers. I looked around and observed many locals enjoying their favorite deli sandwiches. The energetic vibe in the restaurant clearly reflected the passion that Sam LaGrassa and his sons have for creating outstanding sandwiches.

As usual, I ordered pastrami on rye. Upon taking my first bite of the sandwich, I realized that this one was different. The pastrami was very lean and tender, but instead of being more peppery or spicy, it was sweet and flavorful. Although this preparation of pastrami departed from the mainstream, I found the sandwich to be delicious.

I look forward to my next visit to again enjoy the pastrami and to try the other signature sandwiches that have earned Sam LaGrassa’s its “World’s No. 1” ranking.

Sam LaGrassa's, 44 Province St., Boston, MA 02108, (617) 357-6861, samlagrassas.com

RUMANIAN PASTRAMI - DRY CURED BEEF, SEASONED AND GENTLY SMOKED

I recently had the opportunity to visit Chicago during the heart of the winter. I took a short break from the 80+ degree winter days in Los Angeles, to brave the cold and snowy winter in Chicago. Between business meetings, I bundled up and took to the streets with my trusty camera, visiting some of my favorite and some new locations. I made new acquaintances, dined at some of my traditional restaurants and experienced the cuisine of some new ones. On this trip I was able to experience the breathtaking view of the city from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower (aka Sears Tower).

PEOPLE

Crossing the street before the signal changes.

Homeless man on the Michigan Ave. Bridge.

This "Kiss" was on the elevator up to the Skydeck at Willis Tower.   The other passengers appear unaware of "the 103 Story Kiss>" — This "Kiss" was on the elevator up to the Skydeck at Willis Tower. The other passengers appear unaware of "the 103 Story Kiss>"

PLACES

PASTRAMI

Kaufman's Deli - Skokie, IL

My flight arrived at approximately 6AM. That allowed enough time for me to deplane and head directly to the ground transportation area where I was picked up by an Uber car. Timing was perfect as we arrived at Kaufman's Deli just in time for the 7AM opening. I knew that my breakfast would start with Kaufman's homemade "Gefilte Fish." It was absolutely outstanding. My next course was a piece of "Pastrami Strudel." This delicacy is a pastry dough filled with thinly sliced pastrami, chopped vegetables and spices, and is served hot. This very flavorful item was certainly a creative preparation of my favorite deli meat. I look forward to my next visit during which I plan on having a "Pastrami Knish." Kaufman's has been one of my long time favorites in the Chicago area.

Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen

A trip to Chicago would not be complete without a visit to Manny's to enjoy an overstuffed "Pastrami on Rye" with a "Potato Latke" (pancake) on the side.

Any questions?

The Little Goat Diner

A newer addition to the Chicago restaurant scene is the Little Goat Diner, located in the trendy "West Loop" area. As expected the diner has a very casual vibe. The staff members that I encountered were warm, welcoming and accommodating. The Little Goat serves innovative and intercultural variations of traditional diner fare. I ordered a "Reuben Sandwich" - homemade smoked corned beef, kimchi, kraut, havarti and special sauce on pretzel rye. It was an excellent sandwich. As I looked around the dining room I saw many other guests enjoying a variety of appetizing creations. I look forward to returning to try many other menu items.

Fumare Meats & Deli

On my return to the downtown area, not more than thirty minutes after having lunch at the Little Goat Diner, I encountered the entrance to the Chicago French Market. I remembered that several years ago I heard about a deli in the Chicago French Market that served "Montreal-Style Pastrami." ( aka Montreal Smoked Meat). I entered the market and within minutes located Fumare Meats & Deli. Since I had just finished lunch and it was not yet time for dinner, I easily convinced myself that a "Montreal-Style Pastrami" sandwich would be a perfect dessert. This homemade, hand-carved pastrami was outstanding. I had the privilege of speaking with Joan McCracken, who along with her husband, Richard, own and operate this artisan deli. There is no doubt that I will return to Fumare during my future visits to Chicago.

Michael's America: People Places & Pastrami

My Favorite Pastrami Sandwiches - SAM LaGRASSA'S

Chicago - February 23 - 25, 2016

PEOPLE

PLACES

PASTRAMI

Michael G. Kaplan

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