Man, was it warm enough for you today? I was going to do another noodle soup post, but decided to spare you the torture. So, I'll just do one of these sandwiches posts, of places close to home…consider it a H(anging) i(n) t(he) 'H(ood) version if you will.
Bay Hill Tavern:
In my last post on BHT, I mentioned how friendly the bar staff is, and how gladly they'll share their favorite versions of items on the menu. Recently, BHT put a version of a Philly Cheesesteak, called the BHT Philly on the menu.
Now granted, I have a whole category for cheesesteaks, and as expected this really isn't what I would describe as one.
The roll is too bready, but I do enjoy the caramelized onions, mushrooms, and peppers. The beef, which they told me is shaved rib eye is a bit on the chewy side, but nice and beefy. For me, this sandwich was much too dry, and the provolone-mozzarella mix lacked a nice cheesy punch and there was not enough of it. It's a bit on the bland side overall.
Now, the folks that I know at BHT like that I'm honest about the food when I try it. So, when I was asked about this, I told them what I wrote above.
Cue in Janeli, who bartends and also manages the place on occasion. She told me to try the cheesesteak with a side of the beer cheese, which is what they put on the Dirty Fries. I was a bit skeptical, but I guess I take direction well. On my next visit, I got the Philly, no fries (the sandwich is enough for me, plus not a fan of the quick to be soggy fries, or paying an upcharge for garlic fries. Guess I only like the dirty fries?), with a side of Beer Cheese.
Knowing what kind of mess I'd be making, they kindly provided a knife to slice the sandwich and a ton of napkins. I truly had my doubts, thinking the flavor of the fonduey cheese mixed with beer and other seasonings might interfere with the sandwich. But, it actually made it better, adding more savory tones, and a pleasant creaminess to things.
No, it's not what I call a proper cheesesteak, but pretty good overall. Thanks to the folks like Adam and Janeli at BHT!
Bay Hill Tavern
3010 Clairemont Drive
San Diego, CA 92117
Sandwich Emporium:
I took my car to Victor's for a good car wash. When I do this, I'd usually head on across the street and get a haircut, but on this day, since it was later in the morning and I was feeling a bit peckish, I decided to get a sandwich at Sandwich Emporium. I didn't realize that it had been a year and a half since my last visit!
I walked on in; the owners, the twins weren't in on this day….in fact, I haven't seen them in a couple of years.
I ordered my usual, the Spicy Julio. I took a seat outside and when my sandwich was ready, just ate it on the spot.
This sandwich has changed over the last two times I've had it. It much more mayo heavy, there less roast beef in it….food costs I guess, the avocado is a really mashed, and the sandwich is a bit of a mess. It's also not as spicy as before.
I really enjoyed it as used to be. Kind of sad actually.
Perhaps I need to change my habits and try something else next time.
Sandwich Emporium
3054 1/2 Clairemont Dr
San Diego, CA 92117