SacFoodies

Togo’s Giving Away 10,000 Free Sandwiches

by SacFoodies

Who doesn’t love free stuff? Especially free food? July 24th might seem like just another day, but think again! Togo’s Sandwiches is giving away 10,000 of its best-selling sandwich, the #24 Turkey & Avocado, this Thursday, July 24.
For over 40 years, the California-based sandwich chain has been whipping up hearty and delicious sandwiches and this giveaway will help to commemorate over 24 million #24s being sold. Here’s how you can score a free #24:

  • “Like” the Togo’s Facebook page
  • Join the email club before 1:00 pm on Tuesday, July 22
  • If selected, you’ll receive a coupon that you can redeem at any Togo’s location
  • Use the Store Locator tool to find which of the 30 Sacramento area locations is closest to you
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Paris Hilton, the Sandwich?

by SacFoodies

When you first think of Paris Hilton you might think of Hollywood, celebrities, and fame.
I, however, think of the best sandwich I’ve EVER had. I discovered this deliciously sweet, melt-in-your-mouth, creamy specialty in an acclaimed downtown Sacramento French eatery just off the beaten path called La Bonne Soupe Café.

When waiting in the adorable, authentically decorated café’s long line, I changed my mind multiple times on what I was going to order off of the menu. As I got to the front of the line, that’s when I saw the special of the day: The Paris Hilton.
Prepared by Chef Ed Stoddard, this warm and toasty hoagie was made on a French baguette with melted brie cheese, fig jam, apricots, pecans, tomatoes and spinach. After the long, but well-worth-it wait, I hurried back to work to try this yummy sandwich.
Forewarning: I’m not one to be a big sandwich fan, but after one bite I changed my mind. I’ve never been to France, but I am positive that this is the type of food you only dream about eating while sitting in a corner café in Paris on a beautiful day.
The La Bonne Soupe Café is known for its tiny quarters, ambient French music, and authentic food. It is the perfect place to grab a tasty meal, meet people (maybe even THE Paris Hilton) and learn about the food that makes this café one of the top Zagat-rated restaurants in the city.
La Bonne Soupe Café
920 8th Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 492-9506

Taking a Bite Out of America’s Best Sandwich

by SacFoodies

On a recent trip to Philadelphia, I wandered into one of my favorite markets… the Reading Terminal Market.  There is so much to love about this place… gooey sticky buns from Beiler’s Bakery, a steamy hot cup of coffee from Old City Coffee or a delicious pastrami sandwich from Hershels East Side Deli. But on this blustery Saturday, I was intrigued by a line 40+ deep, so I jumped in it, not quite sure what Philly treat I had awaiting me.  Thanks to my Google app, I was able to uncover that the line I was in was leading me to America’s Best Sandwich. I couldn’t believe what I had stumbled upon. I don’t just love sandwiches, I’m obsessed with them. There is nothing finer than a Grade A, primo sandwich, and apparently I was 20+ minutes away from sinking my teeth into America’s finest.
So how does Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork with Broccoli Rabe find national recognition? A few months back, Adam Richman from Travel Channel’s “Man vs. Food” went in pursuit of America’s best sandwich, and the ultimate winner was DiNic’s Roast Pork masterpiece (note: I also added the Sharp Provolone per a fellow customer’s suggestion). The star of this sandwich is by far the pork. I’m not sure I’ve had a more flavorful serving of pork in my entire life. It was tender, juicy and the gravy they serve on top is out of this world. Now, put that on a bun that is the perfect texture with the bitterness of the broccoli rabe dotted with little chunks of garlic, and you have a pretty unbelievable sandwich.
But, my foodie friends, is it America’s Best Sandwich?  I’m not sure. I don’t know if I’ve had enough sandwiches in my lifetime to name an overall winner (but it was really, really good). Plus, think of all the great sandwiches right here in Sacramento.  I know I can’t get enough of the Banh Mi sandwich from Magpie Café.  Or, pretty much any of the specialty sandwiches at Sampino’s Towne Foods.
So SacFoodies readers, what is the sandwich you can’t get enough of?

Midtown Deli

by SacFoodies

Irony? Midtown Deli isn’t actually located in Midtown—at least not according to this Grid snob.
But that’s OK.
Because while the eatery sits perched caddy-corner to the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op at the tastefully gentrified intersection of Alhambra Boulevard and S Street, its no-frills, laid-back attitude still embodies some of the essentials of Midtown living. And that’s just how I like it.

Opened in June 2011 by owner Butch Plank, the space sits at the foot of the new Alexan Midtown property. In fact, inspiration to open Midtown Deli struck when Butch—a contractor by day—was installing some finishing touches on the chic, semi-urban apartment complex last year. With new storefront space ready for lease, he jumped at the chance to offer area residents and nine-to-fivers access to quick and easy deli fare with a decidedly local flair.
Inside, you’re met with tall ceilings, grass green and stainless-steel accents, plus a super friendly staff. Sacramentans will surely crack a smile with menu items that pay homage to local landmarks, neighborhoods and happenings.
Case in point: The American River Wrap (turkey, hummus, olives, tomatoes), The Light Rail Sandwich (chicken breast, mozzarella, bacon, ranch) and even The 2nd Saturday Panini (spinach, feta, tomatoes and olives).
But on this chilly, mid-week and mid-winter afternoon, I decided The River Cat is where it’s at. The gist: a wheat panini, featuring chicken breast, gooey pepper Jack cheese, bacon, BBQ sauce, Tabasco and peppers. Truth be told, it was just the kick I needed.

Midtown Deli also offers a generous daily Happy Hour running 4 p.m. till close. Come springtime, I could definitely see myself enjoying the sunny weather on the enclosed patio with a cold pint of Blue Moon, Sierra Nevada or Lagunitas IPA, plus a great view of the comings and goings along the Alhambra Corridor (Al-Co? The AC?).
Free Wi-Fi and a pair of 55-inch flat screens round out the amenities and make this a great spot to catch up on emails or the latest game (go Niners!). Digital denizens would also be well advised to keep up with Midtown Deli’s Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare channels for free sandwiches, soft drinks and T-shirts, too.
All in all, a fun, casual lunch spot bursting with local pride and insouciant charm. Also: Party trays!
Midtown Deli
1899 Alhambra Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 737-5776

Tightwad Tuesday: Sactown’s Passport to Winter Dining

by SacFoodies

Sometimes, I love sandwiches more than people.
There I said it.
And another close contender for my affection is a great bargain.
Which is why I’m salivating over Sactown’s new issue, specifically the mag’s “Best Sandwiches 2011” cover feature that dishes on 17 swoon-worthy sandos in the area.
Only, these aren’t your mom’s PB&Js. Think cola-braised pork from Fat Face; the luscious lobster roll at Cafeteria 15L; and even a to-die-for tri-tip with blue cheese and avocado from High-Hand Conservatory in Loomis.
And if those deli-delish delights weren’t enough of a reason to pick up a copy, here’s something else to sweeten the deal. Sactown also features a “Passport to Winter Dining” promotional card inside that’s bursting with amazing dining deals at a dozen of the region’s best eateries.
Behold!How about complimentary spring rolls at Wayside Noodles? Or buy one entrée, get the second one free at Sapporo Grill and Ten 22?
They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch. But with deals like this, I beg to differ.
Especially when you flash your passport and get—wait for it—$20 certificates to Dawson’s at The Hyatt and even Pause Lounge & Kitchen.
That’s right: Twenty dollars.
When was the last time someone handed you a $20 bill and said, “Lunch is on me?” Because guess what: It’s happening.
And speaking of newcomer Pause in Roseville: We hear if you mention Sactown, you’ll get 30 percent off your entire meal, too!
“Our readers love the Passport because it gives them great deals to some of the finest restaurants in the region,” says Sactown publisher Steve Childs. “Plus, it’s a fun concept—in essence, the restaurants are the countries you want to travel to and you are a VIP visitor to all of them.”
Sold! Now go pick up the February/March issue at any local Raley’s or Bel Air stores and get packin’ (the Passport card is between pages 88-89). Just don’t be shocked when you see me huddled behind a copy of Sactown, stuffing my face with Pause’s truffled fries and black pepper aioli.
You’re welcome, Roseville.
You’re welcome, everyone.