Painful waiting and savory flavors
Dark and delicious sauces flowing from my sandwich rolled down my fingers, and there was nothing to be done about it. The kind of sandwich you can almost taste before you eat it, Paseo’s Caribbean roast was an easy pick as I stepped up to make my order. While this might be their most popular sandwich, the menu features a lineup of delicious meals which make for a great lunch on any occasion.
Like every restaurant, there’s a downside. And, while it is unlikely they will burn your food, your wallet is another story. $8.50 for a fairly modestly sized sandwich? Ouch.
At a glance it is a rather unassuming restaurant, certainly not drawing attention to itself with bright colors or flashing lights. What is certain to catch the eye is the backup of people, often extending half a block or more. Going for a quick sandwich stop during the busy lunch hours of the day turns into an adventure as struggle against the unending line, attempting to simply order a meal.
Paseo attracts all types. Your typical midday line includes a good mix of elderly couples, middle-aged office types, and many stereotypical seattle hipsters, residents of the Fremont neighborhood Paseo calls home.
Place an order, grab a number, and wait, wait, wait some more. But one doesn’t venture to Paseo to make awkward conversation with the people standing next to you in line. Though the extensive line may be Paseo’s greatest flaw, the food proves well worth the wait.
But reviews shouldn’t be about waiting for the food, how the line is long and how the day is hot. This is about the food.
Which was delicious. Absolutely, one of the best sandwiches I’ve had. When you think Sandwich, you don’t think Seattle, right? Maybe we should reconsider that. Paseo features a collection of large and flavorful sandwiches, certain to fill your cravings.
A couple of entrees worth noting; as I should mention, Paseo is not only a nationally ranked sandwich restaurant. That being said, my strongest suggestion to any and all is the caribbean roast. Warm, flavorful, sweet, a perfect combination of a hundred and one flavors.
Or, consider the Grilled Pork sandwich, more basic, but just as delicious. If meat’s not your thing, give one of the salad options a try. Feeling adventurous? Try the Tofu con Gusto.
Top it off with a cold can of San Pellegrino: Aranciata, and you’re in business.
There are only a few two seater tables inside the small roadside shack, so if you’re going with friends, get your food to go. Nearby, the BF Day playground park provides a grassy spot to stop and eat. Oh, and take napkins. These sandwiches are messy.
If you don’t like sandwiches that fall apart in your clutches, I have bad news for you. These aren’t your grandmas sandwiches. Most of the sandwiches are layered with, well, sandwich juices? It certainly doesn’t sound as appetizing as it is. Paseo aptly named it, “Paseo Marinade.” Much better.
Even with the big prices and not-so-big tables, Paseo is easily one of the best sandwich stops in Seattle. Just don’t forget the napkins.
Final Grade: A-
If you’re willing to deal with long lines and high prices, these sandwiches make for a delicious meal. *
BY: ISAAC GLASSER AND JACOB GREENE
* As of 11/11/14 both of Paseo’s Seattle locations have closed.