I love all kinds of food, but one of my favorite things to eat during lunchtime is a hot bowl of soup and a simple, yet tasty sandwich.
I had been jonesin’ for a sandwich and thought I’d go to my usual spots. I knew those trustworthy chains wouldn’t disappoint, however this time, I was looking for something more flavorful and out of the box.
I went to my favorite food search website and stumbled upon Fresco Italian Sandwich Shoppe.
I jotted down the address on a sticky note, grabbed my purse and headed for Fresco.
My GPS took me to New Jersey Street in the Mass. Avenue cultural district near downtown, but I could not find any building signage for Fresco’s. I circled the block and concluded, “Maybe the shop is in this Marsh grocery store.”
I was partly right.
I parked my car and as I walked to the entrance of the grocery store, I saw a sign for Fresco’s. I assume the “restaurant” is inside the store so I go in, walk around and exit minus one sandwich.
I was headed back to my car when my stomach reminded me, “Um, Jessica. It’s time for some nourishment. Pick something and come back tomorrow to look for Fresco’s.” I followed suit and made an about face to go back into the grocery store.
As I was heading back to Marsh, my intuition (or perhaps it was my hunger) told me to bypass the Marsh entrance and keep walking along side the building. I listened and voila, I found Fresco!
I then realized that not only will I do things for food most people wouldn’t do, but I was glad I was able to now share in the Italian sandwich goodness that others were enjoying. I mean, there were people in the small restaurant, people eating outside, and people getting their sandwiches to go.
The menu at Fresco is small, but I’m a firm believer that bigger does not mean better. I briefly glanced at the chalkboard menu and made my decision: an Italian beef sandwich, the house specialty. I chose the 4-inch sandwich and got my au jus on the side. Not only does the Italian beef come in an 8-inch variety, but diners can get it either dry, wet or soaked in their special au jus.
After sampling the Italian beef while I waited for my sandwich to be prepared, I said to myself, “maybe I should get my husband something.” Since he loves meatball subs at other establishments, I decided to let him be my guinea pig and try Fresco’s version.
I couldn’t leave Fresco’s fast enough. I dropped off my husband’s lunch and he got back with me soon after eating stating that the meatball sub was delicious. I hurried back to the office (sorry IMPD) to eat my sandwich. This was one of the best Italian beef sandwiches I have ever had and may rival some Chicago or New York Italian beef sandwiches.
The small restaurant also serves other Italian classics like stromboli, chicken parmesan and Italian sub sandwiches. People who want to eat light can have a cup or bowl of minestrone soup or a caprese salad.
The meals, including drinks, were about $12.50. Sandwiches range from $4.25 to $6.50; soup and salads are $2.75 to $6; and side items range from $.50 to $2.75.
I think I just found a new spot to get hot, tasty sandwiches this fall!
Head to Fresco Italian Sandwich Shoppe, located at 320 N. New Jersey St. alongside Marsh, and discover what a real Italian sandwich tastes like.
