The Everyday Joe

Back with style - Spanish flair to classic fare - The Sandwich Shack, 594 Federal Road, Brookfield, CT

Sometimes it takes something inspiring to get things moving.  I was inspired to get back to the keys and make some updates by a Spaniard, a Chilean, and a new take on turkey.

I've driven by The Sandwich Shack dozens of times over the last year, and always wanted to stop.   Yesterday it was getting to that time where I either stop and eat or wait for dinner, and took the opportunity to grab a quick bite.  Expecting just another sando, the specials board stopped me in my tracks.

Sandwiches and sides: Roma Italian Deli and Catering, 39 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury CT

In an old worn out shopping center, next to a local favorite bagel shop, is a classic delicatessen with a wide variety of Italian goodies.  Fresh made sausages, imported cookies and crackers, stuffed cherry peppers and salads, and of course, sandwiches.  Big, fresh sandwiches.

Bear and Grill - 385 Boston Post Road, Orange, CT

Found a good one!  The Bear and Grill in Orange, Ct, was a last minute decision - it was late, raining, and the mother lives nearby, so we decided to stop for dinner. 

What we found was surprisingly good for what may be a regional chain (I've never seen one before, but will keep an eye out).  I had an herb roasted chicken and mashed potatoes, the wife went with an awesome prime rib (thick, rare, and juicy, with a nice crust), the stepdad had salmon, and the mother unit went with ribeye.  

None of us walked away hungry, and all plates were empty.

Super Duper Weenie, 306 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, Ct

I'm going to make this one quick, because they are a)famous, b) have been on the Food Network, and c) don't need anyone else talking about how great they are.

But Super Duper Weenie really is awesome, and you really should go.  Check out the website for more info: superduperweenie.com

My favorite part - the iced tea that is pre-lemoned.  Oh. So.  Awesome.

Rinaldi's, 456 Main Ave., Norwalk, CT

I'm a sucker for a good sandwich, and Rinaldi's delivered.  Not literally - though they do delivery to the local businesses, $20 minimum - but the sandwich was awesome, and they were willing to bend their menu to my tastes.

They didn't have fresh brewed tea, which is always a black mark in my book, but honestly, most deli's on this coast don't.  It's a sad fact, but something I deal with often.  

But if you find yourself hungry on the Merritt Parkway, pull off at the Norwalk exit for Rte 7 north, sit down with one of their many magazines, and enjoy a very good sandwich.

Newtown Deli and Catering, 79 South Main Street, Newtown, CT

Reuben on a hero?  No problem.

Giant iced tea? Sure, we'll even put it in a deli container and poke a hole in the top for a straw.

Big selection of salads, hot/cold appetizers, wide array of 'house sandwiches' and even a TV tuned to the news for those taking advantage of the seating you offer?  They got that too.

Newtown Deli does it's thing very well, and while it's not convenient  if you are heading up to Danbury from I-95, or vice versa, take the rouddabout way via SR-25 and have a quick lunch in Newtown.

Patty's Pantry - 1224 Strongtown Rd., Southbury, CT

Sometimes you just have to stop and grab a bite and get back on the road.  If you're coming up on Exit 16 on I-84, pull off and try Patty's Pantry.

I had a turkey club - my standby comfort sandwich - and was blown away.  Thick and fresh (like a good NYC deli), with a good selection of hot and cold foods spread out.  

Rosy Tomorrow's - 15 Old Mill Plain Rd., Danbury, CT

Tucked back behind a row of trees, you'll only see Rosy's when you are heading west on Old Mill Plain, or after the leaves have fallen.  But it's well worth finding.

Their selection is astounding.  I had a rare burger of fresh ground tuna, while the wife had a turkey burger and our other guests had a pasta dish and a big salad.