This is one sandwich. You read that correctly.
Geno / Q105If you're up for one of those food challenges like you see on cable TV, head to 4th Street North in St. Pete near Q105. We have a favorite lunch spot nearby called Stein's Deli. They DO have normal sandwiches. There are the staples of Florida like the Cuban. But the real jaw-droppers are their "Stein's Monster Triple Deckers." But make sure you're hungry. These New York style lunch creations are not for the calorie counter.
These triple deckers are enormous. I'm a big boy. I'm 6'4" and about 300 pounds. I can finish one half of these sandwiches for lunch but the other half goes into the fridge for dinner later. They have some variations but the one I'd go with is called The Broadway. It's roast beef, turkey, ham, salami and Swiss cheese topped with some cole slaw and Russian dressing. There are about a half dozen similar options that switch out 1 or 2 ingredients. But the Broadway is my jam. And I've never been able to finish one - no matter how hungry I am when I go.
I asked the guy who I think owns the place if anyone ever does finish a Broadway in one sitting. My eyes widened when he told me there was a security guy who worked at the dog track nearby on Gandy who finished TWO of them. I'd explode.
Be sure to get a side of their potato salad too. It's pretty phenomenal. Those triple decker sandwiches run you about $8. And now for another one of my Geno Ate Tampa adventures...
When I first found Mazzaro's Italian Market in St. Pete, I knew Tampa Bay would be my permanent home. It reminds me of all the Italian shops and delis I love in the North End of Boston. Normally, I get the #20, which is the Hot Italian sub. I've had dozens of them. But on this visit, I decided to finally try something new.
If you've never been to Mazzaro's, shame on you. I mean seriously. This gem feels like a trip to Italy without needing to find your passport. A wine and cheese room, fresh pasta, deli, bakery... it's enormous.
I always get the #20, but on this visit, I would take the #7 for a test drive.
Time to unwrap this masterpiece.
It was PHENOMENAL. Might be my new favorite. I don't know. The #20 is really good.
OMG. My eyes say it all. Only complaint is next time I might ask for extra sundried tomato. They are tangy and make it magic.
Now it's was time for a visit to the bakery. Lots of good options. This was my runner up choice. So what DID I pick? Keep going!
I didn't try one but I was intrigued. So what DID I get?
I ended up choosing none of those... I went with the lemon cupcake. And it didn't disappoint. Nothing ever does at Mazzaro's.
I also brought home a tomato and cheese focaccia bread. This thing was as long as my arm and it was only $4.
So good.
