Midtown Lunch

I wasn’t completely sold on Corso during my first visit, but I returned the other day to check out their lunch offerings. Imagine my surprise that I was blown away by a simple sandwich: the caprese panini. Normally I wouldn’t sing the praises of a caprese sandwich, the standard option most upscale sandwich joints throw on the menu to satisfy vegetarians. In fact, I’m not really sure why I ordered it. But, I’m glad I did.

The sandwiches are all pre-made in a display case, but Corso heats them up to order. I chose the caprese sandwich ($8) — with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, basil puree, balsamic glaze — which really is the plain-jane in a handful of options that mostly include fancy Italian meats. Yet, it was one of the best simple caprese sandwiches I’ve had in a long time. One bite will tell you the ingredients are top-notch, from the mozzarella to the sweet balsamic glaze. The sandwich was warmed only until the bread was toasty, but not so much that all the cheese melted. Don’t panic — this was totally fine. This is the caprese sandwich you wish for but hardly ever find.

I couldn’t resist also grabbing a piece of caramelized onion focaccia ($1.50). This was also surprisingly great — slightly warm, chewy, sweet and just a bit salty. So, while my initial visit to Corso was ho-hum, I now wholeheartedly recommend swinging by for a sandwich and a piece of focaccia. Warm and satisfying, I can’t think of another caprese of which I’d speak more highly.

Corso, 235 W. 46th Street (in the Paramount Hotel)