Underdogs has been going strong on 17th Street for a few years now. Back in 2012, Luncher John loved the beef chili covered “Michigan” dog. I have a deep love for hot dogs, but try not to eat them too often. Things have been hectic at work, and I decided a comforting hot dog was something I deserved. To make it more comforting, why not pair it with toppings from a classic elementary school sandwich and everyone’s favorite breakfast side dish.
If you live or work in Center City, you are well aware that Christmas Village is back. Besides 70 merchants to take care of holiday shopping, there are several German food vendors. Though it is temporary, it worth using while it lasts to break up your regular lunch routine. Last year, I tried an impressive percentage of the food items available at the Village; the melted to order raclette cheese on top of a potato pancake (not available this year), goulash, currywurst, a pork schnitzel sandwich, and a bacon waffle with nutella and speculoos. This year, I wanted to try the item I skipped last year, the doner kebab sandwich.
ADVERTISEMENT
Just when I think I have tried all the North Philly corner Puerto Rican joints with under 10 Yelp reviews, I stumbled across El Sabor Restaurant, which has been in business for almost 30 years. Forgoing the dining room off to the side, we picked up some decedent items from behind the counter.
Cafe Pho Ga Thanh Thanh is Kensington’s spot for one thing- pho ga, Vietnamese chicken broth and rice noodle soup. Small bowls are $8 and can come with a medley of dark meat and other chicken parts, or, as was offered to me- with just plain ol’ white meat. I don’t love skin and bone in my soup and was not ashamed to accept their Americanized soup. Sorry not sorry.
Matt and Marie’s has been going strong with their Center City sandwich sales for a year and a half with a simple menu of about 10 sandwiches and a few salads. Currently, they are phasing out their “Pieta Pastrami” that featured shaved hot (don’t even, Wayne) pastrami, house-made dill pickled cucumbers & onions, and pepperoncini aioli and are replacing it with “The Testarossa.”
