Two of our favorite local sandwich

D'Emilios

We braved the line on Day One at D’Emilio’s, a project that we’ve watched come to life over the past month or so as our office resides across the street. It was beyond worth it. More than fresh paint and a lovely hand-painted sign from LeAnn Cooley of Signs and Graphic Designs, the shop boasts new decor and expanded open seating. It’s also home to a new refrigerated deli case that faces you as you walk in the new brick-red doorway. Owner Kaelen Davis explains that the space had nothing to do with the other shop of the previous name, and so, after purchasing the shop, decided to rebrand using his grandmother's maiden name, bringing something new to Downtown Chico.

Every great sandwich starts with a great loaf of bread. The onion roll is airy, thin enough to not feel like you’re eating more bread than meat, and firm enough to stay solid. I had the Lucchese, an opera of spicy salami, soppressata, and provolone with pepperoncinis and sundried tomato. The oil and juice from the tomato and peppers, the olive oil finish, and the mustard and mayo spread could have done an inferior loaf in (make no mistake, however, you will not want to eat this over your lap). This loaf, however, is a quality, abled bread baked in a facility that will supply other downtown eateries, creating an operation that promotes synergy. The sandwich is amazing—a rich and smooth flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes compliments the freshly-sliced meat, cut to each sandwich's order. Paper-thin onion adds flavor without the snappy texture that the peppers offer, while the tomato and lettuce complete the vegetable/protein harmony of each bite. It's important to note the sandwich shown above is the Columbo (#9 for those who like to order by numbers). Unfortunately, mine didn't last long enough to photograph.

There’s so much more to come in this place: more decor, a fully-stocked main case, and a second case we passed while in line are sure to contain something new we know you’ll love. Perhaps their fresh baked bread on full display available in a wide array of offerings? Go in and check it out for yourselves. As always, when enjoying this or any new place, be prepared to take a little time… and give a little grace. Salute!

Spiteri's Delicatessan

Most every social person has their hang out, their spot where the people and things are so familiar, they create a comfort inside you that puts you in your element. Such is Spiteri’s, a Cheersish lunchtime favorite and gathering place for over four decades of people of the town expecting quality food and service. Walking in, you’ll be delightfully overwhelmed with a wide assortment of options. It’s not just the meats, cheeses, and additional options that create an expansive list—one could walk in for a sandwich and walk out with that, as well impulsively decided upon dill deviled-egg potato salad, lasagna, meatballs, and a bright fruit salad. They are the epitome of the community hangout delicatessen— the local memorabilia adorning the walls, and the open seating where friends can mingle with others are proof of it.

Spiteri's has some damn good sandwiches, I really wanted to try something we hadn't had before. The Reuben did not disappoint with its deliberate distinguishing features prominently displayed. The gorgeous marbled rye is tender yet thick-crusted, exposing cracked caraway seeds and its deceptively colored cocoa swirl. The first bite reveals layer upon layer of corned beef. Resting below is a bed of sauerkraut with a sheet of swiss cheese, while Thousand Island and a tangy Dijon coat the bottom and top slices respectively. A mild saltiness and acidity, the overall experience is fresh and honest. The Reuben is a straightforward sandwich without frills, but the unmistakable quality is what sets theirs at the head of the pack.

Need a side to go with your favorite sandwich? They have you covered. As mentioned above, the potato and pasta salads, not to overlook their fresh green salads, are among the 30 or so other items in their cold case. You’d need to use panoramic mode to take a photo of the whole spread. Additionally, they have a wall of chips that completes their ordering corridor. Their huge assortment of refreshments range from fountain drinks to cold Sierra Nevada and four refrigerators of alcoholic and non-alcoholic bottles and cans. Whether inside at the checkered tables or on their large shaded patio, lunch and some new friends await at Spiteri’s.