What do you want from a sandwich shop? Well, if you can start with a love of sandwiches, it's a good sign. Caffe Espresso - Bingo.
The "Number 9" baguette has long been legendary in my workplace and so I toddled in with high expectations. When the lady before me ordered something simple, the man behind the counter served her with cheery mock-disapproval, claiming that the order was not a sufficient challenge. When I then asked for the legendary Number 9, he lit up. "The Number 9? That's my BABY!" he declared in delight, and immediately set about compiling its various delicious ingredients for me (grilled chicken, taco sauce, cheese, rocket and jalapeños).
I don't know about you, but for me, a fellow who can talk so passionately about a sandwich is definitely the person I want making my lunch.
His infectious enthusiasm led me to explain that this was my first sampling of the legendary Number 9, and his mood elevated still further. "It'll change you," he promised, and began explaining the spiciness options. I pondered a moment over Entry-Level or Smokin'. "You know what," he continued, "I'll do you a half-and-half if you like!"
Oh, I do. I do like. Thank you.
I had a moment at this point to glance around the weeny shop - about the size of my bedroom, the walls covered in boards reciting the most mouthwatering sandwich combinations imaginable and some pretty spectacular-sounding smoothies. It's homely, colourful and cheerful, with even a tiny bit of space to sit and eat if you can't bear to take your sandwich away from its birthplace.
For less than £5, I was - as promised - lifted to a higher plane of sandwichness. Another previously Un-Number-Nined colleague, beholding my delight as I returned to my desk consuming the legend, ran straight out to get one for herself and found herself equally transported.
I don't think I've ever been so overwhelmed with joy by a mere baguette; while the enthusiastic service and jolly establishment go a long way toward this score, the proof of the sandwich shop is in the sandwich. The baguette: warm, crusty and soft. The filling: rich and perfectly balanced. Don't expect to eat it elegantly, though; there's a lot stuffed into that baguette and it tends to behave with the same wild exuberance as its creator.
I can't wait to try the rest of the options on offer, and some of those amazing-sounding smoothies. Until then... this has been a YUMinator review, starring Sarnie Schwarzenegger. And believe me, Caffe Espresso: I'LL BE BACK. read more