I used to work at Pitstop and I promise you, I know this place better anybody. Without a shade of arrogance, I can confidently say that there is no point in listening to anybodies review, but mine. That sounds pretty arrogant, doesn't it?
No matter, I don't care. Beyond working at Pitstop, where I had access to their fridges as well as, a birds eye view to the inner workings of their kitchen, I also worked at their sister restaurant (same owners) Wildfish.
So, I had insight into the freshness of their food, where it was coming from (I picked up for them at the restaurant depot once) and overall, I have an opinion, that a one time customer could simply never match.
Therefore, I think it is quite stupid when people trash this place and give it one star for a singularly bad experience because one of their fries wasn't crispy enough. I think anyone who enjoys food and considers themselves any sort of a "critic," understands that you really cannot determine the legitimacy of a food joint from ONE experience. Granted, if that one experience is awful it's understandable that your mind is immediately made up; so I understand that rationale.
Nevertheless, there is one problem and only one problem with Pitstop; the pricing. The place is a complete and total rip off. There's simply no denying it, there prices are absurd and I remember, when I used to work counter sometimes, I felt awkward telling the customer how much they owed. It can get ridiculous.
In spite of the pricing, Pitstop almost has the right to charge so much. For starters ALL of their food is very fresh and EVERYTHING is made to order. Not to mention, its unique, creative, delicious and consistent. Also, on a somewhat relevant side note, if you are not happy with your order, TELL THEM. They are very accommodating and the entire staff is customer friendly. Even if your complaint is ridiculous, they will honor it.
At this point you're probably think I'm kissing up, as a former employee. To be crystal clear, I did not like working at Pitstop. It was difficult, stressful and my manager can get heated under said circumstances; and that's a nice way of putting it. Essentially, I would have no problem trashing this place if the food was bad, but its not.
The reason I was and continue to be a loyal customer to Pitstop, in spite of their pricing, is because I will pay extra money for quality; 100% of the time. Simply put, their quality is top notch.
Finally, I will offer some recommendations. Pitstop has an EXTREMELY diverse menu. Recently it was scaled down a bit, but they still offer everything from wraps, sandwiches, burgers, salads, ribs, chicken, steak and salmon. It's NOT a fast food joint. It's a restaurant that cooks fast.
I'm a huge fan of the:
1. Tuscan Romaine Pasta Salad
This is a unique combination of mixed greens, pasta, mushrooms, black olives, sundried tomatoes and light Parmesan cheese all tossed in a homemade balsamic dressing. I like to throw some grilled chicken on top, which will round you out to about 13.50, but I'll pay that every time; gladly.
2. Crispy Chicken Wrap
This is a fan favorite (I think) and it's a simple wrap filled with crispy chicken, cheddar, lettuce, tomato and ranch. The buffalo chicken wrap is also quite good.
3. Sesame Chicken Wrap (solely for the originality)
You won't find anything like this, just about anywhere. Seared Sesame chicken with avocado, crispy wontons, mixed greens and a miso vinaigrette dressing. It's kind of strange, but that's what I like about it.
4. Steak Sandwich
Ciabatta bread, marinated skirt steak, melted mozzarella and grilled onions. Delicious, but my friends have complained in the past that they skimp on steak. I see where they're coming from.
5. Soups, Chicken Gumbo Soup
This is a phenomenal soup that is tomato based and it includes vegetables, chicken and pieces of hot dog for flavor. I absolutely love it. Their chili is also quite good, with a sweet after taste and the butternut squash is like melted gold.
6. Sides, Creamed Spinach
Really good spinach, simple.
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ALSO, when GUY FIERE came in he ordered:
-The Cuban Sandwich
-The Salmon Teriyaki Salad
and
-The Spaghetti Squash - They are all very tasty, but the spaghetti squash is something of a cult hit particularly among women. They LOVE it and with good reason; it's healthy (somewhat, anyway) and delicious.
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THE BEST THING TO DO, if you want a fairly priced pitstop experience IS:
Come in BEFORE 4pm and get the Lunch special. This is a wrap, fries (OR SOUP) and a drink for about 10 dollars. When I worked there it was exactly 10.06 but that has probably changed. That's the best way to get your moneys worth and if you work locally, but can't leave the office; they deliver.
Pitstop deserves 5 stars and that's irrespective of Guy Fieri walking through those doors. This is a powerhouse restaurant/food joint and I'll be a customer for li read more