Girl Meets Food

Do you know how hard it is to get a good sammich around D.C.?  I mean, a really, really good sammich. Only a few places come to mind, and now Taylor Gourmet in the Atlas District is at the forefront.

The Pattison Avenue. Photo: Bryan Applegate

Owners Casey Patten and David Mazza are from Philadelphia, which in my opinion, has the best sandwich creations on earth, including my beloved cheesesteaks.  Which by the way, Taylor Gourmet doesn’t offer.

When asked why not, the man at the counter replied, “Don’t you want to try something else?”

Well, of course, but how do you have a Philly-style gourmet deli and Italian market wit no cheesesteaks?  I’m writing a letter to Casey and David after I finish this post.

I ordered the six-inch Pattison Avenue for $7.20.  Moist, tender, juicy chunks of pork seasoned with black pepper and spices taste incredibly fresh.  The sharp provolone, which is aged for eighteen months, gives a burst of flavor while broccoli rabe provides a nice crunch.  You can add lettuce, tomato and onions at no charge.  The six-incher is a nice lunch size, while the twelve inch would put me in a coma for sure. Add chips and a soda for $2.30.  I recommend the Herr’s Cheddar Horseradish chips. Yum.

The Pattison Avenue is also available in a vegetarian version called the Spring Garden, along with two other meatless sandwiches.

Photo: Bryan Applegate

Angus ordered the Island Avenue with homemade chicken cutlets, arugula, pesto and brie.  You can get the chicken grilled or breaded with Italian bread crumbs, dressed with olive oil.  He ordered the latter.

Taylor Gourmet only gets their rolls from the famous Sarcone’s Bakery in Philadelphia.  These crusty, seeded rolls are the best!  And what’s fun about Taylor Gourmet is that they have Boylan Sodas on tap, with flavors like black cherry, root beer, and cream soda!

Taylor Gourmet also stocks Italian pastas, produce, sauces, oils, vinegar and a fine selection of cookies.  Plus, they have a hand-picked selection of thirty wines under $30.00, as well as Italian and artisan beers.  I spotted Rogue beers in the refrigerator.

There’s outdoor seating in the backyard that will be great in the summertime.  Until then, enjoy a seat inside this cozy little mecca on H Street, with tasty sammich in hand. Salud!

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