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Clockwise from top: Paesano's chalkboard menu, self-serve drink cups and sign for take-out (all photos by M. McClellan for GPTMC)

For months now, I’ve been hearing reports from friends and internet acquaintances about the gustatory miracle-in-a-roll that is a sandwich from Paesano’s. However, until yesterday, I hadn’t managed to try one. And, of course, now I’m kicking myself that I kept myself away from that distinct eating pleasure for so long. Truly, these sandwiches are revelatory.

They are the brainchildren of Modo Mio chef/owner Peter McAndrews. He first started selling these Italian-inspired sandwiches from a small shop in Northern Liberties back at the end of 2008 and they quickly became a neighborhood favorite. In January, he opened up with an expanded menu at 901 Christian Street, in the light-filled space that was once Butcher’s Cafe. To my mind, this is the ideal application for this location, as Butcher’s always tried to be a Sabrina’s knock-off and sadly never managed to do anything well.

Part of the beauty of Paesano’s is that the whole operation is really simple. There are 14 sandwiches (not including any daily specials that my appear), one soup, one salad and a self-serve soda fountain. A single waitress works the room for those who want to eat in and a clearly marked take-out window is available for those who want to grab and go. Prices are in round, dollar amounts (including the soda, which is a buck a cup, with refills) and it’s cash-only.

I had the Arista, which contains suckling pork, braised rabe, sharp provolone and zingy long hots. It was drippy and amazing. As good as it was, I nearly stole my husband’s Meatloaf Parmesan, which may well have been the best thing I’ve ever tasted. Our friend Thad got the Diablo, which he gobbled down (his only minor complain was the uneven spread of the spicy sauce on the chicken). The fourth member of our party was Thad’s very pregnant wife, and the sandwich makers were happy to accommodate her need to avoid anything heartburn provoking.

Please, do yourself a favor and eat a sandwich from Paesano’s.

Paesano’s
901 Christian Street, Philadelphia, PA
modomiorestaurant.com/paesanos_italian_market_location
215-922-2220