Every once in a while, a restaurant comes along that makes you rethink your routine. Matt & Marie's in Logan Square, Philadelphia, is just such a place. They've taken familiar, classic Italian sandwiches and kicked them up a notch to satisfy patrons sick of the same old run-of-the-mill lunchtime fare. Offering their delicacies in a convenient, bright and attractive new setting, this eatery is turning lunchtime visitors into happy and satisfied repeat customers.
After meeting at The University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, Co-owners Nicole Capp and Justin Sapolsky worked together on a business plan for a restaurant excelling at modern Italian sandwiches in a fast-casual setting. Starting out as caterers, they specialized in sandwiches, while making plans for their restaurant.
After Matt & Marie's, you'll never think about Italian sandwiches the same way again! — Photo courtesy of Janus Bahs Jacquet
Amazingly, their plan is now up and running and churning out delicious creations for anyone willing to break from the drudgery of uncreative lunchtime options. When you've got a winning business plan combined with a great idea for pleasing customers, you waste no time getting things ready to go.
What can hungry patrons looking to sample a sandwich find here? By far the favorite of regulars here is the infamous Italian Stallion. With a name like that, the sandwich had better be something special, and it is. Made on a tasty roll that's hard on the outside, but soft and delicious on the inside, the sandwich features Genoa salami, sweet coppa and Molinari fennel salami, accompanied by bits of Caludio's sharp provolone and housemade sweet pickled peppers - all topped with Pepperoncini aioli. What's not to love about a concoction like that?
Accompanying this stellar sandwich choice are six other offerings that also don't skimp on taste. Selections such as the Capri, Roman Cavalry, Ducati Dealer, Uncle Guy's Turkey and Verdura Double promise to tempt your tastebuds and satisfy your hunger.
All of these delicacies are available in a clean, simple, soothing setting in the heart of the city. It sounds like a winning combination any bored lunchtime diner would appreciate. Complement this with a cold drink and some good conversation, a spot to sit and rest your feet, comfortable seating, attractive decor, smiling hosts and you're headed in the right direction.
Food is too important to settle for mediocrity, and it can often make the difference between a good rest of the day and a bad rest of the day. So the next time you've had just about enough of the same old, same old, head to Matt & Marie's. It may just become your favorite foodie hangout, and with very good reason.
