Sandwich lovers rejoice: Two new places to grab some grub have recently popped up in downtown Asheville:
Roman’s sandwich shop relocated from Fairview to 75 Haywood St., right next to the Civic Center on the ground floor of the Vanderbilt Apartments. Roman’s uses lots of local products, including Annie’s Breads and Hickory Nut Gap beef in their burgers. Veggie options abound — think grilled veggies on whole wheat with local chipotle goat cheese. There’s also a great little menu for the rugrats including things like mac and cheese with Vermont white Cheddar or natural peanut butter and local jelly.
Here’s a little word from the restaurant owners: “At Roman’s Take Out our efforts are to provide a happy medium between fast food & health food. All of our menu items are homemade from start to finish. We involve organic, natural, & local ingredients as much as we can.”
Another shop right around the way, Jackson’s Underground Cafe, sort of slid in under the radar. Right now, it’s occupying the space that formerly housed Sisters McMullen near the Buncombe County Courthouse.
From the restaurant’s Web site:
“Located in the lower level of the historic Jackson building in downtown Asheville, the Jackson Underground Cafe is a locally owned, fast casual style eatery specializing in great tasting hot and cold sandwiches filled with top quality ingredients, delicious homemade soups, and fresh salads.”
Jackson’s seems to focus mainly on value, probably a good business plan when many of us are pinching pennies. The restaurant serves up a fast and cheap breakfast, with items like egg and cheese sandwiches with a smear of local Lusty Monk mustard. Lunch showcases some classics, like pastrami on rye and classics with twists, like a reuben with a sweet Vidalia onion relish.
— Mackensy Lunsford, Xpress food coordinator
Get a little russian dressing for that pastrami on rye and I am there!
The reuben at Jackson Underground Cafe is the best I’ve ever had. What a great addition to downtown Asheville !! Just when you thought it couldn’t get better – it DID…….
We need more subshops! I like Two Guys, but closed all weekend?!? Jersey Mike’s can go back to wherever they came from (I really doubt it is Jersey). I have long thought about opening a Jewish deli/sandwich shop in West Asheville. I think it would make a killing. I can’t wait to try these new spots out.
Romans use to be in Fairview and they are very much missed. The food is fresh, local and delicious!
“Jersey Mike’s can go back to wherever they came from (I really doubt it is Jersey).”
Agreed. However, they really did originate in Jersey. They were featured on a food-related program on The Travel Channel a while back.
Hey Chalkbox, I’ll go in with you on opening a deli in Asheville. A deli done right would make a killing. Seriously.