Molinari's has been in business for like 115 years or so. They've been a fixture in North Beach for both locals and tourists alike. Mostly know for traditional salami and what not I have to admit I'd never actually been in for a sandwich and one day I walked by and just said why not. Basically you go in, get a number then pick your own bread from a bin in the far right corner. When your number is called you hand over the bread and tell them what you want from the choices in the meat display or pick one of their "house specials". I got a thin sliced roast beef with the works--mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, peppers on an everything bun. The roast beef was rare and tender and piled high. And while there is nothing exceptionally special about the condiments, sitting at one of their outside tables and watching the steady flow of traffic along Columbus, it was a really tasty and filling sandwich that I liked a lot. I can see why people gravitate here for one of these larger than normal subs. My only qualm, as usual was the price--roughly $11--tourist and San Francisco prices for sure. Ultimately it left me torn, a sandwich I enjoyed at a price I didn't. I'll mark this down as a special occasion kind of place. If folks are visiting and I'm touring them through North Beach, it's worth a stop for the traditional Italian deli experience and sandwich. Otherwise, I don't think I see myself making a special trip just to get one.
- Institutions continue to close in San Francisco as Escape from New York Pizza closes.
- What up SF Magazine? The best burger is vegan? I reserve judgement for now.
- A new chocolate tour in town goes total Mission District. Yes, samples included.
- Marlowe makes it move, but wait for their burger and new space won't be too long.
- It's a burger-splosion in the East Bay. Good for them.
- This is why we don't have drive-thru windows in this town--North Beach edition.
- The Paganini "fleet" of restaurants continues to grow.
- Mochica (late of SOMA) has a new lease on life in Potrero Hill.
- Zagat says these are 10 dishes true San Franciscans need to eat. I think not so much.
- Gluten free? No MSG? Fuggetaboutit!! I may have to try this place now.
