East Side Delicatessen (Park Avenue)

In the city of roses stands a gem that exceeds all imagination.  Portland is a great city for a number of reasons, but perhaps what we like most about Rip City is that it is unique in a very good way.  After playing tourist in 30 degree weather for the whole morning, we were feeling famished and needed to get our food fix.  We were near the University downtown, and fairly late for lunch, after hitting a food cart earlier.  This is when we tasted what Reuben now considers his favorite food.

Enter the East Side Delicatessen, a small local chain of deli's with a funky college vibe that doesn't appear to be much from the outside.  Although the restaurant was not busy, it looked intriguing.  That's the beauty of Portland, it always exceeds expectations.

Reuben went immediately for a Jamaican Jerk sandwich, one of the daily specials which came with a choice of bread, and toppings.  He went with the suggestions of our friendly server, and was not disapointed.  Tomatoes, Carrots, White Onion, Romaine Lettuce, Jerk Sauce, and a white sauce that to this day I can not identify created what might be the food equivalent of a clear day of skiing with powder, and no one in site.  For our non alpine readers, this means that it was phenomenal.  The best sandwich I have ever eaten, and I have given myself the nickname "Reuben" so that is saying something.







Veggie girl took a a special as well, and went for the Buffalo Soldier sandwich.  This had chicken, jalapenos, jerk sauce, cucumber, tomatoes, green peppers, and romaine, unfortunately the details are a little fuzzy as this was written some 8 months after this life changing experience.  This was also really good sandwich, and although veggie girl found it very spicy, Reuben did not think it was overwhelmingly so, and you could actually enjoy the flavours.

Both sandwiches were enormous, god bless america.  Reuben without a question rates this small deli in Portland as his all time favorite restaurant.  The combination of cheap food, amazing flavors, and bertuzzi sized portions are hard to beat.  This is a must try for anyone in the area.

Summary:
+ Prices are low
+ Staff was rad
+ Food was beyond good, and plentiful

- All the way in Portland