Paul's Award-Winning Sandwich

When I heard that the best gourmet market in Bay Ridge was holding a sandwich-making contest, I immediately thought of Paul. Thanks to him, I get some of the best food in Brooklyn every night for supper.

Unfortunately, I didn't tell him until about two days before the deadline. But that was plenty of time for him to come up with three entries and email the recipes just hours before the Tuesday morning deadline.

And on Wednesday he got the good news-- his "Old English" roast beef sandwich was a finalist! That meant he would be making the sandwich in front of an audience at Robicelli's Gourmet Market during last Sunday's 3rd Avenue festival.

First, however, he had to taste-test it himself. He'd never even made the sandwich before! So on Saturday night he constructed his entry. I already knew it was a winner. But would the judges agree?

Paul and the other three finalists each made their sandwich and cut it into thirds for the judges. One judge even asked Paul for his inspiration. Instead of saying that I was obviously his inspiration, he said he wanted a sandwich he could eat with a good pint in an English pub.

It didn't take the judges long to come up with the winners-- and Paul got 2nd place! Along with $100 worth of gift certificates, one of the owners said his sandwich may be a special on the market's menu.

And first place? A panini featuring prosciutto, melted brie, roasted eggplant and a balsamic reduction.

So if you come visit us in Bay Ridge, we might just have to make a stop at Robicelli's. If not for the sandwiches, then at least for the cupcakes (more about that in a later post ...)!


Unfortunately, I didn't get a photo of the sandwich. But believe me, it looks just as good as it tastes, and it tastes just as good as it sounds.

Paul's Old English Sandwich

1 whole wheat ciabatta bun
1/3 pound roast beef
Grey Poupon mustard
Caramelized onions, to taste
4 slices of English-style mustard-seed-and-ale cheddar cheese

Spread mustard on bottom side of loaf. Add roast beef. Spread onions evenly on roast beef. Add cheese. Toast in oven or in panini grill. Yum!