They said,"Our school lunch is surprisingly delicious." And I, like a finalist in the Dumbest Teacher of the Year Contest, believed them. So now it's 12:30, I'm hungry, and I'm considering walking to the gas station and stocking up on Doritos and Vitamin Water because a) balance is important and b) eating school lunch is not an option.
A few weeks ago I discovered the third and best choice to solve the lunchtime dilemma in the form of the most brilliant sandwich spot I've been to in Brooklyn: Brancaccio's Food Shop. My first tasting was that of an Italian tuna sandwich complete with olive oil toasted bread and capers. Sold. I jokingly told my coworkers that I would quickly grow tired of the delicious sandwich because once I find something I like, I exhaust it. Done. So what more could Brancaccio's offer a newbie to the Brooklyn lunch scene who also happens to be a pescatarian?
How about a tilapia sandwich? Yep. Mozzarella with roasted peppers on ciabatta? Check. Eggplant Parmesan with fennel? Absolutely. Not in the mood for a sandwich? Try some pesto and be glad you did. I have yet to try a dish that could be described as anything but delectable and my tummy thanks me.
So you're a meat eater? Relax. They have a friggin pot roast sandwich for crying out loud. And one day when I was feeling rebellious and wanted to forgo my diet, I tried the balsamic chicken with gorgonzola and guacamole. Yes, you read that correctly, and yes, it made me want to slap somebody.
The food is to die for, but a menu is only one of the important qualities I look for in a new culinary obsession. The ambiance of Brancaccio's deepens my love affair. It's small and intimate, there's random classic hip hop on the speakers, and the owner, Joe, is there every day calling orders and ringing up customers. This guy is clearly committed to the success of his restaurant. One day while waiting for my order, I overheard a regular customer telling Joe that before he moves from New York, he needs the restauranteur to suggest the best sandwich on the menu. Joe politely told the customer, "I don't do that. ALL of my sandwiches are the best." It's that type of quiet confidence and charisma that will keep me frequenting a place for as long as I can.
If you're ever on Fort Hamilton Parkway in Brooklyn, get your life in order and try Brancaccio's. The prices are reasonable, the service is quick, and if you go enough times, it's the type of place where everyone will know your name. But don't expect anyone, including you, to know your favorite menu item, because as Joe says, they are all the best.
