Best Sandwiches in America 2015: Beef

Winner: Braised Short Rib

Restaurant: Labriola Ristorante & Café, Chicago

Sandwich Creator: John Caputo

Inspiration: “It came from a short rib sandwich Chef Caputo had at a local Mexican restaurant. He wanted to give it an Italian slant.”

Key Ingredients: Braised short rib, house-made giardiniera, caramelized onions, house-made baguette, Taleggio cheese fonduta

Price: $15

Food Cost: $4.80

What the Judges Said: “Wow, this was another tough category. We could have gone several ways, but what tipped this over the top for us was the Taleggio fonduta. We’re huge fans of Taleggio, and when you see it used (which isn’t often enough), it’s in the sandwich. Here, Caputo use the Taleggio as if it were au jus. What a delightful idea. Dunking the sandwich into somewhat smelly, tangy cheese was a trip. Also, the use of giardiniera is a perfect way to cut the richness. We want another.

Honorable Mentions:
• More Cowbell: City Barbeque, Dublin, OH
• Texas Rachel in a Skirt: Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar, Sommerville, MA
• Marinated Prime Flank Steak: Eleven Fort Nine Restaurant, Warwick, RI
• Chef’s Signature Sandwich: Jack’s Restaurant & Lounge, Monterey, CA
• Brisket Bomb: Clear Sky Draught Haus, Dunedin, FL

Next: Deli
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