Everyone has a favorite type of sandwich to eat and mine is
the Italian sub. I am not talking about subs from Subway, Jimmie Johns, or
Quiznos; I am talking about authentic fresh deli subs, where the bread is
always fresh and you know they are using the best possible cold cuts. There is
one place that I always keep going back to on a regular basis for the past six
years and that is Alcamo’s Market in Dearborn, MI.
Alcamo’s is a family owned Italian market that has been
selling specialty imported items, mainly Italian produce, to the community for
nearly 50 years. Your senses are immediately taken over once you walk into this
small Italian market. On your right is the deli and specialty food counter; the
smell from the imported meats and cheeses will put you in a spell. Your eyes
are drawn to all of the specialty imported Italian produce that includes
peppers, jarred/canned tomatoes, olive oil, vinegars, espresso, wines, cookies,
etc.
Alcamo’s is really known for serving up some of the best
subs in the Metro Detroit area; they were mentioned in the Detroit Free Press
for having one of the Top 5 Subs in Metro Detroit. Their popularity has definitely grown since I
started being a regular six years ago; their sub menu has even grown. Even with
an expanded sub menu, I always still order one of my favorites, the sub that
had me hooked from first bite, and that is the Alcamo’s Famous Italian Sub.
The Alcamo’s Famous Italian sub is made with Italian
capicola, mortadella, cooked prosciutto, provolone, shredded lettuce, tomato, and
onion served on a crusty, flavorful, Sicilian roll with their famous house sub
dressing; I always opt to have the dressing served on the side in a separate
container. The Famous Italian sub is nothing to laugh at, it’s big and it is
the definition of an Italian sub. The funny thing is, it is also one of their
smaller ones. You might think you cannot tackle the whole thing in one sitting,
but eventually you notice you are at your last few bites and you start to
wonder “who stole half of my sub?”
I have to repeat, this sub is love at first bite and you
want to savor every bite out of this big sub. The Italian capicola, mortadella,
and cooked prosciutto all come from the same animal, but each provides their
own unique flavoring. The provolone cheese provides a sharp taste at each bite,
while the lettuce and tomato gives a fresh taste. Speaking of the lettuce, I do
prefer lettuce shredded because it is easier to eat and you have an even amount
through out the sub. The fresh Sicilian bread provides a great crust on the
outside while being soft inside. However, what really brings this sub together
are the tangy flavors from the onions and Alcamo’s homemade house sub dressing.
I don’t know what’s in the house dressing besides red wine vinegar and fresh
herbs, but it’s liquid gold. I always get upset with myself when I forget to
ask for extra dressing. I washed
everything down with a nice cold San Pellegrino Aranciata.
I can only put into so many words how amazing this Italian
sub is, but I urge you to experience it yourself; you won’t be let down. A
couple of notes, Alcamo’s is closed on Mondays and be sure to try and get there
before the lunch crowd shows up, because you will be waiting impatiently with a
number.
