Apparently I have not been in the know, but does it feel good to finally get there. Or taste good rather…
I try to make a weekly pilgrimage to Golden Gardens beach which for those of you who don’t know the area, sits on the Puget Sound right outside of a little pocket neighborhood called Ballard. In an earlier post, I commented on the views – now it’s time to talk food. I am sure most of my friends think that I sound like a broken record, but I explore a city through my stomach. I am all about food. Now granted – I’m no Bourdain, but I know what I like. Paseo – my new found friend, you had me at Cuban sandwich!
There are two locations – one in Fremont and Golden Gardens (pictured below). Their specialty = pork sandwiches, but have a world of choice on the meat front. They also make a tofu sandwich for those who refuse to partake. The sando-s are simple: grilled bread, onions, lettuce, special mayo, and seasoned meat (or not) of your choice. I like that simplicity, but where they hook you is flavor. That little simplistic mix of things is just packed with punch. As for seating – As you can see from the picture, it is relatively meager. There is a bar to sit at as well as a few covered picnic tables. The secret – grab your sandwich and head over to the beach area and enjoy it while looking out over the sound.
Now you would think that I would have taken a pic of the sandwich… well I ate it before I remembered to snap a picture. Sorry about that… I will try to control myself next time I blog about food. It is worth the ride though – get over there and get one. One tip – bring a couple of wet napkins for clean up. Otherwise you will greasen your steering wheel or handle bars or whatever your mode of transport. The good news is if you are walking, you can keep licking your fingers. It really is that good.
PS – Bring cash. They don’t take plastic.
Frank Martin was raised in the foothills of the White Mountains in Western Maine. Being from a small town had its advantages, but he decided at an early age that he would dwell urban and escape to the mountains in his free time. Snowboarding is his passion and he says, “Music is the answer.” Frank explores new places through his stomach. He is a lover of this world and the people in it, and shows this by talking to everyone and asking questions: let’s say, a strong enterprising curiosity. He knows the people that make his coffee, clean the city streets, and drive public transportation.
Graduating with a B.S. in Business and Hospitality Management from the University of New Hampshire, Frank has been involved with Hotels and Corporate Real Estate Development for the better half of the decade. Upon moving to Washington, Frank stepped aboard Corliss Wine Estates as director of vineyard operations and brands. After 3 years with Corliss, Frank moved into digital media and branding with One to One Interactive as the Direct Sales Manager for the Western US.