The little house with the big sandwiches

Editor’s Note: Our columnist is not a trained or paid professional, nor does he get complimentary meals from the restaurants visited. He and his party arrive unannounced and do not reveal that they will be doing a review. Comments or questions may be sent to Sam Geati, greengeezer9@comcast.net.

Our editorial manager, Mason Souza, has been telling me about a place in Algonquin that he says makes the best subs around. I’ve always been a big fan of Bubs Subs, so I said we need to have a run off to see which shop comes out on top. So, it’s Bubs Subs vs. The Algonquin Sub Shop, affectionately known as A.S.S.

Previously, I gave high marks to Bubs because of the fresh ingredients, homemade giardiniera, and outstanding bread. As far as I was concerned, A.S.S. will need to knock my socks off to be a contender. I nearly drove by the place because it’s located in a small house on Main St. (Rt. 31) and Filip St., about a half mile south of Algonquin Road. Once in, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the many framed articles and awards on the walls. But I wasn’t conceding anything until I got to taste the food.

Algonquin Sub Shop is a tiny spot tucked away on Route 31. (Photo by Mason Souza/Sun Day)

The menu consisted of many unique combinations, similar to Bubs, so it was still no advantage to either contender. Then I saw the special of the day, consisting of sliced ham, shaved turkey, covered in a Georgia mustard barbeque sauce, topped with bacon and mozzarella cheese. My mouth started watering as I said, “I’ll have the special.” It was priced at $8.99.

Mason ordered the Al Capone sub, their bestseller consisting of Italian Capacola, Salami, Pepperoni, Mortadella, Provolone, and olives for $7.99. Price comparison was close, but A.S.S. won this by a slight margin. The size of my sub was incredible, way too much for me to eat in one sitting, but I think it was pretty comparable in size to those made at Bubs.

Sam ordered the special, loded with ham, turkey and a Georgia mustard BBQ sauce. (Photo by Mason Souza/Sun Day)

I have to admit that the special blew me away and meant a victory for A.S.S., but only by a narrow margin. Mason said his sub was the best he had ever eaten, so as far as he was concerned, A.S.S was the winner. He also ordered fries and let me sample them. In a word, excellent! In addition to the 27 varieties of subs, also available are burgers, hotdogs, chili, soup, desserts, and kid meals. See their website listed below for the entire menu.

In the final analysis, both establishments are at the top in my book. However, don’t take my word for it. You need to decide for yourself which is your favorite. I challenge you to get out there, try both places, and let me know what you think. Maybe you have another sub place that is special to you. But, before you write to me, get out and try these two excellent spots and compare them to your favorite.

Algonquin Sub Shop – 105 Filip St., Algonquin. 847-658-0680. www.Algonquinsubshop.com

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