WRITING CULTURE 2012: Film, Food & Beyond

At Eisenberg’s Sandiwch Shop, “you either get it or you don’t.”

If you’re looking for a classic and old-fashioned shop that still serves the traditional egg cream and malts, look no further. Take a trip to Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop located on 174 5th Avenue in the Flatiron District and you’ll see why they’ve been “raising New York’s cholesterol since 1929.”

The decor at Eisenberg’s is old-fashioned and will make you hesitate as you take the first step. Not a very colorful place, nor the most inviting. For seating you have the choice of sitting at either a table or at the bar. If you’re coming in with a group of 4 or more, I would suggest sitting at a table. You can have a conversation and enjoy the food in privacy.  However, if you prefer a more intimate experience, see the action and make small talk with your server, I would suggest the bar. Sitting at the bar, you get a front row seat to the show. You can see their wall of fame (pictures of the owner of Eisenberg and celebrities who have come and eaten there), you can see the sizzle at grill, and the process of their signature drinks.

Known for their sandwiches, I order the most unique thing I saw on their menu, the “Hot Tongue” sandwich, on rye.

“Hot Tongue” Sandwich

Many people would probably see the word “tongue” and steer clear, but not me. Along with the sandwich, I ordered a vanilla malt. Sitting at the bar I saw the cook thinly slice the meat. When the food arrived in front of me, I could immediately smell the saltiness of the brined tongue. But before I was able to take a bite of the sandwich, the server poured a smooth white drink into a cup and set it down in front of me. The vanilla malt was aromatic. You can not only smell the vanilla beans, but you can see them as well. I took my first sip and I could not stop. That malt was out of this world! I could not stop drinking the creamy goodness that was pouring into my mouth. After drinking nearly half the cup! I set it aside and prepare to take my first bite of the sandwich.  On the first bite I could immediately taste the saltiness of the tongue. But, with a bit more chew, the rye helped absorbed a bit of the saltiness leaving a nice and light beefy taste behind. The combination of the “Hot Tongue” sandwich and the vanilla malt could not have been more satisfying, especially when it didn’t leave a hole in my wallet.

“Hot Tongue” Sandwich – $10.00

Vanilla Malt – $4.50

Being a fan of Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservation” show, I was surprised to see a picture of him on the Eisenberg’s wall of fame. Apparently, Eisenberg’s Sandiwch shop made an appearance on the “Disappearing Manhattan” episode on “No Reservations.”

You can see more about Eisenberg on their website.