Great Sandwiches: Introducing Aaron Matzkin of Rotisseur
Please note: This article is published as an archive copy from Philadelphia City Paper. My City Paper is not affiliated with Philadelphia City Paper. Philadelphia City Paper was an alternative weekly newspaper in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The last edition was published on October 8, 2015.
"Taking your sandwich creation lightly is such a sin."
That's a mean banh mi.
Danya Henninger
Danya Henninger
Editor's Note: In the days leading up to our inaugural GREAT SANDWICHES EVENT happening on May 28th (get your tickets HERE!)we're going to be introducing the sandwich-centric heavy hitters taking part in this totally awesome celebration of sandwiches. Today we're talking sandwiches with Aaron Matzkin, the banh mi mastermind at Rotissuer .
Favorite sandwich: PB&J on toast. You can't fade a classic. Its got everything. Savory peanut butter, sweet and tart jelly, crunchy toast. A contrast of warm and cool, amazing texture range, and toast. Did I mention toast?
Least favorite sandwich: Cold Cheese. In sandwich or hoagie form this is a completely uninspired, bland, texturally off-putting creation. Biting through a soft roll into layers of cold deli cheese is like chewing on soft chalk. Oh, it's aged gouda? What a waste of good gouda.
Most memorable sandwich experience: I went to elementary school a block from my house (shout out to Samuel Powell Elementary) and was allowed to go home for lunch. My Grandmother lived with us and made me ramen (they were called 'Oodles of Noodles' back then; check this out) and grilled cheese. Every day. Awesome. And that's still a great meal.
Best Philadelphia pandwich: The Arista at Paesano's is pretty f%#king great..
Sandwich deal breaker: Thinking it's 'just a sandwich'. Taking your sandwich creation lightly is such a sin. A sandwich can soar and you should think about it the same way you think about any other dish. Does it have balance? Does it have acidity and sweetness? Softness and crunch? Does it have a strong enough savory component to handle the condiments? And probably the most overlooked component, is it pretty? I like a pretty sandwich. Make me want you.
