For Goodness STEAKS
by Erik Ofgang
July/August
First developed in South Philadelphia, the not-so-humble Philly cheesesteak sandwich, or as it is more commonly called, the “cheesesteak,” is having a moment. Here in Connecticut, it’s long been a standard deli item available at most meat-centric sandwich shops. The sandwich traditionally consists of thinly sliced steak strips and onions (sometimes peppers too), all topped with a cheese of some type (usually provolone or cheese whip). This is then served in a soft Italian bread roll. However, variations and twists on these building blocks are nearly limitless.
It’s easy to see why this has been a popular sandwich since the 1930s, when it was developed. Cheesesteaks are relatively simple to make, and they are comfort food crowd pleasers. For sandwich fans, there are few better combinations of meat, cheese, and bread than a well-made cheesesteak.
I recently went on a quest to find some excellent spots to enjoy cheesesteaks in the area, focusing on the grab-and-go establishments. The type of places serving cheesesteaks to workers on lunch breaks which you can grab to enjoy at the start of a long ride.
Johnny’s Food Center,
1 Brush Hill Rd, New Fairfield, 203-746-2255, johnnysfoodcenter.com
Johnny’s Food Center in New Fairfield is an underrated gem. It’s been a longtime favorite of mine. From the classic Italian combo to the fried eggplant sandwich they call Blue Eyes, this spot always delivers big flavors. Johnny’s also offers an excellent cheesesteak. Simplicity is the name of the game. Steak and onions combine with an unassuming hero roll to create a mouthwatering option that is one of my favorites anywhere. Peppers are not included, but you can add them on request. Even though I like peppers in my cheesesteaks, I don’t do that here because there’s something to leaving them out, as it allows for more of the steak and cheese flavor to shine through.
Sand-Wedge Deli & Catering
1 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield, 203-544-8074, thesandwedge.com
One of the few places in the area to truly specialize in cheesesteaks, Sand-Wedge Deli devotes an entire section of its menu to different takes on the sandwich. First, there’s the classic Philly cheesesteak, made with American cheese, mayo, and peppers in addition to the onions and steak. There are also cheesesteak variations featuring Sriracha Mayo and jalapenos as well as fried eggs and hash browns. I tried both the classic Philly and the El Camino, which features onion, cheddar, and avocado on garlic bread; both are great! The Philly was perfect for those looking for the original with great cheese whip and meat flavor. The El Camino added some intriguing spice and though I was skeptical, the avocado’s presence was subtle and didn’t overpower things. In other words, it all worked really well.
C&C Deli
40 Danbury Rd, New Milford, 860-799-6336 with additional locations in Brookfield and Danbury
C&C Deli is well-liked with locations in New Milford, Danbury, and Brookfield. They do a nice job when it comes to their Philly cheesesteak, keeping things simple and traditional with beef topped with melted cheese and mixed with onions and peppers served on a sub roll. The menu warns that this is spicy, and I found just a touch of welcome heat in the flavor, but nothing close to overpowering.
The New Milford C&C is found in a small storefront on a busy stretch of Route 7, and it’s a nice place to add to your itinerary if you’re heading up to Litchfield County for a hike and are craving a steaming hot Philly cheesesteak on the way. •