LOCAL DISH

Which Wich

Thu. January 31, 2013 12:00 AM
by Rick Karlin

I usually avoid chain restaurants like the plague. The blandness and corporate atmosphere put me off. However, in an attempt to find a quick meal before a play downtown we discovered Which Wich on the basement level of Block 37. I fell in love with and now it's too late. One of the reasons I like Which Wich, is because every sandwich is unique, so even though you are eating at a chain, the sandwich you eat is designed by you.

Which Wich is known for its unique ordering system, in which customers use red Sharpies to mark up pre-printed menus on sandwich bags. Select a sandwich from one of 10 categories (based upon the protein used in the sandwich, turkey, ham, seafood, etc), then choose the bread, cheese, spreads, and toppings. The sandwiches are then prepared, and delivered in the personalized sandwich bags.

For those overwhelmed by the 50 varieties of customizable "wiches," there are suggested combinations. The signature sandwich, the "Wicked Wich", is loaded with five meats (turkey, ham, roast beef, pepperoni, and bacon) and three cheeses. That's always seemed a bit of overkill to me. One of my favorites is the "Thank You Turkey", with stuffing and cranberry sauce. Another favorite is the shrimp po'boy. I like to load up my sandwich with lots of low calorie ingredients, so that I can enjoy the house brand potato chips without feeling guilty.

The Which Wich menu also includes plenty of vegetarian options and several healthy wiches for less than 400 calories each. Even the extras are held to high standards: signature house chips, hand-dipped shakes, and just-out-of-the-oven cookies are as superior as the sandwiches.

It's a no frills kind of place, you hand in the bag bearing your order add on a beverage, chips or cookie (go for the combo meal, it's a real money saver) fill your cup at the soft drink fountain and wait for your name to be called. It usually takes less than 5 minutes from placing your order until the time you're served. Chances on you'll spend more time trying to decide on what you want on your sandwich than it takes to prepare it. The food is always fresh, the service friendly and it's one of the cleanest fast food places I've ever dined in. Add in the fact that you can get a very filling meal for less than ten bucks and you'll see why I love which Wich.

Which Wich
108 N State St
(312) 658-0030
whichwich.com

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