Where do you go for lunch? If your answer is fast food, why not change things up and visit one of our local sandwich shops. I have been sampling some of our city's offerings and found two spots that are great for a "grab and go" lunch, or perfect for dining in if your schedule will allow.
The first is really an old favorite here in Carson City, The City Cafe Bakery. It has been owned by Roberta Rosario for the past two years. Roberta comes from a family of restaurant owners in Idaho and says it has always been her dream to own her own place. Her love of the business is evident in both her food and her customer service. This is the perfect place to stop for a picnic lunch to take with you on your next hike or bike ride. City Cafe serves a variety of sandwiches, soups and salads, and of course their famous pastries and muffins. While I was there I tried the Cuban which is a Panini-style sandwich consisting of ham, pork, pickles, cheese and mustard. It was grilled on a sandwich press by sandwich artist Sam Flakus, who proudly told me he makes the best Cubans ... and he was right! One of their loyal customers told me that they also make the best chicken salad in town. While I was there Roberta brought out a tray of freshly made lemon bars that were gone in minutes. I also tried the Tessa Thai Tea, which is a creamy iced Thai tea. It was delicious. You also can get a real crab sandwich with avocado and tomato, which is one of my grandson's favorites. They have a variety of breads, including Squaw, which I think is great with any sandwich. They also have a special kid's meal. Hours are 6 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday through Saturday. They are located at 701 South Carson St., 882-2253.
Another great place for lunch is the Artisan's Cafe and Gift Shop in the Brewery Arts Center. This cozy cafe was created within the space that houses the Artisan's gift shop, so you can eat and shop at the same time ... talk about perfect! The menu has a good selection of salads, wraps, sandwiches and soups and specialty coffees. This also is a great place to grab some picnic fare and head out for one of our parks or hiking trails. I have tried the Aztec Salad, which is a great combination of lettuce, corn, black beans cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, tortilla strips and a delicious cilantro ranch dressing. You also can ask for grilled chicken on any of their salads. The cafe has a variety of specialty coffees and quiche if you are looking for something for breakfast. Check out the menu at www.cafeartisans.com or visit in the BAC at 449 W. King St., or call phone is 775-283-4440.
I heard from many of you after my last column about favorite breakfast spots. Here are just a few of your suggestions:
Nancy Johnson e-mailed me this tip: "I also love eating breakfast out, & we do, at least once a week. I highly recommend you try breakfast at Qs, on Fairview Drive. We love it. They have incorporated their barbecued meats (such as pulled pork) into many of their breakfast dishes. Their potatoes are very good, & they also have many other wonderful dishes - omelets, scrambles, etc. Everything we have tried so far is excellent, with more than ample servings."
Dan Neverett sent me this one: "Candace, after reading your article the Appeal, I felt I need to comment on what I think is an exceptional little cafe on the Western Nevada College Carson campus. The Lifted Cafe (Aspen Building) offers a wide variety of items on their standard menu, and on a daily basis (during most of the year); they pull together some creative new options. More information on the cafe can be found at www.wnc.
edu/sedway"
Dan, I did not know this one existed, so I definitely will check it out.
Carson City has great dining tucked away in all kinds of places, so get out there and enjoy and let me know what hidden spots you find!
• Candace Duncan is executive director of the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau. Contact her with local dining recommendations at 687-7410 or candace@visitcarsoncity.com.