Restaurant Review: Gourmand’s Vs Noble Sandwich Co
Sandwiches are up there with something I could eat everyday and not get tired of because there are SOOOO many ways to make one!
The first two sandwich shops I think of in Austin are Gourmand’s and Noble. One far east, one other in midtown, they both share similar sandwich creations, but have distinct flavours and differences.
Gourmand’s feels like a classic, homey, and comfortable spot that you want to go to everyday. They have TWENTY ONE sandwiches to choose from, plus soups, plus salads, plus appetizers. My first time there I tried their popular Bacchus sandwich… I could honestly eat this everyday. It has fajita marinated chicken breast, bacon, sautéed poblanos, onions, swiss cheese, avocado, sliced tomato, shredded lettuce, and a spicy mayo. I asked for it on rye (because rye is just the damn best). LOOK AT THIS THING. I probably should have saved half of it but I ate the whole damn thing and it was incredible.
Joel ordered the Po-Po which is their version of a BLT and they LOADED it with yummy stuff. The traditional bacon, lettuce, and tomato plus roasted garlic mayo. So beautiful and so delicious! One thing I love about Gourmand’s is their “Sandwich Club.”
Their website reads, “The regulars felt that an exclusive club should exist for those folks who could/would eat all 21 of our full sandwiches. To date over 100 people have signed up to take the challenge and only a few have completed.” Quirky, zealous, and awesome.
Noble has gotten a lot of high praise.. and for a good reason. They are serious about their sandwich making. With about fifteen sandwich choices and a handful of sides to pick from, you will find something you love. The last time I went, I had a corned beef special that was incredible – lots of heavy mustard seeds and interesting spices. I have no idea how they made it and that is partially why I loved it! My sister got their roast beef with a dipping sauce – the meat was incredibly tender. We both agreed we would’ve liked some lettuce.
Noble is very meat heavy with their sandwiches, so there are not a lot of options for vegetarians. However they make their bread in house and have lots of different specials which highlight their creativity. I am a brussel sprout lover but they deep fried theirs which made it less than appetizing.. Sometimes a fresh side is good with something so meaty and carby! They also have a breakfast menu (which I haven’t tried since it’s only served on weekends). Their parking situation is also a bit frustrating.. but if you can get a spot, wait in a long line, and get your dream sandwich, it might be worth it.
It’s a tough choice, but I think I have to say that Gourmand’s win the competition. I can’t wait to go back and maybe even one day join the Sandwich Club one day. What’s your favourite sandwich shop in town?