Southern California, a region synonymous with culinary innovation and a vibrant food scene, is increasingly being recognized for more than just its beachside cafes and celebrity chef hotspots. A recent analysis by Yelp has shone a spotlight on several lesser-known sandwich shops across the West Coast that are quietly, yet powerfully, shaping the national sandwich conversation. This deep dive explores two of these establishments, Windsor Brown in Anaheim and Wood’s Deli in Huntington Park, offering a taste of what makes them stand out in the competitive food news landscape.
Windsor Brown: Anaheim’s Pastrami Revelation
Nestled in the heart of downtown Anaheim, Windsor Brown presents a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere, a welcome respite for anyone seeking a quality bite. While the establishment might not boast the extensive fanfare of larger eateries, its impact on the US sandwich scene is undeniable, earning it a national ranking of #89 on Yelp’s extensive list. The shop holds an impressive 4.9 Yelp score, a testament to its dedicated following drawn from 196 reviews.
The star of the show at Windsor Brown, and the focus of this exploration, is the aptly named “Reuben and the Jets.” This isn’t your standard pastrami Reuben. Windsor Brown elevates the classic with a unique twist: thin, pastrami layered with apple and bacon sauerkraut, complemented by Swiss cheese, a vibrant Calabrian chili spread, and a generous slathering of Russian dressing, all served on hearty marble rye bread. The reviewer noted that while the pastrami itself was “thin and leathery,” a minor critique, the accompanying elements more than compensated. The house-made sauerkraut, with its distinct tang, and the subtly sour, nutty, and earthy notes of the marble rye, were particularly lauded. This thoughtful combination of flavors and textures earned Windsor Brown a solid 4 out of 5 stars, underscoring its significant culinary achievement.
Wood’s Deli: Huntington Park’s Italian Classic Reimagined
Further south, in Huntington Park, Wood’s Deli emerges as another contender making waves in the trending sandwich space. The establishment is celebrated for its “Italian Stallion,” a sandwich that pays homage to classic Italian flavors while introducing an intriguing, warm preparation. Typically served cold, Wood’s Deli opts for a warm presentation, a departure that adds a unique dimension to the experience.
The “Italian Stallion” is generously layered on a French roll, a sturdy foundation for its robust fillings. It features a medley of Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella, classic Italian charcuterie staples, alongside pepperoni. Swiss cheese, fresh arugula, spicy pickled onions, and a flavorful roasted bell pepper sauce complete the ensemble. The reviewer found the sandwich to be not only tasty but also remarkably well-constructed, a crucial element for any substantial sandwich. The warm preparation, while unconventional for this style of sandwich, was perceived as an interesting and successful choice, contributing to the overall appeal.
A Wider Look at SoCal’s Sandwich Prowess
While Windsor Brown and Wood’s Deli represent two prominent examples, Yelp’s findings suggest a broader trend of exceptional sandwich artistry emerging from unexpected corners of Southern California. The analysis also briefly touched upon Wild Carvery in Burbank. However, this particular establishment’s “Grilled Chicken Club” was met with a critique regarding its “unusual construction” and a perceived “tourist feel,” indicating that not every trending spot hits the mark with every offering.
These discoveries highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of the West Coast food scene. They demonstrate that culinary excellence in sandwich making isn’t confined to established institutions but thrives in community-focused delis and neighborhood eateries. As more diners seek out authentic and innovative flavors, places like Windsor Brown and Wood’s Deli are poised to become must-visit destinations for sandwich aficionados nationwide, solidifying Southern California’s reputation as a powerhouse of delicious, expertly crafted sandwiches.
