Cyndy joined me in a sandwich duel at Adriana’s on The Hill. This hefty sub was part of the daily Half & Half. Our other half was the house salad.
A Sandwich to Build a Dream On
Some days call for a good, well-constructed sandwich. When this feeling comes over you, it’s best to head for The Hill.
More than 30 years ago Mama Adriana (Fazio) opened a sandwich shop on Shaw Avenue. She worked the front, giving customers a big smile and making friendly chit chat as she took their orders. Mama has retired now, but her three daughters Diana, Tia, and Suzanne maintain the family’s welcoming tradition.
Diana has the same ability as her mother to remember names and make customers feel at home. I spoke with her this week as I ordered a half meatball sandwich smothered in sauce and cheese.
Meet Adriana’s Family
Though Adriana is no longer active in the day-to-day operation, Diane pointed out that a sister was in the kitchen and a sister-in-law on board as well. “Everyone here’s family,” she said proudly. “Or nearly so,” she added, identifying several behind the counter who’d known her family for 50 years or more.
In addition to the regular menu, there are specials of the day.
The ample and delicious House Salad includes romaine and iceberg lettuces, mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, pimento and house dressing. Adriana’s Salad adds red onion, artichoke heart, ham and salami.
Cyndy chose the Sunny Sandwich on mozzarella-garlic cheese bread topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, green pepper, artichoke heart, parmesan, pesto, and oil and vinegar dressing.
Family Traditions Matter, Especially in the Kitchen
The quaint, little sandwich shop is the epitome of rustic, home cooking with its array of fine Italian soups, salads, sandwiches, and St. Louis-style pizza.
Ingredients are fresh and well seasoned. It’s hard to pick just one item from the menu. Though if you’re there at a peak hour, you’ll have time to think about it while standing in the line, that often weaves across the deli. Cyndy and I picked a post-noon hour lunch, when things had slowed down and tables available.
It’s hard to achieve a homey feeling in a restaurant. But the blue and white checkered tablecloths and friendly staff make you feel like you’re in Adriana’s childhood kitchen with her immigrant parents.
Today the family continues to recreate the flavors enjoyed by their Sicilian forebears. For this, Adriana’s many fans are most grateful. Put this one on your bingo card.
Adriana’s on The Hill: 5101 Shaw (2 blocks west of Kingshighway at Hereford). Hours: Mon-Sat 10:30a to 3p. Closed Sunday.
