LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP – NYC
Hey there sandwich lovers. It’s James (formerly known as Lisa’s Main Sandwich Man in NY), unmasked and guest blogging today. Do you like eateries that have been around for over 100 years? Of course you do. I know a couple in NYC. One is Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side:
but that’s an appetizing post for another time.
The other is the Lexington Candy Shop on the Upper East Side:
Surprise! … it’s not a candy shop, though you can pick up some old favorites like Choward’s Scented Gum [see photo] at the checkout counter, where you pay (cash tips preferred left on the table). So, if it’s not a candy shop, then what is it? I guess it’s a diner, but it’s called a Luncheonette, which is fun to say – right? This joint has the vintage look and vibe you’d expect from a 100-year-old institution. Start with that classic corner entrance and neon sign. Then add the soda fountain counter with the stainless-steel backdrop behind it, and finish up with those vinyl clad booths.
On the menu there are throwbacks such as Frosteds, Malteds, Egg Creams, Fresh Orangeaid, Lime Rickeys, and Cinnamon Toast. Plus, they serve the ever-rich Bassett’s Ice Cream from Philadelphia.
Except for the egg cream, I have not tried any of those things. That’s because I can’t resist the TUNA MELT.
The Lex Candy Shop Tuna Melt is not a gut bomb. Fries are not included though it does come with a pickle spear. Some may argue that the sandwich is a bit pricey, but the price includes the total old-world (time warp?) experience.
The sandwich comes closed face by default, though you can request an open face version on toasted English Muffin. You get a choice of cheeses and breads. I opt for cheddar cheese and rye bread.
Let’s begin with the tuna, which is always fresh tasting and never fishy (so the scented gum is not necessary). There is ample finely diced celery in the tuna, adding a nice crunchy texture and a refreshing taste. Mayo is present, but only just enough. And the nicely chewy rye has caraway seeds – not just on the crust, but throughout the bread – adding an additional flavor layer.
I’m not sure how they toast the sandwich, but it’s not drenched in butter so it’s not greasy, and the toasting is enough to melt the cheese without heating up the fish. The Lex Candy Shop Tuna Melt seems light enough that you could eat two … but you don’t … or maybe you do?
Where better to post about a Luncheonette but on The Lunch Encounter – you dig?
The Lunch Encounter 