Carnitas' Snack Shack Steak Sandwich – Seen in Serious Eats
September 5, 2012
Our Ribeye Steak Sandwich was featured by Erin Jackson on Serious Eats in A Sandwich A Day. From their website:
“In this great nation of ours, one could eat a different sandwich every day of the year—so that’s what we’ll do. Here’s A Sandwich a Day, our daily look at sandwiches around the country.”
A Sandwich A Day: Steak Sandwich from Carnitas’ Snack Shack, San Diego
By Erin Jackson
Carnitas’ Snack Shack is sizzling. The North Park restaurant was recently named best cheap eats by San Diego Magazine and won a Silver Fork Award from San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles magazine.
Back when I visited to try the burger, the “Crack Shack” was only a few months old, but already gaining a loyal following. Now, there’s a line-up in place before they even open, something I’ve only ever seen at Hodad’s.
Pork is the focus, whether it’s in the form of a BLT, carnitas tacos, or the pork sandwich (a triple-hit of pig with pork loin schnitzel, pulled pork, and bacon), but I’m completely stuck on their steak sandwich ($9). The substantial ‘wich features thinly sliced ribeye steak piled on thick slices of toasted jalapeño cheddar bread with tomato, pickled serranos, jalapeño jack cheese, and a generous squeeze of Shack aioli.
Heat from the steak melts the aioli, coating the already juicy beef with even more moisture, while the spicy components deliver a spike of heat in every bite. The bread is magnificent, with subtle echos of cheese and pepper that complete one of the most instantly addictive sandwiches I’ve ever tasted. Add a side of seasoned fries ($2.50) and you’ve got enough food for two people.
Carnitas’ Snack Shack
2632 University Ave, San Diego CA 92104
619-294-7675; carnitassnackshack.com