There’s a lot Europeans get right when it comes to food. Deli and cafe culture are two things that inspired owner Tommy Karakostas to open Tost Sandwich Cafe in March. Part panini peddler and part snack-and-specialty-food store, the Lakewood spot comes at the perfect time for those of us in the work-from-home crowd looking for a change of scenery. But if you’re expecting light, Mediterranean-style sammies, think again. Karakostas, who also owns Greek Village down the street, has Americanized the experience with roided-out versions of deli classics and more than a dozen antipasto, potato and deli salads. If this is going to become a weekly spot, one might go straight for a pick-me-up with the Greek-style freddo iced espresso ($5) and a cannoli-topped cupcake ($4.50). If you’re hungry, the Stuffalotta ($10.50) is a gigantic, Italian sub-inspired take on the New Orleans classic with olive tapenade and a basil vinaigrette finish. But for us, The Tommy Boy ($9.50) hits all the right notes by taking the Rueben up a notch with smoked ham, crunchy peppered bacon and zesty coleslaw.
When You Go: Tost Sandwich Cafe,13427 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-801-4243, tostsandwichcafe.com
