Ike’s

There are hundreds of sandwich shops throughout San Francisco, all with their own certain style.  Some are mom and pop stores, some are national chains, some make small sandwiches, others make huge heroes.  But there might not be one that has gained such a huge, almost cult-like following as the now-shuttered Ike’s Place in the Castro.

I have seen plenty of lines for restaurants in San Francisco, some much longer than others.  But I’m not sure if I have ever seen lines as long as those around lunchtime at Ike’s.  The tiny sandwich shop really had all the things people look for in a sandwich: huge, messy, plenty of options, interesting names and a lollipop at the end.  The greatest thing about Ike’s was “the binder.”  They had a binder full of sandwiches, some which seemed normal and others which needed explaining.  Like the “Menage a Trois,” and the “Say Hey Kid.” 

But like all good things, Ike’s had to come to an end, at least for now.  Some neighbors in the area complained about the large crowds, noise, garbage and parking in the area.  There was also the issue of whether Ike’s had the correct permits for the building.  Sadly, the shop closed its doors in September, staying open till midnight on the final day.  Owner Ike Shehadeh says this is not the end as he plans on opening up shop again somewhere in San Francisco in the near future.

Line on a Sunday at 5 pm!

Now, on to the food.  Ike’s sandwiches are humongous.  A half is just as filling as most normal sandwiches.  They can also be extremely messy.  That “dirty sauce” that they advertise is spot on.  The sauce is a secret garlic sauce mixed with plenty of herbs and is a perfect condiment for any sandwich.  One of the best things about the sandwiches: the bread is baked upon time of ordering, which means each sandwich is freshly baked.  There are plenty of meat options, but also tons of vegetarian and vegan options as well.  Really, something for everyone.

Find a seat, anywhere

Ike’s is currently looking for a spot to reside in San Francisco.  There are currently two spots on the Peninsula: one in Redwood Shores and another on the Stanford campus in Palo Alto.  Shehadeh said he also plans to expand, with shops expected in Burlingame and Santa Rosa.  We’ll keep you updated on his next venture and when these delicious sammies will be back in San Francisco.


For more information: Ike's Place


Prices:
Sandwiches are between $5-12.  Whole or half sandwiches available.