9. Dignowity Meats
1701 E. Houston St., dignowitymeats.com
If San Antonio is to be a #CityOnTheRise, then it's about time we start demanding more on-the-go lunch options. What's more fast-paced than a sandwich? A hot dog cart (but that's another story, which you can read on page 13) but until those are ubiquitous across the city's downtown, we'll stick to the sandwiches found at Dignowity Meats.
Opened by longtime best buds Shane Reed and Andrew Samia, Dignowity offers a casual lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and we're still waiting for that four-hour window to expand. Get there early if you want to take advantage of the full menu of smoked meats and structurally sound sandwiches created by the duo also responsible for the Crazy Carl's food truck.
Even after having their slicer stolen in early spring, the sandos were still on point. We're fans of the classic turkey caprese on ciabatta, a formidable bite made of freshly sliced turkey breast, balsamic mayo, house pesto, tomatoes and mozzarella. Take down a salumi if you're feeling spicy, as it combines hot sopressata and salami, along with a bright olive relish and a tangy house giardiniera.
Though we'd be more than happy with a bag of chips and a Coke, Dignowity Meats helps seal the deal as our favorite casual joint with creamy sharp cheddar mac that also makes an appearance in the Burnt End Melt sandwich — brisket bits, mac and sliced pears, because casual doesn't always means basic.
Place your order at the window, plug into the Wi-Fi or take it to go and enjoy it at your desk — sure beats last night's leftovers.
