A sandwich they can't refuse
THE GODFATHER | Newest sandwich is a hearty and popular option
At Country House Restaurant in Alsip, owner Paul Boundas has been settling family business, amicably, since 1995 when he became manager.
Always looking to add to the southwest suburban restaurant's tally of 24 sandwiches, the potential item has to pass a stringent taste test before making way onto the table.
(Jean Lachat/Sun-Times)
5400 W. 127th St., Alsip
(708) 389-4618
The latest addition put out by Boundas & Co. is an offering the customers are unable to refuse --The Godfather. Now with the outdoor patio season in session, this hearty option runs a close second in sales behind the restaurant's award-winning burger.
Last summer, through mutual friends, Boundas heard Hungry Hill Sausage was opening in nearby Homewood. Owner Jay Fares dropped off a few dozen samples at the restaurant for audition.
"We cooked 'em up and people loved them," Boundas said.
The restaurant decided it wanted to showcase the sausage. So, the thinking and experimenting of just how began. Before an item gets placed on the specials menu, it is sampled by 10 to 20 mouths, minimum.
"We talked about the best way to put it together -- what buns, sauces and other condiments would go best," Boundas said. "We grilled it up and let the managers, cooks, waitresses, and regular customers give their opinion."
Here's what they finally concocted. The sandwich begins with a half-pound patty of Hungry Hill Sausage that is charcoal-grilled on each side and then put under the broiler for five minutes. The high heat caramelizes the outside and adds crispiness.
Strips of red and green bell peppers are seasoned with herbs, toasted with fine olive oil and then roasted slowly in the oven 10 minutes. The restaurant's tomato sauce is laid over the meat with the peppers and Provolone cheese, all in a garlic toasted french roll. Then it's baked in the oven for a couple minutes, at 500 degrees to blend the savory tastes.
"We got a ton of orders right away," Boundas said. "We've had a number of people come back four or five times a week."
Come with an appetite if you are going to try out the sandwich, which costs $8.50, comes with soup, cole slaw and fries.
One regular who thinks The Godfather sets the standard is Bill Ross.
"I've been to so many places that might have a similar sandwich, but there's no comparison," Ross said. "It's the combinations and the way they put it together. The sausage is so flavorful you can taste the quality in the first bite. The way the sauce and cheese all blend; there's nothing like it."
Seth Schwartz is a local free-lance writer.