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| - Happened upon Montesano's by mistake - what a happy mistake, the way so many great discoveries happen! Stopped in for lunch. I had been craving a decent Italian beef sandwich for awhile, so I ordered the Steak Pizzaola sandwich. This sandwich was perfect in every way: slices and chunks of steak, onions and peppers, slow simmered in a garlicky marinara, on a fresh Italian sub roll. It was packed so full I had to pick at it open-face style for a good 5-10 minutes before I could pick it up. I definitely got my fix.
Prices are decent, but do note, sandwiches are a la carte. If you'd like a side of fries, they can be added and brought out PDQ. My tea was decent - they don't reuse the tea leaves like many places in the Valley do to save money. I finished with a small cannoli. My very friendly and attentive server put it in and forgot it (she was having a bit of a day - allergies were kicking up), so without asking she brought me a large at no upcharge.
The only thing that surprised me about the sandwich selection (the usual Italian subs) was nothing with prosciutto, which I love. (I miss the prosciutto sandwiches from the old Siena Deli at Trop & Eastern from years ago - those were heaven.) Perhaps the management might consider adding this as an option. In the meantime, the Steak Pizzaola sandwich will be taking care of all your lunch needs!
The dining room is small and narrow, and decorated in vintage Italian Hole in the Wall style - nothing fancy here; all it's missing are the candles in net-wrapped Chianti bottles. That doesn't sound promising, but it's actually very homey and cozy. You feel like you're in a mom-and-pop Italian place in NYC or Chicago. This is a place for darn good comfort food. I'm looking forward to going back soon!
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