Why order a sanwich, a side of fries and cole slaw when everything can come in one on the cheap?
I was in town for a conference at William Penn and made a point to check out Primanti after learning about their sandwiches from Samantha L. Conveniently located nearby the conference hotel on the other side of Macy's, the place is right off a small tunnel and somewhat easy to miss. The decor was interestingly rugged hole in the wall and reminds me of a no-nonsense working class diner with a few small wobbly tables, napkin dispensers and conventional condiments dispersed throughout.
It was already 2pm and my good friend from Texas and I were starving all day so our expectation was fairly high. My order of knockwurst sandwhich ($5.79) came with two thick slices of soft white bread with sliced knockwurst, cheese, cole slaw, special sauce, and a huge load of french fries tightly stacked in between. At first it looked like a tall order to finish it, but the delicious spongy white bread made it easy. I'm a big sausage fan but would have preferred something other than their knockwurst. Otherwise, the blend of melted cheese on square-shaped hearty fries and slightly tart and the not too saucy pickled slaw made it a sinful and yet delightful experience.
Albeit the interesting concept, it was nonetheless a heart clogging meal so thank goodness that I don't have access to this type of sandwiches all the time. It is still a must try however, for any first time visitors to Pittsburgh. Service was brief and straight forward and my food was served on a paper plate. Thanks Samantha, for the wonderful recommendation! 3 stars for the worthwhile experience. I hope to be back.