Where: 4317 State Street # A, 805-967-9213
What: One of the oldest delis in Santa Barbara serving up densely packed sandwiches
How much? 6″ sandwich for $6.95, 12″ sandwich for $9.95
The dish: Hearty meat-packed 6″ or 12″ sandwiches are the specialty at Ye Olde Butcher Shop, a fixture on upper State St. since 1962. The Painted Cave Fire, which jumped the 101 in 1990, and left ashes behind was devastating for the sandwich and butcher shop, but new owners Jennifer and Charlie Fredericks are responsible for bringing the business back to life. Leaving this crowded lunch spot hungry doesn’t happen, even if you opt to order a “small” sandwich (not as much meat) for a dollar less. Deli options include roasted and smoked turkey, honey ham, pastrami, and warm slices of Black Angus tri-tip. Layer upon layer of quality meat is topped with your selection of cheese and standard sandwich fixings on a French roll, wheat roll, or sliced rye. Build your own or choose from the specialty sandwiches, which include a Reuben and The Sky High (thinly sliced pastrami or turkey with Swiss cheese, coleslaw, tomatoes, Dijon mustard and 1000 island). The catering menu includes a sandwich platter, meat and cheese platters, boxed lunches, and party subs ($20 per foot, up to 6 feet).