There seems to be a day or days in every week where there just isn't enough time during the day to do much of anything, including eat.  So, if you're like me, you simply grab something on the go. And because of this, I often surrender quality or sometimes even my cholesterol level.  If you find yourself in Lakewood, however, you do not need to make this same sacrifice. Thanks to the invention of the sandwich in the 18th century, we have options.

At Hess Bakery and Deli, the art of the sandwich is kept simple:  a crispy roll, butter, meat and cheese.  That's it, it's that simple.  It's what is done with that simple that is worth noting.  For just under $5, you have a choice of rye or a roll, five choices of sliced deli meat and a choice of cheese.  Though you'll find the common ham and salami that nearly every deli will have, Hess also has Jagdwurst, Leberkaese and Beerwurst. Because the German wursts are so flavorful, there is no need for anything beyond butter.  I'm a fan of the Beerwurst because, well it has the name beer in it, but also because of the mustard seeds within the slices of meat, giving it just enough flavor to leave me wanting more, but not overpowering to where I'm craving something to equalize my palette.  And if you're really hungry, grab one of Hess' famous pretzels, too.

Less than a mile down the road is Hoagie's Sub Deli, which boasts the favorite Hoagie's Corner menu from the now gone NW chain from the 1970's and 80's.  If your childhood included the Canadian, the French, or the Cheesy British, then Hoagie's Sub Deli offers a chance for your taste buds to re-live its youth.  From the paper order slip where you choose your options of veggies, mayo, mustard, or Hoagie's Corner famous mixed mayo/mustard spread, Hoagie's has it nailed.  I rarely pass through Lakewood without grabbing a Cheesy British.  Roast beef, ham and turkey with lettuce, dill pickles, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and of course, the mayo/mustard mixed spread which then must be ordered heated to appreciate the full melty, cheesy goodness that was nearly every Hoagie's Corner sandwich.

Both Hess' and Hoagie's offer sandwiches for eat-in or to-go, making them a great stop even if you're not in a hurry.

Hoagie's Sub Deli, 11202 Bridgeport Way SW, 253.589.1211

Hess Bakery and Deli,  6108 Mt. Tacoma Dr. SW, 253.584.1451