Crispy Beef Tongue with Fennel - Big Ass Sandwiches, SW 3rd and Ash

OK, I admit it. Before today, I was a Big-Ass virgin. Despite glowing reviews, television plugs and appearances, and so on -- I'd never ordered my lunch from the famous Big-Ass Sandwiches cart on SW 3rd and Ash.

I had no clear idea what I wanted for lunch today, but figured I'd head back in that direction to see if there had been any changes to the carts on this corner.

Luckily for me, today was a special day at Big-Ass sandwiches, they had a guest chef on board for the day - Kevin Sandri (of Garden State fame) - serving up his own menu of sandwiches...

Which lead me to order the irresistibly described Crispy Beef Tongue with Sauce Gribiche and Fennel & Apple slaw.

There were already a few people lined up, and it did take a few minutes to get my food, but WOW - was it worth it!

Served on a toasted Ciabatta bun, the beef tongue had a light breading and was, as advertised, quite crispy. Very rich in flavor, the sauce and the fennel and apple slaw made a perfect flavor combination. This is only the second time I've eaten beef tongue, and can now say I am definitely a fan of the stuff.

I know this isn't their normal menu, but a good impression has been made and I'll be back to try some of their regular offerings in the future. (Besides, this place is one of the most positively reviewed food carts in the world... there must be something to that)

Check out their web site for their regular menu, links, etc.

.. oh, and did I mention how awesome this sandwich is? WOW. I feel like royalty eating this.

BBQ Fusion on SW 10th and Alder - Beef Brisket

I went to lunch with a friend today, who also works downtown. The pods on Alder are closer to his place of business, and we were both intrigued by the smell of BBQ coming out of BBQ Fusion.

I'd never been to this cart, though I've passed by many times. The standards are there - brisket, pulled pork, ribs... beans, cole slaw. We both opted for the Beef Brisket Sandwich ($7) which came with cole slaw and baked beans.

The owner suggested using the Alabama White Sauce when he handed us our food... I was reluctant, but put some on -- good choice. VERY tasty, a good zing. The brisket was chunky and delicious.

The cole slaw was crisp, though a little bland compared to the other items. The beans had a nice smokey flavor to them... but WOW, was the brisket good.

I'm feeling weird that most of my cart food postings are very positive, but... I guess Portland's the food cart capital of the country for a reason.