Tweet

Salumi in Seattle    Posted by wine enthusiast and foodie Shawn Luke 

Salumi Artisan Cured Meats is owned by Armandino “Dino” Batali, father of world reknown Iron Chef Mario Batali. After eating there I think I have some idea of where Mario’s appreciation for and skill with food started. I was warned about the popularity but I was still a little surprised when I showed up right at 11 am, just as they opened, and line was at least 20 people.

The aromas upon entering the small space were incredible with the day’s warm selections calling to my senses. The menu was full of multiple cured meats including hot soprasetta, oregano salami, mole salami, lamb prosciutto, culatello, pancetta, and many others along with multiple cheeses and olives which just begged for a platter. But my choice came down to the Porchetta or the day’s special cheeks sandwich. After much deliberation, I decided on the Porchetta on “hogie” bread rather than the stuffed “pita” bread. The bread was an excellent companion because it was thick enough to absorb the olive oil and butter that were the first touches along with the jus from a huge helping of slow cooked pork that clearly had just fallen off the bone. It reminded me of pork pot roast including the carrots. I added sauteed green peppers and onions to finish the sandwich. 

I ate one of the small communal tables where all 8 people I met were, like me, tourists who had specifically come to the restaurant to experience the food for the 1st time. Apparently the locals do more “grab and go”, and there was a lot of food being sold! The sandwich was incredible with so much flavor from the pork and jus. Every bite was complete savory heaven that was extended with the jus that had soaked into the bread. It took a while, but the whole sandwich was finally consumed. Then just as I was entering the completely satisfied mode, the man next to me offered a bite of his meatball. So I was compelled to return to food heaven. The meatball was covered in a light marinara that had a wonderful savory element which perfectly offset the tomato. The meatball was the perfect balance of firm yet easy to cut with a fork. The flavors of pork and fennel perfectly blended. Pork fat added richness and texture. So incredible! Truly Salumi in Seattle is one of the greatest places I have eaten!

Salumi Artisan Cured Meats       They also have a storefront and order products online

309 3rd Avenue South  Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 621-8772