North Beach Is Really Living Up To Its Name

the tablehopper | 10:44 am | June 26, 2008 | Foodie 411

In North Beach, Palermo Deli is now La Spiaggia (which means “beach” in Italian). Nick Fasanella, formerly of Nick’s Crispy Tacos and Nicky’s Pizzeria Rustica on Polk Street, is the new owner. He has a variety of 13 sandwiches, all named after beaches around the world. So the Amagansett is a Niman Ranch roast beef sandwich, while the Marina Grande is made with prosciutto di Parma and mozzarella. There are also sandwiches made with Niman Ranch porchetta (Nick is roasting his own meats), Willie Bird turkey, plus some East Coast combos, like meatball, chicken parmigiana, and sausage and peppers. There’s also a vegetarian sandwich on the list, and PB&J for the kiddies.

Here’s the fun part: for $5, you can rent a beach chair and take it out to Washington Square Park while you enjoy your sandwich (or rent the chair for the entire day, $15). Open 10am–6pm daily.

• 1556 Stockton St. at Union, 415-362-DELI (3354).

Another bit of beachy news: the Tiernans, who own Tiernan’s down near Fisherman’s Wharf, have bought the Washbag, or more formally known as the Washington Square Bar and Grill. Rumor has it Michael McCourt will also be back behind the bar. Look for a September reopening.

• 1556 Stockton St. at Union, 415-362-DELI (3354).

Marcia Gagliardi writes a popular weekly e-column about the SF dining scene, “the tablehopper.” Subscribe for free at www.tablehopper.com and get it in your inbox every Tuesday. Got news? Email Marcia at taste@sanfrancisco.travel.