Peterson Brothers 1111

Where: 1111 S. 11th, Tacoma, 253.284.1111

Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m.

Scene: Comfortable neighborhood bar vibe. Lots of character thanks the decor that includes an understated voodoo head and a plethora of illuminated brew signs.

Drinks: Full bar, beers on tap, bottle and can, usual suspects for non-alcoholic with sodas and juice available.

Prices: $6-$12

On a blustery fall evening I was looking for something to warm my belly. Somewhere I could ante up to the rail and partake in something satisfying and delectable. I found it inside Peterson Brothers 1111, also known simply as the Eleven-Eleven. Sandwiched between Hilltop Loans and Pho Bac Cafe sits the quintessential neighborhood bar. The Peterson Brothers carry a decent selection brewskis on tap, in a bottle and the obligatory tall boys for $2.50 if you're drinking on the cheap. I've been hearing about Eleven-Eleven since brothers Justin and Robby Peterson opened its doors this summer. In particular I've heard rumors boasting of some damn tasty sandwiches and I simply couldn't hold out any longer.

Let me say this, the rumors are true.

I had to start with a classic in the Cuban Sandwich, reminiscing makes me salivate now. They build the sandwich by starting with pork shoulder slow roasted in house for 14 hours in mojo sauce. The meat was so tender and moist and loaded with flavors of citrus and undertones of cumin. More delicious piggy meat was added with black forest ham, tangy sliced pickles and yellow mustard on a French hoagie roll. Grilled and presented while still hot, gooey with Swiss cheese lingering between you and the first bite. Served with a dill pickle spear and bag of chips. Absolutely scrumptious with all of the tangy, garlic-y, savory flavors divine in unison.

My date opted for The Brutus, which was second on my list simply because any sandwich with a man's name must be good. This behemoth was loaded with black forest ham, salami and pepperoni served hot and dripping with a house made Ceasar dressing (all dressings are made in house). The flavorful beast would be paired well with a beer and then another, all of the salty flavors work their magic and can make a gal thirsty. Be forewarned.

As though the sandwiches hadn't left me full enough I had to try the jalapeño and artichoke dip. A house made concoction of creamy cheese, sliced jalapeños and artichoke hearts. The creaminess of the cheese mixed with the jalapeños played off of each other well, not too spicy with a nice warmth building from the jalapeño peppers. Served with an ample amount tortilla chips, certainly a sharable appetizer by anyone's standards.

There were about two-dozen types of sandwiches to choose from so whether classic deli style or more elaborate hot options, there was something that could appeal to any lover of the sammie. Eleven-Eleven features more in the comfort food spectrum with pastas and hearty salads as well.

The place is small and exudes a classic dive bar appeal, friendly and efficient service from regular guys. All and all an excellent destination to grab a bite and a cocktail if you're looking for a delightful evening minus the fluff.