Cricca’s

Written by: Grace Papish – Opinion Editor

Two households, both alike in dignity: one, an institutionalized pickle distributer, has disappointed a wide range of customers, from the sandwich connoisseur to the native New Yorker just trying to find a good pastrami. Dan’s Super Subs fails to live up to its “#1” status. (The sandwich shop’s “famous” sesame bread  is not only soaked in Italian sauce, but also by the tears of the locals.) On the other side of Ventura, Cricca’s, a family-run Italian deli, has been effectively able to win the “hearts and minds” of the Valley’s natives through intimate customer service, authenticity and warm, warm bread.

Upon entrance into the cold-cut mecca that is Cricca’s, customers are overcome with a sense of familiarity: a feeling of home. And what is most associated with the home? The delicious sandwich, of course. And unlike the impersonal Dan’s, Cricca’s has been in the valley since 1969. Many pay frequent visits to this neighborhood favorite, often bringing friends along to revel in the glory that is a Cricca’s turkey sub. Additionally, the employees share close and personal relationships with customers, increasing the home-like feel of the deli.

“Criccas gave me the inspiration to compete in the Olympics” said junior Declan Graham. “I never did actually compete in the Olympics, but I very inspired to.”

Everyone living in the Valley can agree that Italian food is a gift from the gods. Those so-called “super” sandwich shops, like Dan’s, cannot compete with real Italians making real Italian subs-like the Italian-owned Cricca’s. If any other delis claim to match up to Cricca’s glory, they are lying to the public. (In fact, the title “L.A. Street Pastrami,” christened by Dan’s, is a contradiction within itself.) No group of people knows how to handle their meats like the Italians, and anyone who fails to see the conflict of interest between Dan’s and Cricca’s is not only hurting him or herself, but also hurting society.

In addition to all of these wonderful assets discussed in this historically accurate article, the most important and most delicious aspect of a Cricca’s sandwich is by far its bread. Their infamous bread is so warm and crusty, it is almost reminiscent of a Disney animation. Cricca’s bread has been effectively able to satisfy customers from the inside out for 46 years, providing the perfect replacement for a long-term relationship.

While Cricca’s may be small, the Italian delicatessen serves as a commendable model of the sandwich establishment. Both homey and established, the restaurant has catered to the nourishment needs of the Valley’s residents. And unlike its dispassionate Ventura Boulevard counterpart, Cricca’s authenticity, intimacy, and extramarital food has given life-long love to all of its customers.

Dan’s

Written by: Noah Fortson – Sports Editor

Along the extensive Ventura Boulevard sits the gem of Californian cuisine: Dan’s Super Subs. Home of classics like the “Flying Dutchman” and the “Hotel California,” this restaurant is a local landmark and the king of lunch. This L.A. staple has served up the best sandwiches since 1980 and no restaurant in the history of sandwich shops has ever produced a more delectable meal than Dan’s. Its fresh ambiance, mouthwatering subs and well-built reputation make this eatery untouchable in culinary excellence.

Dan’s only uses the best ingredients to construct its delectable sandwiches to reflect its signature epic size and style. While the wait may look long, the superb staff works quickly and efficiently to make quality sandwiches. In addition to its unbeatable hospitality and speedy service, Dan’s provides the world with its premiere sandwiches. As opposed to its rival shop, Cricca’s Italian Deli, Dan’s prides itself on the actual contents of its subs rather than the quality of its overcooked bread. Whether loaded with smoky carved meat, crispy vegetables, original sauces or all of the above, each sub is a carefully assembled masterpiece on a soft sesame loaf.

“I’m an avid lover of sandwiches,” said junior Liam Bonniot. “When it comes to the Valley, Dan’s does it best-Cricca’s is enemy territory.”

Dan’s hip atmosphere gives off a sense of acceptance within the small yet homey shop. This alternative feel still emulates the traditional Italian thought of remaining loyal to the family, and has won the trust of customers who always come back for more. On the other hand, rival sandwich business Cricca’s fails to emulate such a heart-warming environment. Opening their doors at 10 a.m. and closing at 4 p.m., Cricca’s lackadaisical style serves mediocre sandwiches for only a limited amount of time. Dan’s, on the other hand, is present for all customers at any time. They have proved their superiority by catering to their customers and their sandwich needs. The local rave reviews serve as a testament to Dan’s superiority. Perhaps the Daily News put it best by saying, “Dan’s is an L.A. Institution.”

The legendary Dan’s Super Subs is unmatched in every respect. Very few restaurants have as big of an impact on a community as Dan’s does. The emphasis on quality is appreciated and clearly important to the thousands who adore the Valley’s finest sandwich shop. Both professional and amateur reviews prove that no other sandwich can make its customers feel the way a Dan’s sub does. The variety of flavors and old school flare proves that any and all rivals are inferior to Dan’s Super Subs.

Visit chscourier.com to cast your vote and decide which deli does subs best.