Lynne Sawicki and I share the same accountant and it was he who informed me that Lynne (who used to work with my family at Indigo) had her own place in Decatur by the name of Sawicki’s - Meat, Seafood and More. I decided to get over there and try it. It’s located on Ponce right across from CVS in downtown Decatur. When I walked in, the first thing I noticed was the most amazing hunk of Wagyu Kobe Beef Ribeye I’ve ever seen. Then I was reacquainted with Lynne who doesn’t seem to have aged since I last saw her?! Very odd. How did I miss out on that phenomenon? So this was about 3 weeks ago and I’ve probably eaten Sawicki’s (or picked it up for my staff) at least 6 or 7 times since. It’s outstanding and the guys are all over it. Andrew is partial to the Beef tri-tip with french fries and herbed aioli on toasted baguette, Craig has declared the French ham and swiss panini with aioli and tomato to be his favorite. They all routinely order the Meatball sub with fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara on a warm baguette. I usually get a really flavorful salad with all high-end fresh ingredients, but I tried the Roasted lamb with red onion jam, lettuce and tomato on baguette and it was very good.

I wanted to write about Sawicki’s because I want to spread the word and let as many people as possible know about this rare oasis of quality. It’s VERY hard to find a really good sandwich and/or specialty shop in and around these parts. I’m often amazed at how unappreciated or unnoticed quality offerings can go in our money-grubbing metropolis. I know that half the battle is getting someone to actually TRY something so they can realize and understand the difference from what they’ve been accepting previously. For example - anyone who uses Onyx just once would absolutely NEVER go back to a chain store for service again. Anyone who can appreciate real food with attention to detail and the craft will certainly return to Sawicki’s again and again. I’m hooked, and I haven’t even tried half of the offerings I see awaiting me in those chilled cases. I’ll be ordering a couple hand cut 2″ thick ribeye’s soon amongst other things to take home and have my way with. If you haven’t been to Sawicki’s - get over there and try it. It’s tops.