Every now and then, a menu item manages to break through expectations and leave a lasting impression. That moment arrived unexpectedly during a recent stop at Sweet Tea Express, where what looked like a straightforward sandwich turned into one of the more memorable bites I’ve had in a while.
This visit came with good company. I was joined by Derek Henkels, a familiar face to many in Grants Pass. Known for his involvement with the Grants Pass Active Club and the annual Boatnik, Derek is someone who consistently shows up for the community. Whether you’ve crossed paths with him through local events or spotted him at U-Save Gas and Tackle, he’s the kind of person who brings energy and authenticity wherever he goes. Sharing a meal with him added an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.
We both landed on the pastrami sandwich, and it didn’t take long to realize we had made the right call.
At first glance, the sandwich reads simple: a soft brioche bun, deli mustard, melted cheese, thinly sliced pastrami, grilled onions, and pickles. But simplicity, when done right, can be powerful. Each component played its role without overpowering the others, creating a balance that felt deliberate and well-executed.
The pastrami itself was the standout. Tender and flavorful, it had that melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s hard to get right and easy to overdo. The grilled onions brought a rich, savory depth, adding warmth and a subtle sweetness that complemented the meat. The deli mustard cut through it all with just the right amount of tang, keeping each bite from feeling too heavy. Then came the brioche bun, slightly sweet and perfectly soft, tying everything together into a cohesive, satisfying sandwich.
It’s not trying to be flashy, and that’s exactly why it works. This is a sandwich that relies on execution rather than gimmicks, and it delivers in a way that quietly exceeds expectations.
By the time we finished, Derek and I didn’t need much discussion. This one earns a recommendation without hesitation. It’s the kind of item that might not jump off the menu at first glance, but once you try it, it sticks with you.
Sometimes the best meals aren’t the ones you plan for. They’re the ones that catch you off guard and remind you why simple food, done right, still matters.
So, now the question turns to you. When it comes to pastrami, do you lean toward something like this, or are you loyal to the classic Reuben?
