Beer and a Sandwich--for Four?

The PubScout is no stranger to Porters' Pub (note the apostrophe, which should tell you how many Porters own the pub, students) in Easton, PA. In fact, it's one of my two favorite pubs in the city that gave us Larry Holmes. The other is Black and Blue, and it's no coincidence that they're both owned by the same guy whose name is also Larry--Larry Porter.

Also the owner of Porterra Travel, Larry is the peripatetic beer guy who travels the world quite frequently--which may be why I missed him after my first 100 miles on the Blue Eagle found me hungry and thirsty in Easton.

So, after an obligatory visit to the loo ( a valuable lesson I learned on one of Larry's trips), I sidled up to the small bar and asked bar gal Nikki for a Green Flash Alpine Maibock and a food menu. I had enjoyed other food stops at Porters', but this new item jumped out at me--an Apple Turkey Cheddar Melt Sandwich. It was eight bucks, which isn't bad by any measure, but it sounded so good, I decided I'd have it.

Nikki brought me my beer--which was outstanding, or Larry wouldn't have it on the beer menu-- and took my order, asking if I wanted the house side salad or the chips. I opted for the salad. So should you.

But when Nikki brought my sandwich, I did a double-take. For a brief moment, I doubted I could finish this huge concoction, which could easily have fed four people who were just looking to nosh. But I had had no breakfast or lunch, and it was 2:45 PM, so I resolved to do my best.

I've had good sandwiches before, but this one vaulted to the top of the list after just one bite. Chock full of turkey, laced with apple, served with walnut mayo, layered in molten cheddar and placed on big slices of eight-grain bread, this was a sandwich to die for. Or at least go back for.

That it happened to pair up perfectly with my 6.6% Green Flash was just icing on the cake. And while I was enjoying the pairing, I witnessed Nikki dealing with a customer who wanted "something IPA-like, but not crazy on the hops." Like a pro, Nikki produced a sample selection from among the drafts on tap, explaining what it was.

"That's perfect," said the comely lass to my right. "Just perfect."

Kind of like my sandwich and my own beer.

There are far too many beer bars where the staff has limited knowledge of what they are serving. But Porters' Pub is not among them.

That's why The PubScout recommends it.

Along with the Apple Turkey Cheddar Melt, of course.

My ride home down legendary 611 and 32 satisfied my senses as always, but the memory of that excellent lunch brought a 70-mile smile to my face.

And I just had to share it.

Cheers!

The PubScout