Fallin' in love with The Sandwich

As a child, and even into early adulthood, I despised sandwiches! Unless it was the occasional grilled cheese, just the thought of a sandwich turned my stomach. So other than out of complete desperation, they pretty much lived on my "will not eat" list. Then one day, I discovered what a sandwich really could be...

The problem was -- I was doing it all wrong! I have since learned that the childhood lunchbox staple of meat, mayo, and tasteless white bread is not even close to what a true sandwich is  — or should be.

In fact, as I've gotten older and discovered the endless flavor combinations of good meats, great cheeses, veggies, inspiring dressing and spreads, and even the seemingly limitless bread choices — my opinion of the sandwich went from hatred to bliss in the matter of a single bite. Now I'm the girl that could eat a sandwich pretty much three meals a day, seven days a week, and be a happy camper. I'm always on the lookout for new flavor combinations, or even a subtle twist on a classic. 

ADK Trading Post - Long Lake

In the hunt for yet another great sandwich to satisfy my ever-hungry stomach, I have discovered what is probably one of the most unique sandwich joints in the Adirondacks --  The ADK Trading Post in Long Lake. If you have been, you know what I'm talking about. If you haven't, trust me you are missing out on not just an awesome sandwich, but a great experience to boot. 

First we should start with throwing away any preconceived ideas of what we think a sandwich shop "should" be.  After all, ADK Trading Post is more than just a sandwich shop -- it's a local gathering spot, fishing tackle store, market, and gift shop all within one conservative-sized storefront. From the second you step onto the porch you realize that there is something charming and authentic about this place... it's as real as the food being grilled up in the kitchen. Whether it be a warm summer afternoon or a bitter cold winter morning, there is something comforting that comes over you as soon as you walk through the front door. 

Opened in 2012, ADK Trading Post has quickly become famous for the soups, paninis, and daily specials named after local landmarks and icons. Sandwiches such as the  Coney Mountain, Eaton, Bog River, and Sagamore are just a few that give the menu a local flare. In fact, my bucket list includes eating each of these sandwiches in the beautiful locations they are named after. Sounds like a good excuse to add a little more exploring (and great food) to my life... now who can complain about that? 

Then there are others such as the Rondeau's Roast Beef — named after the local hermit and legend Noah John Rondeau—  it features roast beef, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, horseradish mayo, and caramelized onions (yes, this is one of my favorites). But we still haven't gotten to the specials and one more excuse to say TGIF! From Memorial Day to Labor Day comes the famous Lobster Roll Friday, or as store owner Vickie puts it "a 1/4 pound of lobster lovin'!" Yes, you haven't truly experienced a Friday in Long Lake without one (or two) since after all they come two ways: hot or cold. The "cold" is the traditional Maine style — a heaping lobster salad inside a roll with a side of cole slaw. The "hot" is also referred to as the Connecticut style — served warm with lemon and lots of buttery goodness soaking into a toasted roll. Someday I'll attempt to pick a favorite, but I think I need to eat a few dozen more before I really can make the best informed decision. It's all in the name of research... right? Now, is it Memorial Day yet? I'm hungry just thinking about it. 

Best yet, whether you are ordering directly from the menu, or your own custom creation, every sandwich is made fresh to order for a reasonably low price.  While you wait, take a moment to pick up all your essentials - whether it be last minute fishing gear, a funky patch for your hiking bag, or some other locally made products to take back home with you. But most of all, take advantage of the fact the ADK Trading Post is a local essential - so odds are, you are surrounded by those with the best insiders take on where to visit in the Adirondacks. Don't be afraid to take their recommendations on the best picnic spot, where the fish are biting and what fun event is coming up next.  

Still unsure why you need to check out this joint? Don't just take my word for it, check out their reviews on Trip Advisor and see for yourself that I'm not the only one drooling over the lobster roll!