Unbreaded

What We’re Eating: Mikey D.’s Grill

What We’re Eating takes a quick look at sandwiches the Unbreaded team can’t get enough of.

In the sea of food vendors that dot Philadelphia’s streets, there are a few that strive to stand out. Realizing the ever growing popularity of these street vendors, Mikey D. decided it was time to grab the bull by the horns. Using his experience from 14 years in the restaurant industry, (most recently as a manager for Tony Luke’s) and a mission to serve fresh, easily accessible food, Mikey D. opened his namesake cart almost five months ago. What sets him apart from the other guys? To start, the bread: every morning Mikey D. picks up fresh baked, seeded hoagie rolls from Sarcone’s Bakery in the Italian Market. All of the sandwich toppings are made from scratch; breaded chicken cutlet, grilled marinated chicken breasts, and rib eye steak that Mikey D. slices himself before opening for business.

This dedication to quality has paid off for Mikey D.’s Grill, as a steady flow of customers are served through breakfast and late lunch hours. Regulars come by daily for the cheesesteak and chicken cutlet parmesan, but the Chicken Niko is the biggest seller. An impressive portion of grilled chicken breasts are cooked in balsamic vinegar, chopped with prosciutto, topped with melted provolone, and stuffed inside a soft hoagie roll. There’s also a grilled chicken with white wine, provolone and choice of broccoli rabe or spinach that’s a huge hit. The sandwiches can be messy but are well worth it, especially for the price, grab yourself a knife and save half for dinner.

Being situated on Drexel University’s campus has inspired Mikey D. to instill all of his food knowledge into his employee, Arturo, who he calls his student. “I’m inspired by these Drexel students, I never had the opportunity to go to college, and I want to provide them with good quality, delicious food while they’re away from home” he says. Even more important is his view on customer service, “My food can be great, and I think it’s the best, but if you don’t treat the customer like a friend, don’t expect them to come back ever.” Mikey D. doesn’t need to worry, with sandwiches like these, we’ll be back again and again.

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Mikey D.’s Grill
33rd Street and Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Google Map)