Between the Bread

I can't help but respect a sandwich joint that advertises itself as "wrap free since 2006." Admittedly, I eat the occasional wrap when I'm trying to be healthier, but they just don't satisfy like a sandwich made with bread. And Cambridge, MA's All Star Sandwich Bar certainly isn't a place to start trying to get healthy.

I've come across All Star before, and recently, its atomic meatloaf meltdown sandwich (pictured) landed on a list of 12 great sandwiches in Boston; featuring grilled meatloaf and jack cheese laden with hot sauce, this is a very serious sandwich indeed. Other standouts at All Star include some of America's greatest hits: Buffalo's very own beef on weck, a Reuben, a "Texas Reuben" (which looks like it's made with brisket), a very topnotch looking Cuban, and even a veggie Cuban.

My only problem would be deciding what to order. If anyone has eaten here, I'd love to hear your recommendations.

I love exploring the preprepared food universe at Trader Joe's, and I've been hankering for a good meatloaf sandwich. I never liked meatloaf as a kid. Actually, I don't think many people did, which is ironic considering its reputation as a family favorite.

But now, I'm strangely drawn to it, especially on sandwiches. This Italian turkey meatloaf was slathered in red sauce and full of seasonings. Delicious on its own, but even better in a sandwich with soft goat cheese and greens on some thickly sliced Acme bread.

See more photos of my weekend improv.