New York City tennis fans have discovered a new reason to linger at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center: a $38 French dip sandwich from Salt Hank’s, a West Village sandwich shop that has become a viral sensation.
What’s on the sandwich
The sandwich features a generous portion of prime rib, melted provolone cheese, sweet caramelized onions and a house‑made horseradish aioli. It arrives with a side of shoestring fries and a small carafe of au jus for dipping, giving diners a hearty, sit‑down experience that contrasts sharply with typical stadium fare.
Why fans are willing to pay
Even though the price is steep by typical sports‑venue standards, lines of fans have been forming for up to thirty minutes. Many say the quality of the meat and the flavor combination justify the cost, especially in a setting where most concessions charge $10 or less for a hot dog and a soda.
“I’d never have thought I’d spend that much on a sandwich at a tennis match, but once I heard it was a French dip, I changed my mind,” one attendee said. Others echoed the sentiment, noting that the sandwich consistently delivers a satisfying taste that outshines other stadium snacks.
Practical considerations
Patrons do note a few drawbacks. The sandwich is best enjoyed while seated, and the accompanying au jus can be messy in a crowded arena. A few fans reported accidental spills from nearby TikTok dancers, resulting in stained polo shirts. Still, the overall consensus is that the sandwich’s flavor outweighs the inconvenience.
Salt Hank’s background
Salt Hank’s is a well‑known spot in Manhattan’s West Village, celebrated for its classic deli‑style sandwiches. The decision to bring a limited‑run menu item to the US Open reflects a growing trend of local eateries partnering with major sporting events to showcase regional cuisine to a national audience.
“We wanted to give tennis fans a taste of New York’s sandwich tradition,” the restaurant’s manager explained. “The French dip is a crowd‑pleaser, and we’re thrilled to see the response.”
Community response
Local food bloggers have praised the sandwich, highlighting the prime rib’s tenderness and the balance of the horseradish aioli. While some critics argue the price is excessive, the majority of commentary emphasizes the novelty of enjoying a high‑quality deli sandwich in a stadium setting.
For fans who prefer a more traditional snack, the US Open still offers a range of options, from classic hot dogs to gourmet pretzels. However, the buzz around Salt Hank’s French dip suggests that a segment of the audience is willing to splurge for a memorable culinary experience.
Looking ahead
Whether the sandwich will become a recurring feature at future tournaments remains to be seen, but its immediate popularity indicates a strong appetite for elevated food offerings at major sporting events. As the US Open continues to draw crowds from across the country, local businesses like Salt Hank’s may find new opportunities to showcase their specialties on a national stage.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
