There is a place in town where you can find Elvis and his impersonator next to each other — the top of the “samiches” menu at Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint.
The dive bar, located about one mile from central campus at 2598 N. High St., offers patrons a variety of craft beers, locally brewed coffee and grilled-to-order sandwiches.
All sandwiches are $5, with the exception of $1 grilled cheese sandwiches Tuesdays and Fridays. These sandwiches have clever names such as the Big Tony, an Italian sandwich, and Cap-razy, a caprese sandwich.
Amber Myers, co-owner of the bar, said the sandwiches are derived from what her mother made for her as a child, with a little bit of a twist.
I ordered the Elvis, a peanut butter and banana sandwich with grilled bacon on it. Its vegetarian alternative, the Elvis Impersonator, comes with everything its predecessor does, except instead of having bacon, it has “facon,” a textured vegetable protein product shaped like bacon.
On paper, the Elvis combination seems like a challenge, but the sandwich was surprisingly delicious. Made from fresh ingredients, the spread was sandwiched between the grilled white bread and served with a side of potato chips. The sandwich was hot when I received it straight from the grill press, but it wasn’t so hot that I had to let it cool. The creamy peanut butter added with the banana made for an interesting taste with the bacon, counteracting the sweet with some salt.
I ordered a vanilla twist latte to drink, which was around $3.50. Made with brown sugar, two shots of espresso, vanilla syrup and steamed milk, the drink had a sweet and savory taste. The drink was served with whipped cream on top and tasted equal parts vanilla and brown sugar.
Myers and fellow co-owner Sandy Rollins create a welcoming and relaxing experience for their patrons. Accompanied with big band music and songs from folk rock artist Andrew Bird, Rollins chatted with me about the burlesque event they held earlier in the week.
The store is decorated with pin-up art, paintings and a variety of wall hangings from icicle lights draped around the drink menu board to a ceramic pony that travels around the bar.
From the inviting and quirky atmosphere to the witty names and delicious menu items, Bossy Grrl’s is the bee’s knees.
Bossy Grrl’s is open 8 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Grade: A-