4. Restaurants

Grinders Hot Sands

19811 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA, 98133
  • (206) 542-0627
  • Store is closed

Grinders Hot Sands Menu

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  • Kerry E.

    Love this place...wow. One of my new favorite places.

    (5)

  • Janice B.

    Love love love this place. Did I mention I love this place? The staff are always great. The owner Mitch what a guy! He is so fun and welcoming. So the environment is always a good time which makes it worth all the chaos these guys have to be in with the construction out front. They are in the thick of it and still serving great food with a smile. My favorites are the Po Boy Shrimp and the Meatball grinders. I have never been skimmed on any of my meats on my grinders they are always hearty. (Very kind to my diet hee hee) They have an excellent selection of beverages to chose from and if you ever need a recommendation for what will complement the food you have chosen for the night they are very good and suggestions. I love this place!!! Thanks guys for being do awesome!

    (5)

  • Kathleen B.

    Outstanding food! Outstanding service!! This is a destination for our family. The best grinder you'll eat. Try the meatball sandwich! It's the bomb!

    (5)

  • Tim T.

    Tried them for lunch and they have some of the best sandwiches I've ever had. I got to try the meatball, ciabatta, and chicken pesto. Each was amazing!

    (5)

  • Melba L.

    Fed a hungry film crew with ease at Grinders and everyone said food was delicious. The salads and meatball sandwiches were particularly popular. They had our large order hot and ready for pick up when we needed it.

    (5)

  • Maggie I.

    I can sum up my Grinders experience in three words: Meg Ryan Moment. If you have seen "When Harry Met Sally," you'll remember the "I'll have what she's having" scene. I've been going to Grinders since they opened, and they have never failed to be awesome--absolutely the best sandwich I've ever had, at any time or place. I've been meaning to try some of their other sandwiches, but I so love the Goombah and the Gilbano, it's hard to tear myself away. If you're not a fan of garlic, you may not like some of their sands. Being a big garlic fan myself, every time I walk in, it's just like coming home. The never-ending construction project going on along the Aurora Corridor makes getting to Grinder's a a bit tricky, but trust me: get there any way you can. Your taste buds will thank you.

    (5)

  • Michael P.

    Decided to stop by here after a stroll and was pleasantly surprised. Spacious restaurant with a lot of open seating. Decent selection of bottled beers. Sandwiches are huge, most of which were around $12. I ordered the Shrimp Po' Boy which was pretty tasty. Plenty of shrimp and generously topped with delicious cole slaw. Only complaint was that it didn't come out hot. I would definitely come back.

    (4)

  • Carrie M.

    This place was so good! Prepare yourself for a food coma.

    (4)

  • Jennifer M.

    Just had lunch here. Delicious! I just had a cup of soup (today is was baked potato soup). My husband had a sausage grinder, also very tasty! It looked like we got our order in just after a large group but they still managed to get our order out pretty fast! Staff was very friendly as well!

    (5)

  • Aaron E.

    It's been a week since my first visit to Grinders and I've basically been dreaming about the sandwiches I sampled since. Two of us decided to split the SauBall and Ciabatta, and it's darn near impossible to decided which one is my favorite. The SauBall is a sandwich for the indecisive, which describes me to a T. It's a combination of meatball sub and sausage grinder and was close to sublime. The sausage was some of the best sausage I've ever had. It was packed with flavor, was delightlfully rich, and very juicy. The meatballs were really good, but the sausage was the winning ingredient of this sandwich. The gooey layer of cheese was heaven and I thoroughly enjoyed the side of zesty marinara. While I have nothing but good things to say about the SauBall, my favorite sandwich was the Ciabatta, which was packed with incredibly flavorful cured meats, roasted pork loin, garlic & tomato spread, parmesan and artichoke aoli, and caramelized onions. These were layered between some of the best ciabatta bread I've ever had and were toasted to perfection. My major problem in life is going to be deciding what sandwiches to order next. I want them all!

    (5)

  • T R.

    First time there. Heard rave reviews. Was horrible disappointed. Orders the meatball it looked smelled and tasted amazing except that it was ice cold on the inside. I told staff that I am pregnant and need a hot sandwich they said they heated it up more. Brought it back with a the cup of marinera steaming but took a bite meatballs cold still. Bread hit cheese melted meatball cold. I could tick my fingers into the sandwich without any discomfort felt like an ice pack. I brought it back to the counter explained food safety explained its not safe it's not hot ... I got nauseated and left. My husband went to pay and the staff educates my husband that good there is kept at 140 degrees. You know I am flattered that you all think I have superpowers to resist 140 degrees. I challenge you to stick a thermometer and check the temp. I cook too us know, no way that food would reach 50 degrees. But thanks for the compliment. I don't deal well to men who act like jerks to pregnant women so I will never return and I'll make sure to spread the word.

    (1)

  • Max R.

    I'm a big fan of this place. I grew up on the east coast so, I take my sandwiches very serious. I usually get the ciabatta. The portion is huge and, I usually save the other half for another meal. This coming from someone who can eat a lot.

    (5)

  • Orlando R.

    I found another must visit artisian quirky restaurant establishment. The beer and sandwhich selection is varied. The pulled pork sandwhich seemed like a great way to test the quality of ingrediants, and I can tell you it did not dissappoint. There is plenty of seating, but little parking. The jazz and blues music in the background added to the cool low key vibe.

    (5)

  • Janice T.

    I've just had the meatball sub of my dreams. A friend and I met for lunch here with our toddlers. I mention the toddlers because the staff was great, offering us packets of crackers. The construction outside (3 types of trucks) provided a great show for our kids. The space is very roomy and decorated with lots of jazz references. It provided a quiet and comfortable atmosphere for lunch.

    (5)

  • Kathy P.

    The ciabatta is my favorite! I drive 30 minutes each way just for it! I've also had the gilbano and the chicken pesto, both of which are sooo yummy. During my first visit the owner came out to welcome us, himself, and to tell us a little bit about the menu items. The staff is always great about making recommendations and I love that I am greeted the moment I walk through the doors, every time. The excellent service is consistent as is the quality of the food.Great place.

    (5)

  • David S.

    Amazing sandwiches. They are expensive, but you get about 2 meals worth. I had the French dip, and as the friendly lady behind the counter assured me, it was in fact the best French dip I've ever had.

    (5)

  • M. W.

    I was very pleased with the quality and freshness of the sandwiches. The flavor profiles were uniquely created. I enjoyed the freshness of the sauces, but the sauce causes the bread to become soggy. I think the bread could be a little thicker or simply use a different kind of roll. In the end, the Goomba and Stronboli are delicious!

    (4)

  • Rennil C.

    Fantastic sandwiches. Wish they'd put the Cuban special on the regular menu. Not for the impatient though: food has typically taken a long time to come out.

    (4)

  • Sharona T.

    This place is out of this world tasty, I always try to stop by prior to a costco run. I've had a few of the soups over the years, although the chili is my hands down favourite for cold weather (just get yourself a bucket to go, trust me, it gets even better as leftovers). The Gilbano is my favourite sandwich, with extra peppers, hold the gorgonzola (not a fan). The Sauball definitely requires utensils to eat, but is plate licking delicious. A vegetarian friend joined me once and ordered the Tricolore, and was not disappointed! Service is quick and efficient, and the atmosphere is quite mellow and warm, but by no means divey.

    (5)

  • Christine R.

    Construction sucks, but the food is great! Honestly, you can't go wrong with any of the sandwiches. My husband and I have tried several different kinds, and they've all been very, very good. New flavors and new combinations that I've never seen before. My only complaint with the menu is that I wish there were more non-alcoholic beverage options. Otherwise, it's great. The restaurant itself is a small place, so the atmosphere is very dark and cozy. The manager always stops by our table to check on us, and he's a pretty cool dude. Ask him about the photos on the walls, and he will tell you some interesting stories. Also, you should know... They have live music on the weekends, and you have to pay extra if you're going to be around for that. Not realizing this, we came for dinner one night and ended up eating in the car because we didn't want to pay the cover charge. That was pretty awkward... Overall, our experiences here have been pretty good. We will definitely be back for more.

    (4)

  • Joe H.

    Ok here's the deal, Grinders is pretty much my go to sandwich joint. Yes I am one of the fortunate one's to reside less than 2-miles away. The owner is a big guy who knows a true East Coast Grinder! They ship their bread in from the east coast which as we all know cannot be matched. Listen dammit don't screw around go with the Sau-Ball sandwich and a large bottle of Heineken. It's like a marriage maid in heaven! Just writing this review has made me hungry. I think I am done here as I am off to get a Grinders!

    (5)

  • Jacob H.

    Hands down the best grinders I have ever had. I drive by this place all the time and I'm glad I took the time to stop in. The sandwiches are huge but not lacking in quality!

    (5)

  • Bunneh L.

    Wow, I am in love with the Gilbano. Similar to a cheesesteak but with mozzarella and gorgonzola instead of Cheez Whiz (which I love, BTW) or provolone. I ate the whole thing in one sitting. Wonderful. I think next time I'll ask for extra gorg. The Dipper (i.e., French Dip) was just so-so. I absolutely hate the Ciabbata bread it comes on. It was really hard and crusty and did not lend itself to dipping in the au jus. I recommend subbing the Italian roll they use for the Gilbano. The Red Eye Ham was pretty good. I just had one bite and thought it was fine. I was really annoyed that it took 25-30 minutes to receive the two sandwiches I ordered. 10-15 minutes is reasonable, 25-30 is absolutely not! I was almost ready to walk out but the food came just in time. I'm glad I waited because it was delicious!

    (4)

  • Liz K.

    This is where you will find the best sandwiches North of Seattle. They will be messy, they will drip all over your hands (and your clothes if you're not careful!), and you will love every minute of it. The catfish po' boy rivals the best I've had in the South, even those made by catfish farmers who make the best catfish you've ever had. The slaw adds a great amount of flavor. The pulled pork sandwich was enormous and better than any other pulled pork sandwich we've found in Seattle. This place is a must if you're a sandwich fan.

    (5)

  • Garrett S.

    For a gigantic and tasty sandwiches on artistsan bread this is the place. I also love the unpretentious but nice looking and sturdy wooden tables. The waitstaff is down to earth friendly and helpful.

    (4)

  • Jennifer B.

    For the price i was disappointed. Maybe take out wasn't the way to go. My tiramisu was smashed and soggy and the chicken parmigan sandwich was mosre onion than chicken and also really soggy. Chili was inedible. Spent 40 dollars for two sandwiches, a bowl of chili and desert. Very let down.

    (2)

  • G C.

    I love this place. So does my kid. Her and I like to come here and sit at the bar and talk and have a nice sandwich. This time I had the worst stromboli I have ever had. When I told them they said I am sorry. I have been coming here since the place open. That was the worst customer service I have ever gotten.

    (2)

  • Ed H.

    If you are craving a sandwich, but not just an ordinary small sandwich, Grinders Hot Sands is your place to go. Check check out the wich that made it's way in front of me! This fellow you just met is the "Dipper". And yes that is home made "aus jus" sauce. This thing was amazing, and half of it filled me up! All 200 pounds of me (working on that). Next up, my very lovely mother-in-law Mary got herself a Po' Boy with shrimp. I didn't get a chance to try it, but it looked tasty. Again, a whole lotta left overs! Last, but not least, Mel got herself a "Giardino". It was the veggie option which had lots of just that. Again, huge portion with lots of veggies! Next time you are in north Seattle, hit up Grinders Hot Sands! You will leave full and have lots for lunch the next day!

    (4)

  • Danyah M.

    A hidden gem I recently discovered. I've lived in Shoreline for the past 10 years and am bummed I haven't tried this place sooner. The sandwiches are huge. The quality is fresh. The taste is amazing! The employees are very outgoing and friendly. The place even smells delicious when you walk in. I can't get enough of it!! I love their Shrimp Po Boy the best but haven't been disappointed in any sandich yet.

    (5)

  • Stacey S.

    Swung by for the lunch the other day. I ordered the Shrimp Po'boy and am so glad I did! It was really good and the amount of shrimps was very generous. I will definitely be coming back soon.

    (4)

  • Colby R.

    Honestly, some of the best damn sandwiches around! Huge portions, great price and live music! Must try this place out.

    (5)

  • A L.

    Definitely a local gem! The vegetarian sandwhich and shrimp AND catfish poboys are to die for. Super friendly staff and hip/relaxing atmosphere.

    (5)

  • J F.

    Great food, great service. Yes, it may take a few minutes sometimes but be patient and you will be rewarded with a toasty hot sandwich. Our last visit we ordered a Gilbano and Goomba and some garlic cheese bread. We took home a lot of food because the sandwiches are so big. The bread is crunchy and yummy and I love the fresh herbs on top (basil?). You can't go wrong here. I kind of wish they had potato salad or cole slaw, homemade chips or fries. Something like that. But the sandwiches are delish so it's worth a trip.

    (5)

  • Peter L.

    Grinders occupies an interesting niche by 1). specializing in hot sandwiches only; and 2). doing it on a non-descript stretch of Aurora that's made even more foreboding with the construction zone. But getting to the destination is well-worth it, as the sandwiches are solid, served by a friendly crew who really take pride in their work. A few of my friends recommended that I try the Gilbano, which I was hesitant to, as I ma a purist when it comes to my cheese steak sandwiches after living in Philly for 3 years. But Gilbano does a great job of being a little different (just a touch of gorgonzola and with caramelized onions) without going over board. Even the way they toast the bread and present the sandwich shows the pride they have here. My only complaint was that the balance between meat and onions was a little off, but the overall product still rocked. I will definitely be back to try a few more, as they all sounded delish!

    (5)

  • Mel G.

    I love this place! The sandwiches are excellent. The Dipper is my favorite -their au jus is perfect. The bread is delicious, and they are generous with the meat. I love trying all of the sandwiches, and the employees are always eager to offer a suggestion. I moved to the area from a small town earlier this year, and this place felt like a small town business in a big city. I often see the owner working along-side employees and it just feels like a good place to be. Every time we have out of town visitors, this is the place we take them to. Grinder's is great!

    (5)

  • Will G.

    I have eaten here before and absolutely loved it. But the more I go, the more disappointed I become, and I've realized why: Many of the sandwich seem like the ingredients were put in a mulcher, and the resulting mush is scooped generously into the bread. I recently had the Gilbano--a Philly cheesesteak-inspired sandwich. It sounded amazing, with steak, cheese, onions, peppers, etc. But when I got it, the filling was kinda just slimy slop, and while it still tasted pretty good, it was not nearly as appealing as having discernible slices of meat with discernible chunks of onion and peppers. So this might not bother a lot of people, as the majority of reviews here are great. But I consider it a drawback. Grinders could be one of the greatest places ever, because there aren't many places with as many great combinations of ingredients. Oh, and as others have mentioned, it takes a damn long time for them to make your sandwich.

    (3)

  • Lance M.

    Great chili. Had the meatball grinder. It was great. Marinara on the side. Everything except the bun is obviously homemade. Friendly and helpful staff. Six stars if they had a taco grinder.

    (5)

  • Jamie N.

    Amazing amount of delicious food for the price, ambience is nice and the staff is really cool. Our favorite is their Gilbano! Great go-to lunch restaurant in the Shoreline area.

    (5)

  • Beau S.

    Very good! I am almost never on this side of town but, I discovered this I think through Seattle Magazine a couple years ago and I always get the same thing! The SausBall Sandwich! This is a true knife and forker several large meatballs and sausage in a roll smothered with a great marinara sauce! So good and the shop has a great feel with nice service. It can get expensive but, it is worth it.

    (4)

  • Dee W.

    We have been coming here for a couple of years. The staff is super friendly and polite. Seems like a no- brainer but it goes a long way in my book. Their meatball sun is THE BEST I've ever had. It's so good I only get that, I won't try anything else!

    (5)

  • Rainie G.

    The whole menu is mouthwatering. I came here today and had their chicken parm grinder. Biiiig LOAF of bread packed with chicken, cheese, and topped with marinara. My food tasted fresh, and like they make their own sauce but I didn't think to ask. I'm really picky and they were very accommodating to my requests (: friendly staff! It's not as good as my all time fave, The Honey Hole, but it's definitely the best on the Northend! It's not like I want to drive to Capitol Hill every time I want a sandwich. I'll be back!!

    (4)

  • Joe W.

    This place make me wish I was a snake so I could unlock my jaw and each a sandwich whole all the subs are great the owners nice and the staff is great just wish the beer was a little cheaper oh for got to say they got a lot of beer in stock

    (3)

  • Ryan P.

    I just started working next door to this place and my co-workers suggested I try it. I called and ordered my sandwich and they offered to deliver it to me! WOW. the sandwich was much larger than I expected and I thought there was no way I would be able to finish the whole thing. It was so good, I did.

    (5)

  • Elisabeth H.

    I absolutely love it the place is quaint, smells delish just when you walk in, fast service and huge grinders! Finished whole sandwich myself! Coming back soon :)

    (5)

  • Lizz K.

    I have yet to be disappointing by a sandwich there. I literally get excited when I head up north and realize I can get a grinders sandwich. You know its going to be good when you need a fork. The guys who work there are all really fun and seem like they love their job. They're always laughing and joking which makes the atmosphere fun. They always pull you into their conversation which is really personal and awesome. Downside.....the chairs are kind uncomfortable. I usually get it to go. But WHO CARES its so damn good.

    (5)

  • Melissa S.

    Grinders has the best hot sandwiches I've ever had. Hot, gooey, and HUGE - easily big enough to share with a friend. They don't skip on the ingredients - fresh veggies and lots of meat and cheese. In addition to the sandwiches on the menu, there is a daily special grinder hat is always delicious. And the other food is great too! The chili is the owner's special recipe and it's as good as homemade, and the salads are crisp and delish. The restaurant is spacious yet the big wooden tables and the decor make it feel cozy. Don't let it's location on Hwy 99 fool you - this is a pretty great hangout. On Saturday nights they have live music. They charge a cover starting at 7PM so be sure to get there early if you don't want to pay $10. I've been told it gets pretty busy on live music nights so call ahead for reservations. The prices are a bit higher than what's typical in the neighborhood, but it's fair given the high quality of the food and the large portions. Two adults could share one grinder and a green salad for less than $20. Grinders recently brought in a new chef but the food is as good as ever. Check this place out! FYI: Closed on Mondays!

    (5)

  • Michelle E.

    An extra star for Nicole at Grinders. Not only are the sandwiches creative and the best in town Nicole is fun attentive and makes our day when we visit. Thank you!

    (5)

  • Jill L.

    We had the ciabatta and gilbano sandwiches plus a whack whack salad. All were very good. But like everyone else has said it IS pricey. Meat to bread ratio was ample. But the winner for me was salad.

    (4)

  • Lindsey M.

    My husband and I came in here on a Friday night needing a new place for our weekly Friday night outing. Based on the reviews on Yelp we thought it would be really good. We wanted to like this place because it was close to our house and a good meatball sub is always worth trying but unfortunately, the food was just so-so and way overpriced. My husband ordered a sausage grinder and I had the chicken Parmesan grinder which was recommended by our waitress. Aside from the fact that the sandwiches took over 30 minutes to arrive to our table (small kitchen staff), they were both not all that great. My chicken Parmesan should have been called "chicken pieces." There was no full breaded piece of chicken Parmesan that you would expect to have but instead tiny pieces of chicken and LOADS of caramelized onions. Don't get me wrong, I like caramelized onions, but they overdid it here, probably as a way to fill up my sandwich. My husband's sausage grinder was lackluster as well. It did not have the onion monstrosity that mine had but the sausage didn't have any "snap" to it and was very bland. We ordered two sandwiches and a beer and our bill including tip was $37. Kinda a rip off for not so great, overpriced food. We don't need to go back. Grinders needs to charge less or make better food. Then we might be back.

    (2)

  • Ana R.

    Wowww! Amazing ... we tried the meatballs and the pulled pork both were just delicious! Also they have good selection of beer! The place and people very nice! We love this place!

    (5)

  • Sarah M.

    Terrible lunch experience. Will not be going back. In sum: 1. Soup is on the menu but they were "out" at 12:15 in the afternoon. 2. Food took ridiculously long to reach us and there was also a gap of fifteen minutes between my lunch coming out and my husband's. 3. I added chicken to my salad upon ordering (it's right there on the menu). I got a salad without chicken, and for whatever reason this turned into a comedy of errors and resulted in us paying the bill and leaving without ever receiving any chicken. Literally still hungry as I'm writing this review... 4. My tea was cold. I guess my mistake was in ordering anything besides beer and a sandwich at a beer and sandwich joint, but seriously if you can't get anything else right don't put it on the menu.

    (1)

  • Justsaying M.

    I've been coming here for years, and I always get the same sandwich. I love how every time I ordered it tastes the same as the first time I had it and it's been great. I was excited when they start opening on the weekends since I visit family from Aubirn when I come into the area. Sad to say that I notice the quality and taste suffer whenever the owner is not there. Never more truth than today, my sandwich usually very moist trough out in every bite, today was very dry and not much flavor at all! Like any other place I will give them one more chance, then it will be just another place that will blend with the rest of the mediocre places to eat around the area.

    (3)

  • Michelle B.

    This place is amazing. I have lived right down the street for two years and can't believe I had been missing out on it this whole time. I had driven by countless times but always thought it was a coffee shop. I finally discovered what it actually was on Yelp and thought I would give it a try one lazy day when I was working from home and had no food in the house. I was very pleasantly surprised. The guy behind the counter was very nice and made excellent recommendations. I can't remember exactly what I ordered that day, but it was so good that I dragged my boyfriend back there the next day, insisting that he must try it. We have gone back several times since and have enjoyed every soup and sandwich we have gotten there.

    (5)

  • Bitsy G.

    Great menu, small but excellent beer and wine selection and great service! Everything I've had has been made with care, and the price reflects this. These are knife-and-fork sandwiches and they are huge! The staff is fantastic; fun guys with loads of personality!. The last time I went in, it was just me and my book, so I sat at the bar. The guy at the counter was super busy, but took the time to check in on me, chat, refill my water, etc., while I was waiting, and another guy (possibly the owner?) popped over before I left. Their parking lot, however, sucks. I always seem to get stuck behind someone trying to maneuver into a spot at an awkward angle.

    (4)

  • Ray N.

    Had a dipper today from Grinders. I initially ordered the chicken parm but the cashier steered me a different way. Was I glad she did. The dipper was delicious. The fried onions, mushrooms, horseradish sauce and the bread. My god the bread. It was the perfect blend of crunchy on the outside and pillowy in the middle. So glad I went to this place. I only tried the one sandwich thus far hence the 4 * not 5*. I imagine I will be upgrading my rating soon.

    (4)

  • I B.

    Came here for takeout based on a friend's recommendation. Very friendly staff, welcoming. I got a chicken parm and a Giordano's (vegetarian) for two people. The portions are huge and very, very tasty. It was a bit messy to eat the chicken parm, but delicious. Ended up saving half of it for the next day, so I got 2 meals out of it. Definitely will be back, this place is a gem.

    (5)

  • K W.

    This place is fantastic! Everything is made from scratch right down to having their hams specially smoked for them. The "gravy" (marinara sauce) will make you want to slap your mama. You can tell the owner takes great pride in the quality of the product they deliver. The desserts are made by the owner's wife. Everyone raves about the bread pudding, which is amazing, but the Tiramisu is my favorite. Don't let the road construction scare you away. This place is worth the trip.

    (5)

  • Steve C.

    Very good service and a cozy setting. The stromboli sandwich was filling but should be priced a few bucks cheaper for the size. The marinara sauce tasted fresh and original, not like some cheap tomato paste. It's hard to find a good sandwich shop in the Seattle area but Grinders stands out.

    (4)

  • Sabrina B.

    This review has nothing to do with the food and has all to do with the sh***y customer service of this restaurant. Friday night, called in an order for two sandwiches. Was told that they'd be ready in 30 minutes. Husband and I show up after the 30 minutes had passed and waited to pay for/pick up our food. There were three people in front of us in line, ordering their food. We finally get to the counter, identify ourselves as a phone order, confirmed our order and paid. We stepped aside, expecting to receive our food in short time. THIRTY MORE F***ING MINUTES LATER... after watching food leaving the kitchen and the three customers who were in front of us get their food, my husband asks about our food. Apparently it had been sitting there, under the counter the ENTIRE TIME. We didn't want our cold food and left, pretty irate. It's unbelievable that such a highly rated establishment can function with such incompetent employees. PS It'd be nice if they'd at least refund us our money. UPDATE: The owner has responded to my email with an apology, a full refund and an offer for a free meal. His gesture and prompt response is very much appreciated.

    (1)

  • Eric V.

    For lunch, it's a bit expensive. My sandwich was cold in the middle and there wasn't much there other than a lot of bread.

    (3)

  • Eric R.

    I have been to this place a handful of times and have never been disappointed. They serve great Italian sandwiches and a few decent salads. The sandwiches are generally large and extremely flavorful. The atmosphere is very chill and, although I have not been there outside of midday, I'm pretty sure they have bands. They serve nice bottled beer and wine. The prices are slightly high but it is great food. Best recommendation: Go there with another person, split a salad and a sandwich. You won't regret it.

    (5)

  • Nathan S.

    Bad business-model. Bad customer service. I read the positive reviews and decided to drive up Aurora Saturday night in search of Grinders Hot Sands. From Seattle, it took us about 30 minutes. I immediately noticed the odd location and that there was limited space for parking. Fortunately, it wasn't busy and we were able to park very easily. After we entered, the person behind the counter immediately asked if we had reservations. Huh? If we didn't, he said, then we would be forced to take our food and leave. Apparently, the live music venue also meant that the entire restaurant was reserved and not available to walk-ins. This has got to be one of the most asinine ideas and the worst customer service I have ever experienced. F**k you, Grinders Hot Sands. If this is how you treat people, then you can shove your hot grinders up your sandy a**. There is nothing on their website that informs patrons of the requirement to reserve a table on Saturday nights. There are plenty of other good places that focus on food and customer service. I recommend you save your time and money and avoid Grinders Hot Sands.

    (1)

  • Paul S.

    I will make the drive from Renton to eat here again. So tasty, so friendly, such large portions so I can continue to enjoy tomorrow.

    (5)

  • Lisa K.

    Wow, found this on yelp to see what was in the area. Just happened to be driving by so we pulled in. I told hubby that based on reviews we should split a sandwich as they are huge. Glad we did!! He picked the Ciabatta, with meats we had never had before. The tomato garlic on the bottom, I couldn't get enough of it! The outside of the ciabatta was crispy and the inside was so light.. wow. Definetly a work of art! The flavors were amazing. I told hubby I wanted to come back for dinner, but we live too far away. I have been craving this place ever since we were there on 11/30. Hopefully I get to go back weekly!! So many sandwiches to try!!!!

    (4)

  • Lynnette P.

    I am origionally from the East Coast and have had my share of good sandwiches for sure but i have NEVER had such an amazing flavored sandwich before for sure! I dont know what it was called but it had several meats and an amazing garlic and sun dried tomato spread on Ciabatta bread. I wish i could have packed this place up and brought it back to Colorado Springs with me . Anyone who lives in rhe area or is just visiting must try it and the portions are also huge! If I did not have to get it to go cause it was so busy I would have literally tipped the cooks! Lynnette

    (5)

  • Brent E.

    All I can say is WOW!!! This was hands down one of the best lunches I've ever had. I split the BBQ pork and the shrimp Po' Boy with my brother and both were delicious; although we both preferred the Po' Boy. Everything was tasty, the bread, the shrimp, the coleslaw, the BBQ pork, the chef (okay, maybe not the chef) and especially the BREAD PUDDING!!!! If you like bread pudding, or even if you don't, this is a must try. It's served with a whiskey sauce and cream and it tastes like Christmas. The whiskey sauce is unique and really sets it apart from lesser bread puddings because you can actually taste the whiskey in the sauce. Do yourself a favor and try this place when you get the chance.

    (5)

  • Peter T.

    Went in with three friends. We were the only ones there. Yet it took about 20 minutes for them to make our sandwiches. When they came out two of us (including me) thought they were pretty good the other two just alright. The sandwiches were large which was nice but also a little bit more expensive than I would of liked. The staff was young and seemed more interested in their gossip than serving the only four people who were at the restaurant. In the end I would like to try this place again, and I would recommend others to go. But don't go in with high expectations. The other reviews for this restaurant seem a little overrated in my opinion.

    (3)

  • Linh D.

    Soggy sandwiches. Nasty. We ordered 2 different kinds. I don't believe in eating a sandwich using a knife and fork. What's the point if you can't hold it up and actually taking a bite without everything falling apart. Having my crispy bread all soggy Is just disturbing to me. I gave it a chance... never again. Didn't taste good at all. I rather eat at subway. Cheaper then this place.

    (1)

  • Erin W.

    Okay, I am a little obsessed with this place. I would HIGHLY recommend that you call-in your order and go pick it up to avoid the wait times. People always want hot and fresh food but then complain about the time it takes to get that. Trust me--it is delicious, hot, and fresh, so it takes some time. I LOVE the Chicken Parm sandwich. Although the chicken isn't breaded (it's grilled in olive oil and garlic), it isn't an afterthought. It is juicy and full of flavor. I hate the pounded dried-out chicken in a chicken parm and this is a great substitute. Full of flavor and delicious. Well worth the $11 sandwich!

    (5)

  • Cheryl M.

    Meatball Sub - 'nuf said! (Sunset Magazine thinks so, too!). On our way through town from Portland, might have to schedule a stop on our way south again! Yummy yum yum!

    (5)

  • Peter H.

    OMG that was a great meatball sub! Magnificent! Just walked in their the first time, after hankering for a meatball sub (thanks, Yelp!) and it was this or Jersey Mike's (which I haven't tried yet). Two quick notes: NOT a fast-food place. While service was quick, this is NOT Quizno's or Subway, either in price (meatball grinder was $9.95) or speed (ordering--to food in 5-10 minutes). Thus, not for your "drive-thru" days. It is also, though, 100x better than Quizno's or Subway in quality (mouthwatering) and ambiance (nice place!). This NY Italian-food snob is happy and full. Go Grinders!!!!

    (5)

  • Marty B.

    This place is a nice change of pace to the normal sandwich I agree with some of the other reviews that for what you get the prices are a bit high. The portion's are average size not big but not small. One sandwich is not enough without soup or something on the side for a full grown man. The sandwiches are very different than anything you are going to get at the chains (subway, jersey Mike's, quiznos, etc.) The Gilbano was very good, it does seem that there is a little too much "other stuff" though that hides the flavor of the beef. Very good sandwichs when you want something different but the prices hinder this from being any more than a once every 2-3 weeks stop. Oh and I was told by some close friends this place blows Paseo out of the water. Two words: NO WAY! lol

    (4)

  • Albert P.

    If you want a very large fresh sandwich this is the place. They serve some nice beers and wine too. The menu is small, the plates come quickly and the room is ok. I thought it was kinda loud for a diner but I lived through it. It does have some parking issues too but the overall experience was good.

    (4)

  • Allyson R.

    I cannot tell you how many times I have driven by Grinders just dying to go in. I never did go in simply for the fact that every time I drove by, was either on my way to the gym or on my way back from the gym. Nothing says fit like eating a grinder post-cardio. In any case, on one adventurous occasion, my best friend and I decided to give Grinders a try. We were NOT disappointed! We shared the Goomba sandwich, and it was amazing. Something about the feta and kalamata olives warmed in the oven gave this sandwich a distinctly unique flavor. Don't forget to ask for a side of their creamy Italian vinaigrette to dip your sandwich in! It adds the perfect acidic balance to the otherwise warm, creamy sandwich. I have zero qualms about personally recommending Grinders. If you like awesome food, then stop making excuses, and get a sandwich there today!

    (5)

  • Neil W.

    The best meatball sandwich I have ever had! I cannot believe it took over 4 years for me to visit this place. The bread was perfect and held together. The sauce was portioned perfectly to make it gooey without being overly sloppy. I would not say the best meatballs ever, but meatballs were perfect for the sandwich. They were not tough, but didn't fall apart. Each bite was a great balance between meat, cheese, sauce and bread. My wife's Tri Colore sandwich had no meat, but if that was the only sandwich on the menu I would be back, a lot. It was cherry tomatoes, pesto, and mozzarella on wonderful Ciabatta. The portions were a good size and the prices, for what you get in quality and size, were fine. They have a good selection of beer and wine. Anytime I need a hot sandwich, this is where I will go.

    (5)

  • Laura P.

    OMG .. I haven't been to this place in a couple years to many , as I drove by it earlier today I immediately started salivating when I remembered how amazing it was. I love sandwiches and think they are a whole food group of they're own. If you're like me you definitely need to hit up Grinders for a mouth watering, melt in your mouth hot sandwich. I can't go into too many deets because it's been so long, but i'm doing this review to remind myself to go there next time i'm in the area, or it's my loss - and yours if you don't try it out!!

    (5)

  • Isaac V.

    One of the best sandwich spots in Seattle area. I've been here at least a dozen times and tried probably half the menu. All of them have been excellent but my favorites are easily The Ciabatta and The Dipper. I think it's the fresh baked ciabatta bread that puts them over the top. Being a vegetarian, my girlfriend loves the Giardino--it's not often that she can order a hot sandwich that doesn't include some form of vegi-patty. Portions are huge and we almost always take home some leftovers, they make a pretty good late-night snack. My only complaint is the occasional long wait, but we just avoid this now by coming in for lunch instead of dinner, as the live music at nights tends to draw big crowds.

    (5)

  • Dusty P.

    After reading all of the incredible reviews about Grinders, I decided to check it out Saturday night. Before I say anything, it's very clear that this is a popular place. And with that comes some expectations - expectations that simply were not met with my experience. My first mistake was assuming that this was just a "damn good sandwich place" when I decided to walk in. Your average "damn good sandwich place" has a counter and tables and your order is usually completed in under 20 minutes (faster if you are of the Jimmy John's or Subway variety. I was expecting this to be better than that, though, so I expected a LITTLE wait). A LITTLE wait...yes. But not whatever I experienced here. Apparently, I picked the WORST night of the month to patronize the place, because the line was at the doorr, ALL seating (even bar seating) was reservation only (reservations? for a sandwich place???) and there was live music playing. Okay, so obviously I look at the line and immediately say "Oh, wow...this place must be great. 4.5 stars on yelp, line out the door. This must be as good as Paseos!". So I braved the line. I stood in this line, just to get to the COUNTER, for 45 minutes. JUST TO GET TO THE FRONT (btw, why so long, Grinders? If people had reservations, you'd think they wouldn't be standing in a line. Maybe two lines: Take out and Dine-In so you can get some of us out of your establishment, because that was ridiculous). Of course, in this time period I had said to myself multiple times "Just leave. Just leave. Just leave...this isn't worth it". But I had already invested that time and there wasn't anything else up in Shoreline that sounded appetizing to me, so I dealt with it. I even said to guy while I was in line "Food must be good, eh?". "Oh....you've never been here? YOU CAN'T GO WRONG. YOU JUST CAN'T GO WRONG!", he said to me. Well, I did go wrong. After all of that time, I had decided on the Gilbano (which is their version of a philly cheesesteak). Without being insulting, Charlie's Subs at Westlake Center has a better handle on what makes a good Philly than this place. Honestly, I understand doing your own take on the idea, but the changes they made just weren't good. Bland cheese. No salt whatsoever. There was far too many mushrooms in it, so it was way too earthy. The beef was sliced so thin that I couldn't even identify individual pieces of meat. And the cheese unified it all together into one giant brown tube of mushiness. The bread was absolutely fantastic and I give them 2 stars for the bread alone. I would love to just go back in there and order the bread. They also seemed to have some decent beer available. But that horrible wait in line, the mediocre sandwich (which was 11 dollars!), and the excessively trendy atmosphere just didn't do it for me. Also, on a side note the entire place is basically "family style" seating, so if you don't want to sit across from someone you don't know, steer clear. And if you want to take it out (like I did), you'll want to avoid those Saturdays like the plague. I only had one sandwich. And I didn't like it, obviously. But if I was in the mood for one of their more italian style offerings (which must be their strong point), I might try it again. But now I am so bummed by my miserable experience, I don't know that I will give them that chance.

    (2)

  • Edwin W.

    A surprising find off of Aurora in Shoreline that has the feel reminiscent of an east coast sandwich shop. The menu is vast and the descriptions really sell you. There is a wide range of sandwiches ranging from the stereotypical Italian meatball sub to catfish poboys. The staff is friendly and there is a good selection of beer to go with your sandwich. The portions are generous, but a little more expensive than Tat's in Pioneer Square, which is probably the closest substitute to Grinders. I tried three of the sandwiches. The best of the bunch was the gilbano, which is a cheesesteak-like sandwich, with a nice blend of onions, peppers and cheese. The chicken parm sub was similar, blending onions, mozzarella, parmesan and chicken. They forgot the marinara, but I didn't really miss it. My least favorite was the French dip, which was under seasoned and the meat was sliced a bit too thick. Nevertheless, still a very solid place for a hearty sandwich.

    (4)

  • Jens J.

    Generally, I never associate the word "upscale" with Aurora Ave North. But what I discovered this past weekend was that, as far as sandwich shops goes, Grinders IS upscale. Put away your Subway-like image of a sandwich shop for just a moment - at Grinders you enter into a dining room suavely decorated in earth tones. On the far wall, huddled together, are several framed black-and-white photos of entertainers and celebrities. There's comfy chairs and a coffee table next to the gas fireplace. You know too that this not your typical sandwich shop when you see they offer beer and wine. Their menu states that on Saturday night live music is played. You may or may not like the rather loud blues being played at other times. You order up at the counter. They have hot sandwiches only and though I was desiring a cold sandwich at the moment, I did go with the flow and looked over the hot sandwiches. Grinders include meatball, sausage, chicken, roast beef, bbq pork and mushroom. Shrimp and catfish Po'boys too. That sounds like a lot variety, but the sandwiches all seem mostly the same: basil, garlic, grilled onions and marinara sauce. I decided on the Dipper: roast beef, portabello mushroom, cheese, horseradish mustard and grilled onions. It came with a Cajun dipping sauce. I was amazed at the Herculean proportions of my sandwich. It was thick with beef and served on a huge toasted Ciabatta roll. The beef was outstanding: slices were thin, tender and prime rib-like, and, absolutely delicious. Even though the menu indicated that the sandwich did not contain basil, it did anyway. The basil with horseradish sauce and with Cajun dipping sauce just didn't work. The flavor combination was weird and unappealing. Too bad, because the beef was so good on its own. While they do thoughtfully give you a bread knife and fork to hack your way through the sandwich (it's too big to eat by hand), be careful sawing the tough bread - watch out that you don't splash dipping sauce all over because of your arm motions. The Ciabatta bread, in my opinion, isn't the right bread for a Beef Dip. I'd prefer a softer more malleable roll.

    (3)

  • Roxy S.

    Cool looking place and having tasty food. I like to eat on the sofa next to the fireplace. Very good service and fast. Bread Pudding is excellent as well. I don't come here often just because every time I end up eating too much :)

    (4)

  • Sally R.

    We stopped for lunch today and ordered a French Dip. This was at 12:30 and they were out already. We ordered a pastrami and swiss to share and a cup of clam chowder. The chowder was delicious and came right away. 40 minutes later we got our sandwich. Was it good? It was just ok but we were in very bad spirits having waited so long. We cannot imagine what could be so time consuming building a simple sandwich. The bill was $20 for the sandwich, the cup of soup, and 2 ice teas. If we were on a lunch hour we'd be fired.

    (2)

  • Peggy R.

    We've driven by this place a thousand times, but never stopped. Well, my aunt sort of happened by the place and told me it was awesome. Well, you can't beat a recommendation from a cool aunt, so my family decided to give it a try. I love the ambiance - it's so very laid back with a very open floor plan. The menu is awesome, and the descriptions of the entrees are beyond funny. I decided on the red eye ham sandwich - it just sounded too good to pass up. My son ordered the kid bread, and my husband ordered the sauball (sp?). Can I just say we were all so very impressed with our food. The Red Eye is so amazing - the bread is beautifully fresh, and the ham was the perfect mix of smokey and sweet. I was a little concerned by the description that it might be overly spicy, but was pleasantly surprised to find that all the flavors balanced together in a pleasing symphony of gastrogasmic pleasure. The gravy is so yummy - and they give you extra to use to dip your sandwich. I tried a bite of my husband's sandwich, and the sausage is so good - I mean, it's so full of flavor without being overpowering. Oh yes, and can I just say that the service was 6 star good. So very friendly and totally helpful with any questions we had about the menu. I was so impressed with their sandwiches that I had to order dessert. I have a direct order to all the readers out there. Get the bread pudding - it will change your life. Bathing in a pool of whiskey sauce, the flavor and texture are so amazing. My son ordered the cheesecake and said he was in heaven. The cream sauce they use is AMAZING, and the almond crust for the cheesecake is amazing. I think we are going to make this a regular place - and next time I'm trying the dip sandwich. Seriously, every single person who reads this should go.

    (5)

  • Holmes R.

    I've loved every decadent sandwich I've tried, and I recommend that even people who generally reject soup give the offerings here a second look. The house-made soups and stews are rich, delicious and quite interesting - most recently, I sampled one in a Czech/Polish style that's hard to find in the U.S., sorry I can't remember its name. An excellent range of bottled beers (lots of belgians) makes Grinders an even more unusual find for Shoreline. I so, so wish that they were open longer hours! Too often I crave a sandwich and find them already closed/closing. I typically wait not very long for my sandwiches (which are prepared carefully when you order them, and thus not super speedy). The big wooden tables are appealing, and the staff young and friendly.

    (5)

  • rich S.

    We went in to have a new experience in food and met Mitch the owner and we were treated like royalty I mean they could not of done more for us and the sandwiches were huge and delicious and the place was half-full 20 minutes before it was going to close all I can say; I'm definitely going back I'm bringing new people and Mitch Was just the most kind friendly restaurant owner you could ever ask for! Mitch is five stars grinders is five stars go get full have fun!

    (5)

  • Nathan M.

    Wonderful atmosphere. I had the shrimp po-boy. It was quite possibly the best po-boy I've ever had, given the fact that I have not been to cajun country. The slaw was perfectly seasoned and the bread was light and perfect. The tiramisu is also good and you might want to save room for it or dessert in general by splitting a sandwich with someone. They host live music on Saturdays and people of a spectrum of different ages frequent this establishment. The tables are large and seat around eight, making this place a good option for meeting friends for a good time and a huge hot sandwich. In short: quite recommended, an excellent introduction to the dining options of Shoreline, WA, and I hope to return.

    (4)

  • John S.

    The food here is amazing, I believe we have finished the menu now, and although everything has wonderful flavor I find myself ordering the SauBall more than any other meal! On top of incredible food, the service is always outstanding and when Mitch is in the restaurant, the only time you can have is great! We have spent a few Saturday evenings listening to music, everyone one of them has been enjoyable. All in all this is just a great family owned business, that is worthy of all the praise it receives on food and fun!

    (5)

  • Neda G.

    Grinders is AMAZING- the salads, the sandwiches... Everything is so good!! If you have no been here, then you need to try it! Never really crowded whenever I go in and everyone is so nice! They have the best Tiramisu... I always get any one of their great salads, and end my night with the Tiramisu made to ORDER!!! Awesome!

    (5)

  • Arif V.

    This is a quick review I am stretched to give this place a 3 star but its all because of the service mostly. The place is poorly configured. There is a fake fireplace that looks good but they dont have any tables close to it so there is this area that is unused and just feels like you really cant move the tables there to enjoy the warmer part of the place. The Service as I said was good, not verbose but it was caring. The food was sort of ok. It was good size but taste was lacking on my grinder. However I have been told that my definition of a grinder is a loose type of sandwich. The grinders that I like are sandwiches with meat and melted cheese with all the cold fixings put on and sauced up. More like the Royal Grinder in Fremont. This grinder was an open face sandwich with meat and and a whole mess of fixings melted on. Not my style. So it comes down to taste and I found it to be mediocre nothing outstanding. Price is where I was most shocked for a Chop salad, Two beers, Grinder it was close to 50.00 for lunch. Thats a bit much. However the beers were good they were hand picked imports. Good luck to the place but I dont feel I will be visiting it again.

    (3)

  • Karri N.

    I absolutely LOVE Grinders. The owners Mitch & Denise are wonderful people that treat every customer like a guest. The food is very generous hand made & delicious. I don't know if I could pick a favorite because everything we try is the BEST. I really appreciate the great music Mitch brings in on Saturday nights. This is truly a one of a kind place

    (5)

  • Gregg B.

    It's a fun place. Staff are wonderful, portions are huge. They add too many "extra" flavorings to the food.

    (3)

  • Jerry M.

    Good sandwich but $15 with a coke for lunch is just to much!!!!

    (4)

  • Tracy M.

    I love this place so much I want to marry it. Heck, I'm willing to move-in without the ring! Grinders is PERFECT. As you open your car door in the parking lot, amazing smells waft through the air. The music choices on the stereo are always top quality (I've heard their live music nights are amazing but super crowded). The menu is sassy. The staff is friendly. The guys will compliment your choice, no matter what you order. But this isn't ass-kissing. It's because EVERY SINGLE SANDWICH ON THE MENU IS DELICIOUS! Honestly, top notch ingredients and gloriously tasty combinations, served in gigantic portions. These are definitely knife and fork sandwiches (although you can attempt to eat with your hands if you wish). And there should be leftovers for a tasty meal later. I've heard good things about their soup, too, but haven't tried it yet. Interesting selection of bottled beers...some very cool and hard to find stuff. Prices are really reasonable, especially considering the sandwiches are so large and delicious. Great big tables, solid chairs, comfortable benches. The whole space is lovely and comforting and I could spend hours here. It can be a bit hard to notice, as the sign is kinda small underneath the Buckley's sign. Worth it!!

    (5)

  • Stephanie P.

    Fresh food, excellent service, clean and great atmosphere. I had traveled by Grinders since it opened. After reading Sunset Magazine, I had to give it a try. WOW! I am a New Yorker, and for any Sicilian New Yorkers, or anyone growing up with great home made Italian food, this place is a must! We had the meatball and sausage hot sandwich and the Blu salad. Both were very generous in size and tasty. Sauce is home made, fresh tasting and not overly seasoned- just as sauce should be! Blu Salad was AMAZING! I opted for the shrimp addition and they came hot, lemony and garlicy. A very generous portion and not the tiny Bay shrimp most places put on salads these were large and beautiful. Please visit this local establishment and have a wonderful meal- and make sure you go in hungry and can take the leftovers home!

    (5)

  • Dave M.

    If they had an apartment available above this building, I would live there simply so I could eat there everyday! The best Italian Sausage sub I've ever had, East or West Coast! Everything from the bread to the meats and sauces are top notch and in generous portions (even if you've got a big belly like me, its enough for 2 meals!). It makes you wonder how crappy places like Subway can stay in business when there are places like this! While Philly Fever makes the best cheesesteak sandwich in town (Grinders does not make cheesesteaks but I would try their efforts if they wanted to), this place makes the best Grinders I've had anywhere!

    (5)

  • Anne J.

    I really used to love their sandwiches... had been going regularly for about 3 years. I loved their sandwiches, their from-scratch sauces, and their story. However, I feel that in the last year, the consistency has deteriorated. The wait is long, the service is spotty- but moreover, the food is not as consistently great anymore. Example: I always get the Stromboli. Well, recently I ordered it and it was different. There was a layer of ricotta cheese spread on the roll beneath all the other ingredients. I'm not the biggest ricotta fan, and I had never had it on Grinders' Stromboli before so I mentioned it to one of the servers, who said "the kitchen was out of mascarpone"... Well, wait a minute, they never stick mascarpone on their Strombolis either! So, I mentioned that to him, and he replied that it often "depends on who makes the sandwiches that day". Basically, if the server is telling the truth, then my order is a craps shot based on who's cooking that day. Or, the server was actually making stuff up to get me off his back, and instead of being upfront and acknowledging the mistake, he just blamed the kitchen staff. Note: I've been back since, and had a Stromboli that didn't come with either ricotta or mascarpone. I've returned a few times since thinking each time would possibly be better- I hate the idea of giving up on a small business based on one lackluster experience. But I have to say that as of last month when I had another mediocre experience, I'm hard-pressed to return.

    (3)

  • Jeff B.

    Best sandwiches in town. A little expensive but definitely worth the price. Pulled pork grinder is insanely good!

    (5)

  • Nicole B.

    Found this darling little sandwich shop on our way up to Whistler, BC. The food was amazing! I ordered the meatball and my husband had the pastrami. Best Meatball sandwich I've ever had! Meatballs are hand rolled from scratch. Strange thing is that they dont have pickles! So if your pastrami requires pickles in order to satisfy your taste buds, make sure you bring your own! Portions are large, if your a smaller eater, you can probably just share a sandwich. We were pleasantly surprised by this little diamond in the rough. Service was super friendly and every employee seemed to really have pride in their job. For a sandwich shop, it definitely deserves 5 stars!

    (5)

  • Jen L.

    This place has some great sandwiches, you really cant go wrong. Today it took way to long for our sandwiches so they without us complaining gave us a dessert. Good sandwiches and good service.

    (5)

  • Curtis L.

    This place is the real deal. The sandwich shop to be at in the north end. After driving by this place for years and hearing about how good it was, we finally made it in. Why did I not visit sooner? The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is laid back. All the ingredients in the sandwich are made to order so expect to wait unless you call it in. The prices seem high but the portions are large. Enough for two people. We split 3 sandwiches among 5 people. The catfish was the tastiest. Moist and flavorful. The Goomba was good. The Dipper was on the dry and tough side. I would stick with their popular items (meatball and sausage variants) which we will try next time. Sandwiches are around $10 and worth it. Service is good as it is order at the counter establishment. I would recommend that you give it a try.

    (4)

  • Jasmine C.

    Ohemgee. This place. This. Place. I went to Grinders on a Friday evening with my boyfriend...it was pretty slow and the service was quick. The staff was hilarious--the older woman was just too funny. I ordered the ciabatta, and the boyfriend had the sauball. First off, the portions were HUGE. The ciabatta was so freaking good--it has this garlicky tomato sauce, great quality meats, and a yummy artichoke spread. All the flavors came together perfectly. My BF really enjoyed his sandwich as well. I understand they have live music, but we didn't stay for that. This place is must try! Do not pass it by!

    (5)

  • Stuart A.

    Oh. Wow. Sandwiches you need to eat with a knife and fork. I was really pleasantly surprised by this place, because from the outside it seems to be positioned on a difficult-to-get-to embankment along a rather nondescript stretch of Aurora. But man, is it worth the effort. The crazily Italian(?) family who runs this place are vocal, voluptuous, and very welcoming. The menu is small and manageable, which tells me that they care about the food they are making, and that they make it the right way. I ordered the Ciabatta, and when it came out I realized that I had really gotten into some serious calories. But it's *so* good, I wanted my stomach to go to there every night from then on. Atmosphere-wise, it's very sedate: sorta like a "Pacific Northwest Coffee Shop" theme, and nothing to call attention to the underlying Italian food theme. Sofas and comfy chairs are interspersed with regular tables, and we ended up eating our sandwiches on a nearby coffee table. There was even a live band playing (some sort of non-threatening jazz), but it didn't detract from anything. I would definitely go back.

    (4)

  • j h.

    Good flavors but too much tomato sauce was used in our sub today. The bread pudding was great! Ambiance and service were comfortable and friendly. will return and try the "Philly cheesesteak" sandwich next time.

    (4)

  • Jeffrey T.

    top 5 sandwich in seattle, hands down. love this place, and its right down the street from my house!

    (5)

  • Johnny W.

    Popped in with my mom one day on a trip to the nearby Costco, and went with the Yelp recommendations of the goomba and meatball grinders. The meatball grinder, while good, was nothing compared to the awesomeness of the goomba. Neat decor, huge serving sizes, alright prices, and good overall ambience. My only complaint about Grinders is that their menu is a bit overwhelming for a first timer - too many delicious options to choose from! :D Well, okay, and that the food took longer than I would have expected with the place being so empty, but that was a minor price to pay for the great food that came out.

    (4)

  • Tammy M.

    Delicious! My husband and I were both very happy with this dining experience. I had the Italian; it was extremely messy so I might suggest getting the sauce on the side, but it was worth every napkin. Sent from my iPhone

    (5)

  • Justin M.

    These... Sandwiches... Are... Massive! Word to the wise, be prepared for some serious eating if you plan to grab a sandwich here. With that said, you can't go wrong with this joint. Nestled in a fairly hard to get to location, from the outside it's a fairly understated little place, but step inside and it's s whole new world. The decor is nice and there is plenty of seating without feeling too crowded, kinda hard to accomplish for a small place. But you aren't reading my review to get insight on what I think about the decor, you're here to read about the food... Oh the food. As the first line states, these sandwiches are massive! Come hungry otherwise be prepared to take some home or leave some left over. Then again it's not just about the size, but the quality of the food... Maybe the five little stars wasn't clear enough but really these sandwiches are ace! My usual is the sausage or the meatball, this most recent time I came in I was with a colleague from work grabbing lunch, she has never been here before so it was a new thing for her, I mean I'm on Yelp because I love to share the places I love with the masses, it's not just about the sexy parties. But I digress, the meatball is one of the best here. A flavorful sauce tops the massive meatballs on this huge sandwich. It's really more of a fork and knife sandwich. In fact I can't bring myself to pick it up until about 1/4 of it is left. Every bite is an event... A delicious event... Like the oscars but instead of giving out statues they give meatball subs. Bloody fantastic. Well worth the trek for the usual Seattle crowd and a great spot for some of the northend heads to have a good sandwich.

    (5)

  • Larry R.

    My friend recommended and I always wanted to try his place. Although nice and clean establishment, I personally think the prices are bit high for sandwiches that are not really what I expected. It's actually made on 1/3 of french bread. I ordered sauball which made of 1/2 sausage & 1/2 meat balls with marinara sauce on the bread. It was ok nothing outstanding. She had phillys which is not really made with steak, onion, bell peppers and cheese but it's made with something look like shredded beef, onion, pimentos, cheese and some herbs. But hey it was ok too. $35 totaled with drinks.

    (3)

  • Eugene C.

    This is a very clean, well lit restaurant. It is apparent that they care about how this place looks. The food could be better, although not terrible. The sandwiches are big and hearty, as others have said. However, I've had better sandwiches. The meatballs on the meatball sub were big and meaty, but a little chewy for my tastes. The rcipes I've used and seen for meatballs incorporate bread crumbs and eggs to make them softer and juicier.I believe the meatballs here are pure meat (usually a good thing, but not in meatballs). Also the sauce, while it tasted home made, lacked the sweetnesss that I prefer. I also had the chicken parm, which was okay. I enjoyed it more than the meatball t least.

    (3)

  • Doug M.

    I read the Yelp reviews before I tried this place so I knew I was facing a $10 sandwich. That seems like an awful lot for a sandwich. I ordered the ciabatta and split pea soup. It took longer to make than a regular sandwich shop because they slowly infuse it with garlic, olive oil and other goodies. It really is a remarkable sandwich! The split pea may well have been the best I have ever eaten. Everything about this place radiates quality and care in preparation. The sandwiches are worth the price. My only complaint is not enough parking.

    (4)

  • Angie C.

    Omnomnom. Their sandwiches confirm my theory that messier food is tastier food.

    (5)

  • Alla K.

    Delicious!!! Ive had the bbq pork and the gilbano the two diffent times i was here and i fell in love. i have yet to come at night when the jazz band is there on the weekend but am planning on it soon.

    (5)

  • Cathy F.

    Wow! Not just a sandwich- it's a meal. And one sandwich is big enough to share, but as another reviewer noted, so good that you won' t want to share or leave any leftovers. Delicious!!! Will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • Jen S.

    2 stars because the bread is really good. We tried the first time at about 4pm on a Tuesday and they were out of meatballs and roast beef. We left cause we wanted meat. Came again and ordered the meatball sub. I kind of wish they were out again. The worst meatballs ever. They were big but tough and had zero flavor. I ended up taking them out and eating just the bread. Go to Paseo or ROYAL Grinders in Fremont instead. This place is not good. Oh, the parking lot sucks as well.

    (2)

  • K R.

    I tried this place the other night, when i was super grumpy from not having eaten all day. It was pouring rain outside (surprise! )but this place has a pleasant, warm feeling, and reminds you of a New Orleans jazz club. When i saw the menu, i was slightly taken aback by the prices, but i was starving so i hardly cared. I didn't drink, but the beer selection was phenomenal for a sub shop. When the food came, i decided the size of the sandwich, the immense delicious flavors, and the AMAZING service made it worth it. First group of people who left, the staff said "thanks for coming in,hope your friend gets better! " next group to leave one employee said "Thank you, we appreciate you! " Such sweet kids, keep up the good work!

    (5)

  • Galen B.

    This is, literally, a sandwich like you've never seen before. Put down your hands, because they're of no use to you here. Guaranteed to leave you full and with leftovers. It's been a while since I went here, but that's what I remember most. Basically, these are gourmet italian sandwiches that are huge and taste great. The inside is nice with open seating. Not too many parking spots, so I can imagine it's a battle during peak times and on weekends. But don't let that discourage you from getting a hot sand of your own.

    (4)

  • J K.

    Awesome sandwiches. Good bread. Good ingredients. Huge sandwiches. Interesting and delicious choices. (Maybe a little too much cheese?) Cheap prices. Great salads too -- just the right amount of dressing. It's not your average sandwich joint. They have live music in the evenings. They serve wine and beer. The atmosphere could be better. It's like a Starbucks. But I guess that's the feel they're going for. I think I spoke with the owner. He seems to have a lot of pride in his restaurant. I like to see that. It makes it feel more homey.

    (4)

  • Ryan S.

    Holy grail of sandwiches. HUGE portions and tasty the whole way through. Fun live music on weekends if you dine in.

    (5)

  • Tricia M.

    We went here tonight because we were tired of all the places around Northgate. The environment is very nice and comfy. The staff was awesome. Very friendly and attentive. The sandwiches were nice and filling. I had the meatball sub and my boyfriend had the Gilbano. It was recommended by the staff but my boyfriend would have liked it more if it didn't have Gorgonzola on it.

    (4)

  • Chelsea J.

    Okay, I'm giving this place a solid 5. Although the exterior leaves something to be desired, that really doesn't effect how wonderfully delicious their sandwiches are! Talk about huge portions, reasonable prices, and their house salad is delicious.

    (5)

  • Pete C.

    Best sandwich in Seattle. My wife and I split the SauBall almost every time: spicy sausage, moist meatball, sweet marinara with carmelized onion. So delicious. I also recently ordered the Gilbano steak sandwich which is equally yummy. We drove to Edmonds today just to eat there...

    (5)

  • John M.

    Yeah this place is really good. Their sandwiches are hot and tasty. Bring a friend or a huge appetite. Their portions are huge - no joke. Service is friendly.

    (5)

  • Megan M.

    Love this place. The food is amazing and the staff are extremely nice.

    (5)

  • Nomad J.

    This is SO worth the trip to Shoreline. Sandwiches are simply SPLENDID. The menu itself is mouth-watering and the food will not disappoint. The portions are a bit large for me, but they taste just as delightful as leftovers. I've only had the Giardino (twice) myself but my colleague has recurring dreams of the pulled pork. If Shoreline is a little out of your way, consider that it's across the street from Costco. If you find yourself navigating that big box hellhole and sample their prepackage fare, remember that Grinders is RIGHT THERE and scoot out for a real meal!

    (4)

  • Nanci R.

    Eight of us tried Grinders for the first time. Two of us are going back for the Sat. nite Blues guitar music. Our portions were HUGE and tasty. It seemed to take a long time to get our food, however we were busy visiting. Nice atmosphere and the owener, Rich, is a riot. Yes, the food is pricy, as well as a full glass of wine. We know now to split a sandwich or salad. Had cheese cake & bread pudding for dessert. I don't like bread pudding, but this was out of this world. Cheese cake way yummy as well. We sampled each others dishes and all were very flavorful. Everything is made from scratch. The southern smoked ham is smoked there. Down graded a star due to the long time for meal to arrive. We had lots of questions when ordering our food. Cashier must be new because she couldn't answer the simplest questions. Thankgoodness the owner is right there to explain everything to us. We will go back and we recommend this charming place to others. Just not be in a rust for your meal. Enjoy your drink and company and you'll have a pleasant evening.

    (4)

  • Kelly K.

    I'm at a loss for words. Truly. I'll get to the food in a second.... The ambiance here is great, very laid back, very clean. If you aren't hungry, go in for the eye candy. Holy smokin hot!! 4 guys behind the counter who were incredibly friendly (and did I mention smokin hot)? Ok, the food: Be hungry. One grinder can feed a small village. It took me 2 days to finish my grinder, but it was delightful. I ordered the Gilbano at the recommendation of the staff, great call. I think I've found my new favorite lunch place

    (5)

  • Jeff H.

    If you're into great tasting, hot, sub-style sandwiches, then this place is for you. There are a variety of flavors to choose from...unfortunately, my choices are usually messy. They are on the pricey side for a sandwich, but in my opinion, definitely stand out from the typical sandwich shop.

    (4)

  • Bien M.

    This place is the big cheese of all the sandwich place in my opinion. And this is the place that introduced me to what i thought wasn't real, craft sandwiches! Seeing this place from the outside made me a little hesitant on giving this place a try, but fellow yelpers made such a commotion about this place when i visited my parents up in Seattle. And I thank you, fellow yelpers, for making this place one of my favorite place to eat and made my visit worth every single minute!!! Let me start off how a typical sandwiches are done, typically a sandwich is usually like a lego pieces where you just combine them together and you come out with a sandwich, which gets old fairly quick and boring, but fortunately these aren't typical sandwiches! These sandwiches are usually sauteed and cooked like a whole main dish then add it to a toasted bread (i forgot what kind of bread they use) with a drizzle of olive oil, depending on what kind of sandwiches you get, also it depends how its made, but thats how mine was made :) i seent it! haha (i got the Giardino Grinder, if anything this veggie sandwich puts some burgers to shame) and after that, they let you add your cheese and peppers like if it were a pizza! It's really unique and an experience for all you sandwich fiend like my self would enjoy it. But yeah, in the end, I'd always come back to this place and never be disappointed, also it gives me another reason to visit my parents more often XD ahaha! ohh man i wish we had this in LA... TRY IT!!! :)

    (5)

  • Victorious W.

    You know what's more delicious than a meatball sandwich from Grinders? Probably their bread pudding. This place is excellent! But who closes such an awesome place at 8 P.M.?? Their meatballs are handmade and they don't go light on the cheese and sauce... unless you get it to-go. If you eat it there, the portion seemed just fine. But when I took an order home one day, I felt like I could have eaten another whole sandwich because of the lack of sauce. The bread pudding is also as delicious as others have stated. It comes with Cream Rum Sauce and Whipped Cream! It's actually the best bread pudding I've had... but that's comparing it to Las Vegas Buffet bread pudding. The one offsetting thing to me that didn't want me to give this place five stars is the owner. He's a nice enough guy coming up to people and asking how they're doing and all that jazz. But he was talking to someone who said they read a review about them on Yelp! and he went and gave them free stuff. I am not asking for free stuff, but I am writing a review about you giving away free stuff for reading a review on Yelp!... if you're going to give away free dessert, make sure you do it for everyone within earshot. They may be the actual reviewers for Yelp! ;-)

    (4)

  • Jeff B.

    Kevin's gonna kill me. Grinders you're really good. But I'm still a fan of Tat's or Paseo more. That said, they're doing sandwiches really well here. If you like chicken parms or meatball sandwiches this is your place to go in seattle... I tried a trifecta of The Gilbano (Tri Tip Steak Sandwich) The Meatball Sandwich, and The Chicken Parm. I think the chicken parm was my favorite, and it was "the special" tonight. It's just not my scene, I really don't care for toasted sandwiches too much, but these are really exceptional. P.S. You say on your menu that "The Gilbano" will make me "...never want a Philly again"...I just had your Gilbano and if someone put a John's Roast Pork Cheesesteak in front of me I'd eat it all. Sorry. I'm a Philly ass. Your sandwiches are delightful.

    (4)

  • Delilah R.

    Seattle got less hot, more or less it opposed my previous suggestion. So, a bowl of GHS's chili and I got real acquainted, we warmed up together that is. Awh. It's going to be a long winter. Have you snuggled with some good chili yet? Get yo' self down to Grinders for a side and a sub. Mmmm mmm good.

    (5)

  • Emily A.

    Why are these sandwiches SO expensive??!! I could make this at home,it's really nothing special. Go to Paseo or something, more delicious, better quality and cheaper. Food taste and quality here doesn't match the price.

    (1)

  • Sonya L.

    I must say, this place makes a pretty darn good sandwich! Went here last night with some friends and it was a good time! I ordered the Tricolore and it was fantastic! The flavors were great and the portions were HUGE (I have an entire half of a sandwich left for today's lunch - score!). The service was quick and friendly and the prices were reasonable. They even had root beer by the bottle - so tasty. I want to come back to try the super veggie sandwich sometime...it sounds amazing. I will definitely be back here.

    (4)

  • Genessa O.

    Me and my husband are fairly new to the Shoreline neighborhood. We moved in last July and are really into food. Unfortunately in Shoreline you really have to look for the good places to eat -- which are few and far between. We've been meaning to try Grinders for a while now and finally made it there tonight. The owner (I'm assuming) was super friendly and the wait staff was as well. They even brought us some complimentary samples of their homemade Navy Bean and Ham soup -- it was the BEST I've ever had... and I've had a lot. Sorry to say it trumps my homemade version. :( We split the Meatball Sub and also shared the Whack Whack salad. I think I would have enjoyed it a little better if the salad came first. Once I started eating the meatball sub it was too good to save any room for the salad which seemed more like an after thought. Needless to say, the Meatball sub was amazing! Not greasy, meatballs were a great texture, and they put some fresh basil on top. I will definitely be back to try their other sandwiches!! If you're thinking about Italian food... don't go to Spiro's... GO HERE!

    (5)

  • James B.

    Love this place! Don't get the chance to go here often but I love the enviroment! Cool place, they had some good live music going the last time I went. The food is incredible, there isn't a place that I know of that is like it. They have great sandwiches and salads! Prices are a little higher, but that is what you pay for a gourmet sandwich like this one. A lot goes into one of they're sandwiches. Thanks for the great food and service!

    (5)

  • Steve M.

    Tasty sandwiches. We had the sausage and the "sauball" (sausage/meatball) grinders. Good amount of cheese and onions, great bread, very good sauce on the side. And filling! Nice atmosphere as well, with some good blues playing on the stereo. The employees and owner (who was there) both asked how our food was - they certainly put some pride into their work.

    (5)

  • Susan B.

    The bread pudding will definitely be the highlight of your day. So if you need a mood lift go to Grinders for the bread pudding. If this mound of creamy, sweet, and comforting yum doesn't make you happy nothing will. The sandwiches are pretty good but my toes weren't curling until I tasted the bread pudding.

    (5)

  • Dustin C.

    I am on an ultimate quest to find the best Meatball sub this world has to offer and Grinders is at the top of my list. With there homemade meatballs (these are no bite size find in your local supermarket freezer section meatballs mind you, these are big, made in house with a perfect amount of seasoning and you better bring an appetite), rich and delicious sauce and wonderful toasted bread! It really does not get much better than that!!!! I love this place and I have been trying each and every Grinder since and so far none has disappointed. If you have not been GO! GO! GO! GET THERE AS FAST AS YOU CAN YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!

    (5)

  • Suzanne L.

    My first impression of Grinders was that it seemed out of place for the location. It has a nice ambiance, more like a nice coffee shop, with big solid wood chairs and nice lighting. Secondly, I am not used to eating a sandwich with a knife and fork. That sort of defeats the purpose of it being a sandwich. ;) But my sandwich (chicken pesto) was very full, so I went at it with utensils. I think it might be a messy proposition if you get your sandwich to go and try to eat it on the road. (The sandwich was good, BTW, although maybe a little dry around the edges from the toasting). For kids, they have the option of a "grinders pizza" - cheese bread with meat toppings and marinara sauce. My vegetarian kid had some garlic cheese bread with marinara. He was happy with it. On this particular day, they had clam chowder as the soup. I have never had a chowder of any kind that wasn't as least moderately thick - until now. This was not thickened at all. But the broth part of it was very flavorful, and I would definitely buy it again. Too bad I don't have any idea when that would be, since the soups vary each day based on the whim of the chef. Oh, I had to ask about the bread pudding, after having seen positive reviews for it here. I wasn't sure what I'd think about a whiskey sauce. They let me sample the sauce, and I can assure you that it tastes strongly of whiskey. If that's your thing, have at it. For me - no thanks. Price was a little painful, but such is usually the case for this transplant. I don't like this rating system. Four stars = I'm a fan? I'd be a much bigger fan if the sandwiches were $3-4 cheaper. As such, I'm going to dock them a star. I like the place, but I can't see eating there frequently with the prices. If you don't mind paying $10 for a sandwich, check this place out. It's a nice change from quickie sandwich shops.

    (3)

  • Subie G.

    Love this place! ! Been going for a few years now and will be back over n over n over again. Yes the Sandwiches are massive Yes you have to eat them with a fork and knife Yes 9 out of 10 times you will have leftovers That is what makes Grinders stand out. Huge portions (you get what you pay for here!), friendly staff, great beer selection, yummy home made food and yes, I've tried just about every sandwich on the menu - no complaints here =) I make it a point to take out of town friends into Grinders. It's a must do! If you're reading this you're likely thinking about it? Stop thinking. Go now. Eat Grinders! Go Go Go!

    (5)

  • Robert K.

    This place has probably the best sandwiches around. Especially the pot roast grinder although they don't have it very often anymore (reason for 4 stars). Mitch the owner is the friendliest guy, jokes around and make sure every individual is happy.

    (4)

  • Sara D.

    yummmmmm the guys working were funny and the goomba is my new special friend. Enormous sandwiches!

    (4)

  • Meredith G.

    I LOVE this place. All the sandwiches that I've had are great. I especially love the Ciabatta grinder and the gilbano. The whiskey cream bread pudding is a killer. The owner and service staff are all friendly. The beer is reasonably diverse in selection. I was happy to discover some Czech beers that I had not had since visiting Prague. We tend to come for lunch, as there is usually no wait and a quick turn around on food. God forbid I ever become gluten intolerant. I don't know what I'd do without my East coast sandwich fix.

    (5)

  • Delta Y.

    This has to be one of the best sandwich restaurants in Seattle! The hot gourmet sandwiches are delicious! It is sit-down or take out. It has a laid back feel to it, playing relaxing blues music and live music on weekend nights. They have pulled pork sandwiches, Po boys, meatball subs, a hot veggie sub, and of course many different kinds of grinders. All of it excellent. Anytime I go home to Seattle I come here.

    (5)

  • Jaylene S.

    Ate the Chili while I was here and it was quite nice on a cold Seattle day!

    (4)

  • gretchen m.

    Excellent sandwiches. The sandwiches are huge and not like a sub shop, more like having a whole italian meal on bread. The roast beef with mushrooms, yum. Au jus is delicious. We have had a few different things on the menu and found them all good. The salad was decent, but really it's a place for a big hot sandwich. Or to split one as they are so large. They seem to have live music sometimes - not sure when that is. And serve alcohol. Nice restauranty ambiance. Seating is limited and so is parking.

    (4)

  • Andrea C.

    I was talked into having dinner here last night by a friend. I live not to far and often travel by this establishement without ever giving it any thought. All I can say Im sure GLAD I was coaxed into going. I have been missing out for years!! This place is very nice inside with a very warm welcome from staff. The nice clean interior is not expected (even though exterior is also clean) what I mean is...its off Aurora Ave ...I do not find ANYTHING appealing on Aurora other than Costco. I ordered the meatball grinder and was in heaven at first bite! I havent had meatballs this wonderful since living in CA where my italian friends cooked for me. The sandwich is HUGE! I also had a bowl of Chili..very hearty and flavorful. Just enough beans and meat to satisfy anyone as a meal alone. The salad is big too, I only had 1 bite of my friends,and become very pre-occupied with my meatball sandwich. Even sharing a few items I got to taste the "Sauball" sandwich. that was also excellent. I think Guy Friar needs to check this place out! We also tried the cheescake. Oh BTW the beer selection was impressive not the usual boring old tap... the Bottled beer was eye candy for sure. I wish I could remember what I drank. I will def. try bread pudding next time along with the bbq pork sandwich. I plan on going again n Sat night to hear the live music and eat some more. I will be eating here alot more often...sorry Jersey Mike's your no longer the only sub in town and by far NO comparsion.

    (5)

  • Allison G.

    Absolutely yummy! This is what a Grinder should be. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful and the service is always super friendly.And they have live music on selected evenings. Fav sandwich, the Gilbano- cousin of the Philly Cheese Steak. It's one of my favorite places.

    (5)

  • Tonya N.

    Had a great hot and very spicy BBQ Pork Sandwhich here... Very nice looking and cozy space. Its on the pricier side $10+ for mine, plus $6 for the whiskey bread pudding which I highly recommend. Came out piping hot and soaked full of whiskey which was nice. Want to warn you that if you get the spicy, you will get the SPICY... nice burn. Very tender pork, rich bbq sauce and a HUGE grinder. Best eaten with a fork and knife! This is my first but isnt my last grinder thats for sure....

    (4)

  • Sean M.

    Wow. I think that's one of the words that keeps popping up when you read reviews of this place and it totally applies. The sandwiches are amazing and I dare you to try one and not say "Wow" too. They come on a plate with a little side of coleslaw and that's about it. But, that's all your going to need. Trust me. They have a great beer selection. I asked for a Porter and they had a great one from England. No beers on tap, but with the selection they have its not going to be much of an issue, unless your looking for Bud lite or MGD. Then I'd head down 99 to any of the bars about six blocks down. They will be sure to have what your looking for. This inside is well done with large tables, and even a section with four big comfy chairs around a glass table. Black and white pictures of people (maybe family) decorate the walls and as someone else noted it smells of warm bread and spices. Its a little hard to get to if your traveling North on I-99 and the location overall could be better, but that's why its such a surprise when you bite into the sandwich. Trust me. Go. You will not be disappointed. Side notes: 1. They do not accept American Express. 2. Its counter service. It looks like they might help you at the table, but you do need to order from the counter. 3. Parking is tight, but if you go a block West off of I-99 you can park on the street and walk the block to the restaurant. 4. There really is a "ma" and she is super friendly and very helpful. She also knows her beer. Thanks Ma!

    (5)

  • Jay B.

    One dine in, one take out--food was really freaking good both times! Very large portions, but good quality. I highly recommend the Giardini, which is the veggie sandwich. For the non meat eaters out there, you can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal (two, actually, since this is so big) with all your carnivorous companions. Can't wait to try the bread pudding--that might just get them a fifth star...

    (4)

  • Zombie C.

    I had the goomba and it was great. It was a cold day, and the goomba was warm and delicious. I thought the price was a little high, but for what you get I guess it's fair. I would have been much happier with half, and then maybe I would have had room for the desserts they offer.

    (4)

  • Robert B.

    Delicious. High-end sandwiches for above average prices, but worth it! I've only done take-out, but the restaurant looks like a nice place to relax for a meal. I ordered the mid-range spicy pulled pork sandwich and it lit me up (be warned!). I've had their take on a cheesesteak as well, which did not disappoint. The crusty grinder bread was the perfect combination of texture, chew, and freshness. I'll be back soon!

    (5)

  • Thomas H.

    The Po Boy made me feel like I was back in the big easy!!!

    (5)

  • Jamie M.

    We were heading over to do some shopping at Alderwood and wanted to grab lunch on the way from the ferry. A quick yelp phone search for sandwiches led us to Grinders. This place isn't your traditional order at the counter and we'll build you and sandwich and have you on your way in two minutes type of place (although you can order at the counter and get your food to go). We opted to dine in, which was probably a good decision because these sandwiches needed to be eaten with a knife and fork. I ordered one of their veggie sandwiches and my boyfriend got their chicken parm. We probably could have just split one sandwich and been totally satisfied; I ended up taking half of mine home and eating it the next day. It ended up being a little expensive for lunch, but I could definitely see coming back here for dinner and enjoying some of their live music.

    (4)

  • Christine Z.

    The SauBall Grinder is money!!!! It's the best "knife & fork" sandwich! Come staaaaaaarving, leave stuffed! Enough said!

    (5)

  • Kim P.

    Oh, where do I begin? I'll begin with saying that once we GOT our food, it was very, very tasty and that is the ONLY reason I'm not giving this a 1 rating. As we got to the counter to order our food, the young woman at the front counter stared at us like we were inconveniencing her is some way. We started ordering when she interrupted to inform us that they were out of catfish (which was what I was ordering). "We're out of BBQ pork and tri-tips also." Well, that's more than three things off the menu that couldn't be ordered.....this is fun. Now it's going to take us longer to order due to having to reassess the menu....not making the Ice Queen any happier. Once we were done reassessing, I slapped a $2.00 tip onto the credit card slip as she informed me that she'd clean the only remaining table in just a moment. I thanked her and waited and waited and waited for her to bus the table. It wasn't happening so I went over to the table, found there was no place to put dirty dishes myself so sat down. Husband comes over with our waters, but can't put them down due to Frosty possibly busing them as soon as she came over to clean the table. About 5 minutes after the table had been cleaned off, my son's food came, but no one else's. We didn't think anything of it assuming the rest would come shortly. (I can hear my 7th grade Social Studies teacher splitting up the word assume as I type this.) After my son had had his food for about 7 minutes, another two dishes came to the table. This still leaves my daughter without her food. Once again, we "assumed" the last dish would come in less full food server arms. Hers didn't arrive until about 5 minutes later. By the time we all got our food, one was all done eating and the other was just starting. My husband and I LOVED the flavors of our grinders, but neither kid liked theirs. Not Grinders' fault. It's just not very "kid friendly" food, not even the Kids' Grinder. It had a rich olive oil flavor, which isn't what kids are looking for....at least mine. For the many moons we were there, I was jolted out of my skin every time someone would move a chair against the hard floor, the temperature in the restaurant was about 60 degrees and the people next to us were questioning if the staff had forgotten them. I will never go back due to the service and I wish I could get my two bucks back!

    (2)

  • Sarah B.

    Long ago I reviewed this restaurant and here it is, years later, and it's still absolutely wonderful. I often forget that they are all the way up on Aurora. And I do wish they would open a store closer to downtown. (hint hint) And every time I crave their deliciousness they were closed. Thankfully now the hours are better and totally support my craving schedule. Their food has stayed wonderful over the years. Soft delicious bread, quality fixings and an insanely well-stocked beer fridge. The staff is always friendly. And the atmosphere is fabulous. Upscale and comfortable. But really, the food is what you come for. And it's well worth the drive. Everything on the menu is incredible. And my veggie friend loves their mushroom sandwich. I, on the other hand, have a hard time ordering anything other than their shrimp po boy. It's lovely. And it's worth the drive.

    (5)

  • Nicki W.

    There is a sandwich God and he resides over Grinders on 99! The meatball sub is truly the trinity of sandwiches! Amazing moist homemade meatballs, wonderful fresh tomato, spicy and garlic infused marinara sauce topped with fresh mozarella all on a perfect crisp french roll. I didn't even like meatball subs until now-I have been converted! This is the sandwich to dream about! These are large sandwiches and one was perfect to split with the hubster accompanied by a salad, however I'm certain that I will be eating a whole one on my next visit, of which may be today since I'm salivating right now while writing this review!

    (5)

  • Mr. Robot O.

    I minused one star for the crappy silverware. Silverware? Yes, they brought me a fork and knife with my sandwich. But I just used my hands. (See photo) Andrew S. tried to steal some of my grinder with HIS fork, but it was so fortified with deliciousness, (or the fork sucked so bad - I think it was a combination of the two) the silverware was destroyed. (See photo) The sandwich I ordered, (the Goombah Grinder) was filled with mozzarella, feta, roasted tomatoes, and garlic sauteed Goombah. Molto delizioso! (as a note: According to the most popular definition on urbandictionary.com a Goombah is an American-Italian slang word for someone who is Italian - Currently also means any male Italian in a derogatory way.)

    (4)

  • Tim H.

    Just because Seattle is deprived of good sangwhich shops doesn't make this place the cat's meow. Trust me, its fine, but I have eaten here a couple of times and I feel like its tasty, but spendy. For a sangwhich shop to truly be a jem, it needs to also be a good deal. I have seen them getting deliveries and they buy most of their products from Costco, which I dont like. I will go to this place if it strikes me again, but there is better. Their soup however, was souper.

    (3)

  • Safder M.

    I was in one of those moods to go to a Philly cheese steak place. I did some research and came across this place on yelp. The place had a nice ambient atmosphere and the people were quite courteous. I ordered a Gilbano sandwich and boy was it good. I highly recommend it. I should warn though, you have to be really hungry to have one of these sandwiches. They're big and give you the bang for your buck. There is one thing I do wish about the place and that is that they had more beef and chicken sandwiches, since I don't have pork, but I would definitely go there again

    (4)

  • gabriel e.

    I have a serious sandwich quota to meat each week, along with burritos. Grinders delivers some of the best sandwiches I have ever consumed and I have eaten sammys from here to New York to Florida, Cali and everywhere in between. I have to say that it is a bit pricey... Like 10 bucks easily for a sandwich! But good food should cost what it costs. Thank you for existing:)

    (5)

  • Patricia E.

    Had rather high expectations for this neighborhood place based on word of mouth. Was told about the poor service but thought how bad can it be when it is a sandwich counter joint? Started when we ordered a glass of $8.00 red wine that was half full, that would be about 4 ounces. The mature wait person was being trained, perhaps by the owner. The klcker however was after we ordered, we waited for 30 minutes for our food! The worst part was that 2 other tables who came in after us were served before us. So I ask what the problem is and she said "Well it's not that we don't like you!" as if that was an explanation. When further prodded she explained that the people who were served had meatball sans and they didn't take as long... I let her know that I too had ordered the same thing so what was up with that? Then my friends dipper san appeared (enough for a family of 4) and another 5 minutes later my mediocre meatball also appeared. After many years in the restaurant biz, I am well aware that mistakes happen, but not once did we get an apology or even a casual "sorry about that..." It is pretty apparent that these folks have little or no experience, they make one san at a time and don't know how to handle a mistake. If you want to wait 30 plus minutes for a so, so expensive ($11.95) san, this is the place for you!

    (2)

  • Tatsyana z.

    Snap peas, anchovy and mint? So, in my head the thought was interesting, yet my man was in no mood for this. Of course interesting won out as it should, and WOW! This was an amazing dish. (he keeps underestimating my track record of being right) The tables are tiny, no salt, no pepper. This did put a bit of guilt in my head that I wanted some pepper. But being from a Mom that could guilt Donald Trump into just about anything, I was not about to ask for seasoning that they obviously did not feel necessary for my food. The wine prices are great. People look happy with their food. So I returned a few times and it was always a Wow. Oh, and yes my "being right" track record continues. :0)

    (4)

  • Howard M.

    Thirteen bucks for a Chicken Parm sandwich with very little chicken and almost no cheese? Lots of sauce and bread. I haven't been this disappointed since I watched the last episode of Lost. The chicken on the sandwich comprised of little bits that you would expect on a pizza. I've been ordering hot sandwiches for over thirty years and I'm from NY. The large Italian population there serves incredible Italian food. A chicken parm sandwich is a chicken cutlet with slices of mozzarella cheese on top. I feel ripped off. Save your money and keep on driving.... Some times it takes more than a big roll and some sauce to make a customer happy. When I expressed my disappointment to the manager he got defensive and wasn't at all interested in my feedback. If you want mediocre at best give them a try, if not go somewhere else. The music started with Frank Sinatra and then transitioned to some kind of hard metal rock that hurt my ears and gave me a headache. Serving food like that told me these people just don't care about quality food.

    (1)

  • N J.

    Fact of the matter is: Sandwiches mean a lot to me. I consider myself to have searched my surroundings high and low in order to track down the perfect combination of style, flavor, and substance stuffed between two slices of bread. And Grinders Hot Sands, has come as close to anyone to making the most perfect, scrumptious, and tasty sandwiches in the greater Seattle area. GIGANTiC portions, unique and changing beer selection, calm/casual atmosphere and friendly employees... its a must!

    (5)

  • Bob G.

    They have new hours - now open Monday - Saturday. This time I went with my son - he had the Meatball Grinder and I had the Stromboli Grinder. I had so forgotten that I had already tried the Stromboli - but it is good enough for a second round. We also split a cup of the Potato Leek soup - my son complained - he couldn't find the leak in the bottom of the bowl - it looked perfectly soup proof. All j/k aside - it was wonderful soup - the stuff that would be heavenly if you ruined it by adding clams . . . .

    (5)

  • Lea Ann M.

    Nom Nom!! Who would've thought a great sandwich/salad spot would be in this stretch of Aurora?! Not only that, but the interior is not the typical Subway style. It is upscale and well taken care of. My man loves a good meatball sammich and this one fit the bill....huge meatballs and some of the most flavorful we have had. He would have given a 5 star, but he likes to pick up his sammich and the meatballs were too huge for that. Smaller and more of them would have merited the higher rating. I had the Gilbano grinder with little peppers. I couldn't taste the Gorgonzola, but it was delicious nonetheless. Very fresh ingredients. Expect a wait since items are made to order. The salads look huge!! The employees make sure the place is clean - even the bathrooms were spotless. Looks like they have occasional music in the evenings. We plan on going back and working our way down the menu. It is also a great spot to take growing boys with huge appetites! Plenty of food in your servings.

    (4)

  • Katie S.

    This sandwich place got soul! These guys rule. Big, overstuffed sandwiches. Artful combinations. Fresh, flavorful ingredients. Nice service. The BBQ pork was awesome...just tender, pulled pork in zesty sauce, with grilled and chopped onions, plus cheese on top. The side of slaw was great with. I got a side of their spicy BBQ sauce and THAT made this sandwich super great. Nice burn. My DC had the one with tri-tip in it and she loved the fresh basil. We both had half for later! They have live music on the weekends and it's great that they're open on Mondays, which is my day off! About time SHORELINE got a decent little unique independant restaurant amongst all the crappy chains.

    (4)

  • Jane D.

    Thanks to everyone who reviewed and reminded me of this place! I was there for the grand opening with my mom. The grinders were awesome and back then under $8 for a huge sandwich. The owners were the only employees back then so the service was impeccable. The owner actually got my mom and I to try an Italian beer Stella if I recall? Good memories since both my parents have passed away and I never went back by myself. You have all inspired me to go relive some old good times and memories. Thanks Yelpers.

    (4)

  • Kiki P.

    Got takeaway yesterday. Ordered the Stromboli and the gilbano. Both tasted exactly the same because both were made up of 3/4 of their pepper mix and minimal meat. Once I removed all the peppers from the Stromboli (and tossed the tomato sauce, it was inedible) the sandwich wasn't totally awful but not worthing returning to order. The gilbano was again over stuffed with peppers. I could see doing this if the sandwiches were half the price but for sandwiches that cost about $12.50 with tax I would like some meat if they're supposed to include meat. Anyway my friend said it was forgettable. I really wanted to like grinders but the food wasn't good and it was overpriced.

    (2)

  • Benjamin S.

    This is my favorite sandwich place and one of my favorite restaurants in the Seattle area. Grinders makes real sandwiches and quite honestly no one else in this area is doing anything similar. The people who work there are super sweet and really into the idea of providing you with a great meal. The Gilbano is a Godsend, delivered from the East Coast on the wings of a glutton. Over the years I've had a number of sandwiches on the menu and never been disappointed. I've taken family and friends and never heard anything but compliments. No joke -- this place is doing it better than anyone else. They should be rewarded for it. Unfortunately there's a big road construction project going on now that's hurting their business (why people can't follow a simple sign is beyond me). Sandwich lovers of Seattle should unite to make sure that Grinders feels the love.

    (5)

  • Lee A.

    An interesting selection of unique sandwiches made hot and fresh. A sandwich is about $12 but they are very big (you have to eat with a fork and knife) with a lot of filling.

    (3)

  • Brad D.

    This was my first time to Grinders. I took my wife and two of my kids. I decided to park a couple of blocks away, so I didn't have to deal with the road construction. When we arrived, the staff greeted us warmly, and they gave us pointers on what to order for ourselves and the kids. There are a lot of drinks to choose from the cooler (sodas, beer, wine). The food didn't take long to arrive, and it was fantastic! The Dipper was huge, and packed with roast beef. The pulled pork sandwiches were also big and my son loved the spicy flavor (you can order it mild too). While they have deserts, we had no room left. :-) This is a great place to go for a casual atmosphere and great food. I will definitely be coming back.

    (5)

  • James S.

    It is a little hard to get in due to the street construction. Buck up and find your way here. I crave the Po Boy. In fact every meal I have had here was great. They also have live music and actually pay the bands. Something not all places understand as cool. Go here.

    (5)

  • Patrick F.

    Amazing food, awesome service. Ordered the, "Giblano" with a side sausage and don't have anything bad to say. The size of the sandwich was "enormous" and being a bigger dude, I almost couldn't finish it!!

    (5)

  • Shawn G.

    I am a deli guy. Love a good sandwich! Hot Sands was outstanding. My wife brought home half of the Meatball and it was fantastic. Add in home-made marinara, which was outstanding, we knew we had to go back. Our wait was only two days despite a 30 minute drive. I picked the ham and cheese with peppers and carmelized onions. I surprised myself. I was all set on the Po Boy but the description of the ham and cheese sold me. I was not disappointed. It even exceeded my expectations. We will be back, many many more times.

    (5)

  • Emma F.

    Good grinder style subs. I had the meatball sub and it was your standard meatball grinder. Servers are nice and the place is clean Note: There are a lot of onions on the subs here.

    (3)

  • Lauren D.

    This place is so fucking good. The service is extremely helpful, the ingredients are fresh and made in-house, and the sandwiches themselves are delectable.

    (5)

  • John P.

    Great place for delicious and extremely filling hot Grinders. Ill be making this a regular stop when I'm in the area. Easy in and out. I had the Ciabatta grinder, and it was hot fresh and full of flavor. You wont go wrong here. One grinder is enough for two people. Enjoy.

    (5)

  • Nina N.

    I forgot how damn good and awesome this place is. Great customer service and after years not coming back, they still remembered my order. So awesome and delicious! Goomba grinder Meatball sub

    (5)

  • Frank D.

    Yep, this is the real deal for hot sandwiches. Cooked to order, quality ingredients - don't get much better unless you travel to Philly. Music on Saturdays. Friendly service. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Rebecca B.

    The sandwiches are expensive. But they are also huge you could split it between two people and probably be fine. I got the Gilbano and the steak was good. I would recommend it. My brother got the Ciabatta and loved the meat and bread he said it was really good. He actually finished his whole sandwhich. But he is in the teenage boy stage where he eats everything. Also a nice surprise is the cheesecake. We got some to take home for later and it was amazing. The crust had almonds in it and the cheesecake was superb. I would defiantly recommend it for a treat!

    (5)

  • Cameron J.

    Our sandwiches were GREAT. I took 1 star off which I felt was generous for the POOR service. Considering you order yourself at the counter this chick was RUDE. Typically service is much more of a deal breaker for me but my meatball sandwich was THAT good. Keep the food exactly the same but hire someone how will actually give good customer service.

    (4)

  • Sharon A.

    Amazing sandwiches. They are HUGE so come hungry.

    (5)

  • Dan S.

    First impression: Wow, that's a big ole' sammich! Second impression: How the bleep am I supposed to eat this thing...? Third impression (after attacking it with a fork): Yuuuuuuuuuum! Picked up a chicken pesto to go and had the above happen after I got it home. There's so much good stuff inside that you can't really eat it like a normal sandwich; you have to go with a fork at least for a little while. It's a big old sloppy mess but it's a darn tasty one. Chicken, pesto, feta, tomatoes, grilled onions, how can you go wrong? I'm right now forlornly looking at my plate wishing another sandwich would appear but appeasing myself with little crumbs of feta. The parking lot is tiny, so I could see that being an issue. Location is pretty bizarre: you're on a not-so-nice stretch of Pac Highway and here's this great little place right in the middle. Inside is very clean, very good looking, very comfy. Prices are $10 - $12 for a sandwich, but you'll get your money's worth in taste and portion size. Definitely worth checking out.

    (4)

  • Trevor M.

    When we eat here we always get huge sandwiches at a good price. Meatball, gilbano and chicken parm are all great. Service is always great too.

    (5)

  • L R.

    Wow! A neighbor had recommended this place as a new and interesting joint to grab some lunch. I say Wow! again. Massive grinder sandwich (those with a light appetite need to share with someone!) full of a variety of meats, spreads and some lovely mozz. My 15-yr old son devoured his entire pulled pork sandwich! This place is seriously a nice change of pace for the N. Seattle/Shoreline food scene. Can't wait to swing by again soon for a grinder and some live music. Gotta, gotta stop and try 'em! p.s. a great place for a business lunch

    (5)

  • erin b.

    The vegetarian sandwich they have here, aka The Giordano, is superb. Eggplant, portobello mushrooms, peppers, zucchini all grilled to order over perfectly toasted ciabetta bread. It's lathered with a slightly sweet pesto due to the addition of marsala wine I think. I.... LOVE... THIS.... SANDWICH!!!. It's completely worth a trip up to Shoreline, but be prepared to spend $10-15. Beer pairings are a nice touch.

    (5)

  • Chris T.

    OK, I've found it. The best sandwich shop in the Seattle area, no questions asked. The food is out-of-this-world fresh, and it will take them a while to prepare your meal, but it's totally worth the wait. I've had the BBQ pork and the Gilbano grinder - both were incredible. The Gilbano has ruined me on other Philly cheesesteaks - it's just way better. I think the garlic and wonderfully spicy peppers puts it over the top. The BBQ pork has a great sauce - spicy and sweet. I even purchased a jar for home use! Portions are big - they know how to pack a sandwich here. The chili is also delicious - lots of different flavors, and a medium consistency (not super think, good balance of beans and meat). The dollop of mascarpone really adds a nice sweet cool touch to it. The whiskey bread pudding dessert will make you lose your mind. It is the best bread pudding I've ever tasted. The staff is fantastic - really friendly and honest. The owner even came out on my second visit and spent a lot of time chatting with us, telling us all about his restaurant, the food he prepares, and the history of his leather chairs we were lounging in. The atmosphere is great - blues and swingin' Rat Pack tunes playing. They have live blues bands on Saturday nights, which you have to call in advance to make a reservation in order to guarantee a seat. And this is a sandwich shop! I could hang out here all day... I love sandwiches, and I can say that this is one of the best sandwich shops I've ever been to, and I've been to hundreds all over the world.

    (5)

  • Neal M.

    I figured I should write a review since I was up last night craving a sandwich from here. My wife and I have decided that Grinders ranks above Salumi and just below Paseo on the sandwich spectrum. That is huge compliment if you didn't know. It is all about flavor here. The sandwiches don't look refined but oh do they taste so great. The little touches like the marsala wine cooked onions add so much. The ciabatta bread that they use on some of the sandwiches is seriously the best ciabatta i've ever had. The best sandwiches I've had so far there are the "goomba", the chicken pesto and the ciabatta grinder. All amazingly delicious. I am going to go again really soon!

    (5)

  • Chris B.

    I LOVE this place. I've never had a sandwich there that I wouldn't order again, although I usually stick with the Goomba or the Chicken Pesto. The Po Boy is damn awesome too. The sandwiches are pretty big, but for one reason or another I can always put them down. Maybe it's my habit of eating until I'm "call 911" full. The ONLY reason I'm docking this place one star is the price. I don't doubt it's justified and appropriate given the cost to make such treasures, but I do find it tough to come here and spend $35-ish on two sandwiches, a couple of cokes, tax, and a tip. I'm not saying it's not worth it - we've taken plenty of people here and they absolutely adore it, but I do warn them ahead of time that they are reasonably expensive. Also, the parking lot is a crazy bitch.. but totally worth the "can you get out and make sure I don't hit them?"

    (4)

  • Kevin K.

    This place is amazing. A friend of mine took me there, and I was a bit skeptical, but its sketchy outside brings in a very classy atmosphere inside. The service was good, and they offer an interesting blend of sodas. Anyways, I had the Ciabatta, and I was certainly impressed. It wasn't too salty, and the flavor is very strong. Price is a bit steep, but they give you quite a bit of food for the money, so it's well worth it. You could always split the cost as well.

    (5)

  • Dianne C.

    It's all in the stars, I guess. Considering it comes highly recommended on my yelp homepage, I'd been really wanting to try this out. Perhaps there was just a minor sticker shock, seeing the menu online, because it's about $10 for a sandwich... but, I thought, the sandwiches are probably pretty big. And they are. I can really only finish half of that food filled crispy ciabatta roll. It was quite an ordeal trying to choose the sandwich that would give me that first impression, but I settled down and ordered the BBQ Pork Grinder (which came with spicy cole slaw), and my mom had the Chicken Pesto Grinder. When I first suggested going there after a Costco trip to my mom, her first words were, "Ugh, I hate sandwiches." After getting our order, she must have said, "I love the bread", at least five times while we were there. She called my uncle right away to tell him to try it, and that she was bringing him a menu. She then listed some people she wanted to take here the next time they visited, then insisted I bring the fiancee here when he's in town next week. Haha. I'd have to agree. The rolls were delicious, as were the filling... and if you think it's a lot, looking at it at first blush, it's a lot more once you sink your knife into it. Oh, yeah, this is a sandwich you'll need a fork and knife for. Other than that, I enjoyed the general atmosphere (relaxed at 2pm on a Saturday), the lay of their land (a few lazy seats by a fireplace, a couple of tables against a wall with cushioned seats and backs, a few bar stools against the place you order, some side tables with bar stools, a couple of tables with two chairs each side all around), and the music overhead. I definitely wouldn't mind coming back and trying other sandwiches, although I may just split it with a friend. I cannot imagine a time will come that I'll ever finish one on my own. P.S. They also apparently have live music at times, which require reservations for 7pm.

    (5)

  • Cameron B.

    I had driven many times by this place and today made it a point to have a go. Walking in you hear big band music and smell garlic. The kitchen is busy grilling meats and constructing grinders. The crowd is loud and boisterous, and the decor is warm and inviting. The menu is cleverly written and made me want to try almost every item. A jewel considering it shares the parking lot with a brake and muffler shop. Plus the restaurant just celebrated their 7yr anniversary. All signs point to yes. I had the meatball grinder to go, since it headlined the menu, and seemed like their staple. Plus, a good meatball sets the standard for the rest of the menu. Even after having to endure the ride all the way back to Ballard in its foil and bag, the grinder was impeccable. Hand made meatballs, cheeses and herbs with perfectly grilled onions. Plus a very nice touch to consider the takeout customer and serve the marinara on the side, allowing the bread keep its crusty, yet deliciously chewy integrity and not become soggy. Worth the trip and then some. A stunning value with such genuine quality ingredients, and an amazing meatball to grind on. You can tell the owner cares and is proud of his product. Can't wait to try some of the other menu items!

    (5)

  • Konrad H.

    Big Portions of wonderful food that tasted amazing. My Girlfriend had the Dipper that was so huge she gave me half and she was still left with a big filling portion. I had the Goomba. which was also excellent. For the high quality and huge portions I think $10 is inexpensive. There wines are also very reasonable. This is one of the few places outside of downtown Seattle that has good live music on Fridays and Saturdays. For what you get and gven the size and quality of the sandwiches I would expect a long wait for lunch. I wanted to try the bread pudding but after a Goomba and half a dipper there was no way I had room. Next time we will probably just split a dipper.

    (5)

  • Kaarin S.

    I love Grinders! Their portions are enormous, but they make excellent leftovers. What I love is that everything is homemade, so a delicious meatball sub one week will not taste the same as a meatball sub the next week. There are subtle variations in spices, but the result is always the same: delicious. There are some sandwiches that are better than others, but you can really never go wrong. This isn't Tat's, so don't expect to be able to pick up these big boys. You have to use a fork and knife to attack these things. I love the atmosphere and I really want to go back when they have live shows (although they have a cover charge, boo). I love hearing the jazz/blues that pump through the speakers while I chow down on a delicious sandwich. I'm here pretty much every Sunday... I think that tells you how much I like this place. P.S. They're closed on Monday!

    (5)

  • Jordan F.

    I went to grinders last week and ordered the Stromboli--I'm a sucker for strombolis. I have to say that Grinders' stromboli was delicious. I would highly recommend them to all of my friends and family. Go check them out!

    (5)

  • Jayson W.

    Great sandwich shop on highway 99. Let's face it, highway 99 is not the most glamorous place. However, every now and then you'll find a nice little food joint. And here is one of them. I got one of the employee favorites, the Ciabatta. The flavors were great with their sauces and meats. And as for the portions, very nicely generous!! However, I did have a problem... When I got my sandwich it was cold. Not even warm. Other than that, if you got $13 to spare on a proper sandwich and nostalgic atmosphere - come here.

    (4)

  • Brad C.

    Let me start this review off by saying this is not based on 1 experience but numerous. First time we came, my wife and I were trying to get a quick bite to eat and decided to give Grinders a try. though it was not very busy, the staff seemed very overwhelmed... but friendly. We placed our orders and waited. 20 minutes past, so I thought I should just go check on the progress of our meal. They said it would be up in just one minute. we waited. 10 more minutes pass by and only one of our two grinders comes out. Being that we were in a rush, I decided to start eating while my wife Food was being prepared. 15 minutes later, her sandwich finally comes out. At this point I'm almost done with my sandwich. To top things off, not sure how, but they managed to actually serve her sandwich lukewarm. We then waited another 15 minutes while they remade her order. A quick trip turned into almost an hour. Fast forward a couple months. Decided to give them another chance because I understand things happen, and I gladly gave them the opportunity to redeem themselves. Did not want to be waiting forever for my food, so this time, I planned ahead and place my order for take-out. I was quoted 20 minutes until my order would be ready, so I quickly left my house and headed out. Upon arriving, exactly 20 minutes after placing the order, as they said, they said they had a problem and the sandwich was now going to take another 15 minutes. The point of ordering takeout was so that I was not going to have to wait as I did the time prior so I thanked them and declined the sandwich. Any establishment that continues this poor of service needs new management or better training so that their employees can do their jobs.

    (1)

  • Jason M.

    Shrimp Po' boy~ Reminded me of some great sands I had in the South~ Friendly staff, great food, and awesome atmosphere! ~Jason.

    (5)

  • Brittany L.

    The exterior? About as appealing as it could be in this stretch of 99. The parking lot is a little cramped. Oh well. Interior? Nothing like exterior. The best way to describe it was casual yet classy. Clean and simple; A little higher end than your average order-up-front sandwich shop. Staff? Very friendly and fairly quick-moving. Sandwiches? They're big alright. I wasn't entirely too impressed with my Stromboli sandwich. The sandwich claims that it "erupts with flavor" but I felt like it mostly just erupted sauce and spice. If you're into that sort of thing, you might thoroughly enjoy it. I just don't think it's my cup of tea. I do want to give it another shot since I feel like I'm missing something with everyone loving the place and try something else. With all other integral parts going well for them, it's the least I could do.

    (3)

  • amy s.

    I had to go to Sky Nursery up on Aurora and was hungry when I left. I decided to give this place a try and I am so glad I did! Excellent meatball grinder! The bread was a bit crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with melted cheese, 3 homemade meatballs and homemade marinara sauce. The marinara was so good that I needed to ask for extra on the side to dunk my sandwich- but I LOVE rich, tomato marinara sauce. The staff was super friendly and the owner came over and checked in on me. This is a hike from where I live but the next time I am up this way, I will definitely be back.

    (4)

  • Dembe N.

    Went for a lunch today. Very friendly staff, very helpful. Ordered Pulled Pork sandwich - above average 3.5 stars in my book not quite 4 stars but good filling tasty sandwich. Would recommend, will go back to try other signature sandwiches.

    (3)

  • Melissa F.

    After hearing a friend rave about this place for years, we finally got to try it. I am sorely disappointed. It's not like Blair Witch Project where everyone tells you it's scary and so you brace yourself for scary and end up disappointed. This is just.. blah. I had an Italian sausage. The bread was okay, the sausages were tasty, but the marinara sauce and cheese were so bland and just drowned the bread. It was almost like a "why are you even here sauce?". I had to salt my food. I've NEVER had to salt my food. Even with my cooking at home, people reach for the salt. So if I'm throwing down table salt on my plate, you know it's got to be bland. Portion was huge. I ate it. Calories. Yay. My dining companion, similarly pumped up about trying the place, had the Dipper. I noticed he didn't say much and he didn't finish his food, so I reached over and tried a piece of meat from his sandwich, dipped in the au jus. Bland. Meat was tender, which is cool, I guess. But at this point you're just pointing out things that should be standard features in a car, like "hey, check it, it's got a radio". I need more flavor! That being said, it seems people love this place. It's definitely a chill place to hang out with a group of sandwich-eaters. There's a beer fridge with some decent brews. Staff is friendly. Maybe just.. bring your own sauce or herbs or something.

    (2)

  • Cobina S.

    The food here is absolutely mind-blowing. I ordered a Catfish Po-Boy, and ended up finishing it, and taking a few healthy bites out of an employee-made sandwich called The Babe. If they still have The Babe, order it. You will not be disappointed. It is absolutely amazing. 09-24-14: Currently there is some construction on Aurora, please make the effort to stop in. They are definitely open!

    (5)

  • Adam W.

    I had the chicken pesto and couldn't stop eating it! Great little restaurant. Have gone back several other times and each sandwich is unique and delicious. You will not be disappointed!

    (5)

  • Christine S.

    We were craving sandwiches one afternoon and decided to give this place a try. I'm not big on hot sandwiches, but my bf is so here we were. It's not a difficult place to find, but I suspect the construction zone they are is really messing with their business. We were there around 1 on a weekend and we're one of only two tables. But the people working were welcoming and helpful in navigating the (relatively small) menu. I ordered the sausage/meatball sandwich and he got the ciabatta. I shouldn't have gotten the meatball part of mune, because I don't really like meatballs. I don't know what I was thinking. But the sausage was delicious! The gent loved his sandwich and notes that the bread was sturdy enough to hold up to the amount of stuff on it. He also liked that both sandwiches warmed up well. For dessert we ordered the bread pudding. That was wonderful! There was a good amount of booze in there so if you are whiskey averse, it might not be the treat for you, but it is delicious. It also has raisins, which is generally a boner killer for me, but were ok in this particular bread pudding. Overall I would recommend, but it is a little pricey. On the other hand it fed us 2 meals since the sandwiches were huge so it isn't a poor value necessarily.

    (5)

  • Tony Y.

    If you've never been here just tell them. They will give you a great tour around the menu. Grinders is a gem hidden up in Shoreline. I have passed Grinders many times going to and from Costco, but never noticed it. If not for fellow yelpers, I don't think I would have ever found it. I have tried many different sandwich shops in Seattle, and Grinders is right up there with the best of them. The thing that makes Grinders unique from Paseo or tats, is that Grinders has a large menu with many different sandwiches--all of which are delicious. When I went, my friend and I shared two sandwiches: the sausage and meatballs, and the fried shrimp po boy. Both were amazing from start to finish and the portions are HUGE. The meatball and sausage sandwich was served on a baguette doused in tangy marinera sauce that reminded me of my Italian grandmothers. To top it off, they include cheese and fresh onions. The friend shrimp po boy reminded me of the po boy I had in New Orleans over Thanksgiving--yeah its that good. Served on fresh bread with shrimp fried to order, lettuce, peppers, and tasty aioli like sauce. I will be back to try more of the sandwiches and I strongly recommend Grinders!

    (5)

  • Erin J.

    Pros: The interior is cute with plenty of seating options. While we were waiting for our to-go order we sat in big, comfy leather chairs and had a glass of wine and ginger ale. The classic sodas provided a nice alternative to your standard Coke products. The service was pretty good: the staff offered to go through the menu with us since it was our first time there. When it came to packaging the order, everything was correct (which sounds silly to include in a review, but we've had bad luck lately with restaurants messing up to-go orders). They took a lot of care packaging the marinara for the Meatball and SauBall separately so the sandwiches wouldn't get soggy. The sandwiches themselves had lots of flavor. I had the Dipper, which had a great kick from the horseradish and a hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions. The steak was very tender and it was loaded with mushrooms. The portions are also huge. I struggled finishing one half, so I had a whole meal to look forward to the next day. Cons: Although this isn't the fault of the restaurant, we had a heck of a time parking with all the construction going on around the restaurant. On one side of the parking lot, there are some cones separating the lot from a pretty hefty and abrupt dropoff to the road below. Because of how narrow the lot is to begin with, this made parking a feat. The selection of beers was a little disappointing... while I understand trying to be trendy with the beer selection, it came at the expense of having a basic light beer available for people who aren't beer connoisseurs and just want something familiar. With respect to the sandwiches, a common complaint seems to be soggy bread, but the bread on my sandwich was quite the opposite. The ciabatta ended up being almost cracker-like and hard to chew. Even au jus didn't help. I also wish there was less bread (or just a larger meat-to-bread ratio) overall. The au jus could have been a little more flavorful as well--it was almost clear. The prices are on the high side, but I repeat: you will get two meals out of your sandwich. I would definitely be willing to give this place another shot in the future. It was just a little disappointing for my first time here, especially with the stellar reviews on Yelp and other sites.

    (3)

  • Colleen J.

    Delicious. Just delicious! I had the BBQ pork and I believe it is the best I have ever had. The staff was super friendly and very accommodating. The prices are a little high when you are going in for some lunch sandwiches but truthfully the sandwiches are so huge you cod probably split one and then it would be cheap!!! We will probably have to make this a "before Costco" ritual.

    (4)

  • Amanda B.

    Just left setac n came here before hopping on ferry. The po boy catfish sandwhich was by far the best sandwich of the 4 we ordered! Nice, clean spot. Parking was very bad since there was alot of street construction.

    (4)

  • Tom B.

    Been coming here for ten years, off and on, and they never disappoint. Let's take a look at this idea of serving comfort food made "with a twist," or prepared with gourmet ingredients and gourmet techniques. People wonder if this is still comfort food. Well, comfort food varies in definition down to a level where it's almost unique to each eater (we all have personal childhood favorites, and so on), and we all have varying amounts of patience for gussying up simple foods, especially simple hearty foods with long cultural traditions. Hot sandwiches have some of the longest cultural traditions of any dishes around, and this place has po'boys and meatball grinders and whatnot; they're basically the whole menu here. But they're not messing with them. They make them right; they make them with all the skills available to a professional cook (maybe a professional chef, for all I know, but they have a few different cooks here and they probably didn't all go to culinary school or anything). There's nothing overly fancied about these sandwiches--they're just made very well with fresh ingredients and no skimping. What you get in the end is a welcoming, comfortable place with great, simple food. You walk in to a nicely painted dining room with high, sturdy tables that can seat up to eight. There are a few overstuffed chairs around a gas fireplace insert. You order at the counter. They have a couple soups and other things, I think maybe some chips. But the dozen or so hot sandwiches that comprise the bulk of the menu, those really are the stars of the show here. They're all about nine or ten bucks, and they will keep anybody full for quite a while. I don't think those competitive eating shows would ever try more than two of these sandwiches--just one is massive and the average person will probably have a few bites left over. They have chicken, fish, meatball, and sausage options. The sauces are rich and flavorful, and the cheese seems fresh and well-made. The bread is particularly good, soft on the inside and toasty/crusted on the outside. Great sandwiches all the way around.

    (5)

  • Stephanie S.

    You walk up to the counter to order your very large sandwich. The staff is to the point and gets the job done. I ordered the Stromboli sandwich today and it satisfied my needs but it was slightly salty, but the marinara sauce was on point. I've been here about five times and each time I leave with a full belly and a smile on my face. The bread is just what you need. My two girlfriends were raving about their sandwiches (meatball and another stromboli) so I think this place is definitely worth the visit.

    (4)

  • Lynn C.

    This place is an upscale sandwich shop which you place your order at the counter. It was busy on the Friday night we went. As we sat at the counter, I noticed lots of people ordered take outs. Everyone there was very friendly, and at least three people made sure we liked our food. My friend and I had the catfish and shrimp po boy sandwiches with coleslaw on top. It was nothing fancy but they tasted good. The bread pudding was warm and melt in our mouths. However it was a bit too heavy on the whiskey to my liking, but my friend who likes alcohol more than I do enjoyed it. Though I liked the fact that it wasn't overly sweet. I'm curious to try their cheesecake and tiramisu which both looked really delicious. The portion was big, even the dessert. If I ever go back there again, I would order a sandwich, a salad/soup, and a dessert for two people to share. That said, the check was pretty big too.

    (3)

  • Ray C.

    Recently returned just the wife and I.. Both of us enjoyed our time & our food...the manager, she went way above and beyond to make sure or visit went smoother then the last...we will gladly return.. As I hear they are under new ownership...

    (4)

  • Big T.

    Huge delicious sandwiches! Warm friendly staff! And good hand made food is worth a little time waiting.... So if you are super impatient call ahead or get over yourself. ;-)

    (5)

  • Norma M.

    Just tried this place for the first time, and have driven by it a million times, which is a shame, because of all the Shrimp Po Boy, and French dip sandwhichsI I've missed, which is what I tried this first time....which are excellent, and I do mean excellent. I will be back very very soon. A little expensive, but have to say, its worth it, and they are huge.

    (5)

  • Yet Another H.

    Great people, good music, arty and relaxing atmosphere and that is just the physical space. What you are really there for is to be treated to the sandwich experience you will remember, dream about and ultimately find your way back to again and again. We went on a recent Sunday afternoon they were not busy probably due to the awful never-to-be finished constructions on 99, since Bucky's next door is not open on Sunday we hazard to guess the parking was fair game, but now that I have tasted the goodies I will park wherever I need and hike in if necessary to get one of these sandwiches. Since they were not busy we got a full narrated tour of the menu which is varied but not overwhelming. I had the Chiabatta which I found sweet, spicy and delightful all around. They are unapologetically passionate for real food nothing dainty about what is being constructed here yet the flavors weave an intricate pattern as delicate as lace on your taste buds, all your senses will be engaged. They also have wonderful deserts I hear but since I obliterated my sandwich there was no more room at the inn to pursue further endeavors. If you are looking for good eats, or a true deli person, a foodie of any kind or if you happen to be from the east coast and want a treat rarely found on the left coast I strongly suggest you pop in and give it a whirl. Enjoy~

    (5)

  • Brian P.

    I'm not sure what the fascination is with this place. I suppose if you are a garlic or onion feen then of course I can see that. Almost everything on the menu is garlic something or another and is way overpriced. We ordered the Goomba and 1 other sandwich (Gambura??), a side salad, tiny bag of chips and two waters, it was $33!!!!!! The Goomba was terrible, there must have been 3 full onions on that thing. I can't believe anyone in there right mind could stomach that thing in its entirety. I waited until the 2nd visit here and both experiences were subpar. Friendly staff however, if that's what your looking for!!

    (1)

  • Brian S.

    Ive had four sandwiches and a salad all where amazing. Best in north town!

    (5)

  • Mary Jo B.

    First visit to Grinders after hearing lots of great reviews. It was better than I had imagined.

    (5)

  • Will C.

    I feel guilty it's taken me two years and a couple dozen visits to write this review. Their sandwiches are mind-blowingly big and delicious. Our favorite is by far the shrimp po'boy. Hot, spicy shrimp served with heaps of creamy cold slaw and remoulade. It will blow your mind while blowing out your waist band. This is one of the top places we bring people from out of town and they're never disappointed. I am so glad this one rare gem on the Shoreline stretch of Aurora is here and appears to be surviving the construction!

    (5)

  • Sarah F.

    The Food: Its pretty good. I'll admit it. I've had the Shrimp Po' Boy on a number of occasions. And I don't complain. It can be a little soggy. I suggest you eat it there or plan to eat it right away. The price: While the food is good, it ain't $40+ for 3 Sammies and a coke good. There are much better Sandwiches in the world. And most of them are cheaper. Especially not when... The Service: Sucks. There was recently a little write up about these guys in the Seattle Times. About how the construction on 99 is hurting their business. That stinks, says I. We should patronize the local guy. So we call in our Friday Night order for 4 sandwiches. 20 minutes, they say. 45 minutes later, we receive our *3* sandwiches. Yes, 3. Not the 4 we ordered. When we point out missing sandwich, we are informed it will be another 20 minutes. No "So Sorry". No "We'll have that right up for you". Nope. This reminds me of previous instances in which the service has been pretty much lack luster. Now I wonder if the construction on 99 is really the issue. Hmmm. I've been known to put up with a lot for really, really good food. I'll pay more. I'll wait longer. I'll even be treated a little abruptly. Let me assure you, Grinders your food is not that good.

    (2)

  • Jesse L.

    When I first walked in I was a little confused about where to sit, the sit down restaurant but still casual dining concept is a little weird. To start with, I am a big sandwhich enthusiast, I see a new sandwhich place I usually pull over and try it, as I did this time. The price for a sandwich was pretty standard, until I realized how big the sandwiches the price is excellent for how much food you get, and the servers were very nice. Onto the sandwhich it looked amazing and wasnt a huge dissapoint, but it was a tad salty. The sandwhich was good but not amazing as I said a little too salty and not the best in the world. Very good sandwhich good price just not in my opinion as good as everyone seems to say on here.

    (3)

  • John R.

    If a great sandwich is what you are looking for this is the place. The meat balls are home made and outstanding. The bread pudding is over the top. The decor is very tasteful and the service very attentive. Road construction in front can make it difficult to get to but well worth the effort.

    (5)

  • Young P.

    I visited for lunch today with my son because of what I read on yelp. It's no lie. This is the best hot sandwich I've ever had in Seattle area. Portions are also huge... Enough for two.

    (5)

  • Carolyn S.

    Everything I have tried on the menu so far has been loaded with flavor, this place is a good find (easy to miss for being right on Aurora). Friendly staff and pleasant environment And come hungry :)

    (5)

  • Caileigh A.

    Yum! Seriously, this place is so good! Though, I'm giving it a one-star deduction for the long wait and not-so-helpful service. As for the food? Five stars all around. I got the meatball grinder and oh my word, it was delicious! The sandwich is full of flavor. From the rich marinara sauce, the herb-filled meatballs, the sweating caramelized onions, and the buttered, toasted bread, this sandwich cannot and will not disappoint. I strongly recommend a night at Grinders!

    (4)

  • Tami J.

    Stopped in for lunch, and had very good food! The atmosphere is very nice and comfortable, The service is excellent, you can tell that the employees take pride in their job. The house salad is very good, and large enough for two to share as a side dish. As for the sandwiches.... my mouth is watering just thinking about them! The meat ball and the sausage are both super delicious! We will be back to try the other choices!

    (5)

  • Crystal D.

    Great selection of beers and decent sandwiches. The first time I came, I split a "French Dip" style sandwich and it was amazing!!! I could barely finish my half. I love that it isn't a boring dish like most places. They added mushrooms to it and to my surprise, it was heavenly. The Au Jus was great and they even brought me more without charge. The atmosphere was very relaxed and the owner is a riot! It was literally like walking into an establishment in a vacation town because everyone, both employees and customers, were happy. The Bread pudding melts in your mouth. The Whiskey Cream sauce was exactly what I look for when treating my tastebuds to something uplifting and new. I happen to be a whiskey fan, however if you are not...you may not agree with me. If you do get this, my friend has gotten it for take-out and it's not very good reheated. So eat it fresh! Great selection of beers and knowledgeable staff that know how to recommend beers if your beer is out of stock. They only serve beer & wine, not a a full bar. They have a raspberry lambic if you're looking for something fruity and they have some of the best imported beers from Germany as well as the Czech Republic. NOTE: I deducted a star because of my most recent experience this weekend. Saturdays they have live music and charge a cover starting around 7pm to 11:30pm. The band this last saturday wasn't particularly my flavor of blues music (they had a person on keyboard) and the part that made it un-enjoyable was the volume. For such a small space, the drummer was far too loud. I'd recommend to sit as far away as possible to avoid the volume and bright lights. I used to be an audio engineer and the sound was close to the threshold of pain, something that is important to be mindful of when trying to enjoy music.

    (4)

  • Anna T.

    Grinders Hot Sands is an unexpectedly delightful gem in Shoreline! The food is delicious and flavorful, the guys working are professional, outgoing and friendly and the restaurant has a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. The owner must be doing something right?! My husband and I tried the Whack Whack Salad and the Goomba sandwich and both dishes were YUMMY!!! Previously we've tried the Chicken Parmesan sandwich and the tiramisu for dessert and oh my...tiramisu was out of this world! We'll be back very soon for some more grinders:-)

    (5)

  • Katherine M.

    My husband and I shared the pulled pork sammich. I piled on the cheese and slaw. It was simply to die for. This is the kind of local gem I was looking for. stop reading and go eat! seriously!

    (5)

  • Vivi R.

    Good and friendly service!! Our first time here! My sandwich was Tricolore, it was bit salty, but still I enjoyed it. My friend's pulled pork sandwich was interestingly delicious. It contained many different flavors that just wows you(:

    (5)

  • Kara C.

    The construction on 99 is doing this amazing place a disservice. Figure it out, there's a way to get to the parking lot, come in here! Service is beyond attentive, the owner is invested in his employees and customers and the sandwiches are out of this world.

    (5)

  • Erik B.

    Expensive but totally worth it! Some if the best hot sandwiches I've ever had. The pulled pork is especially delicious. Large portions and friendly staff. Many of the sauces/ingredients are homemade.

    (4)

  • Samantha T.

    I have been to grinders before with my husband. The sandwhiches were ok, ciabatta is amazing. The other rolls end up getting lost in other ingredients sauce or disintegrate with a wet sauce On a recent trip hubby and I tried the dipper. I wanted to like this sandwhich on paper it read like it would be delicious. I WAS WRONG! The sandwhich is essentially a roast beef dip with au jus. How can you f* up something so simple. The meat lacked savory-ness, and while it was tender that was all there was positive about it. The sandwhich was actually sweet, between the basil and the onion, felt unbalanced..and the au jus was watered down as if they served us the tapwater used to clean the pan the roast beef was cooked in? Again im thinking..how can you f* up a simple sandwhich? Not only that but as were eating the band playing tonight is loading in and setting up, creating a racket, we felt like we were in their way and not a word of explanation or apology from the staff. We really want to like this place, but have been let down too often, will not return.

    (2)

  • Ann V.

    Went to this place about a year ago on a weekend afternoon. The place was busy and the staff was obviously overwhelmed. Waited over 45 minutes for sandwiches that were passable, but not great. Based on all of the rave reviews here, I figured we must have visited on a really unfortunate and unusual day. We decided to give it another shot about a week ago. We either have terrible luck, or this place is just a hot mess. Again, we waited seemingly forever (35 minutes for sandwiches?), and again, they weren't fantastic. My sandwich appeared about 10 minutes before my husband's, and when his BBQ pork sandwich finally arrived, it came with no coleslaw (listed as a standard ingredient on the menu). This place is just plain disappointing.

    (2)

  • Erica W.

    Unfortunately I have very high expectations after going to a grinders restaurant in Chelan, so naturally I compare every sandwich shop to them. The worst part of this place was the wait, omgoodness. However, they prepare you with the wait time when you order, so there aren't any surprises. It was probably about an hour. I don't understand how a sandwich can take that long. But the guys were very apologetic about the wait when they were bringing out the sandwiches, which really did soften the blow. I think they should give some sort of an appetizer to tithe you over while you're waiting for your food. I had the chicken parmesean sandwich. It was pretty good, but nothing spectacular. One thing they need desperately on the menu as an add on, ricotta cheese! It really makes a good sandwich GREAT. The chicken parm would've been out of this world had there been ricotta cheese on it! Also, a BBQ chicken grinder would be a good addition as well. My Star breakdown; Service/people= 5 stars. Food= 3-4. Price= 3 ($10.95-$12.95 for a sandwich ALONE is absurd... no chips, no fries, no salad, no soup... these are all extra or N/A.)

    (3)

  • David B.

    What can I say, it reminds of when I was growing up back east. Awesome selection, although my favorite is the "Dipper' and the chicken Parmesan and don't forget to try (if you have any room left) the whiskey bread pudding. If you haven't been here yet, make it a priority!

    (5)

  • Andrea A.

    Ummm how should I put this but wooww. I should let my stomach to the talking but currently it is stuffed and can't talk. This lovely establishment does a outstanding job of making you're tummy feel loved. The staff is very attentive and give great service.

    (5)

  • Won Sub Y.

    I've only tried a few things here but both were good. The portions are huge and the quality is good for a sandwich place. I will say my sandwich lacked a little salt but overall, I thought it was a good sandwich and I would definitely recommend people to try it out. My only problem with this place was the parking was terrible and the prices are steep for just a sandwich (13-18 bucks without side, drink, tax or tip)

    (4)

  • Ruth K.

    This place is really, really yummy! I wanted to try everything from the menu! I shared with a friend and ordered the Ciabatta, which was huge, just half almost the size of my head, and the BBQ Pork. They were both very delicious! The menu is kind of pricy for a sandwhich ranging around $9-11, but the portions are huge so it balances out. These sandwiches fill you up pretty good. The atmosphere is also quite nice and quaint. Friendly staff.

    (5)

  • CJ B.

    Good food and very friendly staff. This is the kind of place that makes you feel welcomed without being overwhelmed. The sandwiches are yummy. Those with sauce are not possible to eat with your hands so they give you a knife and fork. The selection is limited but what they do offer is imaginative and tasty. We shall return!

    (4)

  • Chris M.

    delicious sandos. Be prepared to share one or gorge!!

    (5)

  • Derek C.

    Tried this place after working nearby for a year. Its located next to a Auto Repair shop so you wouldnt expect it to be a place with this good of food. The interior is nice, sorta like a nice wine bar, and comfortable. I ordered to go the first time and told the girl this was my first time in so recommend something. She recommended the Ciabatta. She gave me a glass of ice water while I waited. It took about 5 minutes or so. The Sandwich was large and excellent. The 2nd time I ordered the Goomba which I can't even describe but it was damn good. Unfortunately on this visit a kid took my order, didnt offer any water which was fine but then left me sitting there waiting for 20-25 minutes. I finally asked if it was close to being ready and he went back, asked the chef something then turned around and grabbed a bag with my sandwich..... no clue how long it had been ready but I was a little annoyed having to wait unnecessarily like that. All in all, great place nice environment and spectacular sandwiches. They also have salads, which I'll try next time. Normally would have scored them down to a 3 due to the long wait but hoping its just a one time thing. Finally, get ready to pay... $12 and up for a sandwich, same with the salads... its not a cheap lunch.

    (4)

  • Sarah M.

    These were totally not the types of sandwiches that I envisioned when coming here...but they totally exceeded my expectations! My lovely friend has wonderful taste in restaurants so I was surprised when she recommended a sandwich shop for dinner. I pictured a Jimmy John's/Jersey Mike's type of place but this was not the case at all! It was a fun plate with large tables - almost a little fancy for the type of sandwich being served even though it was by no means so. You go up to the front and order and then sit down and they bring you your sandwiches. The staff was very friendly - but not obnoxiously so. While it took a while for the sandwiches to come out, they were totally worth the wait. The sandwiches were MASSIVE - and delicious. I had the Goomba or something like that - it had grilled chicken, feta, olives - and was awesome! They are more like melts than sandwiches - they are on a baguette-type bread and the insides are just piled high. I ate mine with a knife and fork and could only make my way through half. For only $9.95, this sandwich is totally worth the drive.

    (4)

  • Korey S.

    Get the chili, it's delicious. I have also tried the meatball sub, but it really wasn't my favorite. The meatballs are huge so the ratio of meatball to marinara was not where I wanted it. That's a personal preference, so it didn't effect my number of stars. I do feel they are kind of pricey for the location. The food is worth the price, but it's much more than I would expect to spend for lunch on 99 in shoreline. Somewhere like Bellevue or one of the more trendy neighborhoods in Seattle would be a better spot.

    (4)

  • Jenny W.

    Some of the best sandwiches ever! I used to go down to Fremont when I had a craving for some gourmet sandwiches. I think I have found my new favorite place. It is no surprise that there are many photos of pulled pork sandwiches on yelp; it is just amazing! Must try together with their spicy BBQ sauce. Pair the sandwich with a glass of beer, and I cannot ask for anything more.

    (5)

  • Khara S.

    We came for dinner on a rainy Tuesday so the building was a little difficult to find when driving north on Aurora. The front facing lights weren't too bright, and the lot on the north side of the building was *really* dark. Upon entering the restaurant we were delighted to find dark wood furniture, nice wall decor and four (occupied at the time =[ ) armchairs in front of an electric fireplace. They have salads and food other than sandwiches but that's really why people are going, right? The gentleman behind the counter was friendly and helpful while we were ordering our food and deciding on drinks. They had some craft beer but they were mostly Sam Adamses. I'd like to see some more local stuff but I won't take away a star for that. I ordered a Chicken Parmesan, and though it wasn't what I expected it was still unique and tasty enough to be gone at the end of my meal. Husband got a SauBall which was DEElicious! I'm getting that next time! The sandwiches were large and were really filled up so we used the knife and fork that was provided. Every bite was hot, savory heaven. For serious. The only other blip was my that husband's sandwich was brought out a few minutes before ours. Had we not had a friend with us I'm sure he would've been halfway through his before mine was ready. :D

    (5)

  • Ryan G.

    A little bit if east coast Italian food on the west coast - this place is great - fantastic sandwiches - great been selection - they gave me a meetball and a piece of sausage to try for free as I'm a fellow NYker - both were like biting into meat in Brooklyn - great joint for dinner

    (5)

  • Hannah A.

    If there's one thing I love it's a hot sandwich, and this place does a magnificent job of creating delicious hot sandwiches! The Tricolore is my favorite but everything I've had has been super tasty. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Michael R.

    My initial impression was that it was a nice looking place with a good atmosphere. The blonde girl taking my order couldn't have acted more disinterested if she tried, I got the ciabatta grinder. After waiting over 15 minutes to make a sandwich it finally arrived! As a note the place was pretty dead at the time as well. It was good but about 1/3 of the sandwich was missing any meat or toppings! After 15 minutes and a $10 sandwich I would've thought they could at least make it properly. They still get 3 stars as I think there's a lot of potential and the grinder was good, although missing the toppings. Not a bad spot to swing in for a grinder but make sure you are not in a hurry.

    (3)

  • Priscilla L.

    food was AMAZING! I am not really a big fan of sandwiches but this place definitely changed my heart about sandwiches. We waited for an hour for our food which is a bit too long in my opinion if they don't have churn the cheese for every sandwich. I ordered the red eye? something like that and it was sooo good. I ate the whole dang thing and it was huge. We even met the owner and the service was really good. they ran out of some kind of bread and the owner apologized and was very personable. This place is sort of far from where I live but I would definitely make the trip up there!

    (4)

  • Selina C.

    HUGE warm toasty sandwiches. Excellent hard working servers. Good parking. If you're not a whiskey fan, I would avoid the bread pudding since it's a little too alcoholic, but filling and inviting.

    (4)

  • Angelina W.

    Went there today with hubby for lunch. Ah-mazing sandwiches, and food in general. I got the meatball sandwich with no onions, hubby got the ciabatta. Yummy! We also got the soup, which was clam chowder, and again, YUM. I did read that the soup runs out fast, and I see why. All the food is homemade. Now if only the service was as good as the food this place would be fantastic!!! We walked in and waited around for awhile for a menu, after we got our menu we had to wait around for someone to take our order, which wasn't too bad except when you can see employees on their phone and talking amongst each other with only 3 customers in the restaurant.

    (3)

  • Alan C.

    Great little sandwich shop that has a nice selection of beers. The sandwich I had (sausage) was great but like someone said it would be nice to have a half order, I agree. A little pricey but worth it. Parking was terrible, service was superb. I would have given it a five star if they had half orders.

    (4)

  • Steven B.

    Ain't gonna be no doggie bag... When my gigantic meatball sandwich arrived, I was wondering how much to eat, and how much to take home. But after my first bite, I knew that none of it was going to make it out of the restaurant. Time to go hit the couch and digest... Can't wait to go back and try the next sandwich...

    (5)

  • Tien T.

    So freakin' delicious!! Huge portions and fluffy/crunchy bread!! Stromboli....tasty Italian sandwhiches with marinara sauce to dip on the side. Gilbano....their version of the "Philly". Trip tip steak is tender, cheesy gooiness and light on the onions and peppers. Meatball....the meatballs are HUGE! Amazing service. I had my dog sitting outside and they brought him some pork loin and water. So sweet!

    (5)

  • Dae K.

    Friendly staff. Good food. A little bit expensive for a sandwich in my opinion but it's definitely worth it.

    (4)

  • Camille L.

    I celebrate Summer time and I will keep reviewing the places I've been this summer and... this place is "One of the best" hot sands I've had and been to. For two subs--quite expensive (about 30 bucks) but the sizes-Ginormous! It's truly designed for carnivores. It's got loads and loads of meats, packed with flavors, and very good especially for someone who's very hungry. Absolutely worth the wait even when I've seen some "not so good" reviews, the majority were pretty satisfied. I mean, if we and when we decided to try something new, should we at least try to be open about the unknown and hope for the best? If second time around I'm not happy, I'd give them a one way ticket, which means-I won't likely be coming back. "But" If I like their food that much, I will make sacrifices. lol Check out this place, they have tons of specialties on their sleeves and if the photos don't speak for themselves, I just don't know. I really like this place and will be back to try other stuff. They have "bread pudding"? "WHAT"??? I make bread pudding myself but I will try theirs the nxt time. I came in here out of the blue and I really don't fancy sandwiches that often but I could. Idk when the best time to come here but they serve alcohol and sometimes they have nice surprises like entertaiment such as: music? live bands? I heard...ok?

    (4)

  • The Anh N.

    12" Subsandwich filled with toppings. The grilled mushrooms, caramelized onions, and the melted cheese will have you drooling begging to move into this food heaven and become their permanent resident. I spent 15 minutes pondering what to order and capture for my fellow Yelpies. After interrogated Justice, the server, she didn't drop the ball on me. With every toughs questions ranging from history of the shop, the owner is rooted from Pittsburgh and ancestry from Italy, to what is most popular and why. She even gave me a free meatball sample. The meatball was moist, rich, and flavourful, may i say way better than most places. However, their marinara sauce was so fresh, tasty, that you can eat a whole bowl alone. I ended up ordered Chicken Pesto and Po'Boy. Total after tax around $25.00 for 24" of sandwiches. My oh my. The first bite of the sweet, savory blend of grilled mushrooms and caramelize onion, melted cheese, with a hint of parmesan having me guessing whether if there is any artichoke embedded. The Po'boy electrify my taste bud with a tangy, sweet, spicy, and buttery coleslaw follow a cajun fried catfish with a hint of paprika and fried onions. I can't wait to bring my favorite date/girlfriend when I found one. Hopefully, this is the few places that will be around forever especially, after I return from a deployment for the Army. Definitely, food porn!

    (5)

  • Ally-Marie B.

    I really can't see anything wrong with this place!!!!! I'm usually not a big sandwich enthusiast, but after coming here....I believe I am starting to be one. Although there is a lot of construction going on, luckily there are two entrances to turn in to get your sandy fix. When you walk in, it doesn't feel like 99 at all. It's clean, modern and open. The mural on the wall evokes the Italian theme well, I loved the concrete floors and there are a variety of different seats to accommodate any size party. We looked over the menu after being greeted by the cashier. She was incredibly friendly and explained the soups they currently offered, complete with all the ingredients in them. Very thorough!!! I ordered the meatball and can I just say.....coming from an Italian woman who was taught how to make authentic meatballs that have been passed on for generations.....THESE MEATBALLS WERE SUPBERB. Moist, flavorful, not too salty and had the absolute perfect about of bite to them. 3 huge ones (think Wedding Singer) were atop a crunchy roll; not too thick and chewy, carmelized onions, just the right amount of cheese with marinara sauce on the side. I'm happy the sauce wasn't too salty because it balanced out the sandy very well. If I could, I would eat this everyday..... YUM YUM YUM My fiance ordered the Stromboli and it was just as good. Good meat ratio, the mozzarella was tasty and the onions were a fantastic addition. These sandwiches are leagues above the newly reopened Paseo's. You can rely on the authenticity of the flavor combinations and feel good paying $10 for a sandy that could easily last two meals. You really get what you pay for here. Also, I'd like to point out the staff. From start to finish they were professional and friendly with us and the other customers we saw enter. There was a man who came in and was VERY RUDE to them and they still tried to do everything they could to appease him before he stormed out of his own accord. I can't WAIT to visit again and try all of the other delicious items on the menu! I'm making it a monthly excursion for sure!!!!!

    (5)

  • Brad O.

    You walk in and the smell of a well run Italian kitchen hits you square in the face like Tony Soprano with a baseball bat. I was assured by the chef that everything is made from scratch. I ordered the Italian sausage. It came on a toasted roll with a bed of carmelized onions and melted mozzarella. A side of marinara that was out of this world. I wanted to try the bread pudding but I was to full after the generous sandwich. May have just become my favorite sandwich in Seattle.

    (5)

  • Kelly S.

    Great food and friendly staff! I had the po boy, shrimp. Well worth stop. I will be back.

    (5)

  • Ahmed E.

    very Friendly staff.. Although our waiter took his time to come and check if we're ready to order.. The Gilbano was ok.. I wouldn't get it again.. The Goomba was much better.. And the bread pudding was really good .. Will come back to try other items

    (4)

  • Kamal S.

    I'm all for supporting small businesses, which is why my girlfriend and I decided to eat here. Overall, the sandwich was larger than expected; I'm person that eats an absurd amount for his size and I could not finish the sandwich. The sandwiches ingredients were very fresh on a nice toasted bun. My only request would be to have a whole grain sub available, but outside of that the place is a great!

    (4)

  • Joseph L.

    This place is a little weird. The interior made me think it was a really nice restaurant, the music and atmosphere was really nice. But they serve sandwiches. Having a nice atmosphere isn't bad, but I feel like it doesn't match the food that's served here. The service was also a bit strange. I walked in and no one said a word to me. I looked around and found the cook in the kitchen, no one cashiering, and no servers. So I sat down, looked at the menu for 7-8 minutes and found that no one was coming to help me. I was wondering if I go to the counter to order myself or if I just wait for them. Really, just no indications of how to order. So I went up and the cashier was there and took my order, but then a server came out from the back and pour me some water and handed them to me. What? Not going to bring them to me, but have me serve them to myself? That...lacks the service that I would expect. The food wasn't bad, but wasn't anything amazing either. I got the pulled pork. It would've been nice if they toasted the bread a bit more. When the brought it out, the bread was already soggy which knocks the whole sandwich down a level. The pulled pork was pretty decent but I couldn't taste anything besides the bbq sauce that it was drowning in. My friend got the chicken pesto. He said it was pretty good, but preferred tubbs on lake city way to this place because they have more options. The price range and portion sizes were excellent though. They give generous amounts of filling for the price and I think that it's one of the only places that actually gives you what you pay for. It's a bit out of the way from Seattle and the construction makes it a bit tough to get to if you come from the south. I might come back if I'm in the area, but wouldn't make a special trip up just to come back.

    (3)

  • Jeff M.

    Went here with my SO and my cousins to check out what I'd been told was a great grinder place. It was definitely good, not too sure about great though. I'd ordered the chicken parm sandwich, but ended up eating half my cousin's meatball sandwich instead. (Long story). The sandwich was quite good, not overly saucy with a great grindah roll.

    (4)

  • Alec D.

    Just moved here from Texas, saw this nice spot up the street and I must say, "Best Meatball Sandwich I've ever had." Hands down.

    (5)

  • Omar G.

    Finally stopped in for lunch today. I told the friendly staff it was my first time there and the awesome girl behind the counter explained many of their best sellers including her favorite (ciabatta). Another worker walked by with one already made and showed me how it's made. I was instantly intrigued. I tried it and was not disappointed. I will definitely be coming back to try all their other options. Nice, relaxed environment, friendly staff, and great food. A little pricey but it's good quality and I had leftovers for dinner tonight.

    (5)

  • Priscilla V.

    I was really impressed with the sandwiches I had at Grinders. I admit I read way too many reviews before I visited the restaurant and I had high expectations but Grinders met my expectations if not exceeded them! Boyfriend and I ordered a shrimp po'boy and Gilbano. If I didn't skip breakfast and coffee I have high doubts I would have finished my behemoth of a sandwhich. I was unbuttoning my pants at the end of the meal feeling like I was victorious for eating the whole thing. Shrimp Po'boy - fried shrimp with some awesome tangy sauce, spicy and sweet peppers, huge pile of coleslaw on a roll. Omg I don't even like coleslaw but the combination was so wonderful. My first experience of a Po'boy was amazing. Giovanni - massive heaping portion of beef with peppers and cheese on a toasty roll. My boyfriend killed this sandwhich. He was sick with a stuffy nose so all I could hear was deep heavy breathing and chomping. Some things to keep in mind -look at the menu before you come and know what you want to order before you get there - lunch time is busy, if you're short on time call in your order or be that grumpy customer no one likes -staff is very efficient if they are not providing the most amazing service it's because they want to feed you and it's busy -come hungry or expect to bring food home Happy eating!

    (4)

  • James G.

    Nobody was there when we showed up, seemed kind of odd. I asked the waitress what her favorite was - she said the Ciabatta. So I ordered that. I did not expect such a huge sandwich with so many interesting and unique flavors. My girlfriend who's vegetarian got the veggie sandwich (I forget the name) and I was surprised how much flavor there was. If you're considering going for the first time, go do it. It's well worth the experience. Oh but their whiskey bread pudding was kinda meh. Tasted a bit too much like real whiskey, not very tasty on dessert.

    (5)

  • Dan S.

    *Great sandos and large portions, had the marinara one, it was delish, enough to split for sure *Friendly service, cool space, parking as others have noted is a tough nut *Legit hot sandos!

    (4)

  • Jamie R.

    Been here twice now, huge tasty sammiches, and amazing salads as well. It's so hard to find fat, juicy hot sammiches around here, Grinders Hot Sands is what the doctor ordered! They ain't cheap, but it's worth it. They have a cooler with bottled suds too so you can wash the yumminess down with a cold one. MmmmMmm!

    (5)

  • Anna R.

    I was craving a meatball sub and not just any meatball sub, this one had to be home made. I called a couple of places and neither made their own meatballs and then I found this place. I think it was around 12 dollars but I was able to get two meals out of the one sub, very filling and good size meatballs. It was really really good, the quality was there and I would happily go back just for that sub!

    (5)

  • Laura B.

    Delicious, delicious food!!! I had the chicken Parmesan 'sandwich' entree style on a salad so that it was gluten free. My boyfriend had the sausage and it too was phenomenal. The only reason I am not giving 5 stars is because the staff seemed more concerned with standing around, chatting, and being on their phones then with cooking our food. Otherwise, great place!

    (4)

  • Alyssa M.

    Holy deliciousness!!!!! I always make it a point to have my Aunty take me to this restaurant when we visit the area. The meatball and sausage sandwiches are oh so wonderful, stuffed full with meat and cheese, and a marinara sauce that is to die for. Can't decide? They are one step ahead of you! The SauBall is a combination of the two sandwiches, and it is so decadent, I force myself to eat the entire thing! I've also tried the stromboli and pulled pork, all of which are delicious. Even their whack whack salad makes my mouth water. I really enjoy the fact that they support local artists, and often have open mic and live performances that can be enjoyed for a small $7 cover. The workers were so nice, and our food came out faster than expected. I absolutely recommend this place, and bring a friend so you can order more than one sandwich!!!

    (5)

  • Scott L.

    So is place is hype nation everyone i have talked too say I have to try here sooooo I did First thing first they charged me for water unless it was a random mistake it was like 1$ or something anyways I got the stromboli it was amazing a little spicy a little salty with crunch bread and the hot mama peppers fantastic I ate the whole thing and the whole thing is a monster. My girlfriend got the pulled pork. Meh it was okay to say it kindly way too sweet no heat too much mushy garlic and cinnamon My friend had the cibatta It was good too nice crusty bread flavorful meats it was very good All in all try grinders now that their hours are normal just stay away from the pulled pork and buy soda since they are gonna charge you anyways

    (4)

  • Joy H.

    mmMMmm . . . Grinders! I first discovered this hot sandwich place thanks to Yelp! And I'm sooo glad I did! I actually had never had a hot sandwich before (unless you count Quizno's) and thought I went to heaven after taking my first bite of the Goomba Grinder! All that cheese, onions, chicken dribbling down your chin! *sigh* Needless to say, I've gone back many times and have pretty much conquered the whole menu! Now that they have Specials of the Day featuring new sandwiches, you can bet that I'll be back to try those out as well! The only reason I subtracted a star was because my cousins and I had all gone there for dinner and we spent $60 for the 5 of us! Whoa . . . it kind of hit me in the face when I realized we dropped that much for sandwiches! But they're soooo good!

    (4)

  • Elizabeth T.

    Might be good, guess I'll never know. I ordered a chicken parmesean with no onions to go and I think I got a chicken marsala with lots of onions, yuck! Luckily my husband doesn't mind onions so it was his dinner that night. Ten bucks is a lot to pay for a sandwich which was wrong and I couldn't eat. Not too impressive, sorry.

    (1)

  • Christyne B.

    I cannot articulate how excited my face gets when I ponder driving from Ballard to Shoreline to get a Grinder's sammich. My close friend lives right by this joint and she so graciously showed me the glory that is full on chillin' on Highway 99 just south of the Aurora Village Costco. My absolute favorite is the Goomba Grinder. Holy crap, it is like all that is good and right in the world is having a rave is my mouth and it is rockin' out with flavor and perfection and they had a love child that humps my tongue. Per their menu: Goomba means special friend, and this Grinder is special - my friend. A recipe originating from Sicily made up of grilled chicken, kalamata olives, garlic roasted tomatoes, grilled onions, melted mozzarella, and feta on an Italian roll. $9.95 That description doesn't even close to do justice for how amazing this sammich is. Think rich, succulent, flavorful, hot and melty. Oh, don't try to get a Grinder's fix on Sunday through Tuesday or you'll just stand, desolate and weeping silently as you paw at the door and drool a little. They are so awesome they just say, "EFF SUNDAY, MONDAY and TUESDAY. Who needs 'em?" That makes my pants sad. *sigh* The parking lot is modest but there is street parking to be had so it is certainly not a deal breaker.

    (5)

  • Parag G.

    Amazing food! Owner is really friendly, can't wait to come back again.

    (5)

  • Christie P.

    For about 10 bucks a pop on these sandwiches, I was wondering if they could live up to their "worth". Unfortunately, I'd have to say no. Don't get me wrong. I got to try two different sandwiches there recently; the chicken parmesan and the Gilbano. The chicken left something to be desired, but the Gilbano was pretty tasty. However, not $10 tasty. I like that you can get a soda that includes fancier stuff (IZZE), the friendly atmosphere, and I was wholly amazed at their desserts (try the bread pudding). For the sandwiches, just wish you got more bang for your buck.

    (3)

  • Mark S.

    Had "Reservations" for what was supposed to be wine, dessert, and some live music with another couple. Made the reservations and was told to be there @ 7:30 - music to start @ 8:00. Arrived at 7:30 and stood in line for 30 minutes. The person behind the counter indicated that our party of 4 was to be seated at two different tables. Two different tables? Seriously? Completely unacceptable and bush league. High hopes for a good evening completely dashed. Had to make the most of it over drinks at Scott's bar & grille. Will not return here.

    (1)

  • D.J. Y.

    5/08 Update: Had the Parm Chicken, the lovely Mrs. gave me her half, I'm still pissed they went without me. Still this is another sandwich to die for!!! OMG!! Sooooooooooooooooooooooo goooooood!!! 12/07 Update: I got a Stromboli Grinder to go today, I've died and gone to Heaven, with all this rain, this really cheered me up! Just enough spice to kick it up a notch... 11/07 Update: I had the Split pea soup today and a Ciabatta Grinder, OMG FREAKING GOD!!! This is the snizle, fo shizle.... 10/07 Update: I'm a meatball sandwich virgin no longer, and damn I need a cigarette now.... That was THE finest meatball sandwich I have ever had, and by looking at my figure, you can guess correctly I've had a few. The meatballs were a divine mixture, firm but not tough, flavorful and went well with the sauce....heaven sent!!! End updates... ----- What can I say other than WOW!! This place is wonderful, fresh hot sandwiches, home made soups, and they use top choice breads and products to produce out of this world sandwiches! My oldest daughter only eats Veggie and I tried her sub, for a sandwich with no meat in it, I must say it was out of this world! Tons of flavor and packed with grilled goodies. The interior is warm and comfortable, take a seat next to the fireplace and read a good book while enjoying a truly wonderful sandwich. Wonderful family photos adorn the wall and add a very classy touch to the place And did I mention the soup! Better grab a bowl, you'll be glad you did. Settled just off Aurora next to a muffler shop, you'll be happy that you took the time to stop by as it nice and quiet inside. If memory serves they have live Jazz in the evenings and they also serve a great latte! Here's the link to their music schedule: grindershotsands.com/_ws… 5 stars for owners who give a damn, the interior's warm feeling, the wonderful staff, use of high quality breads and the wonderful home made flavored soups, they even let you try a taste first!

    (5)

  • Chris S.

    This is absolutely the best sandwich I have ever had! EVER! Come hungry. The owner is super nice and it's great for kids. Split one if you can!

    (5)

  • Laura B.

    I am in love! And yes, it is with a sandwich! They make the most amazing meatball sub you will ever taste. You might think, "Is it really going to be worth $10?" Well, my friend, the answer is hells yeah! I knew from the moment I walked in that this was my kinda place. The atmosphere is really relaxed and the staff was quite friendly. As we ordered we watched the cook put full (unfrozen) chicken breasts on the grill. It's that kinda place. We had the Sauball (sausage and meatball for when you can't decide) and the Ciabatta grinder. Both were super tasty but I would suggest the Meatball (not Sauball) since the sausage was not up to Da Pino standards and the meatballs were awesome. I may have to make a special trip up there as my mouth is starting water just thinking about those sandwiches!

    (5)

  • Heidi P.

    These grinders are top notch! Being an east coast girl from an Italian family, I feel like I have a connection with these grinders. They remind me of home. I guess it would make sense because the owner, Mitch is from Pittsurgh!!! While the sandwiches are a bit pricey, they are worth it. I've decided to rank them as I try them. I'll start with the three different kinds I've had so far and re-rank as I try more!! Here we go: #1. The Gilbano Grinder-my fave so far, the tri-tip steak is so tender! #2. Ciabatta Grinder-best ciabatta sandwich I've ever had #3. Stromboli Grinder-may be tied for second, the flavors are simpler, but the mozzarella is thick and the flavor of the meat really stands out. I love the sauce dumped on top. #3. Pork BBQ-REALLY SPICY!! But sweet and delicious, love the slaw #4. Goomba was good, but missing kalamata olives. The chicken was super tender and the feta gave it a nice tang. Similar in flavors to the Gilbano but not quite as good. I've got many more to conquer, they will eventually all be listed!

    (5)

  • Connie C.

    Food: Delicious. I had a meatball sub ("best hot sandwich I've ever had" according to my husband...only downfall is the after effect on your breath. man, we needed some gum) Price: ~$10/sandwich (big portion though) Wait: ~15 mins Atmosphere: Unique - large tables which you share with other guests (each seats 8 or so) Would definitely come back here, and am interested to check out the live music scene others have written about.

    (4)

  • Bill W.

    All I can say is OMG! Hands down the best grinders anywhere. I went to Grinders three times last week and am going again tonight for another. I cant stop thinking about this place. The red sauce on the meat ball sandwich is the best I have ever had. $10 for a grinder may sound expensive but once you see it and eat it, you will think its a bargain.

    (5)

  • Sarah D.

    I have no idea what they put in the food here, but it must be illegal and come in a vial. The sandwiches are crazy craveable and the bread pudding is the best I have had outside of our family recipe. They also have a great beer selection and the best ambience for a sandwich shop that I have ever seen. No matter what they charge, I assure you it is worth it.

    (5)

  • Sharon H.

    I think I should've tried something else...Everyone had raved about this place, and our friends meatball grinder looked pretty good...But my sandwich (gilbano) was seriously disappointing. I ended up eating about an hour later somewhere else cause I was left hungry :-( Overall a 3 star rating since they serve wine and beer and it was a comfortable friendly environment. Someone told me that since Grinders is now open 6 days a week, the staff is different. Usually there's a cook that piles on the meat and cheese. Whoever made my sandwich should take a lesson...I had about 3 pieces of meat, a couple peppers, some cheese. It was mostly bread.

    (3)

  • Ms. T.

    Absolutely one of the best sandwiches I have had. The owner came over to help pick out a beer from the cooler to go with the sandwich I was ordering, then brought us over a bowl of chili to share while we were waiting for our food. I got the dipper (french dip w/ mushrooms, onions, horseradish) which came with the most amazing jus. No powdered beef bullion here, these were real pan drippings that came with. The sandwich was also HUGE. $10 for a sandwich may seem a bit much, but the quality and size of the sandwiches really makes it so worthwhile. This place has knocked off Saigon Deli and Paseo as my favorite sandwich shop in Seattle.

    (5)

  • Andrea M.

    Grinders Hot Sands is so good! I have been here a handful of times, and everything I have had was wonderful. My favorite sandwich is the Ciabatta Grinder. For one, you can fit it in your mouth (sort of). It's not so huge it has to be eaten with a fork and knife, as many sandwiches at Grinders are. Not that that is a bad thing! I've heard that the salads and soups are wonderful, but ain't nobody pulling me away from the sandwiches. Grinders is a nice way to reward oneself after braving the shopping horror across the street at Costco.

    (5)

  • Tom E.

    You know a place is going to be good when the aroma is so enticing the minute you walk through the door. Amazing BBQ sandwich. Perfect crusty satisfying bread, melt in your mouth slow-cooked pulled pork, and just the right amount of spiciness. Friendly staff even though it was almost closing time.

    (5)

  • Samantha C.

    I love listening to Blues Music here while enjoying a grinder! Really cool spot.

    (5)

  • Bryan K.

    Often a wait at this awesome establishment but it is worth it. The lunch time atmosphere is "mellow cafe" and a Saturday night is "Jazz Club". Order your food at the counter, get started on a beverage from the cooler, and wait it out. The salads and sandwiches are all pretty awesome, but the stromboli has a specialness about it!

    (4)

  • Shannon W.

    So we stopped in here today on the way to Costco and I asked the smiling dude behind the counter what the most popular grinders were. He said the Meatball and Gilbano. So I went for the meatball and my hubby went for the bbq pork. $10 each and pretty sizable. My hubby thought the bbq pork grinder was great and my meatball one was pretty good, but not mind-blowing. On second thought, I should have gotten the Sausage grinder or SauBall that combines meatball and sausage because I like a little more zing to my balls. My grinder was swimming (or maybe drowning?) in grilled onions. A little too many for my liking. But others may appreciate it. So we each ate half and took the other half home for dinner tonight. We'll see how the reheated version tastes. Ambiance was good. The tables are huge and I can imagine that you may need to share if it gets too crowded. We shared an ice tea and didn't get any dirty looks about it. As a matter of fact, they came around and refilled it for us and offered us water to boot. All in all a decent experience. I wish there was a 1/2 sandwich and salad or soup combo as there is no way I could ever try soup with that huge grinder. Hubby wants to try the Gilbano next time and I'm thinking the Chicken Parmesan sounds good. So we'll be back to grind away on another grinder :)

    (4)

  • Rachael H.

    Best sandwich fix ever! The Dipper (a french dip sandwich) is my personal fav. Lots of roasted beef, good horseradish kick and all around best I've had. The bread pudding is in a league of it's own, a must try!

    (5)

  • Sam B.

    A week or so ago I was talking with some friends over drinks (it was Halloween and I was dressed as a watermelon, if that helps set the stage) when this hypothetical question was raised: if you had to choose between run-of-the-mill, everyday, routine long-term relationship sex and the best sandwich you have ever had in your life, which would you take? I think the question was supposed to draw some universal gender-based distinction--namely that any man worth his weight in testosterone will invariably choose the sex, regardless of the second option--but I answered without hesitation that I would take the sandwich. Many were taken aback. I had to explain myself, and this is where Grinders comes in. A brief aside: I have eaten my fair share of sandwiches. In fact, I would go so far as to identify myself as something of a sandwich aficionado. I have tasted and documented sandwiches and sandwich analogs in several regions and countries and across numerous culinary genres (I actually put together a fairly in depth flowchart to categorize and classify the sandwich in its various incarnations when I was a socially detached undergraduate), so I feel I have a degree of authority on the subject, and am thus qualified to make this aggressive declaration: the Gilbano Grinder excels all sandwiches (excepting, perhaps, Grinders' own Ciabatta Grinder and my older brother's pulled pork hoagie, which, I've heard, is sublime) in complexity of flavors, harmony of ingredients, and ensuing satisfaction. That being said, I can now return to our regularly scheduled narrative, already in progress. As I put myself to making my defense, I reflected fondly upon the first time I enjoyed the Gilbano. I had sat comfortably on one of the plush leather chairs (the decor at Grinders is remarkable, especially given its unassuming location on Aurora at the north end of King County) and enjoyed an expertly matched beer that the proprietor of Grinders (who looks as though he as attained a level of sandwich mastery far exceeding my own) had suggested. It was bliss, in a word, utterly peerless and completely inimitable by even the steamiest of romantic encounters. Now, the stipulations of this theoretical scenario were that I would get the best sandwich I have ever had. That would imply a sandwich at least one degree better than the Gilbano. How could I choose otherwise? I actually ended my defense by apologizing to those who did not choose sandwich and could not understand why I would (even after explanation), simply because I knew their novice palates were wholly ignorant of gustatory nirvana. Thank you Grinders, for making the most enjoyable visceral experiences salable under terms both legal and affordable.

    (5)

  • Tom A.

    Good, but not great. sandwhiches. Nice setting and good beers and the staff was friendly and helpful but not a place worth going out of the say for. I had the po' boy with shrimp and was decent. I guess I wanted something different. Tried my buddies BBQ Pork sandwhich (he actually ordered sauball and received this instead) and it was good but not nearly as hot as they claim it to be. If you are in the area, it's worth a stop.

    (3)

  • Maggie S.

    Not really sure how many stars to give Grinders because, well read on. My man was very excited to try this place when it opened. So was I, as we don't have all that many good restaurants in our area. We talked about it all week, and finally stopped in (this was probably a year ago). We opened the door, and a wall of garlic hit me so hard I could have fallen over. If you have read previous reviews, you may know I'm allergic to garlic in anything more than tiny amounts. Not to mention that as a side note, the smell of prolific amounts of garlic is absolutely rancid to my senses. But, my man was so excited his tail was wagging, so I tried to grin and bear it. We looked at the menu for 15 minutes. Him, because he couldn't decide which delicious meat-wad garlic infested sandwich he wanted to shove down his gullet. Me, because I was reading and re-reading the menu trying to find something, any-fucking-thing without garlic in-on-above-around-or within it. We finally went to the counter and I politely asked if they could make a sandwich sans garlic. No. What about ... No. What about ... No. and No. They said they could make me a salad, but that all their dressing would have garlic. Mmm my favorite, dry lettuce; hi, I'm a freakin tortoise. How about dessert? Great. Thanks, dessert for lunch. He got a grinder, I went across the street to Jersey Mike's for a never fail Philly Cheese; made just the way I wanted. THAT BEING SAID, my man loved his sandwich and goes back here frequently, which I know is a common story! I have tried small bites of his grinders, and they are quite flavorful; no suprise there. While he would probably give it a four star for quality, I give it a one star. Ultimately, it just seems like a dumb philosophy and approach in businees to be unable to accomodate a customer to the point that they actually lost my business.

    (1)

  • Sione P.

    Grinders, aye? A freakin' shop worth going to on 99 near Aurora Village? Not likely... Well, here's one of the few... phew! Grinders has been here for a minute now and it seems like it was a really long time before I even came to try it out. I'd heard plenty about it being a great dine and all... Well, it really is! I meant to review it sooner as I've even thrown it out as a recommendation to people who wanted a sandwich, but never thought of it. Grinders is pretty fantastic! I'm mostly the biggest fan of the Gilbano Grinder! That steak chopped up into sandwich form along with mouth-watering sauces and savory cheese make one helluva sandwich! Talk about a yum-o situation! This place is chill and way nicer than you'd expect for its location. It's nice to dine in or close enough (to some people) to take out. The hot grinders are delish and worth the trip. I'll def say it is a little on the expensive side for just the stand-alone sandwich, but totally worth spending a little extra now and then. It might be hard to justify spending $10 on a sandwich very regularly, depending on the budget and considering the economy, but it's totally worth swinging by for at least a try! I've got to try the salads one of these days...

    (4)

  • Lori M.

    Great food and wonderful music on most Saturday nights. Don't forget to make reservations for Saturday cause it sells out quickly!

    (5)

  • Joel G.

    A couple of weeks ago I was up in Shoreline to go to Pier One and Sears, and I got hungry. So I kept driving up Aurora, hoping I'd find somewhere good. Then I saw a sign that said "Grinders," so I just stopped in. To my surprise, I'd accidentally discovered the Greatest Sandwich Shop in The World. It's run by one of the Sopranos, I think, and (the day I was there) the daily special involved some kind of ham I'd never heard of, some sauce that involved the word "reduction," some bread that had its own zip code or something, and some cheese and onions maybe? It was possibly the most amazing sandwich I have ever eaten. I went into work the following week and discovered that some of my co-workers already knew about Grinders ("that place is the best sandwich shop in the world") and had somehow neglected to tell me. Bastards. Anyway, now I can't stop thinking about going back. Why must you be all the way up in Shoreline?

    (5)

  • Brian C.

    I went here today for my first visit. The parking lot is a little too small for my liking, especially since I have a SUV. Fortunately, it wasn't too crowded in the restaurant at 2:00 PM so there were some parking spaces left for me. Walking into the restaurant, I felt it had a nice layout. It seemed to have just the right amount of tables. The stereo system had some jazz going and it was very fitting with the photos. I had a hard time with selecting just one sandwich. So it became a toss up between the Stromboli and Ciabatta Grinder. The owner spoke up and said that if I wanted, I could have the Ciabatta bread for the Stromboli instead of the standard Italian roll for that sandwich. So I decided on that one. I was not disappointed. As I waited for my Stromboli, I took another look at the menu and realized it didn't come with potato chips, fries, or anything else and it cost $8.95. I thought that was pretty expensive for just one sandwich for lunch. But when the sandwich was served to me after about ten minutes, I was impressed with it's size and the dipping marinara sauce. I could only handle half of it and took the other half to go. I must say that my overall experience with this sandwich is that it ranks a 1/2 star above the highly acclaimed Salumi restaurant's sandwich. Although Salumi may have better quality meat, this sandwich had the sauce to accompany it so it wasn't too dry (I still don't know why Salumi hasn't recognized that their sandwiches are too dry!). Also, I loved how it was served hot and had the perfect soft/crunchy combo I like in my gourmet sandwiches. The owner was very pleasant and it was apparent that he sincerely wanted his customers to have a good experience here. He called a few customers by name. I give this restaurant a four star instead of five because the sandwich prices should be a dollar cheaper in order to be a fair price and get customers in more often, especially in this economy. But if you ever feel like splurging and having a tasty sandwich, this is the place to come!

    (4)

  • David O.

    Grinders is one of the best sandwich spots in all of Puget Sound, it is worthy of a drive to Shoreline to enjoy, Mitch is a fabulous host. Massive sandwiches. Great MEATBALLS! Outstanding sausage made to their exact specifications. Reasonable prices. Great jazz on the weekends. Really, one of the best the area has to offer.

    (5)

  • Susie G.

    Awesome sandwiches! The only sad thing was that it was not busy and it took a long time to get the food. The taste and quality was awesome.

    (4)

  • Kelly F.

    Great Sandwich!! So big- we each took our half home for lunches the next day!! Me~ the dipper, ( no ordinary roast beef, may I say ) it was spicy and the juice to dip had thickness to it that stuck great to the bread! ( Balsamic Vinegar I think) different ....but totally delicious. Him~ the Goomba.....and he loved his! Every bite- although he felt like a salad afterwards.......( makes you feel a little guilty like a heart attack on a plate) but sooo worth it! Service! Great...nice young group working there! No music the night we went. Suggestions, some smaller size tables........everything was seating for 8 people! Great food! Totally recommend it!!! We will be coming back! Incredible cibatta bread!! Wow!

    (5)

  • Joel B.

    After a 9 month hiatus, my original review still stands. The owner remembered my name and sent me home with a great sandwich and some lagniappe (look it up). The best sandwich shop in Seattle.

    (5)

  • Tai T.

    I've heard about the hype on Grinders. How good can a restaurant that shares a wall with a auto repair place be? Well... I went last week... and I have to report it lives up to the raving reviews. Dare I say as good as Paseo? If you're in Shoreline, I recommend you stopping in. Yes, it's on the pricey side... ~$10/sandwich. But they are perfect sandwiches.

    (5)

  • M C.

    "A for effort" Hard to imagine out in the middle of Aurora, a restarant so simple yet much needed in this neighborhood. Not what you expect but exactly what you wish for. Amazing sandwiches, each with a unique ingredients combination as well as different flavor, good selection on menu, and live Jazz on Sat to go down the grinders. What more do you need, Wow! Service = excellent! Ambiance = A for effort, just enough Food = exactly what i've been looking for. The vegetarian sandwich here taste better then most steak sandwich i've tried. Price = $ Crowd = Seems like locals Personal Favorite = Everything! including the chubby owner, he looks like he loves his food. Chili is to die for!!!! Worst = Area, whiskey sauce on bread pudding is a bit overwhelming Meal for two = 35 Final Say = Top 3 sandwich shop in Seattle for sure!!!

    (5)

  • Brandon S.

    I fear that a new food obsession has been born. Grinders is an amazing sandwich shop and has a menu that I can't stop reading and thinking about. I've been good so far, I've only gone there once, but I'm afraid that it's only a matter of time until the demise of my willpower and I will be in sandwich heaven until I've tried everything on the menu or my bank account is completely empty. On my first visit, I picked up two grinders to go for myself and the wife. We had a Sauball Grinder - a combination of their Sausage Grinder and Meatball Grinder, and a Gilbano Grinder - basically a massive improvement over an old, tired Philly cheesesteak sandwich. As soon as we opened up both sandwiches, we knew that Grinders was our kind of place. They don't skimp with the cheese and that will go a long way with us. Both sandwiches were uber-cheesy and amazingly delicious. When a restaurant way up in the farthest reaches of the city on crappy Aurora Avenue has 50 reviews and only one cranky pants has given it less than four stars, perhaps that means you should get on up here and give it a shot. You won't be disappointed. And if you really need an excuse, Costco is only a block or two away.

    (5)

  • Josh I.

    This is one of the best sandwiches I have ever had. I've eaten in some of the best delis in NY and this is easily as good. It's owned by a large NY man and his wife, they staff it with mostly high school kids. It's not the cheapest meal, but the sandwiches are largely big enough for two meals so spending $8 on a sandwich is actually no big deal for me. The sausage is spicy, the marinara is wonderful, and the meatballs are as good as it gets. The ribeye dip sandwich is also pretty damn good. All in all it's probably the best real sandwich shop in the city

    (4)

  • Dan L.

    Not sure if I should be reviewing this place after eating at Paseos today. yelp.com/biz/paseo-seattl . I know it's a different animal, but still a great sandwich place none-the-less. I digress... The Sammy's are expensive but the ingrediants they put in are top notch. Whats up with the hours though? Places in demand like this just feel like they can be open whenever they want. Sometimes I need a grinder fix on a Monday you know! I hear they have live bands at night. I look forward to making that a date night.

    (4)

  • D M.

    Delicious!! The Gilbano and the Stromboli are awesome. And the people are super fun and friendly.

    (5)

  • Robert D.

    The sandwiches here are as good as everyone says they are. My favorite is the Ciabatta Grinder, though the Stromboli is tasty too. The real reason I'm posting here isn't to review Grinders for the 75th time, but to let people know that they've got new operating hours. They are now open from 11am-8pm Mon-Sat, only closed on Sundays. Woo hoo! Go get a sandwich now! :)

    (5)

  • Heidi C.

    Went there for the first time after rave reviews from friends and family. This place was great for it's small size! We only had time to grab sands to-go, but while there we had a blast. The owner, Mitch, was a superb host chattin it up with guests, offering suggestions and making everyone feel at home. While waiting for our delicious grinders, we sat at one of the large community tables with a couple of Italian bottles of beer. A live soul band was playing that night so my husband chatted it up with them while I made friends with a couple at our table. Finally home with our grinders...DELISH! Mine had a slightly spicy sauce, pepperoni and gooey cheese. Hubby's had sausage AND freshly made meatballs. The flavors were incredible! Portions are large so either split with someone or savor in leftovers the next day. We will be back...with friends...and to stay for the evening band. Great place!

    (5)

  • Ryan W.

    Great sands, although a little pricey. If it's your first time get the gilbano. It's a never-miss

    (5)

  • Diana E.

    Mitch has got it down! Every sandwich he's created is a perfect blend of flavors - for example, some places would cover a sandwich in cheese, but on his Gilbano grinder, just the right amount of gorgonzola adds flavor and tang without overwhelming the spicy peppers or tasty beef. The specials board is always worth checking out - you might be lucky enough to show up on a day when Mac n' Cheese is on the menu! Salads are big & robust, but the light vinagrette dressing doesn't overwhelm all the tasty treats in there. Everyone I've brough here instantly proclaims it "Best Sandwiches in Seattle!" I used to be a Honey Hole addict, but I'd rather drive up north for these Grinders. The sandwiches are very filling and I strongly recommend stopping after the first half (if you have the willpower!) so you'll have enough room for the amazing desserts, too! The bread pudding with whisky sauce and berry-covered cheesecake are worth it, I promise.

    (5)

  • Joseph S.

    Big, tasty sandwiches in a clean, good lookin' shop. The Goomba is honestly one of the most delicious sandwiches I've ever had. I'm about to drive 5 miles out of my way to get one, gas prices be damned!

    (5)

  • Paula R.

    I heart Grinders with every ounce of my being. I want to grow old with their chicken parmesan grinders. I want to have babies with their ciabatta grinder. And I want the meatball grinder to be my secret lover - the one I sneak out of the house in the middle of the night for. The Stromboli Grinder and I once had a one-night-stand. It showed my mouth more pleasure than it has ever seen before - that means it likes me back, right? Let me know when you're on your way to Grinder's so I can walk down the street to meet you there. I'll find any excuse to come here! PS: It's closed Sunday - Tuesday. Cockblock!

    (5)

  • Alia A.

    Just went here with my mom. We shared everything, a cup of soup, a salad and a sandwhich. It was the perfect amount of food and great tasting. They have all kinds of choices and serve the sandwiches open face. I got the roast beef with peppers in it. It was so good, had a little kick as well. An all around great place to grab a good quality hot sandwich. I'm definitely going back!

    (5)

  • MamaT m.

    What can you say about such friendly people and big and wonderful sandwiches? NUMMY! True Grinder!

    (4)

  • T L.

    Nom nom nom - soooooo good. Worth going to Shoreline for. Meatball sandwich and meatball/sausage combo equals two people. Not your typical sandwich place, we were surprised -nice decor, serve booze, good service. Yummy yummy food

    (4)

  • Bobby T.

    I have been to the pyramids in Egypt, I have seen the Great Wall of China, I've even witnessed a grown man satisfy a camel, but I have never had Bread Pudding as Good as they make here .... oh and the Sandwiches are pretty incredible too.

    (5)

  • Nathan L.

    I love this restaurant! The sandwiches themselves are good and sometimes when I bring a girl on a date to this place, we split b/c I know she won't be able to finish it. The ambience is great. It's sorta low-key, jazzy. The tables, chairs and stools are of a nice wood to sit on. To the sandwiches, there's a choice for everyone. My personal favorite is the catfish sandwich. It does take a while to prepare and they come piping hot, but that's okay. There's also dessert available for your choosing as well.

    (5)

  • DTronics T.

    If you're looking for a gourmet sandwich this is the spot. They make some fancy sandwiches. I have had the BBQ pork and gilbano and they are both tasty. The food is awesome and a little pricey but they give you a lot of food for it. The service is decent. Sometimes they get unorganized when it is busy. I have had the experience of having to wait 15 minutes to get my to go order when I see it is ready and in the bag but the cashier/hostess doesn't realize it like I do and doesn't hand it to me. Overall I recommend this place but go for lunch when it is less busy.

    (4)

  • K B.

    Been trying to come here for years but had the worst timing - must have always been a Sunday, or a Monday... or a Tuesday. Then Eureka!!! In Shoreline on a Wednesday!!! So excited to try it. We had the Goomba Grinder and the Catfish Po'Boy. Hubby's from Florida and he said it rivaled the Po'Boys he grew up with, that even his Granddaddy would like it. Thought the Goomba was delish - though big to begin with, I couldn't get enough and craved more. The kids shared a Kid's Bread which is basically bread with some meats and melted cheese on top and comes with marinara sauce to dip - they loved it. The staff said they were going to try and open one more day a week - and I say please, please, please make it so!

    (5)

  • JAIDEE D.

    Lives up to the hype. Goomba is mad delishhhhhhhh. Real talk. Eat the grinders with a knife and fork or dare to get messy and go O.G. sandwhich style. Definitely my type of food, good spot and all the workers are mad friendly. Try the goomba, definitely a good first-time choice. Parking isn't that bad unless you drive a boat, then it might be a bit difficult, otherwise everything's gravy.

    (5)

  • Tiffany S.

    Went there on a saturday with some friends during blues night. (You'll probably need reservations if you go this night). Giordino Sandwich is AWESOME. Veggies, portabello mushrooms, pesto, spices, other deliciousness. Get it, love it, eat it til its gone! The crowd gets into the music and are asked to start dancing around. The age group here is around 35-55 but they are all having a good time and the music will tap your toes while you dine.

    (4)

  • Valerie Q.

    Expensive sandwiches for take-out like I always do. And drinks (ie sodas) are expensive. I typically get the meatball grinder, and I noticed that it's a bit heavier on the garlic these days than it was when I first started going there. Makes it too spicy and less enjoyable. If you have heartburn problems, BEWARE! I have to ask for the sauce on the side otherwise it's way too messy. I wish they offered more sauce than what they put in that tiny disposable cup. Regardless, it's still the best meatball grinder you're gonna get on the West Coast. Oh, and they have the best whiskey bread pudding I've ever had! The owner(s) truly put their heart and soul into the flavoring of everything that's available on the menu. This place is one that you want to try at least once!

    (4)

  • Trang M.

    OMG...I am so glad we made the stop here on Saturday! I had the best meatball grinder ever!!!! It was pretty crowded when we arrived and there was only one table left, which we managed to snag. My hub, got the pulled pork bbq sandwich (spicy). I wasn't too hungry at first, because I was dealing with a cold, but somehow I managed to eat the whole dang thing! The meatballs were so delicious, moist, and tender! The marinara had a bit of kick, not much, but enough. The bread was crusty on the outside, and soft and pillowy inside. Hub's sandwich was so good and so spicy. It was a nice spicy, heat kick. I love places that live up to their description. Grinders sure does! We also ordered the bread pudding, but was too full to have there. We got it to go. It was a beautiful treat later that evening. The whiskey sauce (yum) was so good with it. The pudding itself was SO good! Yum! I am still dreaming about that Meatball grinder though. I want to try other things, but damn...when you dream of the meatball grinder, you're pretty much golden with having one all the time. The service is friendly and fast! The only negative for us would be the parking lot. TINY! I don't recommend a big suv when it's crowded. Or you could park at the A&W/KFC and walk over if possible. LOL! Also the tables are a bit big, and those were the only ones that were open. We got glares from people who had 3 or more to their party, but I operate on first come, first serve. :-) There was a couple there, looking for a spot, the husband was cool with wanting to sit on the other end of our table, the wife, however was not too thrilled. I was about done anyways, it was a bit awkward, but who cares I was enjoying sandwich. Some people may find communal sharing of a table to be unpleasant, but I didn't care too much. Just don't stand there and make a puckering face! Anyways, Yuuuuuuummmmmmmy...yummy...in my tummy. They take reservations.

    (5)

  • Linda R.

    Yum. Yum. Yum! It's nice to be greeted by the wonderful smell of garlic wafting through the air. Great sandwiches, nice beer selection, incredibly friendly owners, warm fire. Not sure what else might be needed. (More parking?) Try the "Whack Whack" salad (ha ha, ok, could have stuck with Chopped). Veggie sandwich can get a little soggy. Haven't made it to their Saturday live music night yet, but it's on the list. Wish there were more like this in Shoreline.

    (5)

  • Stacie K.

    The flavor in these handmade grinder sandwiches is incredible! The grinders are usually enough for two meals (IF you can convince yourself not to eat the half intended for the next day). The staff are friendly, the price is higher than other sandwich places but you're getting a filling meal that will excite your taste buds and have you wanting to eat there often!

    (5)

  • Romeo V.

    After reading the reviews on this place, I did the unthinkable... i've read the reviews...really wanted to try this place out but couldn't find the time to make it out this week...and I'm going on vacation next week...i had asked my friend Alexa (you're the best) to make a stop last night to pick up a "Meatball Grinder" for me so that I can have it for lunch the next day. I know, i'm not eating it freshly made but I had to try it before I left for vacation... This is the best meatball grinder that I've ever had so far. The meatballs are huge and they taste very delicious...wouldnt mind having them with spaghetti. The marinara sauce is excellent- sweet/spicy. When I come back from vacation, I will definitely make sure I get a freshly made grinder on the spot and I will try the Goomba based on other peoples suggestions. Props to Nina N. for her review...I agree 100%!

    (4)

  • Susan N.

    To that Dave guy a few comments underneath, they do have an apartment right behind the building if you're interested! The place has an old New York American-Italian feel to it, mixed with west coast cafes. You can familiarize yourself with the menu on their website then show up with that same menu blown up on their wall. You walk in and the workers stand behind the counter like they're ready to make your food! It's like a large meal between inside your sandwich, not just lettuce on top of onions on top of ham. Which gets messy fast, by that point, you'll understand why they serve your food with a fork and knife. The only thing I don't like about it is the random location on Aurora, I'll let it slide since I did mention earlier that it has an old New York (urban hussle bussle) feel. I can definitely see this place being somewhere more hip like between Greenlake and Seattle or Fremont, since sandwiches are so cool anyways. Move over! I might want to create an exotic sandwich shop around Edmonds someday! :P I'm also puzzled about the price, two people almost $30, i understand they're pretty hearty, but they're still sandwiches.

    (4)

  • Tom d.

    Best quality sandwiches, made with love. The owner is extremely friendly and welcoming. Wonderfully beer selection. A gem on Aurora.

    (5)

  • Phil S.

    Pretty good sandwiches. Just 2 options for vegetarians. The lunch wait was very long. One guy told me he had been waiting 45 minutes for his order. My sandwich took 30 minutes. Good thing I work close by. Their parking lot is pretty small.. so you might have to look for side-street parking.

    (2)

  • Steve M.

    It took some guts to locate an eatery that charges $10 for a sandwich right next to a radiator shop. But you'll forget the location and realize the price is worth it when your steaming hot SauBall Grinder comes out to your high top table complete with sausage and meatballs drenched in marinara and covered with melted mozzerella. Or try the Tricolore Grinder, with mozzarella, pesto, and cherry tomatoes on ciabatta. You can watch the staff make your food while your mouth waters. And be prepared for leftovers -- you likely won't be finishing the monstrous sandwich all in one sitting. Good stuff.

    (5)

  • Shon R.

    Best sandwiches in Seattle. I honestly can't believe how much I like this place. Everyone I know gave it rave reviews which generally translates to me thinking it stinks. But this place is different and certainly worth the trip up to Shoreline. Any of their Italian grinders are great, but I have to give them extra credit for their Poboy Grinder and Gilblano (cheesesteak style) Grinders. Instead of taking classic sandwiches from New Orleans and Philly and ruining them like so many other Seattle sandwich shops, these guys added their own spin to them. The results tasted fantastic. The atmosphere was friendly and pretty much everyone in the kitchen turns to smile or wave at me when I come to the counter. This is despite the fact that the place is always crowded and they were all obviously working very hard to get grinders to all the customers. Overall, a great place. Be prepared to wait a few minutes to get your grinder though. The place is usually packed. But the grinders are more than worth the wait. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Ani A.

    Another wonderful evening out at GRINDERS! You are all AWESOME! The food is so great - My husband Bob and I had the meatball grinder last night. OOOOhhhh the garlic, and the cheese, the maranara.... and the spicy meata-balls....with the crusty bread... The beers are wonderful, but there is a selection of non-alcoholic drinks and wine. My husband likes the He'Brew Lenny Bruce R.I.P.A. is my husband's favorite from their cooler. Many imported beers for the connoseur. If you can't decide they will help you select something yummy. The Whack Whack salad is amazing too. We originally came for the music, not knowing about the wonderful food - as the first Saturday The Daily Flash band plays.( Reservations are required along with a very modest cover charge.) The place gets packed when the music is playing. There is a lot of 'love' put into this business. It is spotlessly clean, bright and fresh, the bathrooms are a marvel of cleanliness. The owners and wait staff are amazing. Thanks for a wonderful evening out. We love you guys! Anita Ashford-Trotter

    (5)

  • Matthew J.

    I hate the parking, traffic is a pain and it is really awkward to get too, but this is some damn fine food. The chicken parmesan grinder is not the easiest thing to eat but worth every dry cleaning bill and then some. Good Goomba Almighty, what a lunch!

    (4)

  • Kelley S.

    The best sandwhich place I have ever been to! Get the stromboli, you will not regret it. Ive tried others and they are all delicious, but there is something about that marinara sauce that is fantastic!

    (5)

  • Atif M.

    Grinders is a fun restaurant to stop by every now and then. They make a delicious sandwich with fresh tasting ingredients, my favorite being the Giardino, and occasionally have a band playing. I think they take reservations on nights there are shows, but I've gotten a spot night of which I'm guessing means that they weren't filled up. Either way, good food and nice people are what I've found at Grinders.

    (4)

  • Barb G.

    This place makes fancy sandwiches in a cute atmosphere, with a nicely varied beer selection. I would never have gone in if someone hadn't told me about it because it's on Aurora next to a muffler shop or something. So I'm telling you, go there. It is delicious and cozy and serves many glorious sandwiches and it makes you happy.

    (5)

  • Craig D.

    Listen up, peeps. Run, don't walk, but RUN to Grinders! Finally there is a place that can make a great hot sandwich in comparison to what is found east of the Mississippi. The meatballs in the meatball sub are homemade and plump, the Goomba (grilled chicken), Gilbano (steak), and the Dipper (roast beef) will transport you to Little Italy, and the Whack Whack Salad will have you crackin' wise like Tony Soprano. Is it good? Fahgeddaboudit! It's to die for. And don't forget the smokin' Hot Jams blues on Saturday nights (5$, 8-10pm, get there by 7:00 for reservations.)

    (5)

  • Julie K.

    nom nom nom!

    (4)

  • Chris O.

    Heavenly $10 large, hot, cheesy, toasty, garlicy meatball subs on a ceramic plate in a surprisingly nice ambience for Aurora.

    (5)

  • John L.

    The Earl of Sandwich probably sits around in the afterlife taking credit for sandwiches like Grinders. But you know that schmoe made crappy sandwiches. He probably just stuck some grapes and lettuce in between two pieces of bread or something. Grinders is good. GOOD. Believe the hype. I drove all the way from Lower Queen Anne to try this place out, and damn it was totally worth $3.85/gallon of gas. The sandwiches are pretty huge. I probably (and that's a stretching "probably") could have finished it in one sitting, but that was only bc it was 3pm and I hadn't eaten all day. Smartly, I decided to pack up my other half and bring it home. So, tonight I had leftover Ciabatta sanwich --- Grinders two times in one day!! I paid about $13 for a sandwich and drink. At first I thought it was kind of pricey.. but you definitely get what you pay for in portions, and the taste is totally worth it. I will be going back again soon.

    (5)

  • Dawn M.

    A Sandwich to be reckoned with! An absolute party in your mouth. Three of us ordered grinders from chicken pesto to meatball and everyone was blown away! There's a wait, but It's well worth it. Or call ahead. If you're anywhere near Edmonds Costo ...GO HERE. A weird location next to Bucky's on the west side of 99. But really....I promise you won't be disappointed. Each Sandwich could be 2 meals and every sandwich is packed with flavor.

    (5)

  • Andrew D.

    The closest hazardous household waste disposal area open on Sundays is roughly 3.5 miles south of here. Since I had to drive pretty far north anyway, I figure I'd put in the extra few minutes and finally try this place. I'm glad I did. Had the meatball grinder and highly recommend it (although I haven't had anything else yet so there could be better things. Can't go wrong with meatballs, though) - humongous meatballs, delicious stretchy moz, yummy marinara (could've used more of that, though!)... this place is worth checking out.

    (4)

  • Martin M.

    A diamond in the rough on the north end. Going here fore lunch is one of the few things I miss about my old job. I like the Po'Boys and some of the more traditional East-Coast Italian style subs, but my favorite is the pork Ciabbatta. Funny Grinders Ciabatta story. I'm there by myself one day and sit down with my sandwich. At the table next to me a rather Rubenesque woman is engaged in a heavy make out session with her boyfriend. As I unwrap the sandwich from the tinfoil and the aroma of Ciabatta wafts into the air, she interrupts the PDA with her boyfriend to look at me: Her: "Ciabatta?" Me (with a knowing grin on my face): "Yeah" Her: "F*ckin sublime" Upon which she resumed the make out sesssion and I proceeded to eat my sandwhich. Oh yeah, they have good beer too.

    (5)

  • Ryan M.

    Super good! The sandwiches are pricey, but they are delicious and huge. I really want to reserve a seat durring Jazz night!

    (5)

  • Marshall T.

    Well damn... I was in town for one night, made the drive up Aurora...pulled into the parking lot....and then was hit by the harsh reality: they are CLOSED on Mondays!! Inside, they were having some sort of staff meeting, probably planning the next special to delight those who came on the RIGHT days later last week! I'll just have to plan my client visits to not be Mon-Tue next time!

    (5)

  • Michael P.

    Service was superb, the food uncommonly good. Not you common grinder. I had the sausage/meatball combo and was amazed that I left without feeling like I took a bath in mayo. They didn't even use mayor, in fact, just incredible red sauce. The owner, Mitch, even suggested the perfect beer to accompany it. I'll be back soon. Don't let the location fool you.

    (5)

  • Melissa R.

    I don't know what to say that hasn't already been said. This is probably at the top of my favorite places to eat. The owner is a great, really nice guy who is funny and really cares about his business and his customers. They have live music on weekends, though I've never been. Every sandwich I've had was fantastic and although I'm not into whiskey cream sauce, I'm sure if I had been, I would have loved the bread pudding just as much also. They have a selection of wine/beer and also soft drinks. They have salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts. My favorite sandwich is the Tricolore, which is a vegetarian sandwich. Their ciabatta grinder is also amazing and my boyfriend loves the catfish po boy. The place is small, parking can be hard, but there is a neighborhood up the hill with street parking if the lot is full, which isn't too inconvenient. If I can walk down it in 4 inch heels then so can you. Definitely give this place a try. :)

    (5)

  • Anthony M.

    Holy grail found on the outskirts of Seattle's most notorious strip of highway. The steak on my sandwicfh had a nice kick of spice and very moist, I can't stop thinking about it. This place is very good and they got a nice thing going for them, I will return after a few more trips to the gym.

    (4)

  • Goos Y.

    I love their sandwiches, especially the Shrimp po'boy. Never had a bad sandwich from them. Now they're open on Sundays too. I'm going to have to head back this week. Just thinking about it is making me hungry.

    (4)

  • E C.

    Amazing. I love my sandwiches, and Grinder's hits the spot. I've brought all of my friends here, and they have then gone on to introduce the place to all of their friends. Generous portions (definitely need to share), but even more importantly, always delicious. I would recommend the Chicken Pesto sandwich.

    (5)

  • dwayne f.

    AMAZING Sandwiches!

    (5)

  • Heather S.

    This place has great food AND a great ambiance! You can listen to live music on certain days of the week and it's super cute and classy inside!

    (4)

  • Candice E.

    Just has lunch here for the first time. The place is very clean and the staff were friendly. I ordered the cibatta and it was gigantic! It was so delicious! I'm saving the other half for dinner. My husband had the gilbano and he devoured it. Our kids enjoyed their kids bread that was toasted with cheese and salami with marinara dip. I really wanted to try their bread pudding but I was so stuffed. I'm definitely coming back again for that bread pudding!!!

    (4)

  • Gail S.

    As a regular customer, Grinders has been consistently very good, regardless of which sandwich is ordered. Excellent variety of choices including a terrific assortment of foreign beers. No question about the fact that it is the best sandwich restaurant in the Seattle area, simply because the cuisine is like no other. Before entering, make sure your stomach is on empty because the portions will not disappoint while you savor the flavors.

    (5)

  • Grace R.

    OH WOW - I read these reviews and had to try the place; it's close, we've driven past a dozen times...you all were RIGHT! The sandwich I had was outstanding, there was funky blues music playing, and the owner himself came and chatted with us. And a really nice surprise: a fantastic beer selection! Who'd have thought we could get Belgian ales, German beers, etc., in Shoreline? And even served in the right glassware - or an icy chilled glass. This place truly rocks and will probably be our new neighborhood hangout. Thank you reviewers of Yelp.com - you made my day!!

    (5)

  • Heather U.

    Hands down the best Italian sandwiches I have ever had in Seattle, and maybe the best I've had anywhere! A friend told me about this place and then did me the favor of taking me there. I couldn't be more grateful. Each sandwich was well thought out and the flavors work together perfectly. I do have to say that the homemade meatball with spicy marinara and mozzerella is my favorite :) Should have received some sort of award as Seattle's best sandwiches! Fab place!!!

    (5)

  • Joao C.

    The best sandwiches EVER! Got introduced to it by a friend and have since taken my wife and we absolutely LOVE it. Big subs, if you don't eat a lot, one sandwich is good for 2 people! They have music Fridays and Sats 8:00pm-11:00pm, all ages. Make sure you call in a reserve your spot as they fill up pretty quick.

    (5)

  • Mark D.

    Wonderful service. Good food and beverages to go with the quality service. This is a wonderful place especially considering the location (on 99 with a tiny parking lot). My wife was hungry and we split a house salad (the best deal on the menu) and a po boy (with catfish). I understand they have music at night too. Got to make time for that.

    (4)

  • Chris G.

    Treat yourself! A little more expensive of a hot sandwich - but well worth it! Amazing flavors, and huge portions. Great little atmosphere and pleasant staff. Do a business lunch here - your sure to score some points.

    (5)

  • A Q.

    Good sandwiches on a variety of good bread. They are filling so don't freak out about the price (about $10 each). Flavors tend to be strong rather than subtle, but very appealing. Parking can be a bit of a hassle - part of the lot is very narrow. Expect to wait a while if you just walk in and order takeout. We were there at a quiet time so that was quite alright - we snagged some large leather chairs and read a little about the blues. Definitely several cuts above a $5 footlong. Just don't expect to pay $5. I highly recommend bringing their sandwiches down to Richmond Beach Park on a nice night.

    (4)

  • Leeland W.

    This place is great a bit pricey for a sandwich but you can see why. Upon entering this bistro you see beautiful mahogany tables. A mantle and four fireside chairs sit facing classical pictures. A jazz fresco is up upon the wall behind you as you order. Racks of beer and wine sit waiting for a friend. The menu is simple and flavorful with great descriptions. I went with the ciabatta grinder as well as some kids bread for fun. The grinder was on rustic ciabatta and the presentation was great. The sandwich was on very tough bread and to compensate they used oil and mozzarella. The oil and cheese softened the insides and let the meat and bread do the talking. Great selection of Italian meats like toscano, finocchiona, sopressata, and pork loin for good measure. while the sandwiches were good the kids bread was "meh". Great place to go to no matter where you live do the drive.

    (4)

  • J R R.

    Grinder's offers 14 different, absolutely delicious grinders. Everything from a tri-tip/ gorganzola steak sandwich(philly should take notice) to a Dixie inspired Po'Boy, either crispy fried shrimp or catfish, dressed in a remoulade. A Meatball grinders. nestled in into an Italian roll,topped with melted mozzerella and carmelized onions, then baptized in a homemade marinara... F/N amazing. They make an amazing bowl of chili! They build this dish,(i should say bowl.) with six different mexican chilis, diced pork, diced beef, topped with diced onions, cheese and a dollop of marscapone. Don't forget about the bread pudding, or the high end import beers. Grinders is expensive, but it's worth every penny! JR

    (5)

  • Katy B.

    The catfish po boy was delicious and the bread pudding was to die for! I will definitely be back.

    (4)

  • Piao Piao L.

    Great sandwiches, great portion, great value. What's not to like? Ok, first of all, I don't really care whether these are "authentic" grinders, whatever that means. They are damned good! I always get the meatball, but the sausage has also been good. Soup's been good as well. Basically everything's been good. Now, as others have noted, there is very limited space, and limited staff. As a rule, I never go at normal lunch or dinner hours. If it's 4:30 and I'm the area, I'm there. Also have taken to driving by to get a handle on the crowd. I've waited over 20 minutes for a sandwich, and often have had to awkwardly share tables with people. Not my cup of tea. But the wait just goes to show the sandwiches are being made fresh. And anyway, if the wait and seating are an issue, just order takeout. Anyway, this is a real gem in on the north side. Not many of those to go around, either.

    (5)

  • Olin B.

    Best sandwich place in the city. Paseo's, I love you and your sandwich is equally as mighty as any you'll find at Grinders, but Grinders' diversity pulls them into the lead. Every sandwich here is a stunning combination of fantastic bread and fillings so good you want to eat the menu after reading about them. I especially favor the shrimp (choose over the catfish) po'boy, the spicy BBQ pork, and the Dipper. Pair these sandwiches with a great beer selection and you have more than enough reason to drive that far north once a week. My only wish would be for more specials, every one I've had would be a worthy addition to the menu. Eat here.

    (5)

  • Will P.

    Amazing sandwiches, The pulled pork bbq is the best I have ever had and it must have weighed a pound. I will be back! Had the service been better I would have given 5 stars.

    (4)

  • Gretchen H.

    Im not one to get all emotional over food, I mean I love a good meal, but normally I can hold it together. Grinders on the other hand had me crying in my salami. I ordered the Ciabatta Grinder. The sandwhich was full of wonderful meats that I couldnt pronounce, and each one had its own wonderful unique flavor, but it was the bread that really made the sandwhich. Wonderful crunchy yet soft, smothered with a garlic olive oil spread on one side and a flavorful sun-dried pesto on the other. It was heaven on a plate. For dessert we ordered the Bread Pudding in Whiskey cream sauce. This is when i really started tearing up. Afterward I tried to tell the staff how wonderful the meal was, but mostly made a fool of my self by crying at the front counter. Im slowly working my way down one side of the menu, while my husband does the other side. Everything Ive had is amazing, and the owner is a great guy whos very particular about all the ingrediants, right down to the wonderful bread. I highly highly recommend going to Grinders

    (5)

  • Joe S.

    I've been here two times in August and let me tell you: The Dipper ($9.50) is as good as it gets. It was so good I wanted to slap my grandma (R.I.P.). On the "Pants-O-Meter," I'd give it a "drenched" rating. The meat was very tender and juicy. They use a ciabatta bun which is an excellent choice to soak up all that aju.... The service is very friendly. All the employees seem to know they got a good thing going on over there so naturally have a confident demeanor... The atmosphere is surprisingly clean for a sammich joint (very new wood-style interior). If you're ever in Shoreline, this place is a must.

    (4)

  • Grace L.

    The grinders here are big, hot and filling (although a bit pricey)! More of a fork and knife experience rather than a pick up and devour. My personal favorite is the Pesto grinder but the others are good as well. Service is hit and miss depending on who you get and how they are feeling at the time. Oh, and since it seems to be made to order, you have a wait a bit for your food so don't plan on dashing in for a quick bite. Also, maybe it's a girl thing but it's always freezing here so I recommend a jacket.

    (4)

  • Marie H.

    Wow, just wow! I absolutely love the Goomba Grinder. I've suggested and brought many friends and relatives to Grinders and we've never been disappointed. Their spicy grinders are a little too spicy for me, same with the chili, but that's just me.

    (5)

  • Sarah C.

    like the concept of big meaty subs? paseos...tat's deli....salumi....tubs...& now grinders has joined my elite list. fully loaded. that's one huge sammy. i ordered the bbq pulled pork- just the right amount of spicy & sweetness. had the coleslaw & the bread was fresh - just the right amount of crispy & softness. it all equals awesomeness. PS: i asked one of the guys that works there, where they get their bread- i was told they order it half baked from jersey. mmmm. i could not finish it all~ if anyone does- props to themmmm. its a filling meal for sure! come hungry. my bf got the gilbano grinder- stacked w/ meat as well. tri-tip w/ all the fixin's. we didn't go there during the live music nights- but i bet its awesome too!

    (4)

  • Cally G.

    To amend my previous review, Grinders is now open Monday-Saturday!! Congratulations Grinders, you are now the perfect restaurant.

    (5)

  • Nina W.

    Sandwiches ARE PRICEY here, and they only make the sandwiches HOT. (wonder if you could get it cold on request?) I came here once when it first opened. Heard a rumor from an inquiring customer that they used to serve chips with the sandwiches. Wonder what happened? Anyway, I tried the Ciabatta Grinder, and it was really tasty, and very very filling! The only qualm i had was the garlic oil and sundried tomato "relish" was overpoweringly strong with garlic and tomato. If you order this tell them easy on the oil and tomato, and i think you will be pleased!

    (4)

  • Matteus V.

    Amazing sandwiches. Their marinara makes me feel like I understand Italian culture a little more. I went to shake hands with the owner and asked him about the marinara. He said they "build it." They don't make the sauce, they build it. A little spendy but worth the price. I still need to get through the menu. I've only tried the Sauball and the Goomba.

    (5)

  • Sam B.

    The price is kind of steep, but definitely one of the best sandwiches i have ever had

    (4)

  • David C.

    Nestled near Costco and across from a few dirty magazine shops, Grinders is a shining jewel in the rough. The sandwiches are creative, east-cost / Italian, authentic and delicious! After sampling my sandwich and my girlfriends sandwich, I can honestly say they might be the best I've ever had. Lots of complex flavors and quality ingredients made these $9 dollar sandwiches well worth the price. Once inside, Grinders is tastefully decorated with dark woods and blues music. The owner works alongside the staff and isn't afraid to tell you how he came up with the recipes and why you'll love them. Aside from a great food, they have a unique selection of bottled beers and some nice wines. It looks like they might also have live music some nights of the week. Go try it.. yum yum.

    (5)

  • Jane R.

    There's somewhere good to eat near my house! I am THRILLED. I never thought this day would come. I've been driving by Grinders since it opened and wondering how it stayed in business in such an odd little location. Now I have my answer: they are awesome. Went to check it out based on the gushing reviews here, and wasn't disappointed. I blanched a little at the $10/sandwich prices, but then I saw how big they were, and then I tasted how good they were ... and I think it's fair enough. I had the meatball grinder, which was ohmygodsogood. These are not meatballs that come out of the freezer. Good use of melty cheese. I did have to make use of the knife and fork that came with my ginormous sandwich. I was pretty full after I finished (I didn't think leftovers would be as tasty, so I felt obligated to finish), but I still wanted to try the bread pudding, since I'm always on the lookout for people who can make it right. Not the best I've had, but far better than most. Good service, nice ambiance. I'm very glad to have this place in town.

    (4)

  • Donna W.

    Seriously, the other folks aren't lying - the food here is phenomenal. I had the Goomba and it was so freakin' good. The place is clean, my friend said the restroom was clean. A few pointers, parking sucks. The place was packed when I was there, there was one lone table left that we grabbed, however, I could see where you might end up in a communal dining situation here, which I don't mind, but some folks do so I'm just putting it out there for info. The drink selection is great. The kid taking our order was probably family and seemed a little cold, or filled with some type of angst, but the guys cooking were friendly. I definitely would recommend this place because the food is just awesome!

    (4)

  • Craig H.

    I passed by this place on Aurora many times and never even knew that it sold food because of the strange name. I actually thought it was a tanning salon or something because of the Hot Sands part of the name. After seeing the reviews on yelp, I tried two of their sandwiches (The Gilbano and The Dipper). I was disappointed to find out that they both tasted wierd. I really don't know how to describe it, but I wasn't impressed by the taste. Also, The bread for my Dipper sandwich was rock hard on the top bun so I had an even harder time eating it. All together my experience there was pretty bad. I guess I have to continue looking for a decent sandwich shop.

    (2)

  • Deborah S.

    Now this is a dinner joint. Imagine a sauball grinder, sausage spicy and meaty, meatballs substantial , fluffy and flavorful. Slathered in sauce, soft bread with a crunchy crust enveloping it all. A variety of wines and other beverages available. Staff who really cares that you are there. Its a little pricey but oh so good.

    (5)

  • Laura K.

    This place does not serve sandwiches! These are works of art. This is the best of the best. I feel love in every bite. Don't listen to people who complain that $10 is too much to pay. The stromboli grinder saved my life one day and it can do the same for you.

    (5)

  • Steve G.

    I love a mean sandwich, and this place delivers the meanest. Now I've only had the spicy pork, but it was fantastic. In fact I've been there only twice and had that sandwich each time. I happen to be a fan of hot food, so your tastes might differ. I've sampled some of the other sandwiches and they were equally as tasty. I definitely recommend this place to anyone who craves a grinder.

    (5)

  • Brent L.

    This is the best sandwich shop I've ever been to, any type of sandwhich, anywhere on this planet. They claim the Gilbano will make you forget about Philly...they're right. The claim the best meatball's you've had, and they're right. Even more so, they're friendly, helpful, and love what they do. The result is a sandwich that could be called cooking rather than just assembling. Delicious. See you there.

    (5)

  • Robyn H.

    How you doing? Wanna get a sam'ich? East Coast food hiding in a West Coast suburb. Its a miracle, I tell ya! Huge overstuffed sandwiches and there ain't any Costco prepackaged stuff used here, buddy. Meatball subs with tons of mozzerella will have you drooling just thinking about it and the Po' Boy Grinder will convert you into a lover of catfish in a heartbeat. Who knew that Shoreline had such a treasure?

    (4)

  • Kimberly l.

    This place will rock every single one of your taste buds. The setting is cozy, the food is made in heaven and the staff is wonderful. They have live music some nights too. Everyone should eat here.

    (5)

  • Linda S.

    We absolutely love Grinders! It's a multi generational hit where we can take our parents and kids and enjoy the food and space. We've had the Bbq pork (spicey) and three other grinders and love them all. The chilie is fantastic and the bread pudding shouldn't be missed.

    (4)

  • Jeff V.

    Who knew? A place with this vibe and this quality seems like it should be in a trendy location like wallingford or madrona, but that's OK, because its closer to me in Shoreline. True sandwich artistry takes place here. You can't even compare it to a sandwich or sub shop. Yes, the sandwiches are $10, but you could feed 2 reasonable people from one sandwich AND you get what you pay for. Quality, lovingly prepared. Nice, comfortable, hip ambiance, a good selection of bottled beer. If you go once, you'll be a devout fan.

    (5)

  • Scott T.

    To fully understand my review, you've got to know this about me: probably one of my favorite food items is, on the day after Thanksgiving, the first sandwich I make with all the leftovers. The sandwich is better than the dinner. And my Grinders sandwich was better than that. I had the Gilbano - a "Thinly sliced Tri-Tip steak grilled with basil, garlic, grilled onions, spicy Mama Lil's peppers, mozzarella, and a little Gorgonzola loaded into an Italian roll", and when they say "loaded", they mean it. The sandwich came on a plate with a knife & fork, and was close to a foot long, maybe 10", but whatever. It was loaded with meat from stem to stern...just enough so that the roll had to be cut all the way through. I ate the sandwich with my hands, but the fork was handy for eating what fell onto the plate. Anyway, the sandwich was excellent. The tri-tip was well seasoned, tender, and perfectly done, and the peppers added just a subtle nip to the whole thing...not really hot, just enough to make my mouth tingle a bit. When it got there, I wasn't sure I was hungry enough to eat the entire sandwich, but after tasting it there was no way I wasn't going to finish. I'm saying it's in the top 5 best sandwiches I've ever had Actually, the sandwich was so good, I decided to try their bread pudding for dessert, and was not disappointed. Firm but chewy, well spiced....perfect. The whole place is clean, the staff is helpful and friendly, and the smell walking in the door definitely proves Pavlov's theory correct. I wasn't drinking this trip, but they've got an impressive group of beers on the menu....sorry, no Coors or Budweiser here. Their location could be a drawback, it's tucked beside Aurora and could be tough to get into their parking lot sometimes, but it's worth the effort....or the walk. As an aside - this was the first time I actually used Yelp as my restaurant guide. I've used it to look up places people told me about before, but never tried it as an exclusive source. I saw 20+ reviews and a 5-star average rating and decided to give it a shot. Well done, Seattle Yelpers.

    (5)

  • AJ R.

    My favorite place ever. I wish I could crawl into any of the sandwiches and roll around. I dont have a favorite, just when I think I do I try another and love it just as much. Everything has so much flavor. Best bread pudding you can imagine. Staff is friendly.

    (5)

  • Ken P.

    Can you say food just like my Grandma makes? Well not really, my Grandma was German and fried everything, but if she was a little old Italian lady I think she would be right at home here. The sandwiches are fantastic. Fresh ingredients, lots of cheese and it's obvious that everything is made by hand. My favorite is the Sau-Ball Sandwich, designed for those of us who can't make up our minds. Half is Italian Sausage, the other half is Meatball...excellent. Windy usually gets the Pesto Chicken, and it's as good. You have to get there early since seating is limited. Also they have live music on Friday nights so if you don have reservations you're eating in the parking lot in your car.

    (5)

  • Liam H.

    sometimes i get moldy bread. keep coming back tho.

    (3)

  • H Y.

    I wasn't all impressed with the subs - they are tasty and in large portion and yes very pricey! I had the sauball and it was good. I was really impressed by the decor, the atmosphere, the fireplace and bar-like tables and chairs - it's really a new trend. The place makes some great $$$ with beer and wine - and I think the business model is really neat. It's like seeing Starbucks again that renovated the coffee business. It makes you want to pay $10 for a foot-long.

    (4)

  • Joyce E.

    Our very favorite casual restaurant. Go there for consistently good food and warm hospitality; evidence of a family business that cares about its customers. The location is a bit of a hole-in-the-wall, but the restaurant is clean and the atmosphere is friendly & hip. The view is of highway 99: interesting. The music during the week is eclectic and Mitch has live jazz or blues on Saturday nights, make reservations for that. Sandwiches are piled high, hot and yummy. Mom makes wonderful home-made soup. Try this place - you WILL go back.

    (5)

  • Melissa W.

    Really, the best eff'n meatball sandwhich on the planet. And the bread pudding, IT"S SOOOOOOOO GOOOOOOOOOOOD!!!!!!!!

    (5)

  • Kim W.

    It's one of those unsung heros of the sandwich and beer world. I actually love their "Whack Whack Salad" and their Kwak beer. I guess there's a special way to pour Kwak beer 'cuz the cashier needed someone else to do it for him in the special Kwak glass. Funny, huh? They do such a good job on their sandwiches, as well their salads - you hafta try the steak dip sandwich. I'm always amazed at the quality ingredients they use. When a place is busy, it really speaks volumes about the service, prices, or the food - or all combined. And this place is busy whenever I go in. it's definitely one of the gems in Shoreline.

    (4)

  • Melissa N.

    I went to Grinders and had the SauBall sandwich. It was great. the sauce was perfect. the meatball was tender but not mushy. it had a great balance of flavor. Not too much cheese, but enough to be gooey. I also took home a piece of bread pudding. It was wonderful. the whiskey sauce and cream topping were perfect.

    (5)

  • Jeremy A.

    Absolutely delicious, hearty, fully satisfying hot sandwiches that far surpassed my expectations. It's easy to miss this small shop, tucked near an auto shop in a nondescript building. While at first the prices seemed rather steep, hovering near $10 with tax, what arrived on that plate was worth every penny. Large, overflowing, and perfectly calibrated. The bread was baked just right, not too crisp, and the perfect canvas for endless sausage and meatball drippings that gloriously soaked it in flavor. Just incredible, obviously made with great care by real aficionados.

    (5)

  • Mark B.

    Very tasty old school hot italian sandwiches made with quality ingredients.

    (4)

  • Nancy H.

    Great food, fun atmosphere, and friendly staff - what more could you ask? We usually drop in and place an order to go. While waiting for our food, the owner usually brings a generous free sample of soup and/or chili. What service! The sandwiches are amazing. My favorite is the BBQ Pork (really spicy), but the Goomba and Giardino are close seconds. I was really surprised that a place on Aurora would have such a cool vibe and great food.

    (5)

  • Alice H.

    Great, wonderful hot subs! Too much to eat in one session, but just as good for me the leftover queen to re heat the oven and throw it in there tastes as good as the first time. They have a great selection of sandwich's, salad's and wine or beer! I have only been twice, but now that I know they are open for dinner I'll be back soon!!

    (4)

  • Xexilia B.

    It's alright, better than Subway...if that's a compliment. It isn't that great for a $10+ sandwich. The sandwiches aren't that big. I would rather have Paseo, which I would gladly pay $15 for their sandwiches...because it's worth it. This place isn't.

    (2)

  • Kim P.

    You've read it from others, it's true--this place is great. He's got a selection of belgium beers in the bottle and his mom makes a great bread pudding.

    (5)

  • Anne S.

    I live nearby but took a long time to stop in as the outside looks like another Aurora strip mall place. But inside it is really cozy and inviting. I have been back several times with friends and every sandwich has been delicious. The sandwiches are a bit pricy, but it's worth it for the quality of ingredients and the sizes (two people could split one and be happy). They have several vegetarian options, as well as a great beverage selection.

    (4)

  • JD D.

    I was excited to try this out after reading all the positive reviews. Too bad I don't have the same opinion as most people here. The sandwiches were too rich for me, too cheesy. I was able to finish only half of mine. Also tried the bread pudding as so many people raved about...I thought it was pretty average. Overall, there was nothing for me to come back again.

    (2)

  • P K.

    Tucked in the used car, used tire, section of 99 is a kick ass sandwich shop. It looks like it's part of the muffler shop but the inside is nicely done and when you walk through the door and smell the food you know you're in the right place. The $9 snadwiches are big and taste fantastic. The guy at the next table said he would have licked the plate if nobody else was in there. A nice selection of wines and some decent bottled beer but no taps. You can tell Mitch loves food and wants to make sure your sandwich is the best. Live blues on Sat. nights and the bathroom was so clean & sans urinal that i thought I was in the womens.

    (5)

  • Sam H.

    Best sandwich in the north end for sure!

    (5)

  • Cindy P.

    Just moved from the East coast (where I grew up) a couple of months ago so when people say this place is east coast-like I have to ask, "really?" I mean yeah, the sandwiches are good if you're looking for a gourmet sandwich joint, but it don't find it especially East coast-like. The staff is really polite and the decor is charming. Sandwiches are pricey and could do with a little less whole garlic cloves, but they are tasty, quality, and filling. If you don't want to have to tip a waiter, but want sandwiches better than subway, check out Grinders. It's intimate and cozy.

    (4)

  • Richy M.

    Awesome food. I have almost had everything on the menu and cant wait to start back over and try them all again.

    (5)

  • Jyl B.

    My boyfriend and I have been looking forward to eating at Grinders for a few weeks now and we finally made it to the restaurant, ordered and were getting ready to indulge. Our friend, who ordered a salad, received her salad, and we thought our sandwich was going to follow soon. About 10 minutes passed and we thought that maybe they had forgotten our sandwich. Yes. They did. Somehow our order got lost. No biggy. About another 15 minutes later, 2 more of the same sandwich we ordered came out to other customers that we had ordered after us. We went to inquire about our sandwich one more time and were informed that our order had been added to the line---not in the front of the line, but in the back of the line. The cashier was nice enough to give us our money back, but after waiting for our food for 1 hour, still having our sandwich order in the line to be made, watching other sandwiches come out, we didn't have any more time to waste waiting for the customer service to get better. It's a shame, because we're sure it was going to be good, but too bad the service is not so good.

    (1)

  • Becky C.

    I have been going to Grinders for two years now. I've tried at least 6 different ones and all are excellent. My personal favorite is the Giradino Grinder. I highly recommend this place. Prices are decent, around $10 per sandwich. The serving sizes are HUGE! My husband and I often split one sandwich. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is fun. I have yet to find a sandwich place that can match the quality that Grinders provides.

    (5)

  • Austin S.

    Amazing subs, groovy music, Catfish sandwich...Can't ask for much else coming from the East Coast to "Great Deli-less Seattle".

    (5)

  • Scott F.

    Made my first but by no means my last, visit here today. What a pleasure! I had the SauBall Grinder, Italian sausage and meatballs. Excellent. Good bread, a terrific fresh-tasting simple marina sauce, perhaps a touch more mozzarella than necessary. The place has a small but well selected beer menu and interesting wines. It's elegant and spacious, and the staff is efficient if not precisely friendly. It's along Aurora in a stretch that looks like the Indianapolis Speedway, so you might be forgiven for thinking that the "grinders" are doing something to exhaust manifolds or quarter-panels or something. The parking lot is small but there's parking to the W on neighborhood streets. At $9.95 the sandwich I had was pretty expensive, but turned out to be well worth the price. The chefs (it's a family affair) hail from Pittsburgh, which may explain why there's no Philly Cheese Steak on the menu: if they were to add it, it'd surely be the best in King County.

    (5)

  • Tim L.

    In order to secure my spot for all of eternity, when I die, I'm bringing one Grinders sandwich to God, and one Grinders Sandwich to Satan. This way, I'll guarantee my spot in which ever place is better! :) Seriously, oh how I lust for the 'Strombolli', or the mouth watering 'Gilbano'. I can't express to you the awesomeness that is this sandwich joint. Upon entry in Grinders, the beautiful aroma of deliciousness permeates my senses and my soul. My mouth waters and heart flutters as I excitedly scan the wall mounted menu and glance towards the glowing cooler of beer. Towards the counter I can see the handful of the faithful 'sandwich makers' I've come to know over the past few months of my sandwich affair. Amongst them is "Mitch", the owner and mad sandwich scientist. Whose personality and charisma matches that of his menu. He'll passionately chat with you about his favorite beer, or the live music booked for Saturday. The atmosphere is chill and relaxed, and the customer base is the full range of people. Anyone with $10 in their pocket and half a brain should have a grinders sandwich in their belly.

    (5)

  • V F.

    These are pretty good sandwiches. However if you know your Philly cheesesteaks, make no mistake their claim to make you forget about them with the Gilbano will never happen. It's just a completely different sandwich and the flavor combination wasn't a hit for me or my father (both Philly people). However, I have had a good many other sandwiches. The Goomba, Ciabatta Grinder, and SauBall Grinder. All of these sandwiches were clearly made with care, however I feel they lack just the last bit of zest in their sauces or spreads to truly make it a great sell. The menu does have some interesting sandwich combinations which continue to entice me when I don't feel like cooking myself. My only hesitation are the prices, starting at 8.95 is a little steep. I think they could drop a buck off each sandwich. I go in there and my bill is $25. for two subs and one beverage. This is pretty steep for a no table service get your own drink kind of place. The sandwiches are however large. I recommend sharing one with a friend and splitting one of "mom's" bread puddings that is doused in rum, large, warm and the best I've ever had outside of a nice restaurant. All in all for what it is: nearly fast food subs it's not bad, just be prepared to pay for it. And finally they added more hours, that can only be good.

    (4)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Tue

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch
    Parking : Private Lot
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
    Outdoor Seating : No
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : Yes

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