Maverick's Smoked Chicken Cubano in a Cargo Box

After a year of searching for the World's best last sandwich, I have finally progressed to the next level.  Eating a sandwich is more than taste, it is about a feeling, a moment in time that is captured in our memory forever.

So, the other day, I was traveling on the LRT (Light Rail Transit) on my way to the ocean, when we stopped in an isolated area in Dansui, Taiwan.  As I looked out the window, there was a faint outline of a brightly blue painted cargo container surrounded by tables and chairs.  In that moment, just before the doors closed, I lept off the train and peered over the platform to take a closer look.  To my suprise, it was a Cargo Box Cubano Cafe', with a broadway style sign on top with the name "Maverick Cubano".

Hidden Paradise

So, after a minute of consideration, I decided to take the elevator down to the main level, crossed a busy street, and trekked up a winding gravel road.  It was a surreal experience, to say the least.  There was nothing else around, other than some commercial businesses, which were also built in cargo boxes.  As I walked up to the Maverick Cubano Cafe', there was a gentleman in a chef's apron and hat standing behing the counter.  "Are you open?", I asked.  "Of course, we are always open, " he replied.  So, I looked at the menu, and chose the Smoked Chicken Cuban Sandwich.  In my experience, anything smoked is usually good 90% of the time.

It took him about 10 minutes to prepare the sandwich, and he really took great care,  even lighting a blowtorch to smoke it even more.  Then I sat down at one of the tables and enjoyed one of the most pleasurable experiences in my life.  It was so spontaneous, so fascinating, so bizarre, and the Cuban Sandwich was good too!

So, if you ever find yourself in Taiwan and want to try something a little unusual in the middle of the afternoon, go visit the Maverik Cafe'.  It's definitely a long journey by MRT and LRT to get there, but it's an experience you'll always remember. 




A 300-Year Old Question

Ever since the invention of the first sandwich, 300 years ago, when John Montagu requested a some meat inbetween two slices of bread, we have been facing the world's most difficult question...  

If I was stranded on a deserted isle, would I choose the Chicken Cubano as my Last Sandwich?

Partially because of the warm atmosphere, my answer is Yes.  

Sometimes it's about the experience as much as it is about the food, and this was an exceptionally delightful experience.  I would definitely recommend Maverick Cubano's for the naturalistic atmosphere, the great customer service, and the huge variety of delicious sandwiches.