Lenox
Lenox | Pop-Up: Various locations | @LenoxWA
Pop-ups seem to be all the rage these days – and it makes sense given COVID. I guess we can chalk that one up as a silver lining? At least for my appetite. I spend a good chunk of the week ogling over my Instagram feed as I scroll through the latest and greatest sandwiches, pastries, smashburgers – you name it. Lenox’s Instagram is not only inundated with drool-invoking foodporn, but its artful branding is also on point. Think old Cuba, Miami Vice vibes – funky illustrations peppered with pastels and palm trees.
And I’m happy to say that Lenox lived up to its expectations. In fact, exceeded them. Self-described as Afro-Latin soul food, Lenox is exactly that. A little bit of spice mixed with some bold flavors and a whole lot of love.
We weren’t shy when we ordered, taking on the whole menu. The star dish for me was the pollo frito sangwich that was fried to perfection with a satisfying crisp full of seasoning and not overly battered. It’s chicken thigh – which you know is where all the flavor lives – and it’s lathered in a chili aioli that gives the sandwich a deliciously dynamic bite.
The Cuban was a smoke bomb, with tender pork shoulder melting in your mouth alongside the typical accompaniments: pickle, Swiss cheese, ham. Instead of mustard, Lenox uses a Gold BBQ sauce for its own twist. I was there for it, although I did miss the intensity of your standard yellow mustard.
Of all the sides, the adobo jojos were the standout. Definitely order them “loaded,” duh. Think thick potato wedges blanketed in cheese, herbs, white BBQ sauce and Cuban Picadillo (meat sauce). They reminded me of a more souped-up, Caribbean version of chili cheese fries. Yes, please.
On the bottom of my list, were the tostones. They were a little too oily and a little too sweet - but I normally prefer mine savory. I’d say opt for the Cuban Cabbage instead - lots of spices, a good crunch and a little freshness to cut through the rest of the meal.
Did I mention their pop ups are always at breweries? Great food, good beer – what else could you need? Peep their IG for updated schedules and locations.
