After exploring the various wonders of the Central West End, it was time for some lunch. The neighborhood presented us with several options, including a sushi bar, a neighborhood grill, several coffee joints, and a couple of locally owned sandwich shops. It was from this last category that we selected Kopperman’s, a deli that invited us to “Taste a Bit of the World.” It might have been this friendly invite that enticed us to enter, or perhaps the wonderful smells wafting from within. Most likely it was a combination of those, along with the tiki bar stationed out front. Honestly, how could you not enter a restaurant with a tiki bar?

Once inside, we were greeted by an eclectic yet comforting atmosphere. The deli bars showcased the variety of different delicacies available, and the refrigerators lining one wall were stocked with all sorts of beverages. But what was the most interesting was the walls. The walls were covered in old posters, some dating back from the early 1900’s. Here, in Kopperman’s, old fashioned Ripley’s Believe It or Not! posters can find an easy home next to Loose Lips Sink Ships! posters from World War II.

The menus were another pleasant surprise. The array of foods was fantastic, truly a “taste of the world”, and the option for breakfast at any time couldn’t hurt either. The sandwich section was an actual delight, as whoever created the menu clearly had a sense of humor. Although I didn’t try them all, I would have to say that “Tongue Fu” and “Cry Me A Liver” were some of my favorite sandwiches, as far as names go.  The items were all reasonably priced, with most sandwich platters ending at about eight dollars, and with the simpler options ranging from about four to seven dollars.

Our server was friendly, and after we had placed our orders, we entertained ourselves by commenting on the different posters on the walls, along with marveling over Laura’s fancy Jamaican Ginger Beer. Thankfully, this helped pass the time, because it took quite a bit for our orders to be placed.

But of course, they arrived in style. My sandwich (a “Queen of Clubs”) was placed in front of me, and it actually took me about a minute to process. The sandwich was literally about the size of my head, not including the various sides that came with the platter. In this case, my eyes had clearly been too large for my stomach. Nevertheless, I dug in heartily, though I had to stop after eating about two thirds of the entire thing.

The sandwich it itself was completely satisfying, taking a classic BLT and adding a unique twist that only Kopperman’s can create.  The addition of the melted cheese, mushrooms, and the extra dressings and vinaigrettes really provided a punch of flavor that was both surprising and pleasing.  I did have some difficulties with the fact that it was an open face sandwich, but I managed to cheat with an extra slice of bread they had provided.  My lunch companions also seemed to enjoy their meals, Laura particularly relishing the jam that came with her meal.

Kara and Laura chose the daintier options of a Chicken Salad sandwich and Potato pancakes, which was definitely the smarter choice for just a lunch outing, but I didn’t really mind. I had enough left over to take home and make a nice lunch for another day.

All in all, Kopperman’s was an enjoyable treat after a morning of exploring. The atmosphere was warm and eclectic, the menu varied, and the food superb. The only drawback was the bit of a wait that we incurred, which is natural for any restaurant not partaking in fast food. Leaving the bubble for this fun little deli was clearly worth the drive, and it was one of many enjoyable entertainments found in the Central West End.