Specialty's has become a go-to option for lunch. The opening of a new location on 5th and Union has cemented their place as one of the top bakery-cafes in the downtown corridor. The sandwiches are huge, made-to-order and loaded with goodness. Careful though...they aren't as healthy as you would imagine. Many are slathered with mayo or oil and their freshly baked bread (though delicious!) is loaded with calories. They also serve salads for the calorie-conscious, but make sure to get the dressing on the side. The soups are also a tasty and inexpensive way to go. They also offer many breakfast items, including oatmeal with fun toppings. The breakfast sandwiches will tide you over until at least 2pm.
However, it is their pastry counter that really makes this chain stand out. They have several varieties of cookies that are truly amazing. They have one that includes oatmeal, chocolate chips and wheat germ that could qualify for the best thing I have ever tasted.
Specialty's is almost always crowded, but you can get in and out faster if you use their online ordering system. Go to www.specialtysdirect.com, order and pay with your credit card. In 15 minutes or less you can show up and be in and out in 30 seconds. They also give you a free lunch after 12 orders, which seems like a lot, but most of their customers come back again and again.
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