Mr. Goody's - St. Joseph, MI

I was driving to work and saw a sign for Mr. Goody's Euro-American Eatery. I thought, hmm, "I should check this place out for lunch today." I went back a few hours later and walked in and began to peruse the menu. While looking nothing particularly tickled my fancy. The menu was the large lunch type sandwich place and nothing in particular stood out.

I saw they had Italian Beef, so I decided I would ask some questions. I learned they were trying to meet the standards of some of the Chicago Classics regarding Italian Beef, Chicago Style hot dogs, Beef & Cheese, etc. as well as other locations.

I asked the counter person what it was and she described the sandwich and mentioned giardinera. I plunged in and ordered an Italian Beef with hot giardinera. As I opened it up, I was a tad disappointed that the giardinera was a little skimpy, but oh well. However, the bread looked good and the meat was plentiful. I took a bite and thought, "Damn, I wish this was dipped.", I took another bite and noticed that the bottom side was juicy and had some great flavor and was much better.

As I am eating the owner came over and asked me how the sandwich was, and I told him I was used to and preferred Al's Italian Beef, but his was very good for this area. I mentioned liking my IBs dipped and he went and got me a cup of "dipping juice". I poured it on the sandwich and voila, my lunch significantly improved to my taste.

We chatted a few minutes and he told me that he tried serving the Italian Beef with more juice and more in line with Chicago style, but the locals complained some . He said they would be glad to dip them in the future and just ask for more giardinera.

I'm heading back for lunch once in awhile. While not quite as good as Al's or I'm sure some of the other classis Chicago Italian beef places, the Italian Beef at Mr. Goody's was by far the best in this area.

I do believe Mr. Goody's will surprise me with the selections they have.

Mr. Goody's Euro-American Eatery
4100 M-139
St. Joseph, MI 49085
269-429-5760

11 a.m. to 8 p.m. M-F
11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sun.