Lamb-Strosity Sandwich, Waddells Brewpub & Grille, Spokane, WA

On entering Waddells Brewpub, I am greeted with the sweet smell of malt cooking: beer is being brewed. Named after Rube Waddell, an eccentric deadball baseball pitcher, Waddells is a local Spokane favorite for good pub food. I order a lamb cheese steak with the given name "Lamb-Strosity". Featured on Diners, Drive Ins & Dives, the Lamb-Strosity is made from dark stout braised lamb shredded and topped with Cougar Gold Cheese. Served on Hoagie Roll with house made Waddell's mayo and Au Jus for dipping, it is a good looking sandwich.

Lamb-Strosity Sandwich

Arriving in a paper basket with fries a la diner, with long stringy bits of lamb temptingly sticking out, the presentation was a visual delight. I dig in. I am rewarded with succulent moist lamb, tender to almost melting in my mouth. The lamb, first seared, then braised, releases all of its wonderful juices to the palate. And the local Cougar Gold cheese-gold medal winner at the 2006 World Cheese Awards-is gooey good. The pride of Washington State University Creamery, Cougar Gold is every worth your effort to try this magnificent white cheddar. The jus, reduced from the braised lamb and spices broth, is excellent for dipping the last remaining morsels of Hoagie.

For my beer, I chose Waddell's Oktoberfest. This is an easy brew to like. With a moderate body, and mild spice taste and hops, the Oktoberfest goes well with the juicy lamb. You can have two pints if you like.

The brewpub has a large seating area for patrons with booths, a bar to belly-up-to, and picnic tables for large groups. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, always welcome for the inquiring foodie.

For history baseball fans, Rube Waddell was an colorful and eccentric character. Sometimes Rube would leave the pitcher's mound mid-game and go fishing or to chase fire trucks, which he found fascinating. He was easily distracted by opposing team fans who used to hold up puppies and shiny objects. During the offseason, he performed as an alligator wrestler. 

Waddell had an excellent fastball, screwball, and curve. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946.

Monday-Sunday: 11am to Close

Waddells Brewpub & Grille

6501 N Cedar St, Spokane, WA 
509-321-7818

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