A side benefit is that the bread cap helps the sandwich retain its heat if you're driving before eating it. Meatball subs typically don't age well, but Mario's can hold on a little longer than most because the warmth is trapped inside. The traditional crusty bread ensures that things won't get soggy while you're waiting. The grinder shop typically offers a lunch special called "the perfect lunch," a grinder of the day, a side of pasta salad and a can of soda for $7.
Mario's is owned by the Waid family (yup, the Waid Family that founded the Waid's Restaurant chain), and the carryout side is said to be the site of Kansas City's first hot-dog stand. John Waid began selling the grinders out of the small counter space in 2007. Despite its canary-yellow paint job, it's easy to miss the torpedo shop adjacent to the library.
The to-go side of Mario's makes Kitty's Cafe look big. And to those who think they only have time for the drive-through, I'll bet you a meatball sub that you'll have your order faster at the Westport sub shop. In my trip to the counter earlier this week, I received my change and sandwich in less than two minutes.Here's hoping that more sub shops consider a bread plug - it does wonders for containing the guts of a sandwich that seem hellbent on ruining your dress shirt.
Mario's is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Showing 1-2 of 2
