Recent Culinary Highlights: Iron Town Diner to Viet Citron

There's once again no Rant today as there's been enough bad news recently and today is a holiday, Independence Day, so I just want to highlight some of the tasty delights I've recently enjoyed, giving some attention to excellent restaurants which are worthy of praise and your patronage.

I've previously written a few times about my explorations of the potential of French Toast for sandwiches other than the famed Monte Cristo. Most recently, I mentioned a French Toast Chicken Cutlet sandwich I enjoyed at the Iron Town Diner in Saugus. This past week, I opted to try a Hot Pastrami & Swiss on French Toast, and I'm pleased to say it was also an excellent choice. Again, the sandwich was enhanced by the eggy taste and texture of the French Toast, and didn't get soggy. The pastrami was lean and tender as well. I didn't have any mustard on the sandwich, and wasn't sure how that will go with the French Toast. 

My server also mentioned that he had tried a French Toast burger for the first time and enjoyed it, even talking to the chef about possibly adding it to one of the Specials some time. Let's hope that happens and more people can enjoy that delicious combination. However, anyone dining at Iron Town Diner can always order such a sandwich, even if it isn't on the menu. They are very good in handling special requests. 

One of my favorite lunch spots (which is also great for dinner) is Viet Citron, a Vietnamese restaurant in Burlington. I've been dining there since it opened early in 2020, just before the pandemic struck. Bánh Mi, Phở, Mama Tran's Chả Giò, seasonal specialties and more. For lunch last week, I began with a seasonal specialty, the Viet Grilled Corn, which is smothered with a scallion jalapeno butter and topped with scallion oil. The sweet corn was nicely grilled, and the scallion jalapeno butter added a mildly spicy kick. A delicious summery treat, with its own unique twist.  

I then enjoyed a Crispy Pork Belly Bánh Mi, which is one of my favorite choices here. The Bánh Mi can also be chosen with lemongrass sirloin, Big A** chicken, grilled prawns, or crispy tofu puffs. The sandwich comes on a baguette and is filled with pickles, jalapeños, cilantro, signature aioli, and garlic soy reduction (or fish sauce if you prefer). I love the pork belly as it's tender and crispy, with crunchy bits and soft fat. The freshness, flavors and textures of the other ingredients enhances the sandwich. The sandwich is amply filled, and it's great for take-out as well. 

I've tasted most of the dishes at Viet Citron, and been pleased with all of them. They use quality ingredients, some local, and invest much time into preparing some of their signature dishes, from the crispy pork belly to the Phở. It's a great, small local business worthy of your support.