We discovered Broad Shoulders Sandwiches, a quaint fast-casual, yet formidable spot, through Rick Tobin of Premier Hotel Realty and The Beachside directory. Rick had done a small video interview of Tom and his wife Cheryl on their very first day of operation welcoming them to the neighborhood back in February of 2022. Tom has over 25 years of restaurant experience, in 1998, Tom was the Sous Chef at Emeril’s Orlando. Shortly thereafter, he ascended to Executive Sous Chef before gaining the title of Chef de Cuisine at Emeril’s Miami Beach, which is one of Miami’s First Celebrity Chef-helmed restaurants. Tom and his wife Cheryl, met when he was working for celebrity Chef Emeril LaGasse’s Group and are a perfect collaboration.
As we entered, we were instantly greeted by Cheryl’s warm smile which is so welcoming that you feel and vibe like you are home instantly. The menu is perfect and packed with several flavorful enticing choices. I ordered the Chicago Style Italian Beef which is Italian seasoned roasted beef shaved thin and dipped in their special gravy served with homemade Giardiniera and sweet peppers on an Italian roll. I cannot say that I have ever had better. Everything down to the Giardiniera was sheer perfection. Doris ordered the Shrimp Po’boy which is made with Crispy fried Extra Jumbo shrimp, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and freshly made Remoulade on French bread.
The first thing that I noticed was the size of the shrimp! They were absolutely huge, I believe 16-20’s. The sandwich was presented with the shrimp prominently positioned on top of everything whereas most po’ boys hide the shrimp in the lettuce. When they are that big and delicious you don’t have to hide them, you definitely showcase them. All of this delicious freshness and flavor is accented with a fresh Remoulade sauce. We really had no room for the freshly in-house-made desserts but we will be back, soon. Doris says she’s going to have her dessert first, for sure!
People have asked about how the name came about. Tom is from Chicago and Chicago is known as the “City of Big Shoulders.” Hence the name Broad Shoulders Sandwiches. Their sandwiches are big and they’ve got broad shoulders. On your way home from work and hungry? Do yourself a favor, instead of driving hangry, stop in and take food home. Surprise the family with this love-filled deliciousness, all will be glad you did.
Tips & Notes:
· Plenty of parking
· They offer catering in-house and off-premises
· Try to save room for dessert
Address: 2822 E Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
Phone: 754-779-7220
