Off the eaten path: Maggie’s Lunchbox

Exploring Kirkwood’s restaurants

Jesse Hofford
-Opinions Editor- 

Depending on where you are coming from, Maggie’s Lunchbox is not the easiest place to find. Tucked away within the bowels of northern Fenton, it is off of the highway and down around a few turns. However, this should not stop you from taking the time to find it.

You will have to take a second look when you do find it because chances are you’ll mistake it for an office space. That is until you see the sign. Part of the area’s many office complexes, it is almost hidden. The only thing giving it away is the sign near the road displaying the specials.

Upon walking in, one will notice the surprisingly hip interior. Art and ambient lighting give Maggie’s an inviting atmosphere. And the free Wi-fi does not hurt either. Not what one would expect from the outside.

Their menu is something one will need to learn. Offering certain items at certain times may be confusing and slightly frustrating for the first timer. For example, one cannot get fries with their sandwich until after 4 p.m.  Which may make little sense to those regularly frequenting the local golden arches. Also, they only serve certain sandwiches after that 4 p.m. threshold. Want to order one of their Italian grinders? You will have to wait; it is on the evening menu.

One meal that is available for the lunch crowd is their Cuban panini with pasta salad. Highly recommended. Ham, pork, cheese, pickles and horseradish sauce all piled onto Cuban bread and grilled crispy and accompanied by a pickle spear. The premium meats and cheese are enhanced by the pickles and horseradish. Those who are not too fond of horseradish or have never had it need not be afraid. You will still find this sandwich plenty tasty.

The pasta salad was a welcome change from french fries. I was actually glad I was forced to order that instead. It freshened up the meal a little bit. Cavatappi  pasta tossed with feta cheese, red cabbage shreds and dressing all served on a bed of lettuce. A partner for the Cuban panini.

Maggie’s Lunchbox serves more than just sandwiches. Pizza, bakery items and breakfast are all part of their menu as well. Eaters are sure to find something good to eat no matter what time of day.

Maggie’s is located at 867 Horan Drive in Fenton. Open Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. with dinner hours from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.