peruvian-stylesandwichesfor the lunch crowd. if you've found yourself downtown driving east on long st. during the lunch hour, you've undoubtedly witnessed a smiling old man standing on the sidewalk loudly gesturing and beckoning you towards his restaurant. that restaurant is si senor, and you should definitely heed his call. (edit - the waving man hasn't been out for the last few years, but oh well, you should still go!)
si senor is a latin/peruvian sandwich shop catering almost exclusively to the lunch crowd. it is not as chic or flashy as many of the options along the gay street corridor just one block away (in fact, the decor is quite minimal), but don't let that deter you from stopping in. the customers are primarily office workers walking here on lunchbreak, but if you find yourself driving here from further out, the best parking options are probably metered spots along both long st (eastbound) and spring st (westbound).
the menu here is relatively simple. there are 10-12 different peruvian-inspiredsandwichessuch as chicharron or jumping beef that you can order by themselves or pair up with one of 3 sides -- a cilantro pasta salad, avocado salad, or mixed greens salad (i'd recommend the pasta salad). in addition to the sandwiches, they have several dessert options such as tres leches cake for those who, much like me, are fighting a losing battle against one's sweet tooth. and as far as price, a sandwich/side/drink combo usually runs roughly $7-8, so they fall right in line with the typical lunch pricing found elsewhere.
the dining area is small but clean, seating 30-35 people at once with a few windows looking out onto long street. being a small luncheon spot, though, they do only offer counter service here. you order at the cash register, give them your name, and then they'll call you when your order is ready to be picked up. after you're finished eating, you have to bus your own table, throwing away trash and placing plates and silverware in the dishwasing tubs that are laid out.
the wait time for your order is usually only a couple of minutes, but i've had to wait upwards of 10-12 minutes or so when there is a bit more of a crowd. though not nearly as busy as many of the gay street lunch spots, the crowd has definitely been increasing lately as word is getting out about this place. if you're in the area come mid-day and in the mood for a non-traditional sandwich option, it is definitely worth trying out. my guess is it quickly will become one of your regular spots. enjoy.
must-try dish: chicharron sandwich