The Sloppy Joe Sliders at Marshall Stack

Marshall Stack is a small craft beer bar in the Lower East Side that eschews standard pub fare (ie, burgers and wings) for a menu that is reminiscent of a school cafeteria, albeit a very high-end one. However, unlike the cafeteria of your youth, this is one you’d actually want to eat at frequently (it’s also one where you can drink exceptionally good beer). On my last visit, I opted for the sloppy joe sliders, and let me tell you, these are not your father’s sloppy joes. Having previously only had Manwich or cafeteria sloppy joes, these sloppy joe sliders were a revelation. Mainly because I had no idea they could be this delicious.

The sliders are served on small potato rolls, with a heaping of grated cheddar cheese on top. Not being used to eating tasty sloppy joes, the level of spiciness in the middle of each slider was an unexpected (but delicious) surprise. Oddly enough, the spiciness wasn’t apparent near the corners. I realize this sounds weird since it’s a tiny slider, but it’s the truth. Because of this, the second bite, the bite that takes out the entire middle of the slider, is the best overall bite as it seems to be where the true flavor of these slides lies.

Although small, these sliders are flavorful and filling. My only complaint is that I didn’t have a fork to eat the bits that fell onto my plate. Full disclosure: I used my fingers. Yup, I’m part caveman.

As a side dish, the tater tots complete the cafeteria vibe and perfectly pair with pretty much anything on the menu. The tots are airy, which makes them very fluffy and crisp and not greasy whatsoever. If you aren’t hungry for something more substantial, they make a good snack whilst drinking.

It’s cash only and the staff is very knowledgeable about the beers, but I haven’t bothered them with pairing questions yet. I just stick to questions about the beer. Next time I go, I’ll have to figure out which is the best beer to pair with the sliders.

Marshall Stack is located at 66 Rivington St.