What's a spiedie? If you are from or have ever lived in the Binghamton, New York area, then you already know. Spiedies are special and very tasty regional cuisine; they are only a very well-known thing in this little pocket of the nation. If you know, you know - and so you're probably craving one right now. Read on to learn more about spiedies, and about Lupo's S&S Char-Pit, which is where you should go to get one.
Lupo's S&S Char-Pit has been serving spiedies since 1951. It's THE place to go if you want to enjoy a spiedie from the source.
The idea for this dish was brought to the area by Italian immigrants in the 1920s. The first person to make and serve spiedies to the public is believed to be Camillo Iacovelli of Endwell. He and his brother Agostino sold them at their restaurants in Endwell and Endicott in 1938 and 1939, respectively. The rest is history.
There's some argument over this fact, though. Peter Sharak of Sharkey's Bar & Grill is also sometimes credited as the inventor. He began serving spiedies at his restaurant in 1947.
So what is a spiedie, you ask? It's a sandwich, on a sub roll, but it's what's inside that counts. Meat is cut into cubes and then marinated overnight or longer, and then is grilled on a spit over a charcoal pit.
The spiedies that Camillo and Agostino Iacovelli sold were made of spring lamb, but today, any meat is acceptable. Lamb, chicken, beef, and pork are all popular choices.
The choice of meats and the ingredients in the marinades are what set spiedies by one restaurant apart from others. Many people in the Binghamton area like Lupo's the best.
In addition to operating Lupo's S&S Char-Pit, Lupo's sells sauces and marinades made especially for spiedies.
Lupo's is a big participant in Spiediefest. This event began in 1983 and attracts more than 100,000 people each year. It's a great August tradition.
Spiediefest also doubles as one of the top hot air balloon rallies in the nation.
There are spiedie-eating contests; if you win, you get a trophy from Lupo's!
Spiediefest is only one weekend a year, but you can go to Lupo's S&S Char-Pit any time. You should. Go get a spiedie! Eat one, and then eat another one, too. You'll love these epic sandwiches.
Now that you know more about spiedies, you probably want one! Lupo's S&S Char-Pit awaits. Plan a trip to the Binghamton area today and bring your appetite. It's no wonder these sandwiches are so popular!
Do you love regional food? Check out this post about other interesting foods from New York: Here Are The 11 Dishes You Have To Eat In New York Before You Die
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