Some fans of T&C Meat may fondly recall the 35-year-old market located at 2801 W. North. Well, less than a year ago, the pig-roasting venture shut the doors of its streetside shop and headed one block east into the Cermak Produce grocery store. Don't worry, though; T&C still provides top-notchlechones, whole roasted pigs spiced in the traditional Puerto Rican style with garlic and oregano.
Just enter Cermak Produce and ask a cashier for T&C. He or she will direct you toward the south portion of the store, a tiny little offset housing a few chairs, an office desk and a couple of jovial guys ready to take your order. Sure, the staple here is the pig, starting at a market-priced 30 pounds and porking up to 100 pounds for $195.00 (ask nicely, and they'll dress it up with cherry eyes and stuff an apple in its mouth). But the menu has expanded to include Italian sausages, roast beef and mostacioli. Holiday favorites such as roasted ham ($45-$69) and turkey stuffed with rice and beans have also made their way into T&C's ovens. Be mindful and give them a call at least three weeks in advance for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. For an extra charge, they'll deliver the meal to you.
During the off-peak season, T&C takes over-the-counter orders by the pound every Friday and Saturday. And before you walk off with a steaming box of pork, consider some sides of fried bananas or Spanish baked beans to complete your meal.
Centerstage Reviewer: Nola Akiwowo
