The Rocket

Issue date: 9/14/07 Section: Focus

Media Credit: Kristen Baselj Located in Butler, Snack n Pack offers a wide array of sandwiches and burgers. [Click to enlarge]

Any restaurant that has a smiling hamburger and a six-pack of beer as its logo has to be worth a try, right? That's what I was thinking when I decided to go to Snack n Pack, where "friends and family meet to eat," as their logo says.

But oh, was I surprised. Can I say heart attack waiting to happen? Snack n Pack's menu includes more than 25 "munchies," and the only thing on the list that wasn't fried was the nachos.

Specialty sandwiches, hot or cold heros (technically just a sandwich), wedges (a sandwich on triangle-shaped bread), fried sandwiches, burgers and one more section called "other" sandwiches filled the rest of the menu.

Bombarded with all the choices of sandwiches and not-so-good-for-you food, I almost missed that they have salads available as well.

The drink menu consists of four beers on tap and a large variety of wine coolers, microbrews, imports and domestic beer available for individual purchase or in six packs.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

I loved the six Pack n Puffs that I tried off the "Munchies" menu. The garlic salted fried dough balls look plain and tasteless, but don't let that fool you. They come with marinara sauce, but I also suggest trying them with ranch dressing.

Though I enjoyed my munchies, I found that there was nothing great about the three sandwiches I tried.

The large, well-topped Western Burger was by far the best bet for your money, but taste-wise it was nothing to brag about.

The Bar BQ Ranch Rib Sandwich reminded me of those patties of meat that we used to get for middle school lunches, something I did not find exactly appetizing.

I would also steer clear of the Hot Roast Beef Sandwich, as the meat was dry and the bland gravy didn't make it any better.

I did not try the wings, but new flavors like chipotle, bourbon and sweet and spicy plum spiked my interest.

If you are looking for a wide array of alcoholic beverages, so be sure to check out the six-pack coolers when you walk in.

PRICES

They were the best thing about the place! Snack n Pack is the place to go if you are looking for decently sized munchies, burgers and sandwiches at a low price.

Most of the munchies and not one burger selection was more then $5 apiece.

Other sandwich prices were in line with fast food restaurants like McDonalds, Arby's or even Bob's Subs.

On the other hand, six-packs and single bottle prices were a little steep. Paying $3.50 for a new Miller Chill did not exactly make me happy.

ENVIRONMENT

With its seat-yourself policy and the ability to see part of the kitchen and wait staff area, Snack n Pack reminded me of a diner with neon beer lights on the walls.

There was one TV that was visible from most of the restaurant's booths and tables.

The dining area is rather small. I would not recommend taking a party larger than six.

Also, be sure to take your parka, as it was freezing in there!

SERVICE

The service was very informal. It is the kind of place where the staff members just wear jeans and a T-shirt.

For just getting sandwiches, I thought that the food could have come a lot faster.

Then, after we finally did receive our food, our waitress did not stop back again until she brought the check.

The staff was pleasant but not very concerned with our dining needs and wants.

You can also place an order online at ordereats.com, an online food ordering service. However, this is for carry-out only.

Snack n Pack
100 Alameda Plaza
Butler, Pa 16001
(724) 282-6749

Kristen Baselj is a senior communication major and a contributor to The Rocket.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools