Lunch with the Press: Arby's

By JOSH NEWTON

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS April 16, 2008 10:36 am

— For someone born and raised in Oklahoma – like me – there’s something strange about a chicken salad sandwich made with grapes and pieces of pecan.
I eat at Arby’s often, and I’ve always been scared to try this Market Fresh creation. But after my trip Monday, that fear has been tossed out the window.
For $7.51, I got the sandwich, with toasted bread, a side of chips and a medium sweet tea.
The flavor combination was a surprise to me, as I would never have considered throwing in a fruit to my sandwich. But it works well, and it can also be ordered as a wrap.
When visiting Arby’s, I generally go inside with a friend, but Monday was a solo trip. When there was a slot for only one vehicle to squeeze into the drive-through line, I thought it would be a good test to see how long the wait was. With at least 10 cars ahead of me, I was handed my fresh food in exactly eight minutes.
I also suggest the classic roast beef sandwiches from Arby’s; the chicken strips; and the popcorn chicken shakers with buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce. Customers especially enjoy choosing a variety of food choices from the “Five for $5.95” menu.
Those looking for something on the healthy side may want to try one of the Market Fresh salads – a Martha’s Vineyard salad, Santa Fe salad, or chicken club salad.
There’s also a selection of toasted subs, from Philly beef to a French Dip and Swiss, classic Italian and turkey bacon club.
Looking for a light lunch? Try a drink and a starter, like mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, loaded potato bites with cool ranch sour cream, onion petals with tangy southwest sauce, curly fries or potato bakes.
When all’s said and done, you may want to try some dessert: shakes, cookies or an apple, cherry or chocolate turnover.