Story by Matthew Carroll
Photos by Alex Stoltze
A sweet, savory, meaty, and juicy sandwich that will drive your taste buds mad: this describes the famous pulled pork sandwich at Papa’s Soul Food Kitchen & Blues Joint of Eugene, Oregon. The pulled pork has been the staple of Papa’s ever since the restaurant’s start as a food cart in 2002. After several location changes, Papa’s has moved into a spot all its customers have come to know and love at 400 Blair Boulevard.
“It was the first thing people wanted to drive out of the way to get,” says Chef Redbone, Papa’s manager and chef. After personally sampling the sandwich on several occasions, it’s not hard to see why. The sandwich may not be for dainty eaters, but after the first bite it’s impossible to put down. The smoky BBQ sauce, melt-in-your-mouth pork, and sweet coleslaw are an irresistible combination.
“It’s like a drug to people,” says owner Deborah Lee, who started Papa’s Soul Food with her late husband, the “Papa” behind the soul food. “When you think of Papa’s, you think of the pulled pork sandwich.”
From the beginning, Papa’s has aimed to feed college students craving home cooking. The pulled pork sandwich was the first item on the menu. It has taken years to perfect the sauce and Chef Redbone says he’s still constantly trying to improve upon it. “It’s all about utilizing what you have on hand,” he says.
Papa’s continuously endeavors to make unique food and give customers something to write home about. For this food lover, it’s scrumptious as is. Papa’s Soul Food will always have a following in Eugene, and the pulled pork sandwich will always have a special place in my heart.
