The New Italian Sandwich Zoë's Kitchen | based in Plano, Texas

The piadina is the next “it” sandwich, folding all the best of Mediterranean flavors into a toasted flatbread. Zoës introduced two in February, adding to its grilled sandwich lineup that includes a Turkey Stack and a Grüben. The Rosemary Ham & Mozzarella Piadina starts with a thin Italian flatbread baked in a stone oven and topped with a spread of housemade Calabrian pepper aïoli. “The Calabrian pepperoncino, a mild pepper from the Mediterranean, provides a fruitiness and tanginess,” says R&D Chef Daniel Camp. “To balance the aïoli, fresh basil, oregano and parsley impart layers of sweet and savory, and fresh lemon juice adds a touch of acid.” Next comes nitrate-free rosemary ham and fresh mozzarella. After being folded and grilled on the flat-top until golden, seasonal greens and a drizzle of housemade lemon vinaigrette are added. “Together, the layers combine to form a sandwich that is light yet satisfying and brimming with flavor,” adds Camp. This piadina, along with the Roasted Mushroom & Spinach version, are already becoming guest favorites. “With this excitement, we are exploring extensions of the piadinas for future implementation.”