heART on Center
On paper, the Padres were headed for some decent things in their 2008 campaign. Then the season started. Without them. Only a a few days ago, San Diego’s hitters were stranding an average 403 runners per game (a team record), and the pitching staff’s ERA resembled the per-gallon price of gas minus the decimal point. If there was no joy in Mudville, there was downright cataclysmic anguish over at the corner of Park and Tenth.
But the Sires had won five in a row as of Sunday, June 8, and they're starting to do lots of little things right. This bodes well for the intrepid folks who run Bread on Market, a scant two blocks north of the bastion of hope that is Petco Park. They keep the place open until 7 p.m. on weekday Padres game days—and whether you’re going to the stadium or not, that’s where you come in. You can use that time to savor this place’s extra-fresh European-style breads, rolls, baguettes, pastries, homemade croutons and the food within and around them. One great bet is the Tuscany sandwich ($7.25)—the hard roll wraps around onion, tomatoes, peppers, arugula and mozzarella cheese, all of which are fit for the heartiest palates and appetites. And the Morning Sandwich is a classic bargain. Where else will you get two eggs and cheese on a roll for $2.75, with sides a mere 75 cents extra?
Bread on Market isn’t open on weekends, darn it all. You’ll have better luck getting in Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and, of course, later for the contests. Just go to 730 Market St. in the East Village and pull on the door. If you want further proof of accessibility, you can call 619-795-2730. Either way, you’re on the verge of an enormously pleasant outing. And lately, it just may include the game.
