Lunch Break

Sampling dishes and diners in and around Miami County 

Trying Something New-ish 

A couple of weeks ago, I was salivating over the Red Devil Pizza doors across from where I work at a local coffee shop. The truth is, the coffee shop food is excellent, but this week I once again felt the itch to try something new… kind of. That’s why, on the hour I have between barista duties and childcare duties, I decided to try JJ’s Lunchbox in Troy. Funnily enough, JJ’s is the sister location of the same owners of our beloved Red Devil Pizza. 

After clocking out, I immediately took a look at JJ’s Lunchbox menu and called in a carry-out order for a Buffalo Chicken Wrap and some French fries. I adored my Italian sub from Red Devil Pizza, and the other sandwich options looked great too; however, I was pleasantly surprised when JJ’s angled its menu more towards lunchtime options, instead of mostly pizza. Plus, if you order something in a wrap, that automatically makes it healthy right? French fries aside, literally. 

After a quick fifteen-minute trip, my little lunch break treat was wrapped up just as I arrived at the local deli and drive-through. JJ’s itself was pretty adorable. After a recent trip to New York, I can confidently say that the deli glass, and convenience store combo was reminiscent of the places I spotted on my vacation east. 

The server behind the counter was extremely kind, leaving me with a pep in my step as I stepped outside and opened my Styrofoam box on the picnic tables provided just past the entrance. It’s not the cutest view, but JJ’s is honestly a really peaceful spot to grab a bite to eat and do your daily dose of overthinking while chewing alone. 

My wrap was mouth-wateringly delicious. I love buffalo chicken, and in a wrap, I usually expect it to be grilled chicken. However, I was excited when the chicken was both crispy and saucy when folded between a tortilla and lettuce. I only wish I had ordered a side of ranch to drench it in. This is a bad habit, I know. However, to say I’m working on it would be a lie. The fries were equally satisfying and seasoned, which was a nice savory touch. 

All and all, you can’t really beat a great meal for under $12, and you certainly won’t find anything better or cheaper at a chain fast food joint. JJ’s might be one of my top places to grab lunch when I’m not branching out from now on. I’m already dreaming of an autumn picnic with JJ’s Lunchbox as the star of the show. 

JJ’s Lunchbox 810 South Market Street, Troy