If you have never had an Italian sandwich from Amato's, then you are missing out on a local legacy. I first came to Portland from New York about 20 years ago. I had experienced some crazy new foods for the first time, (red coated hot dogs, American chop suey). It was under the advice of a native Portlander that I try an Amato's Italian sandwich. I did not know what to think at first, because it was yet another strange local food to me. Pickles and green peppers on a sandwich were something I was not used to. Several days later, however, I had a craving for another. I am grateful for this experience, it made me feel oddly part of the local culture.