Sandwich shop makes local debut

National fast-casual sandwich chain Which Wich plans to open its first Charlotte-area location Sunday at ParkTowne Village at Park and Woodlawn Roads in Charlotte, in part of the former Party Land store. And if you can't tell by the name alone, the food here comes with a side of quirkiness.

The menu includes more than 50 varieties of customizable, toasted sandwiches, from classic turkey, ham and roast beef varieties to more unusual selections like one that goes by the name Wicked (ahem) and includes five meats and three cheeses, and the Elvis Wich, with peanut butter, honey and banana. Vegetarian options, including a tomato and avocado sandwich and a black bean patty, are also available. Customers order by using red Sharpie markers to check off their selections - including their choice of bread, cheese, spreads and vegetables - on menus pre-printed on sandwich bags. Accompaniments include shakes, chips and fresh cookies; the shop also has free wi-fi and a wall featuring the artwork customers have doodled on their sandwich bags.

Which Wich currently has 110 locations in 19 states, with just a handful in the Carolinas. Grant Alexander, owner of the Charlotte shop, says he hopes to open more locations in the area, and started where he did because of its convenient location near Dilworth, Myers Park and SouthPark.