Ray & Al's — Restaurant in Galien Township

This place is an absolute gem. We've been twice now, and have many more trips there in the future. Pics are from both visits. All I'm reviewing specifically is my sandwich from the last visit. I will say that everything we've had has ranged from good to great. There's no negatives at all in our experiences.

The open space is warm, friendly, "homey," inviting. Staff if so warm, friendly, and caring. They seem to truly get what they're there for, and deliver it so well.

Last visit, I went specifically for the highly bragged up Spaghetti Sandwich.

I was prepared to be underwhelmed. Instead, I was overwhelmed, and will be back for another. And another..... and.... yeah! This is simplicity at it's best. A nice crispy bun, spaghetti that is cooked perfectly; just a bit of tooth left in it. The sauce was my concern, as I was expecting a gooey, dripping sandwich destroying the bun. They've dialed this in. Just enough moisture to make it really be a serving of spaghetti, but not so much that it ruins the sandwich experience. If you're avoiding carbs, who cares; order one anyway and be pleasantly surprised.

Support these folks with frequent visits. You'll be pleased. And you'll be helping the first new business in Galien I believe in years. It's a beautiful drive, and a totally...

What an amazing little lunch spot. Can't wait to go back for breakfast sometime. Friendly service, good vibe, quaint space. Love to see this in the funny little town of Galien.

In a town where it seems everything else has gone out of business, Ray & Al's is a bustling sandwich shop and bakery putting out excellent food.

We tried the liverwurst sandwich, which seemed appropriate given all the German heritage in the area. It was good, but I'd try something else next time. It's a unique flavor profile worth trying at least once. You might love it!

The Cuban sandwich had a great, smokey flavor to it.

Macaroni salad was sweeter than we like it, but that's just personal preference.

Baked goods were tasty - tried a chocolate donut and a gluten free brown butter oatmeal chocolate cookie. (it'd probably be even better NOT gluten free ;))

Indoor was busy but tables turned fast. There are also a handful of outdoor seating options as well.

Well...

Thrilled to have a functioning eatery in the area. Food is good, they have decent coffee, and their building is in a good spot. Staff is also very friendly.

Only issue I've ever had--and reason for 3 stars--has been in our leaving empty-handed.

This has happened about four times now.

Closing time is 3pm EST and their lunch menu is limited to a few sandwiches, soup of the day, and salads.

If you happen to stop in there after the "noon hour" the bakery case will be mostly decimated, soup long gone, and they may or may not have the supplies (cold cuts and lettuce) to make you anything from the menu. And depending on how close to 3pm it is they may just tell you the kitchen is closed. 🤷

My thoughts? Probably not a good idea to be turning customers away during posted business hours, leaving them feeling like they wasted a trip. Hope this matter is addressed...