I like the cod sandwich better than the fillet of sole sandwich, which the Frisch s chain reintroduced last year on a limited basis. Although the sole has a firmer texture, the fish can taste strong. The mild and flaky cod, meanwhile, is everyman s sandwich dependable and well-priced. The tartar sauce reigns supreme, but the shredded iceberg is, well, only shredded iceberg. To make it traditional, you have to ask for a dark rye bun, which still isn t the same as loaf bread.
Service is often perfunctory.
Still, the fish is a little greasy and needed a shot of salt. And alas, the cod is served on a sourdough roll not a bad idea if you re in San Francisco, but a knock against the Cincinnati rye tradition. Fresh leaf lettuce and tartar sauce are average. This cod is a large golden brown plank, moist but not especially flavorful. The tartar sauce is onion-heavy without tasting bitter.