If you’re the type of person who takes their lunchtime sandwiches very seriously, give Four Kings a try. This local sandwich shop is located in the heart of Universal City, which makes it a convenient lunch option for many of the businesses nearby, but it’s also a great choice if you’re out and about in the city on the weekend.

In addition to Four Kings’ long list of completely custom sandwiches served on fresh-baked breads, you’ll find a number of healthy salads and homemade soups that change from day to day. For dessert, Four Kings offers a pastry case filled to the brim with handmade English toffee, cookies, cookie bars, and cheesecake available by the slice or in bulk for your next party or gathering.

Four Kings is open 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. The restaurant is closed Sundays.

Four Kings
2047 Universal City Boulevard
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 687-6649
www.facebook.com/FourKingsCafe

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue

It's easily lost in the shadow of the turkey and stuffing, but that doesn't mean the mashed potato isn't deserving of its place on the Thanksgiving table. This year, help ensure your mashed potatoes receive the recognition they deserve with these essential cooking tips.

1) Start with the right spud.
Yukon gold potatoes will impart a slightly buttery flavor, while your standard Russet will help deliver mashed potatoes with a fluffy texture.

2) Boil the peeled potatoes in salted water with a whole clove or two of garlic.
Some sources advise cutting the potatoes into quarters, while others advise plopping the potatoes into the water whole. Either way, remove the potatoes from the water when they're easily pierced by a fork—after about 15 or 20 minutes. The trick is to remove the potatoes from the water before they begin to fall apart in the pot and absorb too much water.

3) Drain and dry.
Drain the water from the potatoes, pat the spuds dry, then return them to the pot. Depending on whether you prefer smooth or lumpy taters, you can use a potato ricer or a simple whisk to mash your potatoes. Don't use an electric mixer; this will over-develop the starches in the potatoes, making them gluey and sticky.

4) Warm your add-ins.
Warm any add-ins (butter, milk, cream, sour cream, cream cheese) before adding them to your potatoes. This will help retain the texture of your potatoes. Remember: The more fat you add to the potatoes, the creamier they'll be. Salt to taste.

How to Make Perfect Mashed Potatoes [About.com]
10 Tips for Perfectly Creamy and Fluffy Classic Mashed Potatoes [katefromscratch.com]
Our Best Tips & Advice for Great Mashed Potatoes [The Kitchn]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr veganLazySmurf

If you’re a fan of comic books, Heroes & Fantasies will quickly become one of your favorite hangout spots in all of Universal City. This popular comic book store and hobby shop has a wide selection of items that will impress even the most serious collector, but it also has a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes in beginning comic book readers.

You’ll find all of the classics, from Superman to Batman, as well as graphic novels and newer comics that you might enjoy. In addition to the comics, Heroes & Fantasies sells toys and memorabilia from your favorite series, action figures and statues, and variant covers designed especially in collaboration with H&F. If you’re into table games like Magic the Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons, there even game nights and meet-ups where you can compete against other local players!

Heroes & Fantasies
914 Pat Booker Road
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 945-4376
www.heroesandfantasies.com

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr stevendepolo