Entering downtown Olympia eatery Acqua Via you may first notice the minimalist, simple decor. Lightly used wooden tables and bare bulbs are complimented by colorful contemporary art pieces along the walls.  It's a lovely spot for people watching while sipping on a craft cocktail - the Vigilante (grapefruit liqueur, jalapeno syrup, tequila, lime with a jalapeno salt rim) being the most compelling in my opinion - or a bit of espresso.

Its menu boasts bites that "elevate the art of simple rustic food," presenting flavorful nibbles with simple artful flair. Upon my visit during the afternoon the lunch menu was available featuring a selection of light salads and grilled focaccia and baguette sandwiches.

I opted for the Cubano, and could not have been more pleased. The golden brown focaccia was fresh maintaining a soft bready interior beneath its crispy crust. The stars of the show were copious portions of Duroc ham and slow roasted pork loin, both super tender and thinly sliced. Swiss cheese was warm and gooey while the combination of the Dijon and salsa verde added just a bit of pop with each bite. Rather than diced or sliced traditional dill pickles Acqua Via's Cubano highlighted sliced cornichons, which contributed a nice little crunch and pucker.

Fans of the Cuban sandwich should give this rendition a go.

ACQUA VIA, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 500 Capitol Way S., Olympia, 360.357.6677