The Best Deli in Every State
Delicatessens, more commonly referred to as "delis," originated in Germany and were brought to America by Jewish immigrants in the 19th century. Best known for their fresh meats and cheeses, the best delis today have a wide variety of options and boast fresh, amazing sandwiches like the beloved Reuben.
Although the East Coast and Mid-Atlantic regions, especially cities like New York City and Philadelphia, are known for having incredible delis, don't count out the options all across the country. You'll find everything from classic, no-frills delis to spots that make good use of their regional ingredients to create fun twists on classic sandwiches, like a green chile chicken club in New Mexico.
Thanks to reviews and feedback from locals and tourists alike, as well as a look at some award-winning delis, we put together a definitive list of the best deli in every state across the U.S. Keep reading to see them all, and for more, check out The Best Diner in Every State.
ALABAMA: Mr P's Deli in Birmingham
Mr. P's Deli has been a hit in Birmingham since it opened its doors in 1975. Customers love the fresh meat and handmade sandwiches; the deli is especially proud of its muffuletta, which is a foot-long loaf loaded with ham, salami, double provolone cheese, and the deli's very own olive salad.
"Been a Mr P fan for years. The sandwiches are delicious," wrote one regular customer. "I know many people who simply try to go down the list to try them all," adding that the butcher is the "go-to meat counter" in Birmingham. "The staff is always friendly, and the sandwiches are tasty," wrote another reviewer.
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ALASKA: Eastern European Store & Deli in Anchorage
As its name suggests, Eastern European Store & Deli specializes in delicacies from European countries including Ukraine, Poland, and Russia. This deli's sandwiches are filled with meats like cervelat (a European sausage), garlic ham, and salami. Locals recommend the pierogies, charcuterie boards, halupki (cabbage rolls), borscht, and pelmeni (Russian dumplings).
"This Eastern European Deli is a great place for European food, both dry goods and fresh. We had the pierogi lunch special and loved it," wrote one reviewer. "The polish sausage was so good we asked them to freeze some overnight and we picked it up the next day so it would still be good by the time we drove home. Very friendly and accommodating staff!"
ARIZONA: JJ's Deli in Scottsdale
JJ's Deli serves up all the deli classics, from hot dogs to a very popular pastrami Reuben. It's also definitely the spot to get your bagel fix in Arizona—JJ's makes over 20 types of bagels using New York City's famous flash-boil technique. However, the deli's bestseller is the Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Sandwich, made with green chili, Swiss cheese, avocado, grilled chicken, and homemade chipotle mayo on sourdough bread.
"I've been a few times and the grilled chicken sandwich with green chiles is perfectly splendid," wrote one happy customer. "The breakfast is also fantastic, and [I] have never been let down by it. I recently built a sandwich with pastrami, turkey, onion, lettuce, and deli mustard. I ordered it on an onion bagel and it was delicious."
ARKANSAS: Gandolfo's New York Delicatessen in Little Rock
Featuring items like the Rockefeller Reuben, Wall Street Club, and the Coney Island Dog, Gandolfo's provides a delicious taste of New York in Little Rock.
"Great sandwiches, very good quality and met all my expectations. I tried the Rockefeller Reuben and it was epic!" wrote one reviewer. Another who was on "a mission to find a Reuben in Central Arkansas as close to a NYC Reuben as possible" also sang the praises of Gandolfo's version. "The Reuben had moist, delicious, thinly-sliced corned beef on rye-swirled," they wrote. "The bread was traditional, thick-sliced loaf bread but not sandwich loaf. The kraut tasted like quality kraut, the perfect sourness and firmness." Mission accomplished!
CALIFORNIA: Langer's Delicatessen in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Times declared that Langer's Deli is home to "the best pastrami sandwich in the country" and customers from both near and far concur. "I've had many variations of their pastrami sandwich and have loved every one," wrote one reviewer, who also praised the friendly staff.
"Langer's pastrami truly matches the hype. It is an extraordinary sandwich and one of the best things I've ever eaten," a visitor from out of town wrote. "It's just perfect in every way."
Langer's has also won the James Beard Foundation's Regional America Classic award.
COLORADO: The Bagel Deli and Restaurant in Denver
This family-run Jewish deli has been going strong for over 50 years, garnering both local and national attention. Governor John Hickenlooper declared April 1, 2017 as Bagel Deli Day and it's been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. In addition to its bagels, other popular selections include the Reuben, matzo ball soup, brisket knishes, and kishke.
"Truly exceptional Deli food with sandwiches that are piled high, corned beef and pastrami that is thinly sliced & smoked white fish that is creamy smoky with a big portion (as it should be)," raved one local reviewer. "Even the potato salad side is just fantastic — and when you are rushing your sides along with your mains then you know you're at the top of your game."
CONNECTICUT: Rein's New York Style Deli & Restaurant in Vernon
When in the Nutmeg State, foodies won't want to miss Rein's Deli. It has amazing bagels, deli meats, massive sandwiches, potato pancakes, and Rein's famous sour garlic pickles.
"The food at Rein's Deli is always incredible! This is one of my favorite lunch spots in the entire state," wrote a local reviewer. "If you have not been here before it is a must. They make the best Reubens I've ever had," while another described Rein's as "a hidden gem" that's right up there with NYC's famous Katz's Deli.
Related: The Best Hot Dog In Every State
DELAWARE: Patty's Deli in Lewes
Between the delicious dine-in menu and the market stocked with the best charcuterie and cheeses, reviewers describe Patty's Deli as a "hidden treasure of goodies."
"Amazing place with fantastic sandwiches! Friendly staff & great selections," wrote a regular. "The specials are also really awesome. They also have a great selection of cheeses, snacks, sauces & more."
FLORIDA: V&S Italian Deli in Boca Raton
V&S Italian Deli has been a South Florida staple for over two decades. It's best known for its subs, with favorites including the eggplant parmesan, the capicola with cheese, and the Italian combo.
"Coming from NY, I never thought I'd find a true great Italian deli. Well, the search is over," wrote a reviewer who ordered what they described as "the best chicken sandwich in the state."
GEORGIA: Marie's Italian Deli in Cumming
Marie's Italian Deli provides an authentic Italian deli experience. The menu has a wide variety of pizzas, soups, subs, calzones, and salads that are beloved by customers.
"This is a great deli serving up fresh sandwiches, salads, pizza, calzones, and a full on dessert counter!" wrote a local reviewer.
Another customer who is gluten-free reported being very pleasantly surprised by their experience at Marie's. "Because we're GF figured we wouldn't be able to eat anything, boy was I WRONG! Not only can you get any sub as a salad, they have the best GF pizza crust I've had out!" they wrote. "The sauce is delicious, the cheese just enough, toppings fresh and plentiful. The Tuscan White Bean soup, like grandma used to make, like she taught me how to make."
HAWAII: 808 Deli in Kihei
Located right across the street from a gorgeous beach, 808 Deli is the perfect place to grab some delicious sandwiches to enjoy in the sunshine. One of its most popular paninis, The Porkie, is made from Hawaiian pork, mango salsa, pepper jack cheese, and sweet chili dipping sauce. You can also get gourmet hot dogs made with kimchi.
"This place is amazing! Ordered a half Cobb, chicken salad sandwich, and a side of pesto pasta salad. Quality ingredients and super tasty. Took it to the beach after and enjoyed," wrote a customer who visited during a vacation to Hawaii.
A local couldn't say enough good things about the famous Porkie. "Holy moly. I've heard about it, read about it, finally decided to pop-in and try it for myself a few weeks ago and this panini sandwich is bomb.com ya'll!" they wrote. "Pulled pork, mango salsa, sweet chili dipping sauce w/ pepper jack on rye bread. The dipping sauce just pairs so perfectly with all the fillings and takes it up another notch."
IDAHO: Das Alphenhaus Delikatessen in Boise
When in Boise, get your German food fix at Das Alphenhaus Delikatessen. The menu at this authentic German deli has it all: beers, wines, desserts, specialty foods, cheeses, and every deli meat from leberkase to braunschweiger. Popular hot lunches include bratwurst, rouladen, jägerschnitzel, and (of course) the Reuben sandwich.
"Super tasty, original, large portions, affordable. 1,000% coming back regularly, it's an institution!" wrote one satisfied reviewer, while another described the food as "really delicious and generous [portions]."
ILLINOIS: J.P. Graziano Grocery Co. in Chicago
A Chicago staple, J.P. Graziano Grocery Co. is best known for its Italian sub, called "The Mr G" on the menu. Fourth-generation owner Jim Graziano makes the classic version with a twist thanks to the addition of artichokes, basil, and lettuce in red wine vinegar topped with a truffle-mustard vinaigrette.
"JP is a family staple for us! When we are in the mood for a good Italian sandwich we always know JP will not disappoint," wrote a regular. "The ingredients are always fresh, they use D'Amato's bread (YUMMMM), and their giardiniera is so good you could probably bathe in it." They noted that the Muffuletta is a new favorite when they visit.
INDIANA: Shapiro's Delicatessen in Indianapolis
Shapiro's Delicatessen has been an Indiana staple for over 100 years. It has garnered accolades including Food & Wine's Best Sandwich in the state, and both The Daily Meal and USA Today's Top 10 Jewish Delis in America. In addition to its incredible Reubens and pastrami sandwiches, Shapiro's is known for its amazing desserts.
"It's a world-class deli with the freshest and best tasting meats you'll find anywhere," wrote a regular customer. "Everything is made to order. Its Reuben sandwich should be its own food group."
IOWA: Maccabee's Kosher Deli in Des Moines
Maccabee's is a must-visit regardless of whether or not you follow a kosher diet. Known for its overstuffed specialty sandwiches, the deli makes its own focaccia, rye, and challah bread.
"Maccabee's is everything that we have longed for since moving to the Midwest," wrote an east coast transplant who searched high and low for a good Jewish deli. "From the perfect slices of rye bread to the pastrami that was absolute juicy perfection this was what we have come to love from a quality deli."
KANSAS: Auntie Em's Deli & Bakery in Lawrence
In addition to having one of the best names on this list, Auntie Em's is known for having the best meats and stackable sandwiches in the state. There's also a popular build your own sandwich option that has a wide variety of selections to choose from.
"A simply phenomenal deli. High-quality meats and cheese, incredibly kind staff, and a wide selection are what earns this place 5 stars in my opinion," wrote a regular customer who recommended the Lebanon Bologna, the toasted Reuben, and biscuits and gravy if you visit on a Saturday morning. Reviewers also praised the customer service and the friendly owners.
KENTUCKY: Frank's Meat & Produce in Louisville
Frank's Meat & Produce is beloved for its delicious food, affordable prices, and friendly staff. In addition to your typical deli meats, Frank's also sells regional foods like smoked spare ribs and fried bologna.
"I am so spoiled to have a top shelf butcher & produce shop so close to my house! The big bonus is their deli sandwiches which are always piled high with delicious meats," wrote a reviewer who's a regular at Frank's. "One of my faves is the fried bologna sandwich. The cut of bologna is thick & you can choose whatever cheese & sandwich dressings you want. There are tons to choose from. Their sides are all yummy, too." Other reviews echoed the sentiment that you really can't go wrong at this deli.
LOUISIANA: Stein's Market & Deli in New Orleans
Stein's Deli offers both Jewish and Italian deli selections and its menu includes over 50 cheeses from all over the world. Breakfast is served all day and Stein's breakfast sandwiches are made on Davidovich bagels that are delivered straight from New York City.
"Stein's Deli is hands down the most DELICIOUS deli I have ever been to! Fresh hot bagels, homemade cream cheese, meat filled sandwiches, sour pickles and the list goes on!" wrote one reviewer. "Their local and tasty beer selection in the back allows for some of the most unique 6-pack combos you can create."
MAINE: Morse's Sauerkraut in Waldoboro
Morse's Sauerkraut is an authentic German deli that originally specialized only in sauerkraut but has now expanded its menu to include a wide variety of delicious German deli meats and cheeses, as well as dishes including Reubens, pierogies, schnitzels, and liverwurst sandwiches.
"I grew up in NYC so am well versed in what makes a European deli legit, and this is the real deal and not 'inspired by' nonsense. The dining area is industrial chic without trying to be; it's just unpretentious and honest," wrote one reviewer. "Also, you can taste love in the food as if your long lost German grandma made it for you."
MARYLAND: Polka Deli in Silver Spring
Polka Deli opened its doors in 2018 and quickly became a hit for its authentic Polish groceries and homemade sandwiches, pierogies, schnitzel, and kielbasa.
"Polka Deli transported me back to my childhood of delicious Eastern European fare. The smoked kielbasa sandwich was on point and topped with kraut and mustard," wrote a reviewer. "The bread was so soft and chewy—what a great sandwich! Their meat counter is a sight to see and they also carry pierogi[s]."
MASSACHUSETTS: Sam LaGrassa's in Boston
Sam LaGrassa's works with a business in the Bronx to get weekly deliveries of New York City's famous water, which is credited with being the ingredient that ups the ante on the city's specialty foods like bagels and pizza. The collaboration is a success because the deli has been wildly popular for decades. Be sure to try Sam LaGrassa's very own Chipotle Pastrami, which is made on a double-faced grill and topped with coleslaw.
"BEST PASTRAMI EVER," wrote one reviewer who got the Chipotle Pastrami. "Absolutely Amazing place!!" wrote another customer. "Just salivating rethinking on the Chipotle Pastrami and the Cuban sandwich."
MICHIGAN: Zingerman's Delicatessen in Ann Arbor
Zingerman's Deli isn't just highly regarded in Michigan—it's well-known all across the midwest. Its most popular items include pastrami, brisket, and corned beef sandwiches. According to USA Today, people are so passionate about Zingerman's that the deli keeps a list of "retired" sandwiches that have been discontinued so they can be served up if someone returns looking for an old favorite.
"Although it's heavily visited, Zingerman's really is not overrated and is worth every bit of your time and every penny you spend," wrote a reviewer. "There's a reason it's popular amongst both locals and tourists. Be sure to try their sandwiches and their pastrami!"
MINNESOTA: Northern Market Smokehaus in Duluth
Known for its eclectic selection of sandwiches and located on the banks of Lake Superior, Northern Market Smokehaus makes good use of its wide selection of smoked fish. The deli's lox is made from salmon that's smoked on-site and its most popular menu item is the Cajun Finn, which is made from smoked salmon with Cajun seasoning, scallion cream cheese, sliced roasted red peppers, sliced pepperoncini, and mixed greens in a stirato roll.
"Northern Waters Smokehaus is worth all the hype," wrote one reviewer. "These sandwiches are out of this world, get anything with smoked salmon and ENJOY it. So fresh. So delicious" wrote another customer who credited the deli with turning them onto smoked salmon.
MISSISSIPPI: Frisco Deli in Pearl
Frisco Deli is known for its quick service, friendly staff, and (of course) delicious food. In addition to deli staples, Frisco also serves up Southern fare like fried chicken and fried catfish. Locals recommend the Cajun roast beef.
"They were very fast and the corned beef with all the fixings was top notch and plenty of everything. Also had the macaroni salad which was also very good," wrote one reviewer, who added that they enjoyed the food so much they planned on returning the next day to try something new.
MISSOURI: Gioia's Deli in St. Louis
Gioia's Deli has been going strong for over 100 years, so they're definitely doing something right. The hot salami sandwich is its most famous and most popular dish, but reviewers also recommended the roast beef, meatball, and veggie sandwiches.
"I have had Gioia's three times and every time it meets or exceeds my expectations. The Hot Salami is delicious and unique!" wrote a reviewer. "Gioia's Deli isn't just a delicious deli, it is St Louis history."
MONTANA: Tagliare Delicatessen in Missoula
Known for its award-winning bread, charcuterie boards, and cheese, Tagliare serves up excellent antipasti as well as sandwiches named after bands. For example, the Megadeth contains five types of cured meats along with smoked mozzarella, pepperoncini, and coleslaw.
"Great sandwiches—very filling and nice variety of options to pick from. Definitely worthy of the awards and recognition," wrote one reviewer, while another declared that the deli's Reuben was "hands down the absolute BEST I ever had."
NEBRASKA: Jacobo's Grocery in Omaha
Jacobo's offers up something a little different—it's a local deli that serves dishes with a Mexican twist. The combination is a hit among customers, with reviewers singing the praises of the chips and fresh salsa made in-house, tamales, meat, and produce.
"Most beyond amazing place to come to get chips and their kick ass salsa and oh don't get me started on the bread… I'm like a kid at Christmas every time I come here," wrote a local regular.
NEVADA: Roma Restaurant & Deli in Las Vegas
Roma serves as both an Italian grocery store and restaurant, with customers coming to stock up on ingredients or enjoy a sit-down lunch or dinner. The Sicilian sandwich, which has four types of meat including Sicilian salami, is a favorite.
"It's an offer you can't refuse! So delicious and if it's not on the menu don't be afraid to ask about what they specialize in," wrote a reviewer. "The owner is very friendly and will make you an aged to perfection steak."
NEW HAMPSHIRE: Jon's Roast Beef & Deli in Laconia
True to its name, Jon's Roast Beef & Deli is the place to get amazing roast beef in New Hampshire. It also has a number of great subs and sandwiches, deli salads, soups, and desserts, all of which are homemade. If you have any food restrictions, the staff is always happy to accommodate you.
"Really nice staff! The guy at the register was extra pleasant and that truly does make an experience eating or ordering takeout from anywhere!" wrote a reviewer. "The food was good and exactly what we were craving for lunch on the way to the lake. Meat portions are more than plentiful, and the meals came with chips which was an added bonus."
NEW JERSEY: Fiore Deli in Hoboken
NJ.com ranked the state's 33 best delis and Fiore Deli came out on top. Everyone who's dined there seems to concur, as evidenced by the hundreds of five-star reviews.
"Old school charm, cash only, Italian staples for sale, and specials every day of the week that haven't changed for years," wrote a regular. "I have dreams about their roast beef special with gravy and famous roasted peppers! The mozzarella is deliciously salty and creamy and they get fresh bread from the bakery every day."
NEW MEXICO: Brown Bag Deli in Alamogordo
Brown Bag Deli's menu includes over two dozen hand-crafted sandwiches, as well as a build-your-own sandwich option. When in New Mexico, you don't want to miss out on the killer chiles, so a popular choice is The Ultimate Green Chile Chicken Club. Another spicy offering is the Jalapeño Steak Sub. Be sure to hit up the pickle bar, too.
"We got the Ultimate Green Chili Chicken Club sandwich. Very yummy. The bread was light and airy made the sandwich very enjoyable," wrote a reviewer. "I'm not a Boar's head fan but on the sandwich is made me change my mind. Loved the pepper/pickle bar. Staff was very friendly."
NEW YORK: Katz's Delicatessen
Katz's Delicatessen is an NYC staple that is, of course, easily recognizable after serving as the backdrop of When Harry Met Sally's most popular scene. But this deli doesn't rest on its laurels due to its fame—it really does have the most high-quality food of any deli in the state. The pastrami, especially the hot pastrami which Katz's has been serving since 1888, is a standout.
"BEST PASTRAMI EVER!" raved one reviewer.
"The best pastrami in the world. It's not even subject to debate," another concurred. "Succulent, perfectly marbled and smoked slices of meat piled high on the freshest rye bread."
NORTH CAROLINA: Mediterranean Deli, Bakery & Catering in Chapel Hill
This deli has something for everyone's palate and diet accommodations, offering plenty of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and organic options. Known for its generous portions and friendly staff, Mediterranean Deli has won a number of foodie awards. After your meal, you can buy meat and cheese by the pound to use for cooking at home.
"Med Deli is about as close to being in heaven on earth, but with a mom-and-pop shop vibe," wrote one reviewer. "Just looking at the assortment of side platters they had on display made my mouth water!"
Another described the food as affordable, fresh, and flavorful. "This place was so good!" they wrote. "I had chicken salad on a pita, which is enough for two to share with a couple of sides. Also had pomegranate hummus which was delightful."
NORTH DAKOTA: Country House Deli in Bismarck
With the slogan, "Old style, homemade goodness," Country House Deli has been a local staple for nearly five decades. It's known for its massive sandwiches, the most popular of which include the Buffalo Alice, the North Dakota Submarine, the Wisconsin, and the Mediterranean.
"One of my favorite go-to places. Food is awesome and staff is amazing and friendly," wrote one reviewer. "Breads are made fresh. Great variety of salads and desserts," while another raved about the "Really great subs!"
OHIO: Larder Delicatessen and Bakery in Cleveland
Named one of America's best Jewish delis by Food & Wine and a semifinalist for the James Beard "Best New Restaurant" Award, Larder Delicatessen does not disappoint. The fried chicken sandwich, pastrami, and matzo ball soup are customer favorites.
"Their pastrami Reuben was one of the best sandwiches I've ever eaten! It was made with huge (warm) chunks of pastrami, red cabbage slaw and their own special sauce served atop grilled rye bread," wrote one reviewer. "Their fried chicken sandwich is also other-worldly topped with a creamy slaw and packing a little punch. I cannot wait to get back and try other sandwich creations they have on the menu…but how could I NOT get that pastrami Reuben? Oh…the humanity!!!" Sounds like a delicious problem to have.
OKLAHOMA: Trencher's Deli in Tulsa
Trencher's Deli serves up sandwiches with delicious fillings like wine-braised pork shoulder, eggplant caponata, and an option with all the most popular deli meats stuffed into one (go big or go home, right?).
"Honestly, this place has the best Chicken Sandwich I've ever eaten," wrote one reviewer, while another praised the fresh bread and noted, "their ingredients taste fresh and purposeful."
OREGON: Elephant's Deli in Portland
Elephant's Deli is noteworthy for being one of the first delis in Portland to have fresh pasta on the menu and has continued to deliver when it comes to integrating new food trends and old-fashioned deli fare.
"I like the variety of options all under one roof. Great for picking up food for multiple people. I've had really solid burgers and chicken sandwiches, excellent soup and salads, and tasty baked goods," wrote a regular customer. "They have a lot of grab and go options, and yes they do full catering trays (which I've ordered in the past for events)."
PENNSYLVANIA: Abe's Kosher Delicatessen in Scranton
Abe's Deli is a classic Jewish deli that serves up an amazing Reuben and offers excellent liverwurst, salami, chopped liver, brisket, and turkey pastrami. You'll also find popular Jewish dishes including potato pancakes and blintzes, as well as a wide range of Middle Eastern vegetarian fare. Abe's serves breakfast all day, and the nova lox bagel is highly recommended.
"The food is absolutely delicious. The quality ingredients is obvious [sic] and the preparation is excellent," wrote a reviewer who described Abe's as the perfect lunch spot.
"Great old fashioned deli, but with some excellent vegetarian options. I got the falafel sandwich—the balls were crispy and the pita had just the right texture," wrote another customer who stopped for lunch while passing through town. "I couldn't resist also getting a knish which was grilled and potato-y. My buddy (from New York) got the whitefish salad and pronounced it delicious. Staff were friendly and attentive. A real find."
RHODE ISLAND: Hudson Street Deli in Providence
Named by Zagat as the best place to get an Italian grinder in the state of Rhode Island, Hudson Street Deli also has gluten-free and vegan options. The grinder is massive, so either arrive hungry or go with one of the lighter build your own sandwich or salad options, which customers say are also excellent.
"In search of the perfect Italian grinder we ended up at Hudson Street Deli. There we found the friendliest staff imaginable, as well as an amazing sandwich," wrote a reviewer who ate the famed sandwich. "More than just the standard oil and vinegar, this grinder comes loaded with meat, provolone cheese, mayo, Italian salsa, lettuce, tomato, onion, banana peppers, on a retro grinder roll. Just enough to make their sandwich stand out and taste absolutely amazing!"
SOUTH CAROLINA: Pulaski Deli in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach may seem like an unlikely spot for a Polish deli, but Pulaski Deli will quickly put to rest any doubt in your mind. The fresh, homemade menu items include highlights like stuffed cabbage, kielbasa, and potato pancakes. You can also buy all the necessary fixings to make an authentic pierogi at home.
"Great Polish food with a really fun market inside as well. Really friendly people and very reasonably priced," wrote a reviewer. "I got the sample plate and it was delicious."
"This place is a gem! Me and my husband ordered the kielbasa sub and meat pierogi and they were just amazing, the best one we have tried so far (and we are Polish food aficionado[s])," raved another happy customer. "The service was outstanding. It's a very cute and authentic place."
SOUTH DAKOTA: M.B. Haskett Delicatessen in Sioux Falls
M.B. Haskett Delicatessen is upscale when it comes to both its food and its decor. Guests love the beautiful antique furniture, but the food is even more popular—especially the muffaletta and ham sandwiches. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available; if you don't see anything on the menu, just ask.
"The food here is sooo good!! I… ordered the muffaletta and creamy tomato bisque. OMG the muffaletta was out of this world! I've never had it before and now I'm definitely a fan," wrote a reviewer. "I even overheard another patron come in and order it, saying he had tried it for the first time the other day and won't order anything else. Highly recommend!!"
TENNESSEE: Mitchell Delicatessen in Nashville
Mitchell Delicatessen is home to the Mitchell Club, which People declared the best sandwich in the state of Tennessee. Visitors also love the deli's homemade sweet tea and breakfast sammies, which can be enjoyed on the outdoor patio. Mitchell is committed to using regionally sourced ingredients in its sandwiches, salads, soups, and breakfasts, and the deli smokes and cures all its meats in-house. In addition to the Mitchell Club, popular choices include the Banh Mi with roasted pork and the Turkey Avocado sandwich.
"Unreal how good these sandwiches are!!" raved one reviewer, while another wrote that Mitchell has "[b]y far the best artisan sandwiches I've ever tasted."
TEXAS: Weinberger's Deli in Grapevine
"[I]f you are easily offended, I am going to apologize in advance. Sandwich makers can be rude at times…it's not personal, we're just trying to get our customers through the line as fast as possible," reads a warning on Weinberger's website. Don't worry, it's a joke and the staff is just as funny and lively when you arrive in person. The menu is massive, but the Joe King Pastrami is considered the deli's standout. It's made on toasted marble rye with hot pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, creamy coleslaw, red onion, and Russian dressing.
"Great sandwiches, great service, pleasant and funny counter staff. Quick delivery as well," wrote one reviewer after their first visit to Weinberger's.
"I love their pastrami and usually get some form of that. The Joe king pastrami is fantastic. Horseradish and Russian, it takes a Reuben to the next level," wrote a regular. "The Wall Arrestee is great too. My wife has never eaten anything here but the Reuben; she has proclaimed it one of the best ever."
UTAH: Caputo's Market & Deli in Salt Lake City
Caputo's Market & Deli is best known for its incredible selections of cheeses and the high quality takes the deli sandwiches to the next level. It also has a massive chocolate selection to the tune of over 300 chocolate bar options.
"Love the selection of cheeses for a wide range of flavours and price points here, some local and some out of the city," wrote a reviewer. "World chocolates also deliver a wide variety of interesting flavours. The workers are very good at their jobs." Another wrote that "the market is a great place to find specialty food items and to curb cravings for fancier foods" and noted that they enjoyed the meatball sandwich.
VERMONT: Gill's Delicatessen in Rutland
Diners in Vermont flock to Gill's Delicatessen for the grinders, with many noting that the spicy "Hot Italian" is a must-try.
"I love Gil's. They have the best sub sandwiches bar none, and if you order in the store instead of ahead, you get to watch their amazing production line in person… entertainment as well as good food," wrote a local who's a regular at the deli. "Great prices, nice selection of salads and sides in addition to the subs, and super friendly staff."
VIRGINIA: The Route 58 Delicatessen in Virginia Beach
Owned by Livingston, New Jersey native Jeff Goldberg, The Route 58 Delicatessen is a nostalgic throwback to a classic deli, complete with huge sandwiches you'll never be able to finish and cheesecake that comes straight from New York. Route 58's slogan is, "If you finish… we made a mistake!" Based on reviews, they don't make mistakes.
"Superb sandwiches in huge portions. Plan on taking leftovers home or share with someone," wrote one reviewer, while another raved that "all the dishes that I have tried are from another dimension. The Super Reuben's pastrami and sauce just melts in your mouth" and noted that, as promised, the sandwich was both bigger and heavier than their face.
WASHINGTON: George's Sausage and Delicatessen in Seattle
George's Sausage and Delicatessen has been in Seattle for nearly four decades, but this tiny deli is considered a well-kept secret even among locals. It specializes in Polish and other eastern European deli foods.
"My goodness is this place amazing! Tons of condiments and Polish snacks to choose from, but the SANDWICHES!!! They are made with LOVE!" wrote a reviewer, adding that "the customer service is unmatched."
WEST VIRGINIA: Hermosilla's Deli Market in Fairmont
Hermosilla's Deli Market serves up tasty deli dishes that are made with healthy ingredients without sacrificing taste. It also has a popular salad and olive bar, sliced-to-order meats and cheeses, and (of course) delicious sandwiches like the popular spicy Italian Bomb.
"We were on a road trip and craving a healthy and fresh deli sandwich. After a little research we stumbled upon this gem! It's a hole in the wall little place but don't let looks deceive you," wrote a reviewer. "We ordered the Italian and Cajun turkey sandwiches, both were delicious! The veggies were fresh, the bread was perfect and the meat was very flavorful."
WISCONSIN: Bunzel's Meat Market in Milwaukee
Bunzel's is a family-owned, old-fashioned meat market that has a devoted base of regular customers. Reviewers praise the personable staff and the delicious food, which includes award-winning beef jerky and specialty sausage that's made in-house. Popular hot meals include the grilled brats and barbecue pulled pork.
"Of course, the selection of meats, condiments, etc is exceptional, but what most impressed me was the friendliness, kindness, and helpfulness of the staff there," wrote a reviewer. "They seem to love what they do and that speaks of a healthy culture there. After my first visit I'm a loyal customer."
WYOMING: R Deli in Hulett
With its wooden storefront, R Deli basically looks like it's a set for an old Western film. Although it's no-frills, the interior has a fun old-fashioned saloon vibe. The menu is simple and sticks with the tried and true classics like the BLT, ham and cheese, and even an excellent peanut butter and jelly.
"Best deli I have been to in a long time. The staff were friendly and the food delicious. Sandwiches were piled high with meat, cheese and veggies," wrote one reviewer, who also noted the reasonable prices.
Can't hop in the car to check out the best delis across the country? Make an amazing, healthy sandwich at home with one of our 25 Healthy Sandwich Recipes Under 500 Calories.
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