The Local Deli

Where ‘local’ is what it’s all about. By Colin Anderson. Photos by Jamie Sedlmayer.

Turkey, ham, lettuce, pickles, spicy mustard, a little bit of mayo on wheat bread. Like many of you, I have my favorite go-to lunch sandwich. The beauty of the sandwich is that there are infinite combinations. You can do the usual or create something totally unique. Both are great options at ‘The Local Deli’ located in the Prairie Shopping Center next to Albertsons. Owner Shelly Carhart started working for a local sandwich chain in 2003 and bought the location in 2005. She recently decided it was the right time to branch out from the franchise and let her own creativity come through.

“I’ve always tried to shop and buy local as much as I can, and I want our customers to know that I’m also a local owner and that we are a big part of supporting the local community,” said Carhart.

‘The Local Deli’ offers traditional offerings like a reuben, BLT, or French dip. You can also build your own or choose from a list of popular favorites. There are rotating daily specials as well as new soups each day. According to Carhart, the new menu item that is quickly gaining in popularity is ‘The Local Club’ which has turkey, bacon, swiss, cheddar, avocado, tomatoes, sprouts, and ranch. All the sandwiches, including the delicious homemade bread, are freshly made from scratch daily. The Appleway salad is also a new favorite and combines romaine and spinach as well as apples, grapes, celery, onions, blue cheese, candied walnuts and a raspberry walnut poppy seed dressing.

Carhart employs a team of nine including her 17-year-old daughter Emily who slices meats and cheeses daily. Her staff prides itself on connecting with each customer. “Whether we know them by first name or by sandwich, when they leave here, we want everyone to have great personal service and know that everyone is welcome,” said Carhart.

The freedom to run her business how she wants has allowed Carhart to support local organizations. ‘The Local Deli’ buys lunch for Canfield Middle School students of the month, rewarding them for their hard work in the classroom. They’ve partnered with Peak Fitness on a weight loss challenge, tailoring healthy options for participants, and will also be providing bread for local triathlons.

Craft beer pints are just $2.95 and $1.95 during happy hour and ‘The Local Deli’ can cater your next office lunch or large family reunion. Whether it’s your usual or you’re looking for something completely different, you’ll find that next great sandwich at ‘The Local Deli.’

#local #dining