Christine Terpening
Contributing Writer
(Photo by Christine Terpening: Some of the desserts you can find at Sidestreets Deli & Bakery)
Deli is short for delicatessen, but in the bustling town of Charlotte it’s short for delicious. Sidestreets Deli, a New York style delicatessen, packs goodness into every sandwich, salad and baked good.
Owner Dave McNamara proudly uses only the finest ingredients, such as Boar’s Head Premium Deli Meats and Cheeses. “When you bake all your own bread and use Boar’s Head products you’re getting the best of the best,” said McNamara. One bite of their made-to-order sandwich and you will realize this isn’t an ordinary lunch staple. With choices like the New York Reuben, Salsalito Turkey, Egg Salad, Becky’s Club and a favorite called The Roosevelt, your eyes will bobble in delight from the first bite.
Sandwiches here are a work of art. Sure, they are pretty to look at, but the combination of fresh baked breads, such as their scrumptious cheese bread, and fine meats all topped with fresh vegetables and elite condiments are what a dream sandwich is made of. Add a pickle, a bag of Great Lakes Potato Chips and your favorite soda pop and you will be planning your next trip to Sidestreets Deli.
Peruse the wide array of salads in their glass showcase, from Caprese and coleslaw to Italian Pasta and Potato Salad it is difficult to choose. Fresh fruit is available as well as the most delectable soups. All are made fresh every day.
Save your fork because Sidestreets Deli has a bakery counter that is worth crashing your diet for. Cupcakes, muffins and cookies, Oh my! Narrowing down your choice is unnecessary. You must try them all. “There’s a million reasons to visit us,” said McNamara, “including our full scratch bakery.” Gourmet coffees, teas and summer drinks are the perfect complement to their extensive food selection.
Sidestreets Deli offers take out or dine-in and DoorDash options as well as catering. Bring a friend and enjoy your time with conversation provoking good food. It’s a good place to slow down and leave feeling refreshed and completely satisfied.
McNamara brought years of delicatessen experience from New York, New Orleans and Lansing to settle his talent for delicatessens in the Charlotte community. The deli opened in 2012, the “World’s Smallest Deli” McNamara coined it on a local sidestreet. At only 396 square feet, the space was small and the patrons were many. Hard working employees needed more space as much as the hungry customers did. Sidestreets Deli relocated to its new location with plenty of elbow room and has grown exponentially to bring locals a much-loved place to grab the bite to eat that we’ve been craving. McNamara is quick to honor the hard work and talents that his wife, Rose adds to the success of the deli. “We appreciate Charlotte and all that they’ve done for us,” McNamara said with sincerity.
This local delicatessen comes with stellar on-line reviews. From the good eats, clean and warm atmosphere to the friendly service, everyone loves Sidestreets Deli. “We have quality, friendly service,” said McNamara, “These are our number one driving force.” McNamara looks for employees that don’t have to work to be friendly, they must come by it naturally. His staff are genuinely warm and kind. “Between Rose and my staff, they make me look good,” he quipped.
Sidestreets Deli is located at 116 S. Cochran Rd. in the heart of Charlotte. Their hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
