There’s always a place, in every city where someone tells you that you ‘have’ to eat there. I do it to people when they’re traveling to cities I’ve been to and people do it to me. It’s part of the game. It’s also one of the reasons why I almost never ask for bar/restaurant recommendations via social media. Don’t get me wrong, I love getting recs from friends but I generally do it privately AND ask specific people. Otherwise, everyone is telling you everything and quite frankly, I don’t trust everyone’s recommendation. #sorrynotsorry

Anyway, one place that I’ve heard about since moving to Chattanooga is River Street Deli. John has been here a few times so he’s experienced the goodness but unfortunately, I was still late to the game. Not only have locals recommended the food at River Street Deli but most of them always say something about the experience once you walk through the door.

Usually when people say something about a restaurant’s experience, it always makes me think of a place in Atlanta my friends and I would always eat, Cafe Agora. Cafe Agora serves authentic Turkish, Greek and Mediterranean food. The food was always delicious but more interesting was the experience. Whenever you would interact with the owner, he ALWAYS made you feel at home. Often times making strong suggestions on what you should eat and forcefully giving you samples while you wait for your order. It was pretty awesome. Not to mention, they used to stay open really late.

I’m pleased to say, that even though the food at River Street Deli was delicious, the experience with the staff was just as good.

Lunch at River Street Deli

It’s a New York-style deli serving sandwiches (and other goodies) in a really warm and welcoming environment. Finally, on one afternoon, John and I went and had lunch there. Honestly, he probably grew tired of me complaining that I’d never eaten there.

It was pretty busy (as expected) but we didn’t wait very long to order our food. When we did, the owner took our order and we even exchanged a few words in Spanish. We ordered a Cuban and the Philly Reuben. Both were delicious. The original plan was for us to share each sandwich BUT upon really loving my Reuben I asked for my half of the sandwich back. John definitely did not let me live that down ALL DAY.

What can I say…it was yummy.

I’ve been craving a return to River Street Deli and I think I’ll give in to that craving very soon. If you live in Chattanooga and you have not visited this place, please try it. On Friday nights, they do a seated dinner (reservations required) that I think I’d love to try. Anyone want to go with me?

 

Plan your visit:
River Street Deli
151 River Street, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Monday – Friday: 10:30 – 4pm | Friday Nights: 6:30pm Seating (Reservation Required)
Saturday: 10:30 – 5pm
Sunday: 11 – 5pm