DINING: Urban Deli! Brings Something Fresh to the Table

Urban Deli! (Credit: Kristina Paulos)

Since I moved downtown, into the glorious world of walking-distance convenience, few things get me as excited as when a new restaurant opens up that actually serves good food at reasonable prices. Pathetic? Perhaps. But the extent of my cooking abilities ends at the microwave. Since I know a good meal isn’t going to come out of my kitchen, it’s comforting to know it’ll come from one nearby without draining what’s left of my checking account.

That comfort flooded over me the other day as I strolled past the Urban Think! bookstore on my way home, and realized they had replaced the tea shop, Infusion Tea, with a delightful new deli, aptly named Urban Deli!

Not only did that sweet little delicatessen meet my good food/reasonable price criteria, but the service and general vibe of the place had me reevaluating my whole set of standards, or at least resenting how far they’ve been forced to decline . . .until now.

The resentment gave way to optimism as I delved into the Reuben, rather 'The Reuben J. Dodd', I ordered. Priced just right at $7.99, I got a fresh and delicious sandwich big enough to save for lunch the next day. I was definitely pleased by the food but it was the chic yet welcoming ambiance of the place coupled with the warmth of the staff that really impressed me. 

Unlike many of the eateries in Thornton Park, Urban Deli! manages to pull off a trendy and stylish atmosphere without the pretentious attitude that usually accompanies it. Rather than snobby, the staff is approachable and clever, qualities that are also shown in the playfully named menu items and witty writing on their Facebook page.

According to the Manager/Proprietor Gary Rhoades, the unique vibe of this place is no accident. After partnering with Urban Think! owner Bruce Harris, they created what Rhoades refers to as "the first of my many culinary dreams." He has a vision for what this quirky new endeavor will be for the community saying “I like to describe Urban Deli! as 'Thornton Park's Living Room' where you can lounge in our comfortable banquets, couches, and patio chairs. While here, a guest can enjoy our free WiFi, many board games, and the 1,000s of books and magazines in the Urban Think! Bookstore that I share the space with. Also, dogs and most children are always welcome.”

Besides great food, they also offer beer, wine, and tasty sangrias, which will help soothe your nerves if you decide to take part in one of their open-mic nights. Either way, if you live or find yourself in the neighborhood, do yourself a favor and check it out. You’ll be glad you did.