Cuisine: American
Neighborhood: Historic Sweet Auburn District
Address: 41 Jesse Hill Dr. Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: 404-748-5109
Menu: http://clevelandstyledeli.yolasite.com/menu.php
While hunting for a quick bite to eat about a week ago, I somehow found myself outside of a small, somewhat easy to miss spot called Cleveland Style Deli. Now, understand, I’m not from Cleveland nor do I have any ties to the city. Actually, I’ve never even driven through the well known Ohio town. So, I had no idea what to expect upon entering the doors of this place. But, on this day, I figured I would go in and take a peek around and just leave if it wasn't to my particular liking.
While hunting for a quick bite to eat about a week ago, I somehow found myself outside of a small, somewhat easy to miss spot called Cleveland Style Deli. Now, understand, I’m not from Cleveland nor do I have any ties to the city. Actually, I’ve never even driven through the well known Ohio town. So, I had no idea what to expect upon entering the doors of this place. But, on this day, I figured I would go in and take a peek around and just leave if it wasn't to my particular liking.
As soon as I walked in, I felt like I had wondered outside of the ATL city limits and onto the pages of a Cleveland high school yearbook. Even when I was greeted by the owner - Brenda Carter - I slightly ignored her words because I was so engulfed with my surroundings. From the LeBron James Cavaliers jersey display to the pictures of Brenda’s friends, family, and local celebrities back home to the three (3) framed list of celebrities that hail from Cleveland (who knew Halle Berry, Gerald Levert, and Dave Chapelle were all from the C-L-E??), it was more than evident that Brenda goes HARD for her beloved hometown!
After a few pleasantries were exchanged, Brenda suggested that I try a few of her signature menu items that really personified Cleveland's Bite Life (note to self: that might be a good show idea). First up - the Corned Beef Sandwich, prepared with thinly sliced corned beef, Swiss cheese, and mustard. Very simple but, surprisingly, very tasty. Typically, you'd expect a good sandwich to require much more than that but it's lack of complexity was part of the appeal.
Corned Beef Sandwich |
Polish Boy |
Better Than Sex Cupcake |
There are chairs inside but, honestly, it's really not built for a dine-in experience (unless you don't mind standing at the counter). There are no plates. Everything is foil wrapped and bagged to go (all strategically done to create a true sense of a Cleveland deli). And, let's not understate the parking situation. Parking in the city is always an adventure due to Park Atlanta and they are rolling HEAVY in this area. We would NEVER suggest the "run in and run out" method while trying to grab a bite here.
Overall, this a spot we suggest all of our Bite Lifers make their way over to. Brenda, the owner, is a very sweet young woman who's worked extremely hard to create an authentic Cleveland experience right in the heart of downtown Atlanta. Make sure you try the Polish Boy!!! If you don't think it's awesome, you might need to take awesome lessons.
Happy Eating!!!
Grade: B
What's Great: Quick Service
What Ain't: Parking (Park Atlanta is a Beast), Location (Not GPS friendly)
Ideal For: Ohio natives, GSU Students, & Anyone living/working in the area
2 Comments:
Their corn beef sandwich is off the chain. Wow! How I missed going there to eat. I'll be back.
Now I know that there are some true Cleveland transplants down in Hot Lanta! Get on over there and get some of your home cookin!
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