Deli

A deli, short for delicatessen, is a shop or department that sells prepared foods, cured meats, cheeses, and other specialty groceries. The term comes from German Delikatessen, meaning delicacies. In Europe, traditional delis have long served as sources of ready-to-eat meals; in the United States, delis became common with immigrant communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, expanding from general grocer’s counters into standalone specialty shops.

Typical offerings include cured meats such as ham, salami, and pastrami; cheeses; prepared salads; sandwiches; breads; pickles and olives; and condiments. Many delis produce house-made items like sausages, roasted meats, and salads. Some specialize in kosher or halal preparations or focus on regional or ethnic cuisines.

Operations and format: Delis operate with counter service or self-serve setups, emphasizing made-to-order sandwiches and quick meals. Grocery-store delis differ from standalone shops and may include hot items from steam tables. Equipment commonly includes meat slicers, display cases, refrigeration, and small cooking appliances. Food safety, labeling, and allergen information are standard requirements.

Cultural role: Deli foods are a common feature of urban food culture, offering fast, flavorful options and opportunities to sample regional specialties through cured meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat dishes.