Delicatessens are a wonderful destination for food lovers. (If you’re from New York City, you know the deal; we live for a good bacon, egg, and cheese bagel from the corner deli.) While independent delis have their own charm and provide a wide range of freshly prepared and delicious options, some grocery store delis offer many of the same benefits — plus the added convenience of being steps away from everything on your grocery list. If you’re ever in need of a quick, affordable, and delicious meal, here are five grocery store delis that are up to the task.
Related: The Best Delis Across America
Best: Publix
Must Order: Chicken tender sub
While the chain is only available in seven states (mostly in the South), its deli is absolutely top-notch. With a robust selection of cold cuts, cheeses, and breads to choose from, hungry shoppers can customize their sandwiches or subs to their liking, or choose from a variety of pre-made options. Publix’s deli also offers a selection of hot foods, including rotisserie chicken, fried chicken, tenders, and wings. If you ever find yourself at a Publix deli, do yourself a favor and get the chicken tender sub — I promise, you won’t regret it.
Related: Our 7 Favorite Things To Buy From the Publix Bakery
2. Wegmans
Must Order: Italian sub
This family-owned supermarket chain with stores located primarily in the Northeast is highly praised for its emphasis on quality and accessibility — and their deli department is no exception. Offering a range of meats, cheeses, and breads — as well as pre-made sandwiches, salads, and hot foods — the Wegmans deli is worth a try. Some other popular options include the Buffalo chicken tender sub and the macaroni and cheese.
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3. Whole Foods
Must Order: Turkey and brie sandwich
Known for its focus on natural and organic foods, Whole Foods is another solid destination for those seeking high-quality and healthier food options. The Whole Foods deli offers a range of sandwiches, meats, cheeses, salads, and hot foods. Some of the chain’s most popular deli items include the chicken Caesar wrap, as well as the vegan black bean burger. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the store’s stocked hot bar.
4. Kroger
Must Order: BBQ pulled pork sandwich
Kroger’s deli features a selection of sandwiches, salads, and hot foods, including its popular fried chicken. The grocery store may have come in fourth on our list, but it still has a loyal fanbase. Offering a variety of pre-packaged meals, deli meats, and sushi for those in need of a quick and easy meal, some of the deli’s most popular items include a classic Italian sub and a roasted turkey and avocado wrap.
5. Costco
Must Order: Rotisserie chicken
Though Costco’s deli is another popular destination for those looking for affordable food options, the deli doesn’t boast a whole lot in terms of fresh food selection. Costco’s deli offers stuff like pre-made meal kits, cheese trays, and cold cuts, but the real star of the show is its $5 rotisserie chicken that can last for days. If you’re ever in need of a yummy and cheap meal though, head on over to the chain’s food court, where you can get super large portions of hot dogs, pizza, and dessert for cheap.
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