Chompie’s (1160 E. University Drive, Tempe [480] 557-0700). Founded in 1979 by the Borenstein family, originally from Queens, N.Y., Chompie’s serves up a huge menu of “breakfast all day,” N.Y.-style pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and baked-from-scratch breads, cakes and pastries. Don’t miss the boiled-then-baked bagels in 35 varieties and the sliders, featured on an episode of “Man vs. Food.” Additional location in Chandler (3481 W. Frye Road [480] 398-3008). $$
Dilly’s Deli (414 W. University Drive, Tempe [480] 929-0111 and 3330 S. Price Road, Tempe [480] 491-1196). It’s always a good time for soup — especially at Dilly’s. Better known for its grilled sandwiches, this popular lunch spot also serves up a mean bread bowl. Our fave? The cream of broccoli. Additional locations in Chandler (2895 Alma School Road [480] 722-0645) and Scottsdale. $
Lee’s Sandwiches (1901 W. Warner Road, Chandler [480] 855-1778). This California-based chain with just one Arizona location keeps locals lined up for Vietnamese “banh mi” sandwiches — think barbecued pork or meatballs topped with pickled carrots and daikon on a crusty 10-inch baguette They’ve also got traditional sandwiches and a line of smoothies made with exotic fruit like lychee. $
Sacks Art of Sandwicherie (35 E. Ninth St., Tempe [480] 966-9266 and 839 W. University Drive, Tempe [480] 967-2980). Patrons will discover arty sandwiches and an equally colorful setting at this longtime ASU fave. The sandwiches, named for the greats (Picasso, van Gogh and the like), are served in a sack (get it?) with a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie. It’s just like mom used to do — only cooler. $
gonetothedogs posted at 9:12 am on Sun, Oct 30, 2011.
I haven't been to the other deli's, but the one I WON'T go back to is Chompies. I have eaten there for 25 years. The food quality, the service and the attitudes along with their astronomical prices for a crappy sandwich are enough to keep me away. The Tempe location is the pits...................................Too Bad, they were once the King!
DrJCA1 posted at 4:12 pm on Wed, Feb 22, 2012.
Hey you all, when I retire back to the East Valley, I think my son and I are going to do a real NY deli. Both of us were born in Brooklyn and neither of us is a greedy pig. We're in the planning stage now. Soon. I love the EV.