Inside 43215: Downtown Dish
Some of the best eats on the downtown streets aren’t found on the streets at all – come to the alleys. The Deli In The Alley has returned to 72 East Lynn, it’s now under new ownership with a spiffy new look and a new menu.
Featuring heaping bowls of funky salads and caramel-crowned brownies, the display case is welcoming enough, but chances are good that host Brian Auden will offer warm greetings from behind the deli counter too. Auden explained that the eatery has an uncommon commitment to earth-friendly fare, “Our carryout containers are made of corn –they’re green n’ go. And the chips; they come from Louisiana, where they’re really trying to rebuild the economy after Katrina.” Sure enough, the potato chips on the rack come with distinctly delicious Cajun names like Gator Tators.
Although the earth-friendly angle is nice enough, the deli will likely build its reputation on well-stacked (but economically priced) sandwiches. Case in point: The Cuban –it’s a flavorful combo of ham, pulled pork, swiss cheese, mustard and plenty o’ pickles. The combo is actually a classic down south, but seldom seen in Columbus. Tamer palettes might take solace in the Egg Salad or Tuna Melt. Auden says that those two options have been the most popular during opening week. The aforementioned sandwiches are all priced below six dollars.
The Deli In The Alley serves breakfast too, and it’s open until mid-afternoon on weekdays. For carryout, call 222-0911.
