Groucho’s first deli in Georgia impresses

Lilly McCann

An alternative to a McAlister’s Deli spud or a Jimmy John’s hangover-curing sub, Groucho’s Deli is the kind of neighborhood deli Statesboro could get used to.

Native to South Carolina, Groucho’s Deli is known for its melted subs, homemade coleslaw and potato salad and a variety of dressings that are relatively inexpensive, with a complete meal totaling to less than $10.

The laid-back atmosphere brings in a classic New York vibe combined with that of a college town sandwich shop. The walls are generously decorated in Eagle Pride, as the Brave’s game is playing on the flat screen above it.

The sandwiches are overflowing with meat and smothered in melted cheese, accompanied by a pickle and bag of chips.  Oh, and these sandwiches are messy, expect to use a fork and knife to finish.

The Formula “45” sauce, a rich blend of spicy Russian and Thousand Island dressing, is a partner along side sandwiches such as the STP and Apollo Dipper and ensures no sandwich is disappointing. It works great on just about every sandwich available.

The STP Dipper comes with roast beef, turkey, bacon and Swiss cheese on a huge sub roll. It is served with the “45” sauce or a Danish Bleu sauce. Either way, the sandwich hits the nail on the head in terms of flavor and price, coming in at a low $6.79.

The menu accommodates any palette or diet with vegetarian options and low-fat alternatives. Lighter fares for a lunch like the pasta, green and feta salad, which is served as a large plate of fresh salad greens topped with veggie pasta and a healthy dose of feta cheese.

The service is efficient and friendly, and the staff blends into the environment. Nike shorts and Georgia Southern shirts make it hard to distinguish the guest from the staff.  Praise to the ‘90s alternative playlist murmuring in the background, which is only briefly interrupted by an “Order up” from the kitchen. Cheers to Matchbox 20.

The deli is expected to serve beer although the date is not yet set, until then you can raise your sweet tea to Statesboro’s newest deli.