Exploring Riverdale’s Newest Deli
I know that ever since my last article, “Battle of the Delis”, all of my readers have been anxiously awaiting my next review. I am here to finally let you know that I am back! With the junior’s newfound freedom of off-campus lunch, I’ve made it my mission to explore every deli in the area.” After all, there are around 13,000 delis in NYC, and Riverdale alone is packed with many top-tier options. I’ve already reviewed Riverdale favorites like Emiliano’s Market (Emiliano’s), New Riverdale Deli (Riverdeli), and Tierney Fine Foods (Tierney’s), but this time, I am exploring Sal’s Gourmet Deli. Sandwiched between Dino’s Pizzeria and Emiliano’s Market, Sal’s Gourmet Deli immediately gave off a fresh, inviting vibe. Essentially any kind of chip, candy, soda, or protein bar could be found in this new hot spot. I walked to the counter and asked for their three best things. The man behind the counter made the classic bodega staples of a Chopped Cheese, Bacon Egg and Cheese, and Chicken Cutlet Sandwich. Naturally, I got all three.
Bacon Egg and Cheese: B-
This was quite possibly the most average Bacon Egg and Cheese I have ever had. The roll was alright. While it was toasted, it was just your average Kaiser Roll. The egg was fried, but sadly the yolks didn’t break and I was left with an overcooked mushy egg. The bacon was crispy but I wish less fat was left on it. The best proportion for a Bacon Egg and Cheese in my opinion is a 3:2:1 of bacon to egg to cheese. This Bacon Egg and Cheese was a 2:2:1. Nothing blew me away, however, it hit the spot for a quick lunch. It was your average NYC BEC. I would choose the Riverdeli BEC over Sal’s Gourmet Deli BEC any day of the week. I give this a B-.
Chopped Cheese: B
The Chopped Cheese is a NYC bodega classic–a chopped burger patty with American cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Similar to the BEC, the Chopped Cheese was average. The meat was seasoned and salty but not of high quality. I was happy with most of the proportions as there was a substantial amount of meat compared to lettuce, tomato, and cheese. I found the sandwich to be quite greasy but I appreciated the amount of protein. I would give this sandwich a B.
Chicken Cutlet Sandwich: B+
The Chicken Cutlet Sandwich was the best out of the three. Similar to the Chopped Cheese, it was served with a sufficient amount of protein. The chicken was tender, warm, and crispy, pairing well with a slice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. I would suggest improving this sandwich with a slice of Pepper Jack instead of American cheese. Nevertheless, I would definitely come back for this sandwich. I would give it a B+.
Overall, Sal’s Gourmet Deli was solid but not groundbreaking. It had all of the classic NYC bodega staples. Nothing was unique or exceptional, but nothing stood out to be terrible. In an area with Tierney’s, Riverdeli, and Emiliano’s, Sal’s Gourmet Deli may struggle to compete. However, one factor that sets it apart is their lower prices. With the Bacon Egg and Cheese at $6 and the other two sandwiches at $8, Sal’s is easily one of the most budget-friendly options around. Their prices just might be the reason I will return. I could definitely see myself coming here if I was hungry and only had a 10-dollar bill, but in any other scenario I would prefer the other Riverdale classics. I would rate Sal’s Gourmet Deli a B.
Whether you’re in the area or just craving a classic deli sandwich without breaking the bank, Sal’s Gourmet Deli might just surprise you.
