51st Deli

If you live anywhere close to 51st Avenue in Nashville, you have likely at least heard of 51st Deli. It is a popular morning, mid-day, or evening quick stop for foods of all sorts. You can almost always get in and out in about 5-10 minutes if you are taking it to-go. I have visited the store several times, and I have never been disappointed with the food or the service.

Saying the menu is extensive is an understatement. Breakfast options are available all day and include everything from classics like bagel sandwiches, biscuits, avocado toast, and omelettes to specials like the “51st Morning Burrito,” the “Breakfast Reuben Sandwich,” and even “Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles!” Of the breakfast offerings, I have personally only tried the “Beta-Feta” bagel which is composed of egg, tomato, avocado, and feta cheese, but the morning burrito is a favorite of many of my friends. It is huge and filled with gracious portions of egg, cheese, potatoes, peppers, onions, and your choice of either steak, chicken, or chorizo. The prices on the breakfast menu are very reasonable. Most of the breakfast sandwiches are around $6, and even the giant burrito is only $6.50.

There are so many lunch and dinner options I won’t try to list them all, but I will do my best to give a comprehensive overview. There are 23 different signature sandwiches and wraps; some are served hot, and others are served cold. You can also build your own sandwich if you somehow still can’t find an option to satisfy your cravings. Offerings include typicals like grilled cheese, philly cheese steak, chicken and tuna salad, club sandwiches, and BLTs as well as more unique options. “The Vegetarian” is composed of a black bean patty, spinach, avocado, feta cheese, cranberries, and honey mustard on a brioche bun. My personal go-to is the grilled chicken wrap which has avocado, swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato, in addition to freshly grilled chicken, all rolled up in a spinach tortilla. It is delicious and very filling! Sandwiches and wraps range from $6-9 which I think is very reasonable considering their size and the fresh-tasting quality of the ingredients.

The salad bar offers a fresh caesar, greek, or garden salad with protein options including grilled chicken, turkey, ham, or bacon, in addition to almost every type of cold salad dish you could imagine — potato, macaroni, egg, citrus, tuna, chicken, and even ceviche.

The mexican portion of the menu includes tacos for $2 each or burritos, quesadillas, and tortas for $7 each. Customers can choose their meat and toppings, and an extra $3 will get you a side of rice & beans. Other side options are chips with either queso, salsa, or guacamole and fried plantains.

The menu also offers a signature burger for $6.99 which is listed as a half pound of Tennessee Hereford beef, lettuce, tomato, red onions, pickles, and mayo on a brioche bun. Other toppings like cheese, bacon, avocado, fried egg, and mushrooms can be added for an additional charge. I think the best thing I have ever eaten at 51st Deli was a burger (pictured above). I added provolone cheese and ordered fries to go with it (pictured below). I would honestly rank the burger and fries right alongside the ones at nice sit-down restaurants like The Pharmacy. The beef patty was juicy, and the bun was buttery and toasted to perfection. The fries were crisp, yet not burnt at all. The burger itself, along with the portion of fries, were both huge. I was only able to eat about half the order which made it an even better deal because I got two meals out of it!

51st Deli also has desserts including slices of New York cheesecake, chess pie, various cakes, and even cannolis! If you enjoy coffee with your sweets, they also serve Bongo Java coffee.

If this isn’t enough choices for you, 51st has hot plates with items like fried chicken and potato wedges available at both lunch and dinner. 51st Deli also has options like you would find at a market. There are various fruits, protein bars, chips, donuts, and endless options of bottled and canned drinks.

My one complaint regarding the store is the parking. It is located on the corner of 51st Avenue and only has a small parking area in front of the building. If you go during the lunch rush, you will likely have to park on a side road or at another business and do a bit of walking, but I promise it will be worth it!

No matter what you are in the mood for or how much time you have on your hands, 51st Deli will be able to serve your needs. If you haven’t been before, don’t waste any more time. Head on over and grab yourself an all-day breakfast item, one of their 23 signature sandwiches, or a delicious burger and fries!