Chuck Whigham
[This is NOT an Artificial Intelligence AI generated review but a real world Chuck Whigham review.]
We were visiting family in Punta Gorda, Florida and decided to go to the Sunken Garden in St. Petersburg, Florida and we stopped at the Side Door Deli for Breakfast/Lunch. The Side Door Deli is a fusion of three rich gastronomic cultures- Mediterranean, Puerto Rican, and American. Your palate can experience great and tasty breakfast specials, iconic lunch offerings, and authentic desserts that have deep Mediterranean, Puerto Rican, and American influence.
It is a simple, casual, and cozy eatery with great food and beverages served in a comfortable dining room which also has outdoor seating. They have a simple Breakfast and Lunch Menu that is not too busy and it has something for everyone. They are known for their reasonably priced specials, large portions, and delicious food. All of the food is full of flavor and prepared with love by Chef Doan for an awesome culinary experience!
Upon entering, we were immediately greeted by Emely and Raed. The greeting was very warm, friendly, pleasant, professional, and they had genuine smiles. It was a Tuesday around 10:30 AM and we were immediately seated and provided with menus and our beverage orders taken. Emely was also our server and she immediately provided us with our beverages- Water with lemon no ice, one can of Coca-Cola, and three Sweet Teas. She immediately brought out our beverages as well as utensils. My wife and daughter ordered the Falafel Platter, my Son-in-law ordered a Classic Reuben (Corned Beef and Pastrami) with Potato Salad, our granddaughter ordered two eggs over easy, bacon, and white toast, and I ordered a bowl of chicken soup and a small Greek Salad.
Everything was absolutely delicious and our meals were prepared, portioned, cooked to perfection, and served hot. We completely devoured everything which was so tasty and delicious. Emely was very attentive, extremely friendly, efficient, and happy to help! The bathrooms in the main lobby of the building are clean and well maintained. You can count on having a delicious and fabulous meal coupled with warm, extremely friendly, and attentive customer service.
The establishment is owned and operated by Emely and Raed who are the heart and soul of the business. The Side Door Deli is definitely a popular place with the locals and a refreshing change from the chains! It can get very busy, so arrive early- even better make reservations and you won’t be disappointed! In short, the fabulous food and friendly customer service made for an phenomenal culinary and dining experience! We will definitely be returning when we are back in the area of St. Petersburg, Florida to try some of their other phenomenal breakfast and lunch specials, and desserts.
… moreEH
We love this community restaurant. It’s like an extension of the home. It’s owned and operated by an amazing couple who treat customers like friends. They have really affordable specials for breakfast and lunch. I ordered the breakfast burrito on my last trip. Highly recommend if you’re looking for deli-style food like soups, sandwiches or salads
… moreJoe Pezzulich
We stopped in for a quick bite and had a very nice lunch. They are open for breakfast and lunch. My wife had the chicken salad sandwich and I had the Reuben. We also split a bowl of chili. Everything tasted great, the prices are very reasonable, and the service is friendly.
… moreTerri Laughlin
We stopped here for lunch and was so glad that we did. Service was great, owners make sure you are happy with your food and go out of their way to make you feel welcome.
Very good food, prices are reasonable and the portions are huge.
… moreAshley Matthews
What a wonderful place for breakfast and lunch! The food was so fresh and so good! The sweet tea was perfect! The BLT has the perfect amount of B, L &T! The owners are there all day, every day! The cook is wonderful and the homemade jams/jelly’s were to die for!
… moreKen Germano
This place is one of the few places that I would call an authentic Deli. I grew up in Brooklyn and Long Island and this is comparable to anything I’ve been to in NY. The newest owners, last 6-7 years, are very engaging with their customers. They prepare much of their food themselves in the restaurant. The pride they take in their business shows and we appreciate that. While we were there today (for the 1st time), we noticed that they knew almost every customer that walked in to dine in or pick up food. They knew we were 1st timers, so both owners (husband & wife) introduced themselves. They also gave us falafel to try; it was fantastic! We had the pastrami Reuben and roast beef signature combo; both were amazing. We also ordered a Knish as a side. I haven’t had a Knish that good in over 10 years. We love their menu and selection of sandwiches, sides, and desserts. We’ll most definitely be back!!!
… moreRick Kimel
We not only enjoy, but appreciate this place. Everything is well prepared, made on premise using quality products. The atmosphere is that of a small breakfast / lunch deli and the owners/operators/staff are so cordial and service is great. We travel quite a ways across town to come here. Is worth it.
… moreeric weaver
Wonderful couple, Latina and Middles Eastern providing perfect hospitality where everyone is welcome as family. Breakfast was delicious with bottomless coffee or tea.
Makes sure you get some Homemade strawberry preserves and the great desserts.
… moreChris and Tanya
We ordered Ruben and Pastrami Sandos with french fries. They were delicious! This restaurant/ diner is super clean, attractive, and has a great ambiance. Its colorful and floral decor is nice and charming. We loved the service here. Our server was friendly and fast. She kept our drinks full, too. She even gave us drinks to go. Overall, my husband and I enjoyed our lunch here at the Side Door Deli & Restaurant. We recommend you look for their specials. The best part of all was sitting across from my Gorgeous Husband while we enjoyed each other’s company.
… moreAnne Bardsley
Such a fun place to enjoy a meal. Husband and wife owners are a joy and he is quite the entertainer. Seriously great food with large portions. Highly recommend you see for yourself.
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