I wandered into The Deli – a straightforward name, don'tcha think? – while on my way to a neighboring vegetarian Indian restaurant. I was charmed by the old-school ambiance. And I knew, just by walking in, that the food would be good. But I was in the mood for a spicy Indian dinner, not a sandwich, so I vowed to return.

The Deli serves up 55 hot and cold sandwiches and subs. Meander past rows of gourmet potato chips, imported olive oils, jars of artichokes and wine and head to the counter, where service is fast and friendly.  Most orders are take-out, but there is pleasant, bright, clean seating in the back, beyond the store.

On this day, I chose The Deli, which is the specialty at The Deli, and a 6" turkey sub.

The Deli is made up of Mortadella (Italian bologna), salami and provolone on a fresh, soft roll. It was topped with lettuce, tomato, hot peppers and salad oil. I also noticed it was sprinkled with freshly-ground pepper and oregano. The meat was high-quality, spicy, a little smoky and aromatic. The cheese was creamy. The eight-inch sub, at $5.50, was more than enough for two, especially if you were to combine it with chips for another 75 cents.  

I bought the turkey sub because I like turkey.  The Deli certainly has sexier sandwiches on the menu, but when I'm buying for myself, this is the sandwich I always choose. And the turkey sub at The Deli is my new favorite. What made is different was that the turkey was shaved as thin as crepe paper and stacked high in the roll. It came layered with mayo, lettuce, tomato, hot peppers and salad oil. Delicious. I thought I heard angels singing – it was that good. Again, the eight-inch turkey, at $5, is plenty for two.

If you go:

The Deli

4074 Jermantown Road

Fairfax, Va.

703-591-8511

Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.