How about deli and a movie? Diagonally behind The Grande 16 movie theater, located in Friendly Shopping Center, sits Jason’s Deli.
This Texas based restaurant, established in 1976 is a quiet place off of West Friendly Avenue where one can enjoy various types of sandwiches, subs, pasta and desserts. Jason’s Deli is known for its unique creations such as the muffaletta and wrapinis. Both of these sandwiches are grilled and come with a side of potato chips and a pickle.
Upon entering, you feel right at home in the calm and inviting atmosphere. The servers and chefs offer a welcoming feeling as they take your order at the front counter. A television sits in the corner for everyone’s view, while a variety of music plays over the speakers. The floor layout is set with tables, booths and an outside sitting area. Surrounding the sitting area, amazing photos decorate the walls from top to bottom displaying pictures from San Francisco to Paris. Jason’s Deli is a non smoking establishment and provides ceiling fans for your comfort.
The menu offers lunch and dinner-type entrées, it’s desserts, sides that can be ordered alone and vegetarian options. All sandwich choices are less than $8 and come with potato chips and a pickle. However, items such as vegetables, coleslaw and fruit can be substituted as sides. The fruit is always fresh and everything on the menu is free of trans fats. Jason’s Deli caters to those watching what they eat with a section of the menu called “slimwiches” and provides a kids menu as well. Under “Favorites,” they list the Club Royale, one of my personal favorites. The club contains: smoked turkey breast, premium ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato, swiss and cheddar cheeses and honey mustard on a toasted, buttery croissant. The Tuna Melt provides a new taste and the popular BLT remains a favorite among customers. The customers have the opportunity to create their own slimwiches and sandwiches. Half sandwich deals are available with a side of soup, fruit or salad, and all you can eat salad bar is located near the back of the restaurant for less than $7. For those who aren’t in the mood for a sandwich, there’s pasta and potatoes. The pasta is served with hot garlic bread and varies from Chicken Pasta Primo to Vegetarian Pasta. The potatoes are much like the people who eat there (diverse). You can order The Plain Jane with the regular toppings or creative spuds like the Fiesta, which includes chili and onions. Jason’s Deli provides hot po’boys such as MeataBall Po’boy and the Pastrami Melt. All po’boys are $6.59 with the exception of the Traditional Po’boy for $5.99.
A display case reveals the deli’s desserts. Among them are brownies, cheesecake, carrot cake and shortcake. One of my favorites, the strawberry cheesecake, is served with a fresh strawberry nestled beside a creamy slice of cheesecake for only $2.99. Soft serve ice cream can be self-obtained with the purchase of food and take out boxes are available for leftovers. Gift cards and small take out menus are also available.
Jason’s Deli offers take-out and catering services as well and is willing to prepare individual lunch box specials for gatherings and events. You can have your food delivered by calling it in or ordering online.
A healthy alternative to the other fast food choices in the area, Jason’s Deli provides restaurant-style service. Smilling faces to greet you, and is not over over-crowded. The hours are Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m and it is located at 3326 W Friendly Ave, Suite 140. To contact the Greensboro location, call (336) 297-9195 or visit their web site jasonsdeli.com
- Stacie Bailey