The Bottom Line
- Huge selection of domestic, microbrews and imported beers
- Simple but tasty deli sandwiches
- Fresh deli meats and cheeses for sale by the pound
- Lines can be long during peak hours
Description
- The Macklind Avenue Deli is located at 4721 Macklind Ave.
- Phone: (314) 481-2435
- More than 250 beers for sale by the pack or bottle
- Good selection of moderately priced wine
- Outdoor seating available
- Hours: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday
Guide Review - Macklind Avenue Deli
When you first enter Macklind Avenue Deli, you immediately notice the walls and shelves lined with beer, wine and soda. Yes, there’s a deli counter, as well as shelves with chips, snacks and other food stuffs. But most first-time-visitors aren’t expecting to find such a large selection of beer tucked inside a deli in South St. Louis.
250 Types of Beer
Before opening in 2006, owner Dick Krekeler did his homework. Even in a town dominated by Anheuser Busch, microbrews and unique beers are hot. Krekeler seized upon this trend and sells more then 250 types of beer, either to take home or drink on-site. It’s no surprise then to see a steady stream of beer lovers walking out with a six-pack (or two) in hand.The Food’s Good Too
Still, Krekeler knows a deli must have great food to keep folks coming back. No need to worry, before opening the deli, Krekeler operated a small grocery at the same location. For decades, people came into his grocery for bread and eggs, but they were passionate about his homemade sandwiches and deli specialties. Krekeler kept many of those recipes when he opened the deli, but also expanded his menu with some new creations.
One such creation, the Murdoch BLT, adds peanut butter and onion to the traditional ingredients. On my first visit, I ordered it without the PB&O, only to have the clerk urge me to “try it right next time.” Still, with plenty of crispy bacon, it was a sandwich that needed little improvement. Weeks later I tried the real deal and realized Krekeler knows his sandwiches. Subsequent visits didn’t disappoint. Although some sandwiches are fairly basic, such as the meatball, all are well-prepared and use quality ingredients, such as Boar’s Head meats and cheeses.
So, whether you’re a beer fan or just want a good sandwich, the Macklind Avenue Deli is a great choice.
