Deli Meat - Brand Reviews & Guides | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/deli-meat/ Your ultimate source for expert nutrition tips and health advice, covering wellness, healthy recipes, cooking hacks, food news, style trends and shopping. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:44:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.eatthis.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/01/ETNT_favicon-1.png?strip=all&cf-bypass&w=32 Deli Meat - Brand Reviews & Guides | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/deli-meat/ 32 32 195777497 6 Best Deli Meats in Grocery Stores, According to Chefs https://www.eatthis.com/best-deli-meats-grocery-stores-chefs/ Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:15:57 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=908365 The deli section is one of the most popular spots in the grocery store. Whether...

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The deli section is one of the most popular spots in the grocery store. Whether you’re building the perfect sandwich or grabbing something quick for lunch, it’s an easy go-to. But with so many options behind the counter, it can be hard to know what’s really worth it. To help narrow down the choices, Eat This, Not That! asked chefs for their top six picks. According to culinary pros, these are the deli meats worthy of putting in your cart.

Boar’s Head


Boar’s Head has built a reputation for quality and flavor over decades, and it’s a brand that gets a chef’s stamp of approval.”I like it because it doesn’t matter which grocer you purchase it at, you will always get the same quality product,” says Chef Andres Kaifer of Customshop and Emmy Lou’s in Charlotte, NC. For Melanie Portman, chef and recipe developer with Droolrecipes.com, there are two types of Boar Head deli meat she recommends: Ovengold Turkey and Genoa Salami. The Ovengold Turkey has a smooth texture without being “rubbery” she says. “It has a clean roasted flavor that works in everything from sandwiches to a quick chef’s salad,” Chef Melanie adds,  “It slices thin without tearing, which sounds small but makes a real difference when you’re layering a panini.” The Genoa Salami is another favorite. “The pepper and garlic balance is perfect, and the quality is reliable no matter which grocery store I grab it from,” Chef Melanie explains.”It’s my go-to when I need salami for a muffuletta or a quick pasta salad.” Home chefs swear by the brand, too. “Despite the listeria scares from a few years ago, I’ve always found Boar’s Head to be an above-average deli meat and the one I gravitate towards,” notes Lisa Lotts, home chef, recipe developer, owner and publisher of Garlic and Zest.”The flavors are solid, and I love the variety. The look and texture are good without being rubbery or too watery. It’s a higher-priced option, but it makes a meaty sandwich and sub. Bonus, Boar’s Head sliced cheeses take any ‘wich to the next level.”

Columbus Italian Dry Salame

Columbus Italian Dry Salame combines authentic flavor, artisanal quality, and versatility, making it stand out on both grocery shelves and charcuterie boards. “This is what I reach for when I’m building an antipasto board,” says Chef Melanie. “The fat-to-lean ratio is spot on — it has that authentic Italian salumi flavor without being greasy.   I’ve served it next to imported salami and guests can’t tell the difference.”

Dietz & Watson Black Forest Ham

Dietz & Watson Black Forest Ham hits a sweet spot between traditional flavor and cleaner ingredients that many shoppers care about. According to Chef Melanie, it has a “rich, smoky flavor that doesn’t taste artificial.” She explains, “It holds up in cooked dishes too — I use it in my ham and gruyère crêpes, and it caramelizes beautifully without  releasing too much water.”

Applegate Naturals Roast Beef


Applegate Naturals Roast Beef delivers an unforgettable beef flavor and everyday versatility that many consumers find hard to beat in the deli aisle. It’s one of Chef Melanie’s go-tos because of the “cleaner ingredients.” She says, “It actually tastes like beef, not the salty mystery meat you get from cheaper brands. I use it for French dip sandwiches and it stands up   to the au jus without falling apart.”

Hillshire Farm

Hillshire Farm is a brand that’s consistent, accessible, familiar, and affordable—qualities that matter most for everyday eating. “Silly, but I appreciate the packaging – it’s easy to get into and reseal, instead of those zip-top packages, which always seem to fail,” says Lotts. “Additionally, the lunchmeat itself is neither too thin nor too thick, though the slices are larger than those of other packaged cold cuts, which is great for folding over on itself for a thicker, meatier-looking sandwich.” She adds, “The flavor is balanced with a light salt and smoke flavor in the turkey and ham. It’s a solid option. I use it in my “Knife and Fork Grilled Cheese” recipe.”

Citterio Parma Ham

Citterio Parma ham delivers what many consider the gold standard of deli meat: simple ingredients, authentic Italian tradition and a delicate, craveable flavor. “It’s sliced paper-thin (so thin, it comes separated by sheets of plastic), buttery, and you don’t need a lot to bring a punch of true Italian flavor,” says Lotts. “Citterio has other ham varieties as well that are also very good for lunch.”

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8 Deli Turkey Brands Made With Real Whole Breast Meat, According to Shoppers https://www.eatthis.com/best-deli-turkey-whole-breast-meat/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:15:09 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=903279 Turkey is the most popular deli meat in the U.S. for good reason—this versatile meat...

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Turkey is the most popular deli meat in the U.S. for good reason—this versatile meat is mild in flavor, low in calories, high in protein, and easily adapted to anyone’s taste, be it sweet, spicy, savory, and more. The really good deli turkey is made from the breast meat, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, and platters, or simply enjoyed by itself as a snack. So which is the turkey worth keeping in the fridge at all times? Here are eight deli turkey brands made with real meat.

Trader Joe’s Organic Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Trader Joe’s Organic Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is a constant in my fridge and perfect for making sandwiches and school lunches. This option is made from turkeys raised on an all-vegetarian diet in a free range environment. Texture-wise this is pretty close to the Applegate Organic Oven Roasted Turkey Breast. Speaking of which…

Applegate Organics Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Applegate Organics Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is another delicious option we rely on for the kids’ lunchboxes, made from real USDA organic turkey. “One of the cleanest brands of turkey you can buy. No added chemicals,” one Target shopper said.

RELATED: I Tried 11 Turkey Deli Meats & the Best Was Juicy and Flavorful

True Story Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

True Story Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is the real deal: Delicious moist turkey breast meat with no unwelcome additives or fillers. “So simple and good tasting! Only 3 ingredients! So many lunch meats have too many preservatives these days,” one shopper raved.

Dietz & Watson Organic Turkey Breast

Dietz & Watson Organic Turkey Breast is a Costco must-have, made from vegetarian grain-fed turkey and seasoned with sea salt. “It has an actual grain to it, where it naturally wants to separate, rather than the gelatinous, homogenous lunchmeat,” one fan said.

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Oven Roasted Turkey

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Oven Roasted Turkey is made from real turkey breast, with no nitrates or nitrites added (except for those naturally occurring in the celery juice powder and sea salt). “My kids and I all inhale this. It’s the best sliced turkey you can get. It’s juicy and flavorful, thin sliced, packaged well. Both of my kids will eat this straight out of the package!” one fan said.

Member’s Mark Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Member’s Mark Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is made from whole turkey breast. “Great sandwich meat,” one shopper shared. “Super high quality and a great taste. This product is as good as fresh cut deli meats, in my opinion. Makes a great sandwich and a great snack. We buy this almost every time we come to Sam’s club.”

Primo Taglio Oven Roasted Turkey

Primo Taglio Oven Roasted Turkey is made with real turkey breast. “I love this turkey. It’s very fresh tasting and perfect thickness of slicesI love this turkey. It’s very fresh tasting and perfect thickness of slices,” one shopper said.

Diestel Family Ranch Fresh Roasted Pre-Sliced Deli Turkey

Diestel Family Ranch is famous for top-quality turkey, and the Fresh Roasted Pre-Sliced Deli Turkey (made with slow-roasted organic turkey breast) is no exception. “My new personal favorite go-to turkey. Taste is amazing! A lot of natural turkey products can taste gamey but not this one. Delicious. Will put on my permanent list,” one shopper said.

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7 Best Salami Brands Made Without Fillers, According to Shoppers https://www.eatthis.com/best-salami-brands-without-fillers/ Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:00:11 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=903324 Salami is a delicious deli meat perfect not just for sandwiches but for pizza, snacks,...

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Salami is a delicious deli meat perfect not just for sandwiches but for pizza, snacks, charcuterie, and so on—this versatile meat is typically made with pork and spices, although beef and venison options are popular too. Not all salami is made equal—many are full of additives and preservatives for optimum shelf-life, but others are made with actual recognizable ingredients that shoppers appreciate.  Here are seven of the best salami brands made with real meat and without a ton of fillers.

Olli Salumeria

Olli Salumeria has several exceptional salami options, all made with 100% vegetarian-fed antibiotic free pork. “These are expensive but in my opinion it’s worth it knowing you’re getting great quality meats and cheeses,” one shopper said of the Genoa & Fontina Cracker Snack Tray. “It’s delicious. I buy them every time.”

Columbus Genoa Salami

Columbus Genoa Salami is made with finely chopped, extra-lean pork. “Always a crowd pleaser!” one World Market shopper said. “Great in pasta salad,” another commented.

RELATED: The 25 Best & Worst Deli Meats, According to Dietitians

Volpi Genoa Salami

I love the Volpi brand for excellent (albeit pricey) options like the Genoa Salami. “This is still a great salami with a better flavor than you can find in your deli. Slice super thin and watch it go quick,” one shopper said.

Monte Pollino Uncured Rosemary Lamb Salami

Monte Pollino Uncured Rosemary Lamb Salami is a preservative-free salami handcrafted with gourmet lamb, fresh rosemary and fine spices. “A new regular on our charcuterie board! We gave this a shot because we love lamb, and so glad we did – the flavor is great!” one World Market shopper shared.

Di Bruno Bros. Mild Soppressata

Di Bruno Bros. Mild Soppressata is produced with regional Italian spices and the old-world technique of slow air-curing for at least 45 days. “Delicious, full of flavor and outstanding quality,” one shopper said. “This is my dad’s favorite of all the different sausages, salamis, and meats from DiBruno’s. I’ve been bringing this to him for 20 years,” another said.

Applegate Natural Uncured Genoa Salami

Applegate Natural Uncured Genoa Salami is excellent both in ingredients and in taste, fans say. “This salami tastes really nice!! It’s not super greasy like other brands. I appreciate the natural ingredients used,” one Target shopper said. “This is the only salami I’ll buy at Target with it being the only nitrate-free option! We love this and have never had any issues with this brand. Tastes great and has better ingredients!” another raved.

Creminelli Varzi Salami

Creminelli Varzi Salami is another outstanding deli meat made of high quality ingredients. This salami has an almost prosciutto-like texture to it, with a beautifully rich and savory flavor. This is always the first meat to completely disappear from my charcuterie boards.

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7 Best Bologna Brands Made With Real Meat, According to Shoppers https://www.eatthis.com/best-bologna-brands-made-with-real-meat/ Sat, 21 Feb 2026 12:30:44 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=902707 Bologna has earned a reputation over the years for being delicious but packed with dubious...

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Bologna has earned a reputation over the years for being delicious but packed with dubious ingredients and mystery meat. If you’ve avoided looking at the ingredients on your favorite brand because some things are best ignored, don’t worry—there are several brands that make bologna that’s both tasty and made with recognizable ingredients. Here are seven of the best shopper-approved bologna brands made with actual meat and not just fillers.

Frick’s Quality Meats Bologna

Frick’s Quality Meats Bologna is made from cuts of pork and beef blended with an old world mix of spices. “Love Frick’s bologna. No poultry helps it keep longer in the fridge, always the perfect seasoning,” one shopper said.

Troyer’s Genuine Trail Bologna

I first tried Troyer’s Genuine Trail Bologna at my in-laws’ in Pennsylvania—no gathering is complete without this delicious all-beef bologna served with cheese and crackers. We would freeze it and bring it back to Los Angeles in our carry-ons, much to the amusement of the TSA. If you have access to this bologna, I highly recommend it.

RELATED: 5 Best Delis in America, According to Chefs

Wellshire Old Fashioned Deli Style Uncured Beef Bologna

Wellshire Old Fashioned Deli Style Uncured Beef Bologna is made from actual beef and is a favorite in our home. The ingredients are exceptional and the taste and quality is so good you can enjoy this deli meat guilt-free. Check the deli counter at your local Whole Foods, or use the store locator here.

Bomberger’s Lebanon Bologna

Bomberger’s Lebanon Bologna is another all-beef smoked sausage bologna made with top quality ingredients for a distinctly smokey, tangy taste. “What a pleasure. No need for bread or roll – it gets eaten slice by slice,” one happy shopper said.

Dietz & Watson Beef Bologna

Dietz & Watson Beef Bologna is a top-quality deli meat made from 100% beef. “I use this product all this time when I need something quick to make. Goes great with a slice of Buffalo Wing cheese! Not too salty, but not bland either. Makes a great luncheon meat,” one BJ’s shopper said.

Wunderbar German Brand Beef Bologna

Wunderbar German Brand Beef Bologna is a fan-favorite deli meat. “This is probably the best bologna I’ve had in years. I bought it several times and I will continue to buy it,” one Walmart shopper said. “This bologna has texture, has flavor, you can actually tell you’re eating a bologna product.”

Hebrew National Beef Bologna

Hebrew National Beef Bologna is made with premium cuts of 100% kosher beef. “On a super nutty bread with truffle mustard? It’s heaven on a plate. You wouldn’t think of bologna eating it. It’s just delicious meat,” one shopper wrote in the reviews.

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6 Pre-Sliced Deli Meat Brands That Still Taste Fresh, Not Packaged https://www.eatthis.com/pre-sliced-deli-meat-brands-that-taste-fresh-not-packaged/ Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:45:12 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=899678 The freshest deli meat at the grocery store is generally the kind sliced in front...

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The freshest deli meat at the grocery store is generally the kind sliced in front of your eyes by the butcher. However, it also goes bad fast. If you don’t use it within a few days of purchase, you risk exposing your family to bacteria such as Listeria, Salmonella, or E. coli. The great thing about pre-sliced and packaged deli meat? While you should consume it within a few days after opening, you can generally keep it sealed and store it until the expiration date. Unfortunately, many deli meat packages are filled with slimy, processed slices of turkey, ham, and roast beef that might give you the ick. Here are 6 pre-sliced deli meat brands that still taste fresh, not packaged.

Boar’s Head

Boar's Head Sliced Honey Smoked Turkey

Boar’s Head is one of the premier deli meat brands. For example, the sliced honey-smoked turkey is American Heart Association Heart Check Certified, extra lean, low-fat, gluten-free, and made with no preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, or MSG. Shoppers maintain it is the highest-quality deli meat and tastes straight from the butcher.

Applegate Naturals Oven Roasted

applegate oven roasted turkey breast
Applegate Natural Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is another natural crowd-pleaser. “The best turkey lunch meat I’ve tried. Makes the price completely worth it,” writes a shopper. “Like the day after Thanksgiving!” another adds. “This product tastes like turkey breast from a recently roasted turkey. Sure makes a tasty sandwich!” A third calls it the “freshest tasting turkey, it’s so moist that it can fall apart when trying to remove it by the slice so it’s easier just to take everything out of the pack, the taste is nothing but fresh clean white meat turkey, zero slime or weird chewy bits.”

Dietz & Watson Premium

Dietz & Watson Pre-Sliced Gourmet Lite Turkey
Dietz & Watson is up there with the ranks of Boar’s Head in terms of quality. “Fresh, tasty, and convenient lite turkey—perfect for quick and healthy meals,” writes a shopper. “I really liked the Dietz & Watson Pre-Sliced Gourmet Lite Turkey. The slices are fresh, tender, and not dry, with a mild and natural turkey flavor. The packaging is convenient and easy to reseal, which helps keep the product fresh for longer. The portion size is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or quick protein snacks. It feels like a healthier option without compromising on taste, and the aroma is clean and pleasant.” Another adds that the “slices taste fresh and clean, not overly salty or processed. Super lean and packed with protein.”

RELATED: 5 Best Delis in America, According to Chefs

Hillshire Farm Naturals

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Sandwich Meat - 9oz
Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Sandwich Meat is thing sliced and tasty. “I like the airtight packaging. The texture is great. The taste is excellent. Freshness is on point,” a Target shopper says.

Hormel Natural Choice


Shoppers also stand by Hormel Natural Choice deli meat. “This is the only sandwich meat that we buy. I do not want nitrates in my meat. This sandwich meat tastes good and has a good texture. It is good for sandwiches and wraps,” says one.

Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe's Organic Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
Trader Joe’s Oven-Roasted Turkey and the ham are winners, and the brand is one of the few I personally buy for my family. “It’s about as good as you can do for a precooked meat,” says a Redditor. “The turkey breast you just linked to is just about as healthy as turkey deli meat gets. It’s just turkey, salt, and water so that’s much better than meats you could get that would have added non-salt preservatives. That’s a good find,” another agrees.

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5 Best Delis in America, According to Chefs https://www.eatthis.com/best-us-delis-sandwiches-chefs/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:30:39 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=898482 If you think all delis are the same, think again. The best delis are more...

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If you think all delis are the same, think again. The best delis are more than just a place to grab a quick meal— they’re institutions where tradition, technique and flavor come together to create something unforgettable. From towering pastrami stacks to hand-carved cured meats, a great deli knows how to make even the simplest ingredients shine. “The first thing I do when I walk into a deli isn’t look at the menu—I look at the meat case,” says butcher and chef Thomas Odermatt, founder of Roli Roti Food Trucks and Butcher’s Bone Broth. “The meats better look fresh, vibrant, and properly cared for.” Additionally, “the color and moisture of the meat matters,” he says. “And just as important: the place should be packed,” says Chef Thomas. “A busy deli means the meats are moving, not sitting in a refrigerator for days losing life and character.” Another thing Chef Thomas notices in a deli is the smell. “I pay attention to the freshly baked bread in the air and the rhythmic hum of the slicer,” he says. “A great deli sandwich isn’t skimpy. The meat should be stacked high, layered with intention, and built to be held with two hands. It’s not fast food—it’s edible architecture.” Chef Thomas, who is a third-generation Swiss butcher, shares, “Growing up in a butcher shop that also served sandwiches to construction workers, I learned early what people truly want.” He says, “They want value, honesty, and satisfaction. I watched my mother assemble sandwiches with skill and pride—never shorting the meat, always balancing flavors, and understanding that a good sandwich fuels a hard day’s work.” Now that you know what to look for in a good deli, here are the top five, according to chefs.

RELATED: I Tried 11 Turkey Deli Meats & the Best Was Juicy and Flavorful

Saul’s Restaurant & Delicatessen

At Saul’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, Jewish cuisine is celebrated, and the Berkeley, CA spot has been a go-to for decades for traditional dishes like pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and other classic deli favorites. “Jewish delis represent one of the purest expressions of this philosophy that I learned,” says Chef Thomas. “Saul’s Restaurant & Delicatessen focuses on a deep food culture and strong ties to local and organic movements.”

Zingerman’s

Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor, MI, is another Jewish deli Chef Thomas says is worth the trip. “This deli honors tradition while welcoming evolution—brisket, pastrami, and corned beef prepared with respect, sliced thick or thin depending on the sandwich, and served with conviction,” he says. “There’s diversity on the plate, but also discipline.”

Jason’s Deli

Jason’s Deli serves wholesome food without junk ingredients. The chain, which has 239 delis in 27 states, got rid of all artificial flavors, banned dyes and all high-fructose corn syrup in its food. It’s a go-to for Brian Gunterman, butcher, pitmaster, CEO and Founder of DDR BBQ Supply, who loves their Reuben sandwich. “They do not rhyme the sandwich with dressing or mushy kraut,” he says. “The corned beef is well marbled, and cut thin enough to bite, and they only toast rye till it breaks. It’s balanced, not sloppy.”

McAlister’s Deli

In 1989, McAlister’s Deli opened its first location in Mississippi. The quaint gathering place served tasty sandwiches, giant spuds, salads and their famous McAlister’s Sweet Tea. Today, the Deli has over 500 locations throughout the U.S. and it’s a favorite for Chef Andrew Owens, a private chef based in California. One of his must-haves is the chicken & dumplings soup, available on daily specials and throughout the year. “Their chicken dumplings never taste greasy and are made daily and in house,” he says.

Molinari Delicatessen

Molinari Delicatessen is an Italian deli in San Francisco’s North Beach that’s been around since 1896. “An Italian deli should feel alive the moment you walk in—authentic, passionate, and unapologetic about flavor,” says Chef Thomas. “Great Italian sandwiches aren’t rushed–they’re built to let ingredients meld.” He explains, “Meats and cheeses are shingled carefully to create air pockets, bread is chosen for both structure and softness, and the sandwich is often wrapped tightly and lightly compressed so everything settles into place.” Chef Thomas adds, “Olive oil, vinegar, dried oregano, and spicy pickled peppers bring brightness, while restraint keeps any single element from overpowering the rest.” According to Chef Thomas, “Molinari Delicatessen embodies this tradition perfectly. It delivers nostalgic Italian-American flavors with authenticity, generosity and consistency. This is a deli that knows exactly who it is. The meats are sliced fresh, the portions are honest, and every sandwich feels rooted in history rather than trends.”

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5 Chain Restaurants Known for Stacking the Meat Sky-High https://www.eatthis.com/chain-restaurants-with-stacked-meat-sandwiches/ Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:00:31 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=895719 When I was a kid, my father used to take me to delis where the...

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When I was a kid, my father used to take me to delis where the sandwiches were so big, you could barely fit your mouth around them. The old school deli way to make a sandwich, whether you are in an iconic Jewish deli somewhere in New York City or an Italian deli in New Jersey, involves piling meat sky high between slices of bread, condiments, slices of cheese, and veggies. Where can you get the biggest and most filling sandwiches in the country? Here are 5 chain restaurants known for stacking the meat sky-high.

Arby’s

If you want to hit a drive-through for a stacked roast beef sandwich, head to Arby’s. The classic, the Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar sandwich, offers a lot of roast beef for the buck. If the regular heap of meat isn’t enough, you can ask for more. However, employees say they take meat seriously. “I work at an arbys, if it says half pound and says double meat, 100% I’m putting a full pound,” one confirms on Reddit. “​​Same here. Id half do it out of spite and half do it to see how ridiculous a pound of it on the poor sesame bun looks,” another says.

 

RELATED: 5 Chain Restaurants With the Best Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Jersey Mike’s

jersey mike's the original italian

Jersey Mike’s is one of the best sandwich chains in the country, “and it’s not even close,” one responded. “Yep. 100%,” another agreed. What makes it so great? People love their sub rolls and the cold cuts are “sliced to order,” says a Redditor. “As fresh as you can get at a chain.” What should you order? “13 Original Italian or #56 Big Kahuna (I add chipotle mayo) are my Jersey Mike’s go to sandwiches. I have never found a national chain that comes close to them,” one revealed.

Firehouse Subs

firehouse subs turkey

Firehouse Subs are “slept on” and deserve to be on the list of the best sandwiches, piled high with slices of meat. “Firehouse just feels different from a lot of other chains, if that makes sense. Also, their pickles and brownies slap,” another agreed.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

Potbelly Chicken Club Sandwich

Many noted that Potbelly has some of the best stacked sandwiches. “The chicken club sandwich is my favorite!” writes one Redditor. “They have the best damn cookies anywhere,” another adds. “Honestly, I personally don’t get the hype for Jersey Mike’s over Potbelly’s. Yes, you get to see them fresh slice your ingredients at Mike’s and fresh is definitely neat, but doesn’t fresh doesn’t automatically mean superior ingredients or flavor. I think I’ve done three side to side comparisons now of like-to-like sandwiches, and for me, Potbelly’s wins in flavor vs. Jersey Mike’s hands down every time,” one argued.

Jimmy John’s

Jimmy John's Italian Night Club #9: Salami, Capocollo, Ham, Provolone, Onion, Lettuce, Tomato, Mayo, Oil & Vinegar

Lots of people choose Jimmy John’s as the best sandwich shop, especially when it comes to stacked sandwiches. “Jimmy johns is great,” one writes, “and arguably has higher quality cold cuts than jersey mikes at better prices.” Another maintains that “Jimmy John’s is much better for price.”

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3 Restaurant Chains With the Best Reuben Sandwiches, According to Butchers https://www.eatthis.com/delis-with-the-best-reubens-according-to-butchers/ Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:30:40 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=885404 Few sandwiches are as rich and satisfying as a Reuben—stacked high with corned beef, tangy...

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Few sandwiches are as rich and satisfying as a Reuben—stacked high with corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and just the right amount of Russian dressing on rye bread. While delis often get the glory, several restaurant chains are quietly serving up versions that impress even seasoned meat experts. To find out which chains are getting it right, Eat This, Not That! went to the meat experts–butchers–who know a thing or two about the classic sandwich to find out their spots for the best Reuben. Here are their top three choices.

Jason’s Deli

Reuben the Great at Jason's Deli

Jason’s Deli is a family-owned business with 239 delis in 27 states. The deli only uses fresh ingredients with no artificial colors or banned dyes to ensure customers get the best quality. Jason’s Deli is a go-to for Brian Gunterman, butcher, pitmaster, CEO and Founder of DDR BBQ Supply. “I love the sandwich because they do not rhyme the sandwich with dressing or mushy kraut,” he says. “The corned beef is well marbled, and cut thin enough to bite, and they only toast rye till it breaks. It’s balanced, not sloppy.”

Katz’s Delicatessen

Katz’s Delicatessen has been a New York staple since 1888. You’ll find the kosher-style deli on the Lower East Side and it’s famous for using traditional methods like curing beef for 30 days and carving meat by hand, which enhances the flavor. It’s a must-try, but it’s busy so be prepared to wait. “Standing in that long line might be intimidating, but once you’ve had a Katz’s Reuben, you realize it’s worth every minute—it sets the benchmark,” says Butcher and Chef Thomas Odermatt, Founder of Roli Roti Food Trucks and Butcher’s Bone Broth. He explains, “Their hand-cut corned beef has deep, beefy flavor and that perfect chew is only achieved through slow brining and careful steaming.” Chef Thomas adds, “You can literally taste the patience and tradition in every bite. The lightly toasted bread is perfectly balanced—never soggy, never dry.”

RELATED: 5 Restaurant Chains With the Best Fried Catfish, According to Chefs

Zingerman’s Delicatessen

Founded by two friends Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig, Zingerman’s Delicatessen is a traditional Jewish deli in Ann Arbor that’s beloved for its unique food, quality ingredients and made-to-order sandwiches like the Rueben. “Everything Ari Weinzweig touches seems to carry that signature of tastiness and ethical sourcing,” says Chef Thomas. “From locally cured meats and brined sauerkraut to housemade bread and Emmental cheese sourced from a small valley in the Bernese Mountains, every ingredient has purpose.” He adds, “This Reuben represents the next level of quality and integrity—a true craftsman’s sandwich.”

A Great Reuben Needs Balance and Craftsmanship

A great Reuebn isn’t just about the ingredients, it starts with” balance and craftsmanship,” says Chef Thomas. “The corned beef should be tender yet structured, sliced against the grain so it holds together but still melts in your mouth,” he says. “The meat-fat-acid ratio is critical to creating one of the best Reubens. The fat-to-lean balance brings flavor and juiciness without ever feeling greasy.” He adds, “and of course, it should be piled high enough that you need both hands to eat it.”

The Bread is Key

Reuben needs to be on rye bread and the toasting has to be “crisp enough to add texture, but not so hard that it overwhelms the sandwich,” Chef Thomas explains. “The sauerkraut and Swiss cheese are essential components; they must complement the meat, not compete with it,” he says.”The dressing should support the sandwich, not drown it—just enough that when you press the sandwich slightly, it oozes perfectly.” Chef Thomas adds, “Finally, it all comes together with the right rye bread. Personally, I prefer a dark rye or pumpernickel. A Reuben done right tastes like harmony in every bite.”

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7 Best Deli Meats Made Without Nitrates or Fillers https://www.eatthis.com/best-deli-meats-without-nitrates-fillers/ Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:00:53 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=877780 Deli meats aren’t known for being super healthy, as many are loaded with nitrates, nitrites,...

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Deli meats aren’t known for being super healthy, as many are loaded with nitrates, nitrites, preservatives, and fillers to keep them fresh and tasty for extended periods. However, some brands pride themselves on only offering deli meats that are as healthy as possible and as close to natural. If you want to shop for the best turkey, ham, salami, roast beef, and more, we have you covered. Here are the 7 best deli meats made without nitrates or fillers.

Applegate Naturals Oven Roasted Turkey

Applegate Turkey Slices

Applegate Naturals is one of my go-to brands, especially if I shop at a conventional store or Target, as it is widely available. You can get it at some deli counters, but it is also in the refrigerator section. Try the organic turkey breast, which has no nitrates or fillers and is minimally processed.

Boar’s Head Simplicity All-Natural Ham

Boar’s Head is a premium sandwich meat. The company prides itself on only selling top-quality meats. The Simplicity All-Natural Hame is made without nitrates, fillers, or artificial ingredients. However, you can’t go wrong with most of the brand’s products, including the turkey.

RELATED: The 25 Best & Worst Deli Meats, According to Dietitians

Columbus Craft Meats Uncured Roast Beef

Craving a roast beef sandwich? Columbus Craft Meats Uncured Roast Beef is free of nitrates, fillers, and artificial preservatives.

Dietz & Watson Organic Sliced Turkey Breast

Dietz & Watson, a Philadelphia-based premium deli meat brand, is also known for its product line, which includes several meats with no artificial flavors, fillers, nitrates, or nitrites. I recommend Dietz & Watson Organic Sliced Turkey Breast, Certified USDA Organic with no antibiotics, added nitrites or nitrates, gluten-free, made with vegetarian grain-fed turkey, and seasoned with sea salt.

Applegate Organics Genoa Salami

Again, you can’t go wrong with Applegate Organics Genoa Salami. The naturally cured salami has no fillers or synthetic preservatives, and is perfect for your next salami sandwich feast.

Niman Ranch Uncured Black Forest Ham

Niman Ranch is another brand that I rely on for the best quality sandwich meats. It is also sold at Whole Foods and is sourced from humanely raised pork. It is also nitrate-free and filler-free.

RELATED: I Tried 11 Turkey Deli Meats & the Best Was Juicy and Flavorful

Wellshire Farms

Also sold at Whole Foods, Wellshire Farms Uncured Turkey Breast is a no-brainer if you want to eat cleaner. It is gluten-free, nitrate-free, and made without fillers. And, it tastes like real turkey.

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7 Best Deli Meats That Aren’t Full of Fillers https://www.eatthis.com/deli-meats-without-fillers/ Sun, 17 Aug 2025 16:00:04 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=874780 Deli meats are an easy way to pack a lunch on the go, but you’re...

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Deli meats are an easy way to pack a lunch on the go, but you’re often getting more than you bargain for. Many deli meats are filled with junk ingredients like corn syrup, starches, high sodium, mechanically separated meats, nitrates or nitrites and additives and preservatives to extend the shelf life.

So, that quality sandwich you were hoping for is nothing but a health issue waiting to happen if you eat deli meat with fillers often. But the good news is, there are options that aren’t full of terrible ingredients. Here are seven smart deli meat choices, according to health experts.

Applegate Roast Beef

package of Applegate Roast Beef

Nutrition: per serving 2 oz
Calories: 60
Fat: 1.5g (Saturated fat: .5g)
Sodium: 450mg
Carbs: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)
Protein: 13g

Ingredients: Organic Grass-Fed Beef, Water, Salt, Organic Black Pepper.

Applegate deli meats also do not contain any nitrates, nitrites, fillers, or artificial ingredients,” says Gisela Bouvier, MBA, RDN, LDN . “The turkeys, chickens, cattle, and pigs used for their deli meats are also raised with humane practices and the poultry and cattle are raised on vegetarian diets.”

Simply Nature Uncured Honey Ham

Simply Nature Uncured Honey Ham

Nutrition: per serving 2 slices
Calories: 50
Fat: 2g (Saturated fat: 1g)
Sodium: 280mg
Carbs: 2g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 2g)
Protein: 7g

Ingredients: organic ham, water, organic honey, contains less than 2% of sea salt, organic cane sugar, organic cultured celery juice powder, organic vinegar, organic cherry powder, organic black pepper, organic garlic powder, organic onion powder, organic paprika, organic spice extractives

Aldi’s Simply Nature Uncured Honey Ham is organic and free from fillers, made with just organic ham, water, organic honey, and a blend of natural spices including black pepper, garlic, and paprika. It’s cured naturally with celery juice powder instead of synthetic nitrates,” says Nutritionist Rania Batayneh, MPH author of the bestselling book, The One One One Diet. “The flavor is balanced with a touch of honey sweetness and savory spice, and the texture is tender without being overly processed.”

Trader Joe’s Organic Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Trader joes organic deli sliced turkey breast

Nutrition: per serving 2 slices
Calories: 45
Fat: .5g (Saturated fat: 0g)
Sodium: 310mg
Carbs: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)
Protein: 10g

Ingredients: Organic Boneless, Skinless Turkey Breast, Water, Salt, Organic Vinegar Powder

“This oven-roasted turkey breast from Trader Joe’s is made with organic ingredients and contains no added nitrites or nitrates,” says Batayneh. “The turkeys are raised without antibiotics or added hormones, on a vegetarian diet, in a free-range environment. Thinly sliced and lightly salted, it offers a clean, natural turkey flavor with no fillers. It’s a versatile choice for sandwiches, platters, or quick snacks.”

RELATED: I Tried 11 Turkey Deli Meats & the Best Was Juicy and Flavorful

True Story’s Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Snack Packs

True Story's Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Snack Packs

Nutrition: per serving 1.25 ounce
Calories: 35
Fat: 0g (Saturated fat: 0g)
Sodium: 220mg
Carbs: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)
Protein: 7g

Ingredients: Turkey Breast, Water, 2% or Less of: Lemon Juice Concentrate, Vinegar, Salt.

True Story’s Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Snack Packs is a delicious deli meat with limited clean ingredients. Featured in 5 oz. packages, whole cuts of turkey are simply seasoned with sea salt and then roasted low and slow to seal in the natural juices and rich flavor. Single packs for even more convenience for on-the-go snacking available at Target in September and True Story products are always free of nitrates/nitrites, artificial preservatives, carrageenan, and antibiotics.

Trader Joe’s Sliced Bresaola (Beef Prosciutto)

Trader Joe's Sliced Bresaola

Nutrition: per serving 5 slices
Calories: 60
Fat: 1.5g (Saturated fat: .5g)
Sodium: 550mg
Carbs: <1g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: <1g)
Protein: 11 g

Ingredients: Beef, Sea Salt, Contains 2% or Less of Cultured Celery Powder, Sugar, Cherry Powder, White Pepper, Black Pepper, Ground Nutmeg, Ground Clove, Lactic Acid Starter Culture.

Trader Joe’s Bresaola is lean, flavorful, and made with beef, sea salt, and natural seasonings such as cherry powder, black pepper, nutmeg, and clove. It’s cured without synthetic nitrates, using cultured celery powder instead,” says Batayneh. “The texture is tender and pliable, and the flavor is balanced with salt and a subtle smokiness. It works well in sandwiches, on charcuterie boards, or served on its own.”

Hormel® Natural Choice® Deli Roast Beef

HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE® Deli Roast Beef

Nutrition: per serving 56 grams
Calories: 60
Fat: 2g (Saturated fat: 1g)
Sodium: 550mg
Carbs: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)
Protein: 11 g

Ingredients: Water, Salt, Turbinado Sugar, Sodium Bicarbonate, Flavoring

Hormel’s Natural Choice Deli Roast Beef is made with a short list of ingredients: beef, water, salt, turbinado sugar, and natural flavoring,” says Batayneh.

She adds, “There are no artificial preservatives, and nitrates come only from natural sources like cultured celery powder. The slices are tender, flavorful, and free from unnecessary additives. Gluten-free and keto-friendly, it’s a dependable choice for a clean roast beef option.”

Boar’s Head All Natural* Uncured Genoa Salame

Boar's Head All Natural* Uncured Genoa Salame

Nutrition: per serving 4 slices
Calories: 90 calories
Fat: 7g (Saturated fat: 2.5g)
Sodium: 390mg
Carbs: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)
Protein: 6g

Ingredients: Pork, Sea Salt, Less than 2% of: Turbinado Sugar, Spices, Natural Flavoring, Organic Wine, Starter Culture

“I recommend looking for deli meats with labels that say naturally cured or uncured, which means they don’t contain artificial nitrates, nitrites or fillers,” says Bouvier. “Boar’s Head is another brand that has uncured deli meat options like the  All Natural* Uncured Genoa Salame.

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