If you happen to be in Salem, Oregon, and find yourself craving a giant meatball sub or an authentic Gabagool, Cozzie's NY Deli may just be your ticket to a full belly. Since 2014, this family-owned establishment has been serving up hearty sandwiches and classic deli fare to Oregon's mid-valley region.
A Slice of the Big Apple Right in Salem
Cozzie's NY Deli was founded by Dave and Deb, who, after moving to Oregon in 1997, realized there was a lack of authentic East Coast-style sandwich shops in the area. They made their dream of bringing the New York deli experience to Salem a reality, with years of perfecting authentic seasonings and homemade sauces to complement their "wedge" sammies, In May 2023, the deli was passed on to new owners, Mike and Katrina, who continue to uphold the legacy of serving genuine NY-style sandwiches.
Ever wondered why some folks call a sandwich a "wedge"? The term "wedge" is used in parts of New York, particularly in Westchester County, and its origin has a few theories. One popular explanation is that an Italian deli owner in Yonkers got tired of saying the whole word "sandwich" and shortened it to "wedge." Another theory suggests that the name comes from the way the sandwich is cut or the fillings being "wedged" between the bread.
The Menu At Cozzie's Is A Cornucopia of East Coast Flavors
If you wanted a love letter to the classic New York deli scene, you've got one. The lineup of sandwiches, soups, and salads scream authenticity, right down to the "gravy" on the mac and cheese. If you're not from an Italian-American family, gravy means "the sauce". The stuff of life. Tomato, aioli, or cheesy cream-based, the sauce is still the gravy. And now that you've been educated on that important piece of foodie information, let's get to the heart of the matter: The Wedge.
Each wedge (sandwich) is a masterpiece, built with top-notch ingredients and their own house-made sauces, making sure every bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction.
Some standout options include:
- Marone: Dave’s parsley-infused all-white albacore tuna salad on tomato with lettuce and salt & pepper.
- B.L.T.A.: A classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich elevated with the addition of creamy avocado and mayo, served on your choice of bread.
- Classic Caprese: A yummy vegetarian option with mozzarella cheese on fresh sliced tomatoes, with torn (not chopped) basil and lettuce. Finished with drizzled balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
- The Neighbors: Cozzie's take on the classic Reuben: corned beef on marble rye, sauerkraut, swiss cheese, and house-made Russian dressing.
- Chicken Parmigiana: A grilled chicken cutlet smothered in house-made gravy (marinara sauce), garnished with grated Parmesan and melted mozzarella, all encased in a warm wedge roll.
- The Cement Block: For huge appetites only (but absolutely shareable)! "Alternating stack of ¾ lb roast beef, ¾ lb turkey, ¾ lb ham, 8 slices of bacon, ½ lb of cheese, cole slaw, pickle paste, mustard, lettuce, tomato, and onion between 2 wedges. Try it! You may not be heard from again if you can finish it."
In addition to their sandwiches, Cozzie's offers a selection of house-made deli salads like loaded baked potato with bacon, elbow macaroni, and house-made Caesar, providing the perfect sides to your meal. The grab-and-go case is super convenient in this respect, and while you're at it, take some fresh Cannoli with you (if you even have stomach-room left, that is).
By the way, Cozzie's also does up a mean breakfast. Served from "8am-10:30ish", we really like the Bacon Egg and Cheese on an Everything Bagel, Or, do it like a New Yorker and order the lox bagel, topped with cream cheese, onions, and capers.
The People Have Spoken: Cozzie's Is Top-Notch
Cozzie's NY Deli has garnered loads of positive reviews from customers who appreciate the quality and authenticity of the food. One reviewer on Restaurantji.com mentioned, "These are real sandwiches, not some Subway style BS. Will absolutely be back!"
Another patron praised the meatball subs, stating, "Forgettabout all the other meatball subs, these home made giant meatballs will rock your socks off!"
"As someone who grew up an hour outside of NYC in Jersey, I have to say this place does it right. Thank you for the great sandwich!"
Where Is Cozzie's Located in Salem, Oregon?
Address: 3723 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE #110
Phone: (503) 990-7913
Hours: Monday-Friday, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Web: cozziesnydeli.com
Social: Facebook, Instagram