Highest-rated delis in Fresno by diners

Written by:
November 26, 2024
Brannon_Naito // Shutterstock

Highest-rated delis in Fresno by diners

Delis hold a cherished place in the tapestry of American culture, tracing their origins to Jewish immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. It didn't take long for their rich culinary traditions (including food preservation methods like pickling) and communal spirit to lead to the creation of delicatessens (which translates to "delicacies" in German).

Jewish delis became essential hubs for gathering, sharing meals, and maintaining their heritage, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. Iconic delis such as Katz's Delicatessen in New York City, founded in 1888, and Canter's Deli in Los Angeles, which opened in 1931, are still gastronomic landmarks in American food history. Katz's, famed for its hand-carved pastrami on rye and iconic appearances in films like "When Harry Met Sally…," exemplifies the deli's role in shaping urban cultural identity. Similarly, Canter's in Los Angeles is renowned for its extensive array of Jewish classics, like matzo ball soup and corned beef sandwiches, attracting a diverse clientele and fostering a strong sense of community across generations.

These historic delis have not only preserved Jewish culinary traditions but have also significantly influenced American food culture with iconic dishes that have become staples nationwide. Once primarily found in Jewish neighborhoods, items like knishes and bagels with lox are now celebrated across the country.

In the 21st century, delis continue to thrive, adapting to contemporary tastes while preserving old-world recipes. The modern deli has evolved to encompass a variety of offerings, often blending influences from different cuisines. Diners and food enthusiasts can expect to find deli menus today that feature a harmonious mix of classics and innovative twists. Sandwiches piled high with corned beef, pastrami, and brisket are staples, complemented by sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and pickles. Breakfast items such as bagels with cream cheese, lox, and assorted spreads are ubiquitous, as are soups like cabbage borscht and chicken noodle. Additionally, many delis now offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a wider range of dietary needs and preferences.

Today, the term "deli" signifies more than just a place to eat; it embodies a cultural institution where food serves as a bridge between past and present. Whether in bustling metropolitan areas or smaller towns across America, delis continue to be beloved destinations where people can enjoy good food, share stories, and celebrate a tradition that has become an integral part of the American culinary landscape.

Want to know which delis are worth a visit near you? Stacker examined data from Yelp, collected in November 2024, to find the highest-rated delis in Fresno. In an effort to highlight independent businesses and local chains, restaurants with seven or more locations in Yelp's data were not included. Keep reading to see if your favorite deli made the list.

Note: The photos in this article are stock images and do not necessarily depict the specific restaurants listed or the dishes they serve.

#16. WinCo Foods

- Rating: 3.5/5 (115 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 4488 Shaw Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Grocery, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#15. Village Liquor

- Rating: 3.8/5 (16 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1025 East Herndon Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Beer, Wine & Spirits, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#14. Maroa Street Deli & Liquor

- Rating: 3.9/5 (22 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 5034 North Maroa Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Convenience Stores, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#13. Papaya Fresh International Marketplace

- Rating: 4.0/5 (82 reviews)
- Address: 2047 West Shaw Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Grocery, Mediterranean
- Read more on Yelp

#12. A C Deli

- Rating: 4.1/5 (147 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1440 East Shaw Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Laotian, Bubble Tea
- Read more on Yelp

#11. Manhattan Deli

- Rating: 4.2/5 (41 reviews)
- Address: 1217 Fresno St. Fresno, California
- Categories: Burgers, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#10. Dervo's Deli and Grill

- Rating: 4.2/5 (116 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 2633 East Shaw Ave. Ste 103 Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Burgers
- Read more on Yelp

#9. Piemonte's Italian Delicatessen

- Rating: 4.3/5 (368 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 616 East Olive Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Italian, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#8. Fresno Deli

- Rating: 4.4/5 (43 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 2450 East Gettysburg Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, International Grocery
- Read more on Yelp

#7. The MacDonnell Deli & Grill and Catering

- Rating: 4.4/5 (31 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1320 East Shaw Ave. Ste 111 Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Barbecue, American
- Read more on Yelp

#6. Choice Food Market

- Rating: 4.5/5 (24 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 2106 West Olive Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Grocery, Meat Shops, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#5. The Pickled Deli - Fresno

- Rating: 4.6/5 (161 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 7753 North First St. Fresno, California
- Categories: Sandwiches, Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#4. Garlishious Deli

- Rating: 4.6/5 (39 reviews)
- Address: 2621 Fresno St. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp

#3. Sam's Italian Deli & Market

- Rating: 4.6/5 (1161 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 2415 North First St. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Italian, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#2. MOTO Delicatessen & Bodega

- Rating: 4.7/5 (137 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 1916 North Echo Ave. Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Grocery, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

#1. Grazing Table Deli

- Rating: 4.8/5 (23 reviews)
- Address: 9525 North Sommerville Drive Fresno, California
- Categories: Delis, Salad, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp

This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Cynthia Rebolledo, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 191 metros.

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