The Secret Sauce: Why Our Deli is Unlike Any Other
Why Our Deli is Unlike Any Other
At the Davis Food Co-op’s Deli, every meal is more than just a quick bite—it’s a reflection of our passion for fresh, organic ingredients and thoughtfully crafted recipes. From signature sandwiches to hot bar specials, our deli is built on quality, creativity, and a commitment to real food that brings the community together.
A thoughtfully curated menu, made by our deli team
Most grocery delis rely on pre-packaged mixes and mass-produced dishes that they receive and reheat or bake. Not us. When you eat at The Co-op, you don’t have to worry about freshness or uniqueness. Our kitchen team curates a menu that’s made in-house from fresh, organic produce with real, whole ingredients. Our vibrant salads, house-made spreads, and rotating hot bar specials are crafted to be nourishing and full of flavor.
Now, if you ask me about our hidden gem, my answer will be our Full Hippie sandwich. All of our dishes are loved and made with love but perhaps one of our greatest accomplishments is our team’s ability to craft amazing vegan options that even non-vegans are obsessed with! The Full Hippie Burger is a flavor-packed plant-based creation featuring peanut butter sriracha tofu, smoky coconut bacon, crisp mint slaw, and house-made pickles. It’s so good that it won the Davis Burger Battle in 2022, for Best Alternative Burger. Whether you’re plant-based or just love a seriously delicious sandwich, this one’s a must-try!
Baked In-House, Made for Everyone
Our deli isn’t just about savory dishes—we take just as much pride in our in-house bakery. Every pastry, cookie, and pie is made fresh by our talented bakers, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and perfected recipes that everyone can enjoy. In addition to classic baked treats, we work hard to offer alternatives for our vegan and wheat-free customers. For instance, instead of using hydrogenated oils for vegan baked goods, we use cashew butter which is a preferred vegan baking ingredient. You’ll always find treats that fit your dietary needs—without sacrificing taste, of course.
We’re not the only ones who think our bakery stands out. In 2024, our Vegan Thumbprint Cookies won Best Dessert and placed 3rd overall in the Yolo Vegan Chef Challenge, proving that plant-based treats can be just as indulgent and crave-worthy.
100% Organic Produce in Every Dish
What’s inside your meal matters. That’s why we use 100% organic produce in every single dish. From the crisp greens in our salads to the fresh avocado on your sandwich, you can trust that what you’re eating is free from synthetic pesticides and grown with care.
By sourcing from organic farms, we ensure that your fruits and veggies are non-GMO and were grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizer. These farms also hold significant buffer zones to decrease contamination from any adjacent non-organic farm lands. It’s the details that make the biggest difference in nutrition and taste.
Deli Cook-outs: a monthly tradition
We love bringing the community together around good food, which is why we host Deli Cook-Outs every 3rd Saturday of the month! These events feature fresh, hot-off-the-grill specials made by our deli team, with a rotating menu that highlights bold flavors and seasonal ingredients.
At our March cookout, we served up a sensational lineup, including Grilled Tri-Tip or Vegan Steak sandwiches, amazing sides, and beverages (including beer!). Each month brings something new, so be sure to stop by, grab a plate, and enjoy the Co-op community atmosphere.
New ordering kiosk: your sandwich, your way
We’ve made ordering easier than ever with our brand-new Deli Ordering Kiosk! Now, you can customize your perfect sandwich or order your favorite beverage—all at the touch of a screen. If you’re craving a freshly made sandwich, a smoothie, or a handcrafted drink from our coffee bar, the kiosk makes it easy to place your order exactly how you like it.
This means faster service, fewer lines, and a seamless ordering experience. Whether you’re in a hurry or just want a stress-free way to grab a meal or a drink, our kiosk helps you get your food and beverages quickly—without the wait.
More than just a deli-a community hub
Next time you’re looking for something fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully made, stop by the deli. Grab a quick lunch, join us for a Saturday cook-out, or try one of our house-made specialties. However you choose to enjoy it, you’ll taste the difference.
See you at the deli!