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!
6 Alternatives to Combat the Egg Shortage
6 alternatives to combat the egg shortage
With the avian flu causing a major egg shortage across the United States, eggs have become harder to find and pricier than ever. Fortunately, there’s no need to panic!
From baking and breakfast to plant-based innovations, these clever egg replacements will keep your kitchen running smoothly and your meals tasting amazing.
1. The Magic of the “Flegg”
Say hello to the flegg! This flaxseed superstar is here to shake up your baking game. Just a little flax, a splash of water, and voilà—a jelly-like, egg-tastic wonder ready to bind your favorite treats together.
The best part? It’s flavor-neutral, so your muffins, cookies, and pancakes stay the star of the show.
1 tsp finely ground flax seeds + 3 tbs warm water + 10 mins = 1 egg.
2. applesauce
This pantry MVP isn’t just for snacking—it’s a superstar egg substitute that brings moisture and binds ingredients like a pro. Perfect for muffins, cakes, and quick breads, it adds a subtle fruity flair that plays especially nice with warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. It’s plant-based, reliable, and probably in your pantry or fridge right now.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce = 1 egg
3. Chia Seeds
Just like their flax seed cousins, chia seeds work magic in baked goods, keeping everything perfectly together. They’re a dream for pancakes, waffles, or muffins and add a delightful crunch with a hint of nuttiness.
1 tablespoon of chia seeds + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg
4. Aquafaba
The magical liquid hiding in your can of chickpeas!
This egg white doppelgänger whips up into fluffy perfection for meringues, macarons, and mousses. Who knew chickpeas had such a secret talent? It might take a little practice to nail the technique, but once you do, aquafaba’s airy powers will make your egg-free baking dreams come true.
Scramble Without Eggs!
5. Tofu: The Ultimate Egg Swap!
Shredded tofu is the perfect replacement for scrambled eggs, offering a protein-packed, customizable option that’s as delicious as it is versatile.
If you’ve been skeptical about tofu or had a less-than-stellar first experience cooking it, don’t worry—you’re not alone! When prepared right, tofu can transform into a dish so good you’ll forget you ever doubted it. A dash of turmeric adds that sunny yellow hue, and your favorite spices bring all the flavor to life.
Want that classic eggy taste? Black salt (kala namak) is the secret ingredient—it’s worth hunting down! Toss in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and crunch, and you’ve got a morning-ready dish that’ll make you a tofu believer.
Find a classic tofu scramble recipe here.
6. Just Egg: a convenient alternative
Made from mung beans, this plant-based liquid does an amazing job replicating the flavor and texture of real eggs. It’s a dream for scrambles, omelets, quiches, or breakfast bakes—super versatile and ridiculously easy to use!
Now, let’s talk about the Folds—absolute game-changers. These pre-cooked gems are perfect for breakfast sammies, wraps, or even topping a savory bowl. They’re quick, delicious, and packed with protein, making busy mornings so much easier. You’ll find Just Egg Liquid above the eggs in Aisle 13 and the Just Egg Folds in the frozen section in Aisle 10. You’ll be amazed at how real they taste—and that there’s not an egg in sight!
Bonus Tip: Stock Up on Egg Replacers
If you prefer a ready-made solution, powdered egg replacers like Bob’s Red Mill is an excellent option. These blends are versatile and work well in most recipes, making them a pantry staple for egg-free cooking. Find this in Aisle 12!
Who knew an egg shortage could spark so much creativity in the kitchen? With a little innovation, you can keep your meals just as delicious and satisfying as ever—no eggs required! We’re keeping a close eye on our egg supply and promise to keep you updated, but in the meantime, these alternatives are here to save the day. Think of this as a chance to flex your cooking muscles and turn a challenge into a tasty opportunity.
And hey, when those shelves are fully stocked again, you’ll have a whole new set of egg-free skills to add to your culinary arsenal. Talk about a silver lining!