Quality food, tradition keys to success
Andy’s Deli, a local, family-owned sandwich shop on Greene Street, offers USC and Columbia a friendly atmosphere and unmatched eats.
Owner Adnan “Andy” Shlon and his two sons, Andrew and Adam, are guaranteed to be behind the counter everyday, greeting customers with a smile. Shlon, 69, continues to work daily 9-hour shifts — a and has provided a huge foundation for the restaurant’s success. This family business has been bustling since 1978 and supplies the same great food it has for decades.
Since serving the shop’s first sandwich in 1978, Shlon has worked under the notion that “all it takes to be successful is honesty and hard work.” These attributes, as well as friendliness, have helped pave the deli’s way to becoming one of Columbia’s favorite eateries. Every customer who walks in the door is greeted with “hello, my friend” or “hello, my dear,” and Andy’s provides a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
The open dining area is surrounded by walls of windows, creating an outdoor effect, which warms with natural light and allows costumers a view of Greene Street and the Five Points fountain. And, although it more than accommodates for a sit-down experience, the deli’s unbelievably quick service also caters to an “easy, in-and-out” experience.
Gamecock history runs deep with Andy’s, from old USC cheerleading pictures and trophies to the signatures surrounding the tip jar. Years ago, Gamecock cheerleaders would meet at Andy’s and take pictures before football games. The squad would also decorate Shlon’s Jeep with Carolina stickers and then drive it onto the field to fire up the crowd. Every inch of the restaurant has a story and Shlon is more than willing to share.
Shlon was born in Lebanon and immigrated to Columbia in 1967 where he worked in Five Points until he opened his restaurant roughly 11 years later. He claims that his experience in the food industry is what helps create the flavorful sandwiches. Knowledge about how to cut the top grade meat is essential, as well as “warming it with your heart,” Shlon said with a chuckle.
Two of the most commonly ordered sandwiches include the Andy’s Special and the Astronaut. The hot roast beef, turkey and ham sandwiches, topped with melted Swiss cheese and bacon bits, have continued to delight consumers for over 30 years.
Andy’s is a restaurant where customers find favorites, however, there is plenty of room for variation. The menu offers not only remarkable sandwiches, but soups, salads, chili, barbecue and Kosher “franks.” The mouth-watering sandwich specials also include chips, a pickle slice and a cup of special sauce on the side.
Andy’s also works with 256-ToGo online delivery service to provide the ultimate convenience to customers. But the deli also has a private parking lot for those who decide to sit in and eat.
Nothing makes a restaurant experience more enjoyable than excellent food, quick service and sincerely kind employees. Andy’s Deli fully demonstrates every single one of these aspects and more. Andy and his family are doing more than simply making incredible food — they are promoting a more positive environment for Columbia. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., you can call the deli for pick-up orders at 803-799-ANDY.