Vanelli's Deli - Germantown

Growing up in an Italian family, I appreciate the food served in Italian restaurants based on what I grew up. The Italian meats and cheeses are really good and are served in an Italian deli in Chicago or NY. The bread is sturdy without chewing hard. All I've eaten is great. You even have a really good muffaletta that is hard to find.

Vanelli's Deli in Germantown, TN (a suburb of Memphis), smokes bbq beef brisket on weekends and offers three different homemade Mayos in addition to typical Italian fare, such as Pancetta and Prosciutto. Check in the future for a complete review. If you would like to read more about it, comment on let me know. Until then, don't miss my Quick-Fire Guide below. See also full reviews and quick-fire guides from other bbq restaurants from my BBQ Guide.

I stopped for the first time. I haven't even eaten yet and I love this place. Owned / led by a fantastic Italian family. Everyone seems to love the food!

A real Italian deli actually exists in Memphis!. Today was my second trip to Vanelli's. I had the Maiale Amore sandwich with a side order of their spicy slaw. This sandwich is everything that a real sub lover wants. There was the fresh white bread, the trio of salted cured meats, and a homemade Italian mayo that was a revelation. I typically would forego mayo as a travesty and go with the Italian dressing. But, I heard that it was homemade and decided to simply add the dressing to it. This was a real sandwich. If you are tired of Subway and Jimmy John's and want something more, this is the place. The spicy slaw was a unique version of the Southern classic. It was a little bit spicy(a good thing), but there was some seasoning in it that I could not place. Overall, it was good, but don't expect it to taste like any slaw you have ever had. On my previous visit I got the meatball sub to go. I instantly regretted not getting the large after one bite. There was no doubt that the meatballs and the sauce were made in house. Truly terrific! On both visits the service was friendly and quick. I enjoy their informal setting, that allows you to eat and run, or sit for a while. This place is fantastic.

Great Food. @Macho Libre their prices are a little more because alot of their items are homemade, meats and cheeses are Volpi, and they are a small family owned business. They by far have better quality food than a subway or lennys. I have tried the majority of their items and have not been disapointed once. The pimento cheese, chicken salad, and tuna salad are all homemade. THey make their own mayo, italian dressing, and honey mustard. The meatballs and italian sausage are a family recipe they have been making for generations. The ravioli is better than anyones. The dough, stuffing, sauce, and even the ricotta cheese is all homemade. I truly do not think you will be disappointed. The speciality sandwiches are the best!