6 Best Delis in Traverse City

“Janelle’s Famous Chili at Folgarelli’s Market & Wine Shop The kidney beans feel like they were raised on a foggy hillside somewhere that requires a ferry and a strong grandmother. The white beans absolutely spent time overseas. They’ve seen markets. They’ve heard arguments in languages we don’t speak. Then the beef shows up like it owns shoreline. This is Old Mission Peninsula cattle energy. These cows had lake views and a seasonal schedule. They were not rushed. They were probably discussed at dinner parties. You can taste a level of calm in this beef that only comes from animals that knew exactly where they stood in the world. Tender, rich, and behaving like they had a wine club membership before becoming chili. The whole pot has depth. There’s balance. There’s confidence. There’s a sense that someone made this and said, “We are not embarrassing ourselves today.” Every bite feels intentional. Nothing in here is freelancing. Nobody showed up unprepared. This is the kind of chili that makes you reconsider other chilis you’ve trusted. You take a bite and suddenly every crockpot at every potluck you’ve ever attended is on notice. It’s hearty without being reckless, bold without yelling, and it fully understands what winter in Northern Michigan does to a human spirit. If this chili were a person, it owns property, has strong boundaries, and brings the good bread without being asked. If it were on the Food Network, one judge would say “layers,” one would say “this has a story,” and another would quietly try to take a container home and deny it later. Final ruling: Janelle didn’t just make chili. These beans didn’t just get invited. They were vetted. Then she introduced them to extremely well-raised local beef and let them form a coalition. The result is comfort with a résumé. If you’re at Folgarelli’s and you see this chili, you get it immediately. Some foods are lunch. Some foods are dinner. This one is infrastructure.“

“Staff is ALWAYS friendly and helpful. Lots of variety in food and drinks, which doesn’t even include that GIGANTIC selection of alcohol and freshly made foods throughout the day. Aways a delight to stop in and just see what’s available and grab a quick slice (or two) of pizza and a pop. Highly recommend!!!“

“Had lunch after some wine tasting a bit further north. Bad Dog Deli was recommended by a young lady at 2Lads Vineyard and we were not disappointed! The sandwiches were delicious and the staff friendly and helpful.

Parking: Good sized off street parking lot with plenty of space for the busy lunchtime crowd.“

“Absolutely beautiful! Great local brands and top notch service and vibes. Excited for the new ownership!“

“The size states 14 inch for a large. Nope, not true, just about 10 inches. The pizza is slimy and gooey, absolutely disgusting. Save your money, will never purchase again. I do not recommend this pizza.🤮“

“First x mas alone in a new city staff was so helpful and picked me out a dinner that I am proud to show off and can’t wait to eat!!!“