Culinary Institute of America grad Ed McIntosh’s memories of the delis and diners he frequented while growing up in the Bronx inspire the hefty subs and sandwiches crafted at Eddie’s Little Shop and Deli on King Street in Alexandria. Here, old-school classics are given special touches in creations such as his Ribeye Sando and a sausage roll. Prime rib is slow roasted in-house, and the resulting hoagie can be dipped in housemade gravy. McIntosh grinds and blends fresh sausages and makes mozzarella several times a day. Quality ingredients like capicola, soppressata, prosciutto, and Parmesan are imported from Italy.
Featured sandwiches on the Alexandria deli’s menu pay tribute to some of the chef’s vivid food memories. His hometown’s Golden Eagle Diner inspires a club-style sandwich, that’s “balanced,” McIntosh explains, with three snappy sauces. The Co’bano riffs on the Cuban staple, subbing in corned beef. “Classic-ish” choices on his menu include plays on a BLT and a grilled cheese. A lengthy selection of ingredients and bread choices allows customers to recreate their own favorites. Sandwiches taste like they did “back in the day” with meats and cheese layered on shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and crunchy, often spicy, pickled peppers — all generously lubricated with savory sauces.
Nostalgia also informs the storefront’s homey look at Eddie’s Little Shop and Deli. McIntosh is especially proud of the checkered vinyl flooring. Old timey toys and treasures fill shelves on the wall. You’ll find a vintage ice cream freezer and window curtains, but no tables or chairs. His food is takeout only.
The shop is an impressive grocery. Shelves and coolers display 7-Eleven-style snacks and sodas and a well-curated selection of imported pastas, olive oils, condiments, frozen fare, and intriguing canned drinks. McIntosh wants to work with his customers, by suggesting items based on their interests. If he doesn’t have it, he’ll try to get it for them. 1406 King St., Alexandria
See This: Vintage touches, memorabilia, and knick-knacks warm a King Street storefront setting.
Eat This: The Ribeye Sando, Sausage Roll and Co’bano sandwiches
Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday
Feature image courtesy Eddie’s Little Shop and Deli
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