For several years, I rode up and down North Keystone Avenue without paying much attention to Grady’s Champion Deli.
One recent day, however, I let curiosity get the best of me and decided to check the joint out. I asked myself, “What in the world is it about this place that qualifies it for ‘champion’ status?”
Located in a converted Arby’s facility, Grady’s Champion Deli offers the freshness of a classic, over-the-counter deli with the convenience of a fast food restaurant. Yes, that means it comes equipped with a drive through. Now, how many delis do you know have a drive through?
Although it was tempting to just cruise by and pick up my grub, I decided to go in and gain the full experience. Inside the setup has a “champions” theme with sports related caricatures, and is simple and clean. The two gentlemen at the counter were friendly and ready to meet whatever need arose.
Grady’s has an impressive menu with something that everyone can enjoy, with a variety of real deli fresh sandwiches, ranging from the roast beef deluxe, chicken cordon bleu, Philly beef and Swiss, ham and cheese and the clubhouse, which comes with thin sliced turkey, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and mayo on toasted wheatberry bread.
Signature sandwiches appear to include the Cajun turkey, which comes with spicy turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, and Swiss cheese; as well as Grady’s Favorite (which is the restaurant’s largest sandwich and is not for sissies), offering a generous helping of ham, Italian roast beef, turkey, lettuce, mayo, Swiss cheese, onions and honey brown mustard.
My choice was Grady’s Reuben. I believe that a deli is only as good as its Reuben sandwich. Fortunately, I was not disappointed, as Grady’s version included its specialty corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing on rye bread. Very flavorful indeed, and I will be returning for another soon.
Grady’s also offers a very tempting veggie sandwich for those who are trying to watch what they eat. In addition, patrons can buy sides such as fresh baked potatoes with various toppings, salads (chicken club, grilled chicken and garden), chicken tenders, steamed vegetables, appetizers such as mozzarella sticks and homemade champion chips (which you must try, even if you don’t have anything else).
Those who need their sweet tooth satisfied can pick up a shake or one of the different types of cookies and cheesecakes.
Overall, the prices at Grady’s are competitive with most restaurants, with decent sized sandwiches costing anywhere from $3.39 to $5.99. Occasionally, lunchtime specials are offered such as a half sandwich and soup for $5.99, or $3 off any large combo on Saturdays.
If you’re ever on the city’s Near Eastside and feel like hunger has you down for the count, stop by Grady’s and eat like a champion.
