In my first few weeks of interning for the Indianapolis Recorder, I ate McDonald’s for lunch because it was the closest and cheapest food option. However, I grew tired of that option. After asking around the newsroom, someone suggested I try the deli in Pogue’s Run Grocer. I decided to give it a try.
Located on East 10th Street, Pogue’s Run Grocer wasn’t far at all from the Recorder. As I walked in, the strong aroma of spices filled my nose. What I thought was just a deli was more of a health food store, with about six aisles.
Pogue’s Run Grocer sells everything from fresh fruit to vitamins and vegan foods. I scanned the grocery store to find the deli. In the corner of the store was where I found it, complete with a few booths and tables.
The menu was simple—one-page–offering sandwiches and vegan options. A kid’s menu was at the bottom and a note informing customers they offered soups and salads as well.
I ordered the Smoked Turkey, Bacon and Chipotle Gouda sandwich on multigrain bread for $6.49. After about five minutes, my sandwich was ready. I grabbed a vegan peanut butter chocolate chip cookie for $2.19 and topped my meal off with a 69 cent bottle of water.
My sandwich was wrapped in simple white paper with my name written on it in black marker. I could smell the bacon through the paper, and I could feel the crispiness of the sandwich. Once I unfolded the paper, I admired the perfection of the sandwich. Everything was in place and the sandwich was cut diagonally, making it easy to eat.
I took my first bite and got a mouthful of flavor. The Gouda cheese was melted and lay right on top of the turkey, giving it more flavor. The lettuce and mayonnaise were a great way to top off the sandwich, although the taste was a little more subtle.
As much as I wanted to save the sandwich for later, I took no time finishing it.
Next was my vegan cookie. The cookie—from the Alternative Baking Company—didn’t have any dairy, cholesterol, eggs, honey and other ingredients traditional treats are made with. I must admit I was skeptical about this part of the meal. As I read the back, I took a small bite. The cookie was delicious and honestly tasted like any other cookie I’ve had.
For a little over $9, I got a mouth-watering and healthy meal. Had I not asked around, I wouldn’t have known about Pogue’s Run Grocer and its deli. Sometimes healthy food can be a bore, but Pogue’s Run did not disappoint.
Pogue’s Run Grocer
2828 E. 10th St.
Indianapolis, Ind. 46201
(317) 426-4963
Poguesrungrocer.org
Store hours:
Mon – Sat: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sun: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Deli Hours:
Mon – Sat: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sun: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
