This ‘authentic’ deli just opened in Meridian — and it’s not a chain? (Really!)

If you’re craving a restaurant sandwich in chain-packed Meridian, prepare to sink your teeth into a new option.

And get this: It’s not a Jersey Mike’s, Firehouse Subs, Subway or Jimmy John’s.

Independently owned Fratelli Deli debuted Friday in the former Poke Bowl space at 2970 N. Eagle Road, near Trader Joe’s.

The menu has been posted online, allowing potential customers to survey the sandwiches and pricing.

Let’s just hope the food feels as good on the tongue as the shop name. (“Fratelli Deli.” Fun to say, right?)

Expect to pay $13.95 for the majority of sandwiches, which are categorized either as “Favorites” or from “The Grill.” There also are a half dozen “Classics” — simple builds costing $11.95, with the option to go half-only for $7.95.

Fratelli Deli pitches itself as an “authentic Italian deli experience.” Leading the list of seven “Favorites” is the God Father (yes, inexplicably, two words): Italian salami, mortadella, turkey, provolone, spicy giardiniera, mayonnaise, lettuce and tomato. Another alluring option? The Italian Combo: Italian salami, mortadella, genoa salami, provolone, spicy giardiniera, mayo, lettuce and tomato.

Nine hot sandwiches — aka from “The Grill” ($13.95)— offer plenty of variety. A Philly Cheesesteak is shaved beef, provolone and onions. The Fratelli Reuben is pastrami, sauerkraut, swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing on marble rye. Or grab a Ranch Chicken: chicken breast, bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato and ranch on sliced sourdough.

The half dozen $11.95 sandwiches — “Classics” — come with mayo, lettuce and tomato. They include choices such as Roast Beef, Mortadella and Italian Baked Ham. You can add extras, too, such as meat for $4 or cheese for $2.

Fratelli Deli’s straightforward menu also features three salads — yep, for $11.95. They include a BBQ Salad, Buffalo Salad and Chinese Chicken Salad.

Fratelli Deli is still under the radar. The sandwich shop has an Instagram page set up but not updated. So far, online reviews are limited to a single Google submission.

In a galaxy of familiar sandwich chains in western Ada County, it sure would be nice to discover a local shining star.

This story was originally published September 25, 2025 at 4:00 AM.