Business ideas
15 min read

10+ Best & Profitable Deli Business Ideas in 2023

Have you ever dreamed of owning your own deli business? The deli industry offers many exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs and business seekers alike. With the rise in demand for takeaway meals, the deli business has seen a surge in profitability over the past few years. In 2023, deli businesses are projected to continue to be a profitable and lucrative venture. For those looking to start their own deli business in 2023, we have put together a list of the top 10 best and most profitable deli business ideas that you should consider. From ready-made meal deliveries to food trucks, we will provide you with all the information you need to get your idea off the ground. So if you are looking for a new way to make money in 2023, look no further than these amazing and profitable deli business ideas!

Written by:
Nick
Updated on:
April 2, 2023
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Table of Contents:

Our List of 10+ Best Deli Business Ideas:

1. Gourmet Sandwich Shop.

A Gourmet sandwich shop is a type of business that specializes in offering high-quality, unique sandwiches made with the freshest, most delicious ingredients. It is an excellent business idea for entrepreneurs for several reasons:

  • Gourmet sandwich shops can be tailored to different tastes, diets and budgets.
  • The cost of ingredients and supplies are relatively low.
  • It’s relatively easy to create a unique menu and atmosphere.
  • Sandwiches appeal to a wide range of customers and eating occasions.
  • The demand for gourmet sandwiches is growing, especially in modern urban centers.
  • It’s possible to build a loyal customer base and create a local niche.

2. Mobile Deli Cart.

A mobile deli cart is a business that sells sandwiches, salads, and other deli items out of a cart or mobile truck. It's a great business idea because it has minimal overhead costs and allows for flexibility in terms of location, hours, and offerings. Additionally, customers appreciate the convenience and quick service that mobile deli carts can provide.

  • Low overhead costs
  • Flexible location and hours
  • Convenient for customers
  • Quick service

3. Salad Bar.

A Salad bar is a type of food establishment that provides customers with a selection of pre-made fresh salads as well as various toppings and dressings to choose from. It is a great business idea for a few reasons:

  • Salad bars offer convenience for customers who don't have the time to make their own salads or wait for other restaurant orders.
  • It provides an unlimited variety of salad combinations, allowing customers to customize the perfect salad.
  • It is an economical way to eat healthy, since customers only have to pay for what they select.
  • It can be used as a marketing tool since customers can sample items before purchase and share their favorite creations with friends and family.

4. Fresh Juice Bar.

A Fresh juice bar is a great business idea for those who love the health benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. Producing top-quality juices and other health-oriented beverages can make it possible to provide customers with an enjoyable experience, while achieving a healthy lifestyle. Here are some advantages to starting a fresh juice bar:

  • Provide high quality, healthy products
  • A wide range of options for customers
  • Easy access to natural and organic products
  • The ability to offer custom blends and blends with added supplements, such as vitamins and minerals
  • Promote a healthier lifestyle based on the consumption of fresh juices
  • Provide customers with an enjoyable experience

5. Soup Stand.

A Soup Stand is a business that specializes in selling soups, stocks and broths. It is a great business idea because soup has a long shelf-life, it is relatively cheap to produce, and it can be sold either hot or cold. Additionally, there are many creative ways to prepare soups that make them appealing to a wide range of customers.

  • Soup has a long shelf-life
  • It is relatively cheap to produce
  • Can be sold either hot or cold
  • Creative ways to prepare soup appeal to a wide range of customers

6. Cheese Shop.

A Cheese shop is a business that specializes in selling various types of cheese, as well as related products such as sauces, crackers and charcuterie. It can be a great business idea for entrepreneurs who enjoy cheese, are passionate about food, and want to own their own business. Here are some of the benefits to owning a cheese shop:

  • A unique niche that is not yet saturated with competitors.
  • The chance to develop relationships with artisanal cheesemakers and other specialty food producers.
  • The potential to offer tastings and educational experiences for customers.
  • The opportunity to grow and expand the business into something larger.

7. Artisanal Cured Meat Store.

An artisanal cured meat store is a type of specialty food shop that specializes in cured and processed meats. These stores typically offer deli-style items, as well as prepared sandwiches and hot meals. In addition to selling meats, some may also offer other types of goods such as cheeses and specialty seasonings. The popularity of artisanal cured meats has risen significantly in recent years. This makes it a potentially profitable business idea for entrepreneurs. There are several potential benefits to opening an artisanal cured meat store:• Customers get freshly prepared, premium quality products • Artisanal cured meat stores can act as a “one-stop shop” for customers looking for high-quality meats • The shop can also provide specialized services, such as curing and aging meats for customers • Since artisanal products often have a premium price point, this type of store can command higher profits than conventional delis and butcher shops • Artisanal cured meat stores are usually less labor intensive than traditional grocery stores

8. Submarine Sandwich Shop.

A Submarine sandwich shop is a restaurant offering submarine sandwiches, also known as subs, hoagies, grinders, heroes and wedges. Submarine sandwich shops are a unique and special way to experience the taste of a truly fresh sub. Submarine sandwich shops take a lot of pride in their fresh ingredients, focusing on carefully crafted flavors that will keep customers coming back for more. A submarine sandwich shop would make a great business idea because:

  • Subs are easy and cheap to make
  • You can create custom flavor combinations for customers
  • It has high potential for customer satisfaction
  • You can easily expand the menu with additional items like chips and salads
  • It is popular among all ages

9. Kosher Deli.

A Kosher deli is a type of deli that specializes in Jewish cuisine, specifically food that meets the requirements of Jewish dietary laws (kashrut). This type of deli could make a great business idea because:

  • It can tap into a niche market and bring in customers who are looking for specific, specialized kosher food.
  • It can offer customers a wide range of menu options, including hot and cold sandwiches, appetizers, salads, soups and desserts.
  • It can provide catering services, which could be a great way to bring in additional business.
  • It can use recipes that have been passed down through generations and offer customers authentic Jewish cuisine.

10. Bagel Cafe.

A Bagel Cafe is a type of eatery that specializes in bagels and related menu items. This type of cafe typically offers a wide variety of bagels, cream cheese spreads, and other toppings. They may also offer additional items such as breakfast sandwiches, soups, smoothies, salads, and more. Bagel Cafes can make a great business idea for a few reasons:

  • Bagels are an inexpensive food item with an excellent profit margin.
  • Bagels are a familiar food item that most people enjoy.
  • Bagels provide the potential for creative menu combinations to help differentiate the cafe from competitors.
  • A bagel cafe can focus on fast service for quick eating customers.
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Successful Examples of Deli Businesses:

The deli business industry is a competitive market, with many successful companies on the rise. Here is a list of some of the top-performing deli businesses:

  • Jimmy Johns
  • Subway
  • Potbelly Sandwich Works
  • Firehouse Subs
  • Earl of Sandwich
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Related Business Ideas

Below are some more business ideas you can epxplore as options.

Nick

Founder and CEO

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.