McAlister’s Deli Opens First Valley Location in Boardman
BOARDMAN, Ohio – Mahoning Valley residents now have another option from an already robust menu of area diners, restaurants, delicatessens and lunch counters.
McAlister’s Deli opened its doors Monday morning in Tiffany Square Plaza. The deli offers a variety of sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts.
During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Brandon Webb, general manager, said he’s excited to show what his team has to offer.
“We have an amazing crew so far – we’re really lucky,” Webb said. “We’re excited to be a part of the Mahoning Valley, with this being our first store in the area. We have aspirations and plans in place for growth as well.”
The first 150 guests in line for the opening were awarded free McAlister’s Deli Famous Sweet Teas for a year.
Customers were lined outside the deli since 9 a.m. Katherine McCoy and her husband were the first customers in line when the doors opened.
“We lived in New Orleans for almost 23 years, and we [used to] get McAlister’s a lot,” McCoy said. “The people were just amazing. We live right in Poland, so we’re happy to be just down the road.”
The deli also hosted a family and friends event Saturday. Some Youngstown community members were also invited, including first responders, medical professionals, active military personnel, veterans and teachers. Webb said the turnout prepared his crew for the grand opening.
“The crew’s training started May 9,” Webb said. “The turnout was great for the evening times. It was just nonstop for about 2 to 3 hours, and [the crew] had a lot of fun.”
Kito Cody, chief operating officer for McAlister’s Southern Rock Restaurants, said the company’s mantra is “Have fun and no regrets!”
“[I’m most excited for] the team members. A lot of them are nervous, but we’re having them focus on smiles. The kitchen is focusing on quality, and they’re having fun,” Cody said. “We’re providing about 60 jobs to the local community. It’s a great thing when you’re able to provide opportunities for a lot of people.”
Cody said the location was desirable because of the business competition and the community.
“We have all the players here. We have Mission BBQ, and we have Raising Canes down the block. When they come to town, you know it’s great because they’re invested in the communities as well. We love to get on the script with the competition because we feel our brand differentiates a lot,” Cody said.
McAlister’s Deli is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and offers indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, window pickup and delivery.
Pictured at top: Crew member Micahel Nigro takes Katherine and Donald McCoy’s order Monday.
Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
