9 Hole-In-The-Wall Delis Across Tennessee Known For Unforgettable Reuben Sandwiches
Step into a no-frills deli in Tennessee and the first thing you’ll notice is the smell of rye bread crisping on the grill. Add warm corned beef, melted Swiss, tangy sauerkraut, and a swipe of dressing, and you’ve got a sandwich that speaks for itself.
These are the kinds of places that keep the décor simple and let the food do the talking.
All over Tennessee, independent delis continue to turn out Reuben sandwiches that rival big-city favorites. Generous portions, properly toasted bread, and time-tested recipes make each bite satisfying and comforting.
Grab a seat, stack up a few napkins, and settle in for bold flavours that prove unforgettable sandwiches don’t require flashy settings to win loyal fans.
1. River Street Deli
Sitting right along the scenic waterfront in Chattanooga, River Street Deli has carved out a reputation as one of the most beloved sandwich spots in the entire city. Located at 151 River Street, this compact little deli feels like a slice of New York transported to the Tennessee River.
The exposed brick walls and vintage signage give the place a warm, lived-in character that immediately puts you at ease.
The Reuben here is the kind that regulars talk about for years. Thick slices of corned beef are piled high on freshly sourced rye bread, layered with tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese, then finished with a creamy house dressing that ties every bite together.
The bread is pressed just right, creating that satisfying crunch on the outside while staying soft within.
Chattanooga itself is a fantastic backdrop for a food adventure, with the Tennessee Aquarium and Walnut Street Bridge just steps away. Many visitors combine a morning walk along the riverfront with a stop at River Street Deli for lunch.
The staff are friendly and quick, making it a great choice whether you are grabbing something to go or settling in for a leisurely midday meal.
2. Gold’s Deli
Gold’s Deli on Depot Street in Columbia is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret among locals who have been eating there for years. Settled in the heart of Columbia’s historic district at 206 Depot Street, this deli has a laid-back, neighborhood atmosphere that makes every visit feel like catching up with an old friend.
The building itself has charm to spare, with weathered wood accents and a menu board that reads like a love letter to classic American deli cooking.
The Reuben at Gold’s is a straightforward, honest sandwich that does not try to be anything it is not. Generous layers of corned beef sit alongside house-prepared sauerkraut and Swiss cheese on rye bread that holds up beautifully under the heat.
Nothing feels rushed or mass-produced here, which is exactly why people keep coming back.
Columbia is known for its antique shops and charming downtown square, making Gold’s Delicatessen a natural stopping point for anyone spending the day exploring the area. The deli draws a crowd of regulars who appreciate hearty portions and unpretentious food.
Visiting on a weekday afternoon usually means shorter lines and a quieter, more relaxed dining experience overall.
3. Mitchell Delicatessen
Mitchell Delicatessen has built a devoted fan base in Nashville by doing one thing exceptionally well: crafting sandwiches with real care and top-quality ingredients. This independently owned spot has become a go-to destination for East Nashville residents and visitors alike who want a proper deli experience without the corporate polish.
Walking through the door, you are greeted by the smell of fresh bread and slow-cooked meats that instantly makes your stomach growl.
The Reuben-style options here are a highlight of the menu, showcasing Mitchell’s commitment to using quality corned beef and well-balanced accompaniments. The sauerkraut is tangy without being overpowering, and the Swiss cheese melts into the meat in a way that feels genuinely satisfying.
Every component seems chosen with intention, and that attention to detail shows in every bite.
Nashville’s food scene is competitive and constantly evolving, but Mitchell Delicatessen has maintained its identity by staying true to its roots. The casual, welcoming vibe makes it a great spot for solo lunches or group gatherings.
Regulars often mention the rotating specials as a reason to return frequently, since there is always something new to try alongside the beloved classics that never leave the board.
4. McNamara’s Irish Pub And Restaurant
There is something undeniably comforting about walking into McNamara’s Irish Pub and Restaurant in Nashville and knowing that a seriously good corned beef sandwich is waiting for you. This beloved local pub has developed a strong reputation for its Reuben-style corned beef offerings, which hit that sweet spot between hearty Irish tradition and classic American deli culture.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with dark wood interiors and soft lighting that make it feel like a neighborhood gathering spot.
The corned beef used in their Reuben-style sandwich is tender and deeply flavored, paired with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and a house spread that adds just the right amount of richness. The bread is sturdy enough to hold everything together without getting soggy, which is a small but crucial detail that separates a great Reuben from a merely decent one.
Each sandwich feels like it was assembled by someone who actually cares about the outcome.
McNamara’s draws a lively crowd on weekends, with live music adding to the festive energy. For a quieter meal, weekday lunches are ideal.
The pub’s location in Nashville makes it easy to pair a visit with a stroll through nearby neighborhoods, and the friendly staff make every guest feel genuinely at home from the moment they sit down.
5. Noshville Delicatessen
Noshville Sandwich Co brings serious New York deli energy to Nashville’s Green Hills area, and locals have embraced it wholeheartedly. The name itself is a playful nod to the city’s identity, blending Nashville pride with the spirit of a classic Jewish-style delicatessen.
From the moment you step inside, the bustling counter, the smell of warm bread, and the display of stacked ingredients make it clear this place means business when it comes to sandwiches.
The Reuben at Noshville is frequently praised by regulars as one of the best in the city, and it is easy to understand why. The corned beef is sliced thick and layered generously, the sauerkraut is perfectly tangy, and the melted Swiss cheese adds a creamy richness that pulls the whole sandwich together.
The rye bread provides just the right amount of structure and flavor to let each ingredient shine.
What makes Noshville special beyond the food is the sense of community it has built. Familiar faces behind the counter remember returning customers, and there is a genuine warmth to every interaction.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular stopping in for your weekly Reuben fix, the experience always feels personal and satisfying in a way that larger chain restaurants simply cannot replicate.
6. Village Pub
Village Pub in Nashville has earned a loyal following for many reasons, but food enthusiasts keep coming back for one item in particular: the pretzel-bun Reuben. This creative twist on a classic sandwich is the kind of innovation that makes a neighborhood spot stand out in a city full of dining options.
The pretzel bun adds a slightly chewy, salted exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender corned beef inside, creating a textural experience that is genuinely memorable.
Beyond the creative bun choice, the Village Pub Reuben delivers on all the traditional elements. The corned beef is well-seasoned and generously portioned, the sauerkraut brings a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat, and the Swiss cheese melts evenly across the filling.
It is the kind of sandwich that makes you pause mid-bite just to appreciate how well everything works together.
The pub atmosphere at Village Pub is relaxed and unpretentious, with a crowd that ranges from young professionals to longtime Nashville residents who have been coming for years. The bar area is lively without being overwhelming, and there are plenty of quieter tables for those who want to focus on their food.
It is a genuinely enjoyable place to spend an afternoon, especially with good company alongside that standout Reuben.
7. Nick And J’s Cafe
Knoxville has no shortage of great places to eat, but Nick and J’s Cafe on Kingston Pike holds a special place in the hearts of locals who have been relying on it for satisfying, unpretentious food. Located at 3830 Kingston Pike, this deli-style cafe has the kind of relaxed, familiar energy that makes it feel less like a restaurant and more like a neighbor’s kitchen.
The service is warm and personal, which is something regulars genuinely appreciate.
The Reuben sandwich at Nick and J’s is consistently rated among the best in Knoxville, and it earns that reputation through quality rather than gimmicks. The corned beef is tender and well-prepared, sitting comfortably between layers of tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese on sturdy rye bread.
The house dressing adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of the ingredients.
Nick and J’s attracts a steady stream of University of Tennessee students, faculty, and longtime Knoxville residents throughout the week. The lunch rush is lively and energetic, but the staff handles it smoothly without sacrificing quality or friendliness.
Stopping in after a visit to nearby Sequoyah Hills or a morning spent exploring Kingston Pike’s shops makes for a perfect, low-key Knoxville afternoon.
8. Holy Land Market
Holy Land Market on Kingston Pike in Knoxville is one of those genuinely surprising finds that reminds you why exploring beyond the obvious is always worth it. At first glance, this family-owned market might not seem like a Reuben destination, but regulars know better.
Located at 3301 Kingston Pike, the market blends its international grocery offerings with a deli counter that produces some unexpectedly excellent sandwiches.
The Reuben here carries the warmth of a family recipe, with corned beef that is handled with care and paired with the expected Swiss cheese and sauerkraut combination. What sets it apart is the genuine hospitality that comes with every order.
The family behind the counter takes pride in what they serve, and that pride comes through in the quality and consistency of the food. It feels personal in a way that is increasingly rare.
Holy Land Market draws a diverse crowd of Knoxville residents who come for the specialty grocery items and stay for the deli offerings. The atmosphere is intimate and friendly, with a neighborhood feel that makes it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow customers.
Visiting in the early afternoon on a weekday is ideal for a quieter experience, allowing you to browse the market shelves before settling in with a satisfying Reuben sandwich.
9. McAlister’s Deli
McAlister’s Deli in Columbia might carry a familiar name, but the location at 627 S James Campbell Boulevard has established itself as a genuine local favorite rather than just another chain outpost. Columbia residents have embraced it as a reliable spot for quality deli-style sandwiches, and the Reuben variation on the menu is frequently cited as a standout reason to visit.
The clean, welcoming interior and efficient service make it a practical choice for a satisfying lunch or a quick dinner.
The Reuben at this Columbia location showcases McAlister’s commitment to fresh ingredients and generous portions. The corned beef is tender and flavorful, layered with Swiss cheese and the expected accompaniments on bread that is toasted to a satisfying crisp.
For a chain, the quality is notably consistent, which matters enormously to regulars who visit multiple times per week and expect the same great experience every time.
What makes the Columbia McAlister’s feel local is the community it has built around itself. Families, college students, and working professionals all share the dining room, creating a cross-section of Columbia life that gives the place a genuine neighborhood feel.
The staff are attentive and personable, contributing to an atmosphere that feels warmer than a typical chain experience. For Reuben lovers passing through Columbia, it is a stop well worth making.