Welcome to Nautical Deli
Nestled in St. Clair Shores, Nautical Deli is a family-run gem known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious deli offerings. This beloved establishment specializes in a diverse sandwich menu, featuring crowd favorites like the Jefferson Chicken Salad and Maeun Chicken sandwich—both praised for their flavor and quality. Customers rave about the fresh focaccia and comforting soups, including a standout chicken and dumplings. With a welcoming staff and a space that invites patrons to linger, Nautical Deli has become a cherished comfort food haven. Whether for lunch or a quick bite, it promises a satisfying and delightful dining experience every time.
- 23839 Jefferson Ave, St Clair Shores, MI 48080 Hotline: (586) 776-9898
Welcome to Nautical Deli, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of St. Clair Shores, MI. Located at 23839 Jefferson Ave, this charming deli is a labor of love, run by a friendly family who prides itself on serving up hearty, delicious meals that keep customers coming back time and time again.
At Nautical Deli, the focus is on quality sandwiches that cater to every palate. Whether you are in the mood for something classic or adventurous, the menu brims with variety. Customers rave about the Maeun Chicken sandwich, which offers just the right amount of spice without overwhelming the senses—a perfect lunchtime treat that is both messy and satisfying, as reviewed by local foodie Katie D.. Meanwhile, the popular Jefferson Chicken Salad sandwich keeps Grace M. returning week after week, despite the construction challenges around the area.
One of the standout features of Nautical Deli is their signature focaccia bread, known for its unbeatable quality and freshness. Jessica S., a devoted patron, describes it as "unreal," highlighting that every bite of their sandwiches delivers a delightful experience. The consistency in the quality of the offerings is something that regulars deeply appreciate.
Moreover, the comforting atmosphere of Nautical Deli enhances the dining experience. With ample seating available, it offers a clean and quiet space where you can enjoy your meal or even catch up on some work, a sentiment echoed by many visitors. Mark M. delightfully shares how the ambiance feels "cheerful and primarily local," an essential aspect of why this deli feels like home.
- Soups: Don't miss out on the delicious soups of the day—customers like Debbie V. are addicted to the chicken and dumplings, while others praise the beef barley and seafood chowder.
- Baked goods: And let’s not forget dessert. Patrons can't resist the delightful Bumpy Cake and the rich rice pudding, perfectly topped with cinnamon and whipped cream—a sweet ending to any meal.
- Casual Dining: Nautical Deli operates as a casual deli with a counter service model, allowing quick orders for those on the go, yet always ensuring a friendly and inviting staff ready to make your experience memorable.
As you step into Nautical Deli, you'll find a blend of quality comfort food, fast service, and a welcoming vibe. It's a place that captures the essence of a local deli while offering a broad menu that guarantees variety and satisfaction. So, next time you're in the area, don’t miss the chance to indulge in what Nautical Deli has to offer—you might just find your new favorite sandwich spot!

Stopped by for lunch today and took a chance on their Maeun Chicken sandwich special. He promised it wasn't too spicy and he was right! So yummy and just the right amount of kick. It was messy, but so worth it.

Great lunch spot. My husband and I go here weekly. The construction has made it difficult but that won't stop me from getting my Jefferson Chicken Salad sandwich. Yum Yum Yum

My partner and I have been driving up to Nautical Deli from Detroit for a couple of years now, I'd say once a week on average. The sandwiches are delicious (that focaccia bread is unreal!), fresh, and so consistent and reliable. Soups are delicious too, as are the cookies. It's family run and everyone is so friendly. Lots of room to sit and enjoy, clean, quiet, and they don't mind if you hang out a bit and even get a little work done. Sandwiches are my favorite things, and it's always surprisingly difficult to find a great deli like Nautical Deli with a huge menu, wide variety, and great quality

This joint is my typical mile-away comfort food haven!!! The ambiance is always cheerful and primarily locals. My treats: 1. New York turkey Reuben with no kraut, Russian dressing on the side(coleslaw too), with a side of always and onion rings is my jam!!! 2. Brooklyn Burger(minus tomato, bacon[I don't dig on swine], and pickles) is my other standby filler up!!!! I've only ordered takeout, but the staff has been killer. Fresh soups of the day have been excellent(beef barley and seafood chowder are magnificent)!!! The staff took my order over the phone and were even kind enough to recommend what soups to avoid after telling them I had just had dental surgery and was on a liquid diet. Baked cod is pretty great, but the best things I've tried are A: The Bumpy Cake and the Rice Pudding, fully loaded with cinnamon and whipped cream!!!! Not to mention the corned beef and pastrami sammich.... Whoa, forget about it!!! Top-notch!!!! Just go there, spend a few bucks, tip your waiters and waitresses, and don't forget to drop some coins in the bucket for the cooks! I love the friendliness of these fine folks, and if they keep cooking their dishes as they have been, I will remain a lifelong customer!!! Five stars Go there, be satisfied, and leave with your gas tank of love filled with extraordinary comfort food! You won't be disappointed!!!

Fantastic soups chicken and dumplings soooo good. Very nice staff always friendly and with smiles.My next try will be the fish . I'm just addicted to the chicken and dumplings soup right now!!

Came here for lunch one afternoon and went with the Cuban. They have lots of soups and lots of sandwiches available. The service was prompt and I was able to eat and be out within twenty minutes. The sandwich was good, not amazing. Would I come back? For sure!

This deli always provides top notch service and excellent sandwiches. We frequent this place especially when family are visiting.

Popped in here a few times for a quick sandwich it's been consistently good. They have a lot of options and seem to get your order out quickly. They do have a dining area but you'll need to order at the counter first, no wait staff. No booze, just a casual deli. Parking can be tricky as the lot is narrow and small.