The Backroom Deli

Cajun Spice Protein Salad Hummus

The Backroom Deli
1001 Sixth St. N.W.
Rochester, MN 55901
507-289-9061
backroomdeli.com

Hours
Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Breakfast served Monday through Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m.
Closed Sunday

Tucked away in the back of Rochester, Minnesota’s Good Food Store Co-op is a hidden vegan treasure: The Backroom Deli.

With only a few small tables and a deli case—and decorated with vegetarian-themed stickers and a large mural—The Backroom Deli is a no-frills eatery. Referring to the deli’s casual atmosphere, Head Chef Andy Denny says that “[it] looks like a handful of people decided to make a storage room into a restaurant.” This funky little deli is a favorite place to refuel and recharge for a diverse range of diners—according to Chef Denny, it’s not uncommon to see a doctor from the Mayo Clinic eating lunch next to a table of local punk musicians.

What’s the common denominator? The deli’s delicious all-vegan soups, sandwiches, salads, smoothies, and snacks, of course! Best-selling items include the Cajun Tofu—which is marinated in tamari, grilled, and served on a sprouted-grain tortilla or whole-wheat hoagie with fresh organic veggies and Cajun dressing—and the Oat Pecan Burger—which the deli promises is the “best vegan burger you’ll ever eat.” Soup selections change daily, ranging from I Can’t Believe It’s Not Chicken to Raw Squash Apple. Other must-try menu items include the Potato Salad, Organic Home Fries, and Tofu Salad Sandwich.

A “social hub” for locals and health-conscious travelers alike, The Backroom Deli gives back to the community by hosting bimonthly art shows featuring local artists’ work. The deli’s chefs also volunteer their skills to the local vegetarian group, VIGOR, for its annual vegetarian feast, which takes place the Sunday before Thanksgiving

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