Local Favorite Full Bellie Deli earns National Recognition

Full Bellie Deli earned a spot on Only in Your State’s list of 50 best U.S. sandwich shops, drawing new customers and community praise.

Courtesy of Lorie Howe

ANNISTON — Full Bellie Deli made the list for Only in Your State’s 50 best sandwich shops in the U.S., according to an article posted on Jan. 28.

Marisa Roman, one of the editors of “The 50 Best” lists, said Full Bellie Deli was highly recommended in Alabama with its hearty sandwiches and loyal local support. The business stood out to Only in Your State because of its commitment to freshness and simplicity, according to Roman.

“It’s a small town gem that stays true to itself,” said Roman.

The family owners of Full Bellie Deli, located on Gurnee Avenue between West 10th and West 11th streets in Anniston, had no idea they had made the list. Lorie and Cyril Howe found out about the article from their neighbors, Moore Printing. Jeremy Echols, the new manager of Moore Printing, had received the article from his mother and he showed it to an employee at the sandwich shop, who then texted the link to the article to Lorie and Cyril, according to Lorie.

“It’s very surprising and gives us a good boost for our morale. It makes you realize your community really does enjoy what you have,” said Lorie.

Full Bellie Deli earned a spot on Only in Your State’s list of 50 best U.S. sandwich shops, drawing new customers and community praise.

The article attracted many new customers, some wanting to try the food, others just wanting to offer congratulations on making the list, the owners said.

Full Bellie Deli earned a spot on Only in Your State’s list of 50 best U.S. sandwich shops, drawing new customers and community praise.

Courtesy of Lorie Howe

Lorie and Cyril explained they were working on a new menu item, but don’t have any plans to change much else. Lorie stated everyone seems to love the menu so they want to keep it the same.

“If it ain’t broke don’t fix it, you know, it’s worked this long,” said Lorie.

Full Bellie Deli earned a spot on Only in Your State’s list of 50 best U.S. sandwich shops, drawing new customers and community praise. 

The shop’s most popular sandwich is the Reuben, according to Cyril. Customers of all ages rave about the sandwich, some even saying it’s the best one they’ve ever had. The Reuben is the only sandwich on the menu that they don’t bake everyday, according to Cyril.

“The homemade bread on the other sandwiches is also the most talked about,” said Cyril.

Full Bellie Deli earned a spot on Only in Your State’s list of 50 best U.S. sandwich shops, drawing new customers and community praise.

Courtesy of Lorie Howe

Full Bellie Deli made the list through reader nominations, according to Roman. Only in Your State organized the list in alphabetical order by state. It then requested nominations through newsletter subscribers and asked local tourism boards for help choosing the sandwich shops, according to Roman.

“A few things considered when narrowing down winners include a strong overall buzz, good reviews, community support, and things like quality, ingredients, consistency, uniqueness and value,” said Roman.

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