About Us
The Deli a Dream Built – One Sandwich at a Time
Our Story
From humble beginnings to a beloved local staple – what a journey it’s been.
Twenty-two years ago, fresh out of culinary school and full of ambition, Mark and Michelle Claussen took a leap of faith. Instead of booking a wedding venue, they bought a deli. That decision turned out to be the start of something just as life-changing.
They were newlyweds, tying the knot with a lobster bake at Michelle’s dad’s house – catering their own wedding, of course (though Michelle made sure Mark didn’t work that day). Looking back, it was one of their first official catering gigs.
They started out with a vision and an opportunity. A small sandwich shop space was available for lease in one of the Saco mill buildings. It wasn’t a dream setup, but the location had promise. With a building full of businesses, they saw potential in the foot traffic and the community. Saco Island Deli already had a solid reputation, and Mark and Michelle were determined to build on it.
Not Your Standard Sandwich Shop
At The Deli & Company, we believe great food should be an experience. Inspired by the “Baskin Robbins” approach, we encourage you to try a taste before committing – we want you to love what you order! Over the years, we’ve seen regulars go from ordering ham and cheese to exploring aged cheeses, marinated vegetables, and house-made spreads. (Of course, we’ll still happily make you a ham and cheese if that’s your go-to.)
We love experimenting with bold, unexpected flavor combinations, and many of our most popular menu items started as specials we were simply curious to try. Our customers – and our amazing staff – helped shape the menu over time, offering feedback and suggestions that have made our food even better.
You’ll also notice that many of our sandwiches have names with meaning. They’re named after loyal customers, beloved mentors, even movie characters. Every name has a story – and so does every bite.
The Deli & Company is Born
“The Deli” to The Deli & Company: A Name That Finally Feels Like Home
For the first 15 years, we kept hearing the same thing: people on the phone saying, “I’m at the Deli.” Not Saco Island Deli. Just the Deli. So when we expanded our space in 2019, it felt like the right time to rebrand. That’s when The Deli & Company was born.
The name reflects who we are now: not just a deli, but a full-service food company. We offer catering for weddings, weekend events, and special occasions. Michelle leads our pastry and dessert offerings. And we also host private events right here in our expanded space on the weekends when the Deli is closed to the public.
From our original 800-square-foot spot with barely 20 seats and lines out the door, we’ve grown into a warm, comfortable dining room seating 40–50 with a scenic patio overlooking the Saco River when the weather is nice.
A Part of the Community
After more than two decades, we’ve watched customer families grow – regulars who got married, then had kids, and now we’re catering those kids’ graduation parties. Our customers are like extended family, and we’ve shared in their milestones and memories. Being part of this community means everything to us. Our customers share their lives with us, and we feel honored to serve them – one sandwich (or pastry, or platter) at a time.
Features
What We Offer
Daily Specials
Along with our popular regular menu, we offer fresh breakfast and lunch specials that are updated daily!
Made In-House
Many of our menu items are made fresh in-house! Try our sausage and smoked meats, dressings, drinks, and desserts!
Not Just Another Sandwhich
We offer many unique flavor combinations and tasty breads to try – you might find a new favorite!
Catering
Our platters are the perfect thing for your event! Delivery or pickup available. There is no set-up for you, just great food where and when you need it.
Event Hosting
Available on Saturday and Sunday, our space is in a fully renovated, beautiful mill building with a rich history in the Saco/Biddeford area.
Sourced Locally
Our organic coffee is locally roasted, and we sweeten our lemonade and our famous maple aioli with Hilltop maple syrup.