The Oldest Deli In Texas Will Take You Straight To Sandwich Heaven
By Katie Lawrence|Published March 14, 2019
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Here in Texas, we value tradition and history when it comes to food. How long a restaurant has been open is the best testament to its quality. Considering Fossati’s, located in Victoria, dates back to 1882, it’s had quite some time to perfect the art of making a good sandwich. See the charming atmosphere and delicious eats for yourself:
Fossati’s isn’t just the oldest deli in Texas - it’s one of the longest-standing restaurants in America. Family-owned for all 137 years of operation, tradition isn’t taken lightly here. Although the building’s exterior has changed quite drastically over the years, its rich culture and historic charm remain the same.
After existing on nearly every corner of downtown Victoria, the current structure was built in 1895. Fossati’s was honored with a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
Upon entrance, your eyes will be immediately drawn to the bar with glass cabinets, a mahogany mantle, and old-fashioned black leather stools. Other noteworthy features include a trench in which men used to spit tobacco, hundreds of cookbooks that haven’t been printed in over half a century, and metal rings for tying horses.
Checkered tablecloths and wooden chairs create a no-frills, homestyle atmosphere that meshes perfectly with our Texas values. Make friends with locals and hear their compelling life stories as hours tick by without you even noticing.
As for the food, you’ll never have a bad meal at Fossati’s. Giant Muffalettas the size of your head are stuffed with traditional deli meats, several different cheeses, and fresh, crisp lettuce. Other popular sandwiches include a classic Reuben, chicken salad, and tuna melt.
No deli experience is quite complete without a heaping bowl of creamy Italian pasta salad. It’s offered here as a side dish, but we could easily chow down on an entree sized portion.
