Step into the past and taste some of the best deli sandwiches this side of anywhere. You’ll find the atmosphere, flavors and old time hospitality at Papa’s Deli in Crown Point, Indiana!
Crown Point, Indiana
Though you may not know anything about Crown Point, Indiana, there’s more to the sleepy town than meets the eye. For example, there’s the infamous John Dilinger who broke out of the local jail in the 1930s. In fact, Johnny Depp himself visited the town years ago to make the biographical film depicting Dilinger, “Public Enemies”. So the town does have some history, but that’s not all it has.
Including a notorious past, it is actually quite a charming town. Indeed, while walking around on a pleasant day, Crown Point is quite reminiscent of Marty McFly’s Hill Valley circa 1955. But because the town itself has remained in such a pristine and rather outdated fashion, so have the local businesses followed suit. With a antique shops, coffee shops and bars all remain in their early 20th century architecture.
Papa’s Deli
Enter, Papa’s Deli. In 1975, Evangelos Dimolis opened up what is Crown Point’s most iconic spots. The now 95 year old businessman originally from Greece, had previously owned the Athens Hotel and Hellas Grocery Story in Northeast Chicago for 21 years. Deciding to take a slower pace at things, he opened the deli with the intention of serving sandwiches they use to in the 1920s.
Keeping with the town’s theme, and staying true to his original intentions with the deli itself, the eatery stays true to the 1920s vibe. From the moment you enter, until the moment you leave, you feel as though you have truly been in the past. It’s not just the old style service or the type of food you receive at Papa’s Deli that makes it so special either. It’s the décor, the overall ambiance and of course the personal touch that give it that charm we all love.
With long time customers and new visitors alike, Papa’s Deli is something that everyone can appreciate no matter their age.
The Food
Want some homemade soup, sandwiches or a traditional Greek Gyros? Then stop in at Papa’s Deli, it’s all here, and then some! The pastrami, the fresh ham, the signature subs, sandwiches and Polish dogs are all worth a go-around. And naturally, their ice cream sundaes are definitely something to write home about! That hot fudge cascading down on top of the already delicious ice cream is something no one should go home without trying.
Some of their specialties include pistachio moussaka, Greek pastries like their Baklava, and their Feta cheese with olives. Prices run on average between $8-12 a plate, but anything you order is made fresh in front of you, quick and delicious. A cozy seating area inside, you will find it convenient to grab your grub to go or stay in and have a chat with the jovial elderly owner himself!
It’s really no surprise Papa’s Deli gets so much repeat business. They are friendly, personable, and make all their customers feel like a part of a big family. Instead of the chain restaurants or shops you might find surrounding the deli, Papa’s invites you in for that old fashioned welcoming charm.
So what are you waiting for? You know you want one of their signature Crown Point sandwiches, or a tasty hot fudge sundae…maybe even a malt. Stop in to Papa’s Deli today. Just make sure when you do, you let them know Lisa sent you!
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