Gluten-Free Deli Options for a Healthier Lifestyle

Gluten-Free Goodness: A Fresh Take on Eating

Struggling to find food options that are healthy and tasty at the same time? What if we told you that there are several gluten - free options that are incredibly healthy and also adept at satisfying your cravings? Let’s dive in deeper and understand the goodness that gluten-free food has to offer!

So to begin with, what even is gluten? Gluten is simply a protein present in some grains which also naturally exists in our food. Many health professionals are known to believe it can have an adverse effect on our diet. Gluten-free diets in today’s day and age are heavily endorsed as a choice for a healthy and balanced lifestyle. There are several benefits of going Gluten-Free, and that’s just one of the many Gluten-related facts we’ll be exploring in this blog!

Now how does Gluten come into the food-picture? You’d be surprised to know that rye, barley, and even some highly processed oats have a fair amount of gluten in them. However, what’s interesting to note is that our bodies are not capable of breaking down gluten in one go ie. completely. 

We, at Charlie’s Deli, house a variety of gluten-free options - including several gluten free breads with our sandwiches, and are a popular spot to visit if one is concerned about their diet and what they are eating.  If you’re keen to avoid the unnecessary amount of gluten that is present in regular bread, fret not, Charlie’s Deli has got your back covered with its gluten-free bread options available alongside all kinds of tasty sandwiches, and more!

The Benefits of Going Gluten-Free

Though there aren’t direct disadvantages of eating food with gluten, reducing gluten rich foods from our diet has many advantages like improved overall health of our digestion, increased energy levels, reduced inflammation and bloating.  

Gluten - free food is broadly known to have a plethora of health benefits, as acclaimed to by several doctors and medical professionals. By swapping out day-to-day meals with gluten-free food, one might also be naturally steering clear of unhealthy and processed food items! This contributes to a much more holistic and balanced diet. 

At Charlie’s, we care about and cater to all the diverse set of dietary needs that one might have. Such is reflected in the care and consciousness we put into the preparation of gluten-free sandwiches, which are made with utmost care, keeping gluten allergies and basic preferences in mind!

The Trend of Gluten-Free

Statistics show that over the years, due to public trends and growth in popularity for products that do not contain gluten, there has been a massive increase in demand for non-gluten products.

Many celebrities and public figures have had an important effect on the current no gluten movement through social media and the general media have also increased the knowledge of going gluten free for the sake of a good diet and good health.

At Charlie’s Deli, we offer gluten free sandwiches that are both tasty and fulfilling - The Real Turkey on Ciabatta sandwich, The Charlie’s Reuben, Bacon Lettuce and Tomato sandwich, the Brisket and Bacon and much more - all are available with options of gluten-free bread.

Worrying about lack of options? Not a problem! It’s not just the bread, but also our other gluten-free products that steal the game. Our menu offers protein rich options like turkey, pork, beef combined with vegetables like onions, olives, pickles and also cheese like Swiss cheese and provolone.

Come and try for yourself!

Why Choose Charlie’s Deli for Gluten-Free Options?

We at Charlie’s Deli are focused at providing our customers with high quality, nutritious and fresh ingredients when we make our food - starting from meat and vegetables to cheese and breads. Our gluten-free options are also prepared the same way and are high in quality and extremely safe to consume. They definitely add on to a healthy and balanced life and diet.

The gluten-free options at our Deli are sourced from local farmers and producers. We take the health of our people seriously! One can find that dining at Charlie’s will bring hearty satisfaction to not just your body, but also to your mind.

How to Incorporate Gluten-Free Options into Your Diet

If you want to go gluten-free, you might feel the anxieties of starting a new diet and might find it a little complicated to navigate through - but gluten is only present in some cereal grains like wheat, barley, rye, and also in some yeast.
To counter that, there are a number of gluten free bread options available. Pasta, cereals, sauces and other baked goods have gluten in them but to every gluten rich meal, there is an option of a no gluten alternative.
You would also be surprised to know this, but meat, fish, eggs and dairy products like milk, cheese, vegetables and fruits have no gluten in them. (so long as they’re unprocessed!)

While there might be potential options of a good gluten-free meals at your home, we at Charlie’s Deli use the best and healthiest sources and ingredients in making our food, making our sandwiches a good addition to your weekend in the form of a quick snack.

Choosing to eat gluten-free food is not just about trends but also implies a healthy diet, a good immune system, no bloating or other stomach and gut related problems, and also high energy levels.

While eating out one may face problems with the choice of gluten-free products but this is where food places like our Charlie’s Deli comes in. Our carefully designed menu with gluten-free options works the benefit, and one should visit us to experience the new world of gluten free dining with our gourmet sandwich offerings!

Top 10 Reasons to Choose Charlie’s Deli for Your Catering Needs in Portland

Choosing the right catering service for your event is incredibly crucial. Ever gave it a thought? It’s not just about serving delicacies, but also making a memorable impact on your guests.

Portland, Oregon surely does take pride in being one of the world’s greatest food cities, and its fame as a sandwich hotspot across multiple culinary destinations is off the charts. The city loves to experiment with flavours, and Charlie’s Deli fits right into its culinary frame.

We at Charlie’s Deli try our best to offer satisfaction to our customers by striking a perfect balance between the extent of both our food and our service. From gourmet delights to food carts, our deli is also a master in offering top-notch sandwich catering options in Portland and brings to your table unique sandwich offerings which are both healthy and tasty.

So, let’s dive deeper!

Here are the top 10 reasons why Charlie’s Deli should be your go-to pick for any sort of sandwich catering needs across Portland. 

Serving you the best options at Charlie’s!

#1 Wide Variety of Sandwich Options: Menu Diversity

Tastes and dietary preferences vary from person to person, and Charlie’s Deli surely has noticed it. Our menu is designed to cater to every palate. Craving a signature sandwich?  Or maybe something a bit lighter? How about a hearty salad or a comforting bowl of soup? Each item on our menu is carefully crafted to suit your taste and preferences, and here are some fan favourites:

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The Real Turkey on Ciabatta includes house smoked real turkey breast and thigh meat. Other ingredients are - hardwood smoked provolone cheese, French dijon, balsamic marsala vinaigrette and Portland French ciabatta. It is a must try.

Another one is Prime Rib Philly Cheese, a staple of alderwood slow smoked prime rib tossed with hardwood smoked provolone, grilled onions, jus, and smoked garlic mayo on a Portland French baguette.

We also boast serving mouth watering vegan options to suit the needs of diverse catering requests. Believe it or not, nothing can beat the crunch of fresh, organic, juicy and lively vegetables.

Alicia’s Seasoned Vegan Tofu stuffed with Alicia’s special homemade oven-grilled fresh tofu wedges, tomato, lettuce, onion, pepperoncini, French dijon mustard inside Portland French big soft ciabatta is a great choice. 

Cheers to vegetable lovers! We at Charlie’s Deli will surely try our best to provide you with exactly what you are looking for.

Alicia’s Veggie Sandwich, a perfect pairing of smoked tillamook sharp cheddar, tomato, lettuce, onion, cucumber, black olives, pepperoncini, French dijon mustard, and balsamic marsala vinaigrette inside Portland French big soft ciabatta is here to win hearts.

# 2: Fresh, Locally Sourced Ingredients: Commitment to Quality

Fresh and locally sourced ingredients are such a big deal at Charlie’s Deli. Why? Because the chefs know they are more than just a trending buzzword. They are the real deal for an unbeatable taste and dynamic menu and a gateway to experimenting - creating new and exciting combinations. 

Our deli works closely with local farmers and suppliers, just to ensure that the produce – be it meat or vegetables or cheese – is fresh from the field to your plate. Reducing carbon footprint and supporting local businesses is one of our many targets.

Strawberry Fields Forever is a must try if you want to give your taste buds the real flavour of seasonal items of Portland. By supporting local farmers and producers, Charlie’s Deli not only guarantees top-notch ingredients but also strengthens the Portland community - something you won’t easily find everywhere. 

# 3: Customizable Catering Packages: Your way, always 

Do you have any specific dietary restrictions or preferences? No problem! Whether it is gluten-free bread, extra veggies, or the mayo - our team will happily accommodate you. Charlie’s Deli knows every event is unique.That’s why our catering packages are fully customizable. Whether you are planning a casual office lunch, a fancy dinner party, or anything in between, the deli is always ready to help you design a menu. From fitting to your theme to meeting the budget, we aim to strike the perfect balance between taste and quality. 

Want vegan options? No problem. Need gluten-free choices? Charlie’s got those covered too. Just let the team know what you are looking for, and they are at service to make it happen. Locally and seasonally sourced ingredients are a plus.

So next time you’re planning an event, worry less and think of Charlie’s Deli.

# 4: Taste and Quality: Flavorful Fusions

Ever had a sandwich that made you think, "Life’s too short for a bad sandwich"? At Charlie’s Deli, this is our motto. Exceptional taste and quality go hand in hand. Starting with the finest ingredients and freshest vegetables to the highest quality meats and cheeses, everything is carefully selected to meet high standards. Charlie’s Deli creates dishes that not only make you drool but also tell a story with every bite, blending flavours and textures for an unforgettable culinary experience. Ready to taste what the hype is all about? 

The N’awlins Muffuletta, a stuffing combining the magic of Muffuletta Olive Tapenade, grilled Genoa salami, mortadella and pepperoni, hardwood smoked provolone cheese, tomato, and balsamic marsala vinaigrette within a Portland French Big Soft Ciabatta - is a Charlie’s Deli trusted favourite. Can’t believe us? Visit our reviews.. If you believe yourself to be a true food connoisseur, come and taste the difference for yourself!

# 5: Convenient Ordering and Delivery: Easy and Efficient Service

Life can get tiring, and the perfect break is to snack up on your favourite food. So worry not! Charlie’s Deli has made ordering and delivery as convenient as possible. The streamlined process ensures you get exactly what you want and when you want it. 

The user-friendly online ordering system is hassle-free and the simplest to operate, do check it out here! Choose your preferred pickup or delivery time, customize your order and cheers! That’s all you need to do to avail the best that we at Charlie’s Deli have to offer. All that’s left to do is to wait for your coveted sandwiches until they arrive. Note - always on time! 

Not tech-savvy? No worries! Give us a call and the staff will take care of everything for you. Charlie’s Deli is all about making your experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. Convenient ordering and delivery are just a couple of ways in which we strive to serve you better and also to make your day better. No worry, be hungry! 

# 6: Competitive Pricing: Affordable Excellence

Do you, like many others, believe that exceptional food has to come with a hefty price tag? Think again. At Charlie’s Deli, you get affordable excellence without compromising on quality. From everyday menu items to customizable catering packages, we ensure you get the best bang for your buck. We aspire to let our customers enjoy great food without the guilt of overspending.

But do not just take words for it. Compare the prices with other delis and catering services at the Portland locality and you will find that Charlie’s Deli delivers top-notch quality, and only at prices that make sense. Isn’t it surprising?

So, whether you are planning a casual get-together or just need a tasty dish, trust that Charlie’s Deli offers the right competitive pricing. We unquestionably do our best to meet your needs and also exceed your expectations. Also, there are special deals for large orders. Happy tummy, happy pocket!

Come and cool down in our large dining room!

# 7: Professional Presentation and Setup: Top-notch Presentation

If you believe that presentation adds an appeal to your food, fret not - you are at the right place. You can depend on Charlie’s Deli when it comes to delivering a professional setup that leaves a lasting impression from the moment your guests walk in. Curious how? It’s simple! Every sandwich and side are meticulously arranged, showcasing the family-oriented spirit of our deli.

And the overall display? The attention to detail extends beyond just the food to the entire setup. It is always clean, neat, organized, and inviting. Worried about disruptions during your event? The team at Charlie’s Deli integrates seamlessly into your schedule and ensures everything goes smoothly. Ready to impress your guests with both taste and presentation? Reach out to Charlie’s Deli here!

# 8: Experienced and Professional Team: Catering Experts

Our diligent staff brings years of culinary and catering experience right to your table. We promise to handle every detail of your event with care and precision. What more do you want than an enjoyable and  stress free event? A breathtaking setup? Hmm...Charlie’s team takes care of that too, efficiently and seamlessly.  

Choosing Charlie’s Deli means partnering with a team committed to customer satisfaction par excellence. The training and expertise of the staff in handling large events guarantee a smooth, enjoyable catering experience. It will leave a positive and experienced-never-before impression on you and your guests.

# 9: Perfect for Any Occasion: All-inclusive

No matter what the event is, Charlie’s Deli is the ideal choice for your sandwich catering needs. Still not convinced? From intimate family gatherings to large corporate functions, or even weddings, Charlie’s Deli has versatile catering solutions. On one hand we have a diligent and trained staff, and on the other we ensure there is something to delight every palate.

Weddings and other large celebrations benefit from Charlie’s Deli’s flexibility in catering for both small and large events. Our attention to detail and commitment to excellence will definitely ensure that every sandwich is as perfect as the last, even if you have to feed a crew of 200 at 2:30 in the morning. 

Do choose Charlie’s Deli for your catering needs and have the guarantee of a seamless, enjoyable experience. It is tailored to fit the unique needs of your occasion. Isn't it amazing? 

# 10: Positive Community Impact: Community champions

Charlie’s Deli is more than just a place to get great sandwiches. We source our ingredients from local farmers and suppliers so as to support the regional economy, and of course, target the freshest quality for our customers. 

In addition to our eco-friendly practices, Charlie’s Deli is actively involved in several community initiatives across Portland. We regularly participate in local events, such as “Music on Main”, and sponsor neighbourhood activities.  While we assist charitable organizations, there’s no doubt that hungry teams depend on Charlie’s Deli for Monday Morning Safety Meetings! 

In a city known for its food and culture, Charlie’s Deli stands out as a premier choice for sandwich catering. But what makes it so? Hope you have the answer to that by now. 

With our commitment to quality, convenience, and customer satisfaction, we have tried our best to establish ourselves as a lot more than just a deli. 

Want to explore more catering options? Need personalized catering consultation? Hit the official website of Charlie’s Deli. For catering services, you can also dial (503) 902-9428 or request catering here. your taste buds (and guests) will surely thank you! It is the ultimate choice you can feel good about. Why wait any longer? Just go for it! 

Welcome to Charlies Deli : Portland's Best Sandwich Shop

Residing in the very heart of Portland, Charlie's Deli is more than just a place to eat. It's a place where you can come in to be a part of a community, a place where you can come in to relax and feel right at home. Founded by Charlie and Alicia in January 2015, Charlie’s Deli assures you of providing the best service in the region. The Deli is tucked away on the Old Town side, at the corner of Northwest 5th Avenue and Couch Street. This once quaint deli has now grown into a much-loved local establishment in recent years.

First Portland store: Opened in 2014 at 22 Northwest 4th Avenue, relocated to 32 Northwest 5th Avenue after a flood on Christmas night 2022. Reopened in February 2023, ready to start anew.

The inside of Charlie's Deli speaks to its philosophy: a focus on great food and service with a special regard toward simplicity and sustainability. The place is designed with a bit of flair but also focuses on elements of reuse and recycling. It invites its guests to either a street-level restaurant that gives them the option to people-watch on the patio or to come inside in its eclectic dining room for a much classier experience. The seating is also designed to be as comfortable as possible. Whether you choose to dine on the patio watching the vibrant street life roll by in Portland or inside the cozy dining room, it is as relaxing as it is distinctive and would be difficult to find anywhere else.

At Charlie’s we always strive to bring the best to your table through:

• Quality and Freshness—Our Guarantee

Every single one of our meals is a testament to its quality, which can be confirmed through our reviews as well. We source our meats, cheeses, and produce from our very own trusted local suppliers to ensure each sandwich is full of fresh ingredients. Freshness is our commitment to quality, which helps us to provide you with a healthy and flavorful meal for you every single time.

• A Diverse and Delightful Menu

At Charlie's, we do realize that tastes and dietary preferences vary. And keeping that in mind, we have curated our menu in a way that it includes a little something for everyone. From our signature sandwiches to hearty salads and soups, each item on our menu is carefully crafted to please your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for a classic club sandwich or a lighter soup and salad combo, we have what you're looking for.

• Plant-Based and Vegan Options

Charlie's Deli is proud to present our appealing plant-based and vegan range that surely stands out from the rest. We pledge ourselves to the finest, organic ingredients, flavorful in every bite of our veggie sandwiches. We use a variety of colorful and farm fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, lettuce, onions, cucumbers, black olives, and pepperoncini, all finished with French Dijon mustard to give it that extra zing. We always reach beyond traditional offerings to make sure everyone—veggie lovers especially—can enjoy a delicious plant-based meal, without any worries. Our vegan-friendly options are something that you surely cannot miss out on.

• Convenient and Inviting Location

Whether on foot, on a drive, or using public transportation, Charlie's Deli is located right in the centre of downtown Portland for your convenience. Enjoy a quick lunch stop while on break or a leisurely meal with your friends and family in our family friendly ambience with great service.

Get Ready to experience the Best Sandwiches Portland has to offer

When you step into Charlie's Deli, you're not just grabbing a bite to eat; you're joining our community. Our commitment to excellence in both food and service has made us a favourite among locals and visitors alike. So come on in, meet Charlie and Alicia, and find out for yourself why Charlie’s Deli stands out when it comes to preparing the best sandwiches in Portland. 

Offering the best customer services in Portland

What to Expect from Our Menu?

At Charlie's Deli, we are committed to provide quality and flavor with every single bite. Each sandwich is crafted with care, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the very best that Portland has to offer. From our succulent slow-smoked meats to our crisp, flavorful vegetables, every bite is designed to delight.

Our sandwiches are indeed the stars of the show, each one thoughtfully constructed to offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. You can check out our offerings here. Some of our standout offerings include:

ALICIA’S CUBAN SANDWICH

Slow wood-smoked pork and ham, smoked Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and yellow mustard on a Pearl Bakery French baguette, grilled to perfection. This sandwich is a must-try, delivering a harmonious blend of smoky, savory, and tangy notes.

PRIME RIB PHILLY

Alderwood slow-smoked prime rib paired with hardwood smoked provolone, grilled onions, jus, and smoked garlic mayo on a Pearl Bakery French baguette. It's a hearty, indulgent option that showcases our dedication to rich, robust flavors.

THE ITALIAN JOB

A combination of Genoa salami, mortadella, pepperoni, and smoked provolone cheese, topped with tomato, lettuce, red onions, pepperoncini, olives, dijon, and balsamic marsala vinaigrette on a Pearl Bakery French baguette. This sandwich is a true Italian feast.

CHARLIE’S PASTRAMI ON RYE

Applewood slow-smoked Angus brisket pastrami, smoked Swiss cheese, pickles, and dijon mustard on Pearl Bakery marble rye bread. This classic deli sandwich is elevated with our signature smoked meats.

And this is not all, we offer more than just our exceptional sandwiches. Our diverse menu boasts a variety of delicious sides, soups, salads, and desserts to be indulged by everyone. Try our creamy Pesto Pasta Salad, tangy Cole Slaw, and authentic German Potato Salad, which serve as perfect complements to any meal. We also serve Tim's Potato Chips, thick-cut bacon, and fresh avocados if you’re looking for an extra flavor. Our soups and salads, like the Tomato Provençal with four cheeses and the house Caesar Salad with homemade dressing, are also available if you’re searching for a healthier and lighter option.

But meals are never complete without desserts, are they? To finish it off, choose from our selection of classic and imported sodas, or indulge in our range of homemade desserts, including real cannoli, NY cheesecake, tiramisu, and vegan cookies. At Charlie's Deli, every single dish is crafted with love and care, made to ensure a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Join Us Today!

Don't just settle for an ordinary lunch. Treat yourself to the extraordinary flavors and warm atmosphere we have at Charlie's Deli. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, we promise a dining experience that will remain both satisfying and memorable in your minds. 

We regularly share new pairing ideas on our Facebook page to educate our customers on the art of food pairing. On the other hand, our blog page also offers a good insight into how Charlie’s Deli became what it is nowadays. We have a variety of sandwiches on our menu, and you can find us at 32 Northwest 5th Avenue, Portland, OR, USA. Visit us today and become part of the Charlie's Deli family.

We also understand that convenience is key in our times, which is why Charlie’s Deli also offers catering, pickup, and delivery services. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a family gathering, or just a casual get-together, our catering service provides a one stop solution for all your demands. If you’re on the go, our easy pickup option ensures you can enjoy our meals without the hassle of waiting. Or if you prefer to dine at home or your office, our delivery service brings the taste of Charlie’s Deli straight to your door. Enjoy our mouthwatering menu wherever you are!