Legendary No Name Deli cuts ribbon to new Forest Acres location

Expanding to a second location, the deli and grill continues its tradition of quick, quality service

No Name Deli – Columbia’s beloved spot for fast, fresh, and no-frills food – is excited to announce the opening of its second location in Forest Acres. The ribbon has officially been cut in partnership with the City of Forest Acres, marking the expansion of this local favorite. Building on the success of its original location, the new deli and grill offers the same commitment to delivering quality meals in record time. Under the ownership of serial entrepreneurs and longtime business partners Chris Davis and Jon Sears, the Columbia staple has expanded to a newly renovated space at 4712-A Forest Drive, which is now open to the public. More information and online ordering can be accessed at nonamedelisc.com.

“We’re thrilled to welcome No Name Deli to Forest Acres, adding to the exciting growth and development we’re seeing in our community,” says Thomas Andrews, City of Forest Acres Mayor. “This new location not only brings a cherished local business to our area but also exemplifies our commitment to supporting and recruiting businesses that enhance the quality of life for our residents. We’re proud of the vibrant dining scene that’s emerging here, and we’re confident No Name Deli will become a treasured part of it.”

The new Forest Drive location is across the street from Lowe’s Foods and Tako Sushi Forest Acres, less than a block from Pasta Fresca. The 1,750 square foot space offers extensive parking behind the building with forty spaces shared with tenants, including the newly renovated Salon 2000 next door and Jackie’s Tailoring.

Guests can dine al fresco with outdoor patio seating, along with indoor tables and a long, open-concept kitchen counter, providing the quick service for which No Name Deli is known. To maintain that old-school, funky vibe, the interior features a mural by Girls Who Paint Murals — a traveling mural team co-owned by local artist Christine Crawford — inspired by the vintage postcard mural at No Name’s original Elmwood location. Both locations are open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

“Expanding No Name Deli has been a long-term goal for us, and we’re excited to join the Forest Acres community,” shares Jon Sears, co-owner of No Name Deli. “While we’re thrilled to grow this brand, our commitment to quality and the welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that our guests know and love remains the same. We’ve worked hard to create a space that feels both fresh and familiar, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”

For over fifty years, No Name Deli has been serving fresh sandwiches and substantial salads in the Columbia region. Opening circa 1973 and originally named the Elmwood Delicatessen, the restaurant gained notoriety as the “deli with no name” when the building lacked signage in the 1970s. By 1979, the nickname had stuck! Today, No Name Deli is still known for its local charm and dedication to no-frill, high-quality food, served to guests in record time.

The No Name Deli menu is a blend of classic deli fare and Southern favorites, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Serving upwards of 300 sandwiches daily, local favorites include the Reuben, prime rib sandwich, and fresh Greek and spinach salads.

While Columbia boasts a variety of specialty shops, No Name Deli stands out as one of the few delis that still operates a grill, offering hot foods like burgers, hot dogs, and warm sandwiches. No Name Deli meets the needs of busy customers with options for dining in, online ordering, DoorDash delivery, and catering services for events.

Building Success Through a Dedicated Team and Strong Community Ties

No Name Deli’s team members form a tight-knit group, with a majority of the staff at the Elmwood location having been with the deli for over a decade — a rarity in the hospitality industry. This longevity fosters strong relationships both within the team and with customers, creating a welcoming environment that sets the deli apart.

“No Name Deli has been a significant part of my life for 21 years, and it’s an honor to help grow this brand to Forest Acres,” says Bryant Wall, operations director of No Name Deli. “I’m proud to be part of a team that’s built such a special place, where community and great food come together. This new location allows us to share that same sense of community with even more people, and that’s something truly meaningful.”

Wall began working at No Name Deli when he was 19 and has been a fixture in the space ever since. After leading as general manager of the Elmwood location for over a decade, Wall has been promoted to operations director where he will maintain high-quality service and seamless day-to-day functions at both locations.

Another familiar face for regulars, Megan Temple has been with the brand for seven years, and has been promoted to general manager of the Forest Drive location. Both locations will employ approximately 20 staff members in total.

Both Wall and Temple have played an integral role in cultivating a culture that is both fast-paced and welcoming. The personal connections between staff and patrons are key to the deli’s enduring success.

“Our team is truly the heart and soul of No Name Deli,” said Chris Davis, co-owner of No Name Deli. “Their dedication, passion, and attention to detail are what make our food and service stand out. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the hard work and commitment of our staff, and I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built together. Their efforts are the driving force behind our success, and they’re what keep our customers coming back day after day.”

Entrepreneurs with a Passion for Columbia

Chris Davis and Jon Sears have been business partners since 2010, bringing over 30 years of combined hospitality experience to their ventures. As serial entrepreneurs, they co-own popular local spots Hendrix and Jake’s, as well as multiple commercial properties in Five Points, Devine St, and the downtown area. Originally meeting in the corporate world, they chose to go into business together to pursue their dream of working for themselves.

Their decision to buy No Name Deli in December 2021 stemmed from a desire to engage with a long-standing restaurant that offered something unique compared to their previous ventures. The duo’s commitment to Columbia’s growth and development is at the heart of their work.

“Columbia loves its traditions, and we are honored to carry the torch of expanding No Name Deli to its second location,” said Sears. “It’s a privilege to be part of a legacy that means so much to this community, and we’re excited to continue its story in Forest Acres.”

The new Forest Drive location of No Name Deli is now open, offering ample parking and the convenience of online ordering and DoorDash delivery. Dedicated to preserving its unique local character, No Name Deli remains committed to providing a traditional deli experience with a focus on speed and quality. For more information, visit nonamedelisc.com.

 

About No Name Deli

Since circa 1973, No Name Deli has served fresh food fast with no frills. The locally owned deli and grill operates two locations in the Columbia area — the original on Elmwood Avenue and the second off Forest Drive. Known for its fresh sandwiches and substantial salads, No Name Deli offers a laid-back atmosphere where guests can enjoy classic deli fare in a relaxed setting. With its quick service, the deli attracts a diverse range of customers, from busy professionals and hardworking locals to college students and families on the go. Follow @nonamedelisc on Instagram and Facebook, and check out the full menu at www.nonamedelisc.com.