By Michelle Portesi
Caitlin works the register at Dave’s Deli
The snow has finally made an appearance, (with more forecast on the way), and the ski areas are up and humming!
Located in Squaw Valley Ski Resort’s Olympic House, near the Funitel Gondola, is an iconic, long time local haunt known as Dave’s Deli. Started by Dave Mercer and his wife Liz almost 40 years ago, the deli has been run exclusively by Liz for the last several decades after Dave unexpectedly passed away at the age of 37.
In full disclosure, I’ll admit here that I work at the deli part time. It’s a fast paced, yet enjoyable environment that feeds my ‘foodie’ proclivities. (I should also mention that the ‘foodie connection’ is how I met Lynn Richardson. We both belong to the local chapter of the American Association of University Women gourmet group. Look for an upcoming post about the group.)
With few exceptions, Dave’s Deli makes all of their soups, sandwiches, salads and such fresh on the premises. (OK, so those single pizza breads come to the deli frozen, but the kids love ’em, so we keep ’em!) We purposely bake fresh cookies in the afternoon, knowing that the wonderful aroma emanating from the kitchen will entice you in to buy some. (Yes, we’re absolutely shameless that way…)
Unlike most deli’s however, Dave’s is more of a grab and run scenario. Since most folks want to pick up something quick and get out there skiing, the sandwiches are made in the morning, ready and wrapped to go. Saddle ’em up, Move ’em out, Rawhide!!! That’s our motto. Dave’s prides itself on making every effort to get a huge influx of people well fed, and quickly, so you don’t miss a minute of fresh powder.
Start your day with the deli favorite, The Rad Muffin. An English muffin with ham and cheese, heated. Most people add a scrambled egg to that, and you’re out the door in a matter of minutes with a hot and nutritious breakfast.
Lunch favorites are ‘The Fat Kid’ – a whole Avocado with sprouts and cheese on wheat bread, or Dave’s own signature chicken salad with cheese on wheat. And we have meatloaf sandwiches every day, not just on Tuesday!
Liz the owner prepping food for a busy day at Dave’s Deli
Dave’s also make lunches for your kids who participate in the various ski groups at Squaw, like their ‘Mighty Mite’ program. Order from Liz in the morning, and a hand packed lunch is delivered to the group at the top of the mountain. You can also purchase gift cards or family debit cards which are kept on file at the deli so your kids can order breakfast or lunch at Dave’s without you having to hand them wads of cash or a credit card and hoping they don’t lose it. (Not likely.) Problem solved!
Come in for a visit to Dave’s Deli the next time you’re at Squaw Valley. The decor is old and funky, but the food is fresh and delicious.
And the best bonus of all? For a ski area, the prices are actually reasonable!
Dave’s Deli is open every day from 8-4:30 during the winter. For more information on what’s on the menu at Dave’s, call: 530-581-1085
THINK OF ME, LYNN RICHARDSON, FOR ALL OF YOUR LAKE TAHOE AND TRUCKEE REAL ESTATE NEEDS!
YOUR FRIEND IN HIGH PLACES 
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