• Since 1993, when the Malouf family opened the stand-alone store on Phillips Lane, Frisco Deli has consistently served simple, delicious food.

Driving into Pearl on I-20, you’ll pass several signs for fast food restaurants. If you take the Pearson Road exit, there’s no shortage of chain restaurants. Dunkin’ Donuts, Waffle House, Steak and Shake, Dairy Queen, Wendy’s—take your pick. But right in the middle of it all, tucked away on Phillips Lane, is a local deli that serves the classics.

Frisco Deli has its own atmosphere

Since 1993, when the Malouf family opened the stand-alone store on Phillips Lane, Frisco Deli has served simple, delicious dishes on Styrofoam plates or wrapped in butcher paper; from the classic turkey sandwich to a Reuben sandwich to a catfish or rib plate.

The menu hasn’t changed all that much, and neither has the interior. Walking into Frisco Deli feels like stepping back in time. The muted browns, the signage slightly faded by the light, the cracked leather of some of the seats. A deli counter reveals individually portioned cold sides like potato salad, coleslaw and pasta salad alongside slices of cakes and pies for dessert. You order at one end of the bar, get your food at the other and make your way to the popular booths, tables or chairs.

Step outside and enjoy a more modern dining feel, but you’re still sitting on the porch. Fans and clear plastic provide air circulation in the summer, and heaters can also be on in the winter if needed.

In short, when you’re at Frisco Deli, you’re not dining at a white-tablecloth institution; you’re at home with the Frisco family.

The mainstay of Frisco Deli

Frisco Deli started in 1984 in strip malls, but in 1993 the owner moved to the Pearl storefront. Since then, the eatery has seen steady business and a loyal local following grow.

Mitchell Malouf ran Frisco Deli after leaving the legendary Malaco Records in the 1970s. While Malaco became a soul music legend, Malouf made Frisco Deli a hit in its own right. The Malouf family still owns it today, and Mitchell Jr. can often be seen taking orders and serving sandwiches at the counter with the rest of his staff.

Customers still rave about Frisco Deli today, but the shop’s appeal seems to be that what you see is what you get. Familiar, friendly faces (including oft-mentioned favorite Arthur) greet you as you walk in. The staff is cheerful and acts like they want to be there, almost whistling as they work. The food is always good and comforting, the portions are large and the frills are small. The sandwiches are made from soft, chewy bread. The fish, chicken and shrimp are breaded and fried until crispy, and the vegetables for the sandwiches are always fresh.

The varied menu is also a plus. Fancy catfish? The crispiest fillets with their secret ingredient batter await you. Want to snack on ribs? Frisco Deli. Dreaming of a muffaletta that will tickle your taste buds? Frisco Deli. Demanding children? Put together your own sandwich at Frisco Deli.

Good food is simply part of the tradition at Frisco Deli.

Don’t take my word for it. Let’s eat! Plan your trip today at friscodeli.com.