Deli Big On Variety, Big On Taste

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Overview: Rock Deli, located in the Chimney Rock Plaza on Union Avenue in Bridgewater, has more than 30 different cold subs, and just as many hot ones, as well as breakfast options on its extensive deli menu in a warm setting where patrons order their food at the counter and bring it to their own tables.

Décor: Several tables to eat at, warm orange walls and a bit of a narrow deli area all combine to create a very easy-going atmosphere. It is easy to feel comfortable in the deli setting, but there aren't too many available tables. Still, that didn't seem to be an issue when I visited the restaurant on a Saturday afternoon just before closing time, as families and singles still flooded into the deli for last-minute orders.

The Drinks: The deli is non-alcoholic, but it offers a variety of iced teas, sodas, coffee and my suddenly new favorite kind of hot tea, a very berried brand.

Entrees: The deli offers a beyond extensive variety of sandwiches, and employees are willing to make changes to the meals to please patrons. For example, I ordered the Vegetarian Delight sub, which is eggplant, lettuce, tomato and mayo—but I am admittedly not a fan of mayo. So I asked for the sandwich without mayo, but with cheese, a task the cooks completed without hesitation. I know that sounds like a simple change, but it's those little things that I think make a restaurant good. And let me tell you, the sandwich was delicious, perfectly breaded eggplant, heated sandwich, delicious bread—perfect. My dining partner ordered an Italian sub, technically a pretty standard sandwich, but he was also pleased with the quality of the meats and enjoyed his meal.

Desserts: The deli has a selection of chips and candies, but there are no real desserts to speak of.

Service: This deli is not a waiter-service restaurant, but service is still quick. Although I visited the deli toward the end of the day, when workers were preparing to close up, the food was prepared quickly and correctly, and I only had to wait maybe five minutes for it to be prepared. The employees are constantly helping new patrons, and ensuring that everyone is being served.

Address: 568 Union Avenue, Bridgewater
Hours for the restaurant: Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: $