Fanelli's Deli Market - Clarksville

My family and I were recently impacted by the tornado on December 9, 2023, here in Clarksville. All day, while dealing with insurance adjusters and cleanup, I had my heart set on a beef on weck sandwich. I stopped by Fanelli's Deli around 3:00 PM, but they were in the process of cleaning and closing the kitchen for the day. I hesitated at the doorway, unsure if I should go in. However, the owners and staff warmly welcomed me and explained their hours of operation. I shared my recent experiences and explained how much my family craved a good meal. Without any hesitation, they prepared two beef on weck sandwiches and one Italian sub for us. It truly made our day. Great people, delicious food, and excellent service. Thank you, Fanelli's Deli!

I discovered that the kitchen closes at 2pm, but that information wasn't made clear, as a handwritten sign on the door was obscured by it being propped open. When I approached the counter, my excitement was met with a dismissive comment: "I guess you can order, my grill is still open!" I simply asked for a cold turkey and cheese sandwich, but the staff member was incredibly rude. It made me understand the other reviews suggesting a cultural difference—this is Tennessee, not New York. If they want their business to succeed, they really need to reconsider their attitudes and comments. The woman behind the counter also seemed frustrated that I only wanted a cold sandwich. When I specified my desired toppings, she mocked my choices for not opting for extras. After jokingly asking her not to judge me for my preferences—especially my dislike for mayo and mustard—I looked at the iPad where a default tip of 20% was set. I was annoyed that the additional toppings she'd insisted I add were priced at 50 cents each, so I requested to remove them. The total came to over $15 for just a sandwich, and while it included chips and a drink, I wasn’t given a choice in the matter. As the guy started preparing my sandwich, they both openly criticized what I had ordered, expressing their disdain for my seemingly boring choice. When the sandwich was finished, he accidentally dropped it on the floor but picked it up without acknowledging it. It was wrapped, so I let it slide and left promptly. The sandwich was decent, but certainly not worth the high price. If they need to charge such fees to cover their overhead costs, they shouldn’t have opened a deli in a prime downtown location. If their attitudes don’t improve, I wouldn't be surprised if they close before the end of 2024.

I visited the restaurant when it first opened two years ago, and I understand that it takes time for a new place to iron out its issues. However, as a New York-style Italian deli, I was disappointed to find that they didn’t offer any Boars Head cold cuts. The only brand I recognized was Taylor Ham, and my wife and I decided to stick with that. Sorry, but as New Yorkers, we’ll be heading to Publix instead, where they carry the full range of Boars Head products!

Great food. Quick. I believe family owned too. Very friendly folks. Sandwich flavors far exceed expectations. Would come back to show friends in the future. Hope they continue to do well.

Love this place and it's less expensive than the grocery store at this point. Excellent people, clean, great atmosphere.