Genesee Sun

Mount Morris Deli A Treat For Locals and International Travelers

MOUNT MORRIS — Main Street’s Steffanelli’s Deli sells more than the typical deli fare of sandwiches and salads— it sells home-cooked comfort food and relaxation.

When the deli first opened in May 2011, business was tough, said owner Stephanie Wolfe. Since then, Steffanelli’s Deli has acquired a customer base of locals and foreigners traveling through Mount Morris.

“I get people from all over the world,” said Wolfe. “I’ve had people from Australia. I had a lady from Michigan come in the other day for lunch. I’ve had people from Holland here, and the Netherlands. It’s very interesting. I like meeting all the people who come through.”

Before opening, Wolfe, a resident of Conesus, wasn’t sure if running a business in Mount Morris would be successful. Now she’s glad she took a chance when real estate developer Greg O’Connell and Louise Wadsworth approached her about opening a deli.

“I like to cook and I like to feed people, so it all comes together and everyone seems to be happy with that,” Wolfe said.

Wolfe was unemployed when O’Connell and Wadsworth approached her, but she had prior experience running businesses for other people and working with food. Running her own deli business was something new and exciting to try.

She decided to name her business Steffanelli’s Deli after her nickname “Steffanelli.” The name just happened to rhyme perfectly with deli.

In addition to making sure the business had a catchy name, Wolfe had to make sure it was cozy for her customers— something she’s certainly accomplished. The deli’s walls are a light yellow that gives the restaurant warmth even on a cold winter day. The counter is stocked with desserts, sides and salads to tempt the eyes and taste buds. The whole place gives off a vibe that says “Stay awhile”— advice some customers have followed.

“I had a group of ladies in here for three hours yesterday,” said Wolfe with a smile. “It’s comfortable. I like to treat people like they’re coming to my house for dinner.”

Steffanelli’s Deli is also the go-to place for people who can’t make it home for dinner, especially during the holidays.

“I attract a lot of people going to see their families up on Murray Hill and want to bring food up,” Wolfe said. “I’m glad I’m able to help them out that way.”

Everything in the deli is made fresh from scratch. Wolfe said she buys new ingredients everyday to make sure she’s stocked up with the best foods. She also tells her customers to let her know if they want something that isn’t on the menu.

“I try to please everybody,” said Wolfe. “That’s one of my mottos.”

Whether a customer is in the mood for a Reuben and some pasta salad, or macaroni and cheese and roasted vegetables, Steffanelli’s Deli is sure to hit the spot.

The deli is located at 40 Main Street, Mount Morris and is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.