CT’s Deli celebrates a big first year

BY EILEEN PERSIKE

EDITOR

In the heart of the construction zone downtown Rhinelander is a deli that opened last summer and quickly became a favorite stop for a bite to eat, a cool beverage and a staff full of friendly faces. CT’s Deli opened to great reviews a year ago and is now preparing for a week-long one-year anniversary celebration.

“We never had time for a grand opening, so we are doing a grand one year,” explained co-owner Rhonda Jicinsky. “The community has been so supportive with referrals, and even finding us in the construction maze.”

The anniversary event begins June 30 and will include daily specials, offers, live music and a chance to win CT’s Deli gift cards, a free drink or side, vendor prizes, discounted meals, tee shirts and more.

Jicinsky said they take pride in being a family-owned small town deli that offers chef-inspired food, including smoked pork butt and beef brisket, in which they specialize. CT’s lunch menu contains hot and cold sandwiches, spit-carved gyros, paninis, scratch-made soups and fresh salads. The deli offers a fine line of Italian deli meats, small-producer artisan vinegars and oils and smoked meats, as well as a full line of craft beers, wine and liquor.

“Our historic building provides an intimate, casual environment that allows social interaction with all staff and customers,” she said. “We want to make you feel welcome.”

Saying their niche is small gatherings, either company or private, Jicinsky said she welcome’s requests and feedback. The popularity of wine and beer nights and cooking classes ensures those offerings will continue.

CT’s Deli is surviving the Streetscape construction, in part, according to Jicinsky, due to their front and rear entrances; a feature that was a must-have in their location search. She also credits holding regular hours as another way to keep customers coming back in spite of the road work.

The Deli is “community committed” and hosts Friday FUNdraisers, donates to local events and helps promote downtown.

CT’s Deli is located at 17 N. Brown Street downtown Rhinelander and is currently accessible through the parking lot behind the building and the back entrance. The phone number is 715-369-8988. Visit the website, ChefTomsDeli.com.