Al's Prime Meat & Deli — Restaurant in Garwood

I was planning a small kid party and went to Al's because they make good sandwiches, especially their Sloppy Joes. Their catering menu lists a " mini party platter " - 15 mini sandwiches on mini rolls . I was going to get two of these platters . Figuring that not everyone( especially kids) might like rolls, I asked if they could substitute a half sandwich made of white bread and rye for the minis on the second platter. Basically, would a half rye or white bread sandwich be the same size as a mini roll sandwich, which is a 4 in long oval roll. I was told yes. Their menu lists these mini platters at 24.95 for 15 little sandwiches . I asked if I could have American cheese instead of Swiss. The guy tried to hand me his piece of paper and sarcastically said, " Here- maybe you should write it yourself and don't blame us if we get it wrong" . I did not take the paper. I asked if I had come at a bad time. He said " Yes". In hindsight I should have walked out right then. But I just needed some little sandwiches in addition to the pizza at my kids party . They were very rude. I assumed the cost would be 24.95 x 2. because the man said that a half sandwich would equal the little 4 in. Long oval Sandwich. Well , my husband picked up the little sandwiches and the total was not $50. plus tax but 90.00. A friend said that was ridiculous and that I should call . I was told on the phone that since they were " custom sandwiches" ( because of the bread substitution on the second matter) I was paying extra because of that and the bread. So I guess he was saying that white and rye bread cost extra. They should have told me that but instead had said it would be equivalent . I would not have had a problem paying extra for the 15 slices of bread on the second platter. But not more than double for what I thought would be around 25.00. Basically, they charged me double to substitute white and rye for rolls. So what should have been no more than 55 , according to their menu, and my estimation ,was $90. The rudeness in the store and the nonsensical explanation with no apology for the miscommunication, or lack of communication, is Bad Business in my opinion. Who knew that a slice of rye or white bread costs more than a 4 in long mini roll. My guests liked the sandwiches which is why they get two stars from me but for customer service,...

Wow, what a deli! This place is amazing! Went here off a recommendation from a family member and Al’s hit every facet of a great American deli! From the brightness of the menus to the cleanliness of the entire place, it really makes you want to dig into a huge sandwich. Let me also note there were a ton of police officers in there and one thing I have definitely come to the conclusion over the years is that if there are police officers or dpw workers in a lunch place then it is going to have great food. They have so many unique sandwich combinations and a few sandwiches that they do on their house made focaccia bread! I couldn’t decide what I wanted because of all the amazing options I couldn’t narrow it down to just one thing I wanted to try so one of the nice, bright staff members after making a few of their top selling suggestions said “you could always just make your own creation and go crazy”, which is exactly what I did. What I assume to be the owner came over and said “I heard you talking about our focaccia bread and while it is good, I think our semolina is the best option for a nice sub sandwich”. The sandwich was amazing, great quality meats and ingredients and great size for the price. They also have a wide selection of salads and pre made items to choose from. There was a good amount of people eating inside with a wide range of food from omelettes to sandwiches and also just classic dishes but it didn’t seem too crowded and the staff were still calm, cool and smiling. If you’re in the garwood/Cranford area and looking for a nice lunch or going to hop on the train to head into the city (they are located right next to the garwood train station) you should definitely stop at Al’s and you’ll be...

I was in the area for work and this deli caught my eye while driving through town. I’m so glad I did. The employees are very welcoming. Lots of menu options but my favorites were the custom sandwiches. I picked the chicken pesto on focaccia which was absolutely delivious. The sandwich was warm and fresh. The photo speaks for itself. Definitely recommend stopping here for lunch. They also have premade meals like chicken marsala and penne vodka in the fridge to your left as...