Zella's Deli & Restaurant — Restaurant in Swannanoa

Really wanted to love this place. Went on the 10th to get pickup at 3 pm. I bought almost 80.00 worth of food. Three different sandwiches and multiple side items. Took it to go. First I was expecting for the price large sandwiches. Two were small and the sub was medium. My Mom got a BLT. The bacon was flavorful but was cooked to death. Very hard and crunchy. She is elderly and had a hard time eating it. The Pastrami on rye was small for the price and I didn't like the flavor. OK I'll own that one. I also got an Italian sub it was good and the meat and cheese was fresh.

The main problem was the sides. Again very small portions for the price. We wanted potato salad but they were out. So got pasta salad, mine was OK but VERY,VERY dry. My Mom's was completely stale and dry. Both tasted old. The coldslaw is not southern coleslaw, it has NO sweet taste at all. Only acid. The pickles at 3 dollars each had a strong, sour flavor AGAIN very, very small. Got pickled eggs, 3 dollars each they were just OK.

The only reason I'm giving this place even 2 stars is because of the Baklava. It was AMAZING, delicious and sweet. The best I have ever had. The staff seemed very nice and polite too. But the sky high prices and small portions Im afraid will keep most people from returning. This meal was for my 40th birthday and gotta say it was for the most part...

Today was my first time going to Zella's Deli. A client of mine recommended the Reuben so I had to give it a try. And I was blown away on how hot & juicy the corned beef was. Hands down this is the best Reuben sandwich I've had out in a restaurant in a very very long time. I also got a side of fries which were really good and baklava for dessert. I will tell you it is definitely worth $8. They use sourwood honey in their baklava and it is amazing! I will tell you it's probably best to go early before lunch time if your in a rush. If not be prepared to wait in line. I thought I would be smart and try to call my order in but apparently they don't answer the phone and all you can do is leave a message. They were training today so it was a little bit hectic because so many people behind the counter. One piece at a vice I would give the manager or whoever runs the front that if you treat your employees with respect & patience they will more likely turn up to work the next day. I understand it can be frustrating especially when you're busy and you're trying to train new employees. But take a deep breath and be mindful how you talk to people. Because if you talk to your employees rude and hateful then you also willing to talk to clients that way and people around here don't like that. My mama always says that you always get back...

The new location in Black Mountain is a great addition to our area. The food is fresh and delicious. Can't wait to try to dinner menu later this week. The people are friendly and efficient even with this only being the first few days at the new place. Update: went for dinner twice. First we tried the pasta dishes. Spaghetti with meatballs came with 6 good sized meatballs and the sauce was very good. The Chicken Parm was amazing. Good sized, fresh and tender chicken with spaghetti. Very generous portions. But I have to say the Braised beef on pasta was out of this world. It melts in your mouth good. It reminded me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother's house. Next we tried the Friday night fish fry. The fish serving was HUGE. The crust was a nice crispy breadcrumb kind with very flakey fresh fish (cod I believe) and comes with some mighty tasty potato wedges. AND it doesn't stop there The PIES!! Also fresh locally made pies. Cherry, blueberry and apple. Hard pressed to pick a favorite but I think blueberry wins. Trust me, you will not go home hungry. Another Update: We went for Sunday Brunch. Also very good. A nice variety of options. A lovely Caprese Benedict and oh my, HOMEMADE corned beef hash. A delightful end of...