Wendy's Deli Celebrates 24 Years in Business, Lifetime Friendships

MATTITUCK, NY — It wasn't just the usual crowd at Wendy's Deli in Mattituck Thursday morning, lining up for breakfast, coffee, and the kinds of sandwiches that keep customers coming back, time and time again, for another taste of small-town goodness.

Thursday marked owner Wendy Zuhoski's 24th year in business at her Middle Road location in Mattituck, and over the years, she's become forever woven into the fabric of North Fork life, sharing not only delicious fare but forging lifelong friendships

She kicked off the celebration with a note: "Today marks the first day of our 24th year here at Wendy's Deli," she wrote. "I could not have come this far without the loyal support and hard work of each and every one of my employees."

Zuhoski added that Wendy's staff wanted to show their appreciation to loyal customers. "We have enjoyed being a part of this awesome community," she said.

To celebrate the day, Zuhoski offered 24 percent off a few of the deli's most popular sandwiches. A new sandwich was even introduced, the Polish Express, featuring kielbasa with sautéed peppers and onions, horseradish cream sauce and a potato pancake with apple sauce and sour cream on a toasted ciabatta roll.

"We are constantly on the lookout for new and tasty ideas," Zuhoski said. "This one might be right up there on the menu one day. Our daily specials change from day to day, and we try to come up with something new all the time. Change is good."

Reflecting on the anniversary, Zuhoski told Patch, "We had a great day at the deli today. We love to celebrate! Looking so forward to the big 25 years. We will be sure to do something special."

The joy of the business is found in her customers, Zuhoski said. "We really do have a great clientele. We are so happy to be back in our regular mode. The teachers and students have returned and everyone seems to be back on their regular schedule. We love it. We love the chaos of summer; don't get me wrong. But the fall is always the best."

Customers are close as family at the deli.

When the business celebrated 20 years, a large banner across the deli case was signed by scores of well wishers.

"So many great memories at the deli," Zuhoski said. "I have so many great friends that I have met over the years. My work is my social life. It's a great place to be."

And it's the bonds created that mean everything, Zuhoski said.

"I owe everything I have to all the people that stop in, day after day, for a cup of coffee, a breakfast, just the newspapers, some lunch, something to drink, or even just to say hi. They have made us what we are today."

Zuhoski is a kindhearted, caring member of the community, participating in fundraisers and donating scores of prizes to auctions and other events, always giving back.

To her loyal customers, Zuhoski has a heartfelt message: "Thank you. Thank you for everything. I really do enjoy my work, every day. I owe that to all of them. And to my employees — I could not have done it without all their hard work and dedication."

Throughout the day, Wendy's Deli got a sea of best wishes and shout outs on social media.

"Happy 24th to Wendy's Deli, home of greatness, generosity, community and love," said Cutchogue's Beth Shipman.

Photo courtesy of Wendy Zuhoski and Beth Shipman.