The Thanksgiving Sandwich at This Wisconsin Deli Beats the Real Meal

Do you remember that Friends episode, the one with Ross's sandwich made from Thanksgiving leftovers—"the moist maker"—that was better than the holiday meal itself? That's how I feel about post-holiday leftovers, too: I love the celebration, but the food is often better the next day. You can imagine my glee, then, when I learned that I could have a Thanksgiving sandwich in Wisconsin right now, before the holiday—and you can, too. All you need to do is head over to Eau Claire Cheese and Deli, which is located (unsurprisingly) in the city of the same name, and order a Thanksgiving Delight.

Eau Claire Cheese and Deli is a stalwart of the community. Its owner has managed this former Nelson Cheese Factory location for more than 30 years. She continued after the shop was purchased in 2018 and renamed it to align with the new vision for the business. Long a favorite in the Chippewa Valley, Eau Claire Cheese and Deli specializes in Wisconsin cheese and sausage, fresh meats, and made-to-order sandwiches and trays. You'll also find freshly brewed coffee and a regularly rotating selection of ice cream flavors. The deli even serves up deep-fried cheese curds every now and then.

Locally made gifts, products, and Wisconsin-themed merchandise round out the shop's offerings, helping to support the owner's mission of championing the region's culture while also promoting small businesses in the community. It's these touches and the high quality of the shop's products that keep folks coming back for more, year after year. This time of year, however, is particularly special—if you ask me, anyway.

This is because when Turkey Day approaches, the deli whips up a sandwich that could put a holiday feast to shame: its Thanksgiving Delight. They start with your choice of toasted sourdough or pumpernickel, then layer it with warm sliced turkey breast, melted creamy Havarti, top it with Moose Lake Mustard (from Chetek), AVEnue Orchard Cranberry Horseradish Jam, and tomato for a little juicy pizzaz, then add lettuce and red onion for some crunch. Come Thanksgiving, I could just watch football on my phone while eating one of these masterpieces in the Deli's park lot and be perfectly content. Alas, however, the shop will be closed on the holiday... but not before or after!

So, if you're ready to pre-game Turkey Day, head over to Eau Claire Cheese and Deli and pick up a Thanksgiving Delight. Or heck, skip cooking altogether this year: You could just pick up a tray of these bad boys and a case of Leinie (or Spotted Cow if you're feeling fancy). Your guests won't complain—and if you have leftovers, your sandwiches are already made! Head over to Eau Claire Cheese and Deli on the web to see their menu of sandwiches, ice cream, and cheese. Visit the shop on Facebook for the latest news and specials—and to see whether cheese curds are in the fryer.

Are you ready to get and see more of what the Badger State has to offer? If so, head over to  Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner, take it for a spin, and see what inspiring itineraries it may conjure.