DELI-cious! Sandwiches and more are on the menu in this ‘Eat Like a Local’

In this episode of “Eat Like a Local”, chef Chris Shepherd visits one of Houston’s quiet icons, Mandola’s Deli.

• Watch “Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC and KPRC 2+

Mandola’s Deli

4105 Leeland St. | Houston

Frank and Joseph Mandola are the father-son duo running this original in southeast Houston. Frank tells how he started the deli nearly 50 years ago with the goal of sharing his family’s love of food and people. Over four decades, the deli has expanded its menu to include the Mandola’s family recipes for Italian classics like handmade sausage, chicken parmesan and focaccia.

Brown Bag Deli

5 Houston locations - Find them here

After trying the po’boys at Mandola’s, Chris goes on a hunt for other deli sandwiches in the city. That search leads him to one of his wife’s favorite spots, Brown Bag Deli.

• PREVIOUS EPISODE: Immerse yourself in the flavorful world of West African cuisine in Houston

Here Forrest Andrews shares how his love of sandwiches and a clandestine conversation led him to become the unexpected owner of the deli in 2019. Since taking over, he’s worked to expand the menu with the help of his team (check the sandwich board for their creations), his wife (the Boss’ Wife wrap is a hit) and his own surprise Celiac diagnosis (there’s now a gluten-free option). But, when it comes to sandwiches here, Chris loves the classics – egg salad, chicken salad and the club are his go-to’s.

“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.

Season 2 of “Eat Like a Local”

• SEASON 2, EPISODE 28: FARM TO TABLE: Where Houston restaurants get the most fresh and flavorful produce
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 29: Houston Texans fans! These are the best bites you’ll find at NRG Stadium
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 30: What to order at some of Houston’s best neighborhood restaurants
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 31: Bring on the cookies! ‘Eat Like a Local’ visits some of the best bakers in town
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 32: This cocktail laboratory has a secret entrance
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 33: THEN AND NOW: How one of Houston’s most popular fried chicken restaurants came to be
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 34: Indian food to celebrate during Diwali and all year round
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 35: Pho and more 🍜 These Houston area restaurants have mastered the art of making noodles
• SEASON 2, EPISODE 36: Immerse yourself in the flavorful world of West African cuisine in Houston
• WATCH THE FIRST SEASON OF “EAT LIKE A LOCAL”