Moose on the loose in the tundra!
Smiling Moose Deli Opens in Eau Claire, Wisconsin!
Feb. 23, 2011
Finally coming down from the Colorado mountains, the Smiling Moose Deli has migrated to Wisconsin, finding a perfect home in the college town of Eau Claire. And since December, the first out-of-state franchise has enjoyed an outpouring of local support and appreciation for the casual family atmosphere, as well as the innovative and fresh menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups.
Deli co-owner and Eau Claire/Altoona locals, Colleen Weber and Lisa Schuetz were looking for just the right sandwich shop to open up in the newly re-developed Phoenix Park Neighborhood, near the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. With a background in restaurant and business management, Weber started an exhaustive search for the right fit and personality to match the area. She chanced upon the Smiling Moose Deli by Googling ‘Fun + community + franchise + sandwiches.’ Up popped the moose on the first page!
“The Smiling Moose Deli was the right fit in many ways, because there’s something for everyone. We’re not just selling sandwiches-we're selling atmosphere - fun environment, fun food,” says Weber. “The community has responded enthusiastically not only to the unique menu and specials, but also to our brand new store and our wide catering options. And they are really starting to call ahead and use our pickup window.”
Located across from the Downtown Farmer’s Market, in an area known for its social climate and high energy, has proven to be a huge asset to the store. Customers appreciate the fresh menu and locally-owned business, as well as the convenience for getting a meal or walking the neighborhood with a fresh latte or coffee to-go.
Hearty portions made up of deliciously fresh ingredients are indeed the claim to fame. The Smiling Moose Deli menu consists of fun names and diverse options including crisp, hearty salads, tasty all-day breakfast choices, savory soups, hot and cold sandwiches, healthy wraps and much more. Some of the signature favorites include “The Mighty Mo,” an award-winning Cheeseburger Grinder, the not just for vegetarians “Green Thumb” or the “Hippie Chick," a tasty combination of hummus, avocado, cilantro layered with crunchy cucumbers, lettuce, tomato and cheddar cheese and a few red onions.
Weber enthusiastically relates how the Smiling Moose Deli is settling in. “We have enjoyed getting to know our customers, and we want to be their destination for food and fun for years to come!” And judging from the response, Eau Claire feels the same way about the Smiling Moose Deli.