McAlister's Deli: A Houston Staple for Fresh Sandwiches and Famous Tea

McAlister's Deli Introduce

In the heart of Houston, where the energy of the University of Houston campus meets the community, lies a modern and vibrant eatery that has become a go-to spot for locals and students alike: McAlister's Deli. This isn't your average sandwich shop. With its trendy and casual atmosphere, it offers a refreshing take on classic deli fare, providing a wide array of options that go far beyond what you might expect. McAlister's is renowned for its handcrafted sandwiches, its ginormous baked potatoes (known as "Giant Spuds"), and, perhaps most famously, its legendary sweet tea. It’s a place that caters to every kind of diner, whether you're a college student looking for a quick bite, a family in need of a casual dinner, or a local grabbing a healthy lunch. The menu is designed to be both satisfying and versatile, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The experience here is about convenience and comfort, with service options that fit a modern lifestyle, all wrapped up in an environment that is both welcoming and family-friendly.

The McAlister's Deli location at 4434 University Dr Suite 187, Houston, TX 77204, USA is perfectly positioned to serve the University of Houston community and surrounding neighborhoods. Its accessibility is a major plus, with options for both a free parking lot and free street parking. This eliminates the stress of finding a spot in a busy area, making it a convenient destination for a meal. The restaurant also provides a seamless experience for all patrons with its accessibility features, including a wheelchair accessible parking lot, restroom, and seating. For those who prefer to grab their food without leaving their vehicle, curbside pickup is available, and both delivery and no-contact delivery options are offered, providing maximum convenience. The dining area includes comfortable seating and even outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meal in the fresh Texas air when the weather is nice. This combination of prime location and flexible service options makes McAlister's Deli an easy and attractive choice for a diverse crowd of customers.

Services Offered

Dine-in: Guests can enjoy their meal in the trendy and casual dining area, with comfortable seating available for individuals, groups, and families.
Outdoor Seating: The availability of outdoor seating provides an additional option for those who enjoy dining al fresco.
Takeout and Curbside Pickup: For a quick and easy meal on the go, customers can order ahead and either pick up their food inside or opt for the convenient curbside pickup service.
Delivery and No-contact Delivery: McAlister's provides delivery services, including a no-contact option, bringing fresh and delicious food right to your doorstep.
Catering: The restaurant offers catering services, making it a great choice for corporate events, parties, and family gatherings.
Counter Service: The counter service model ensures a quick and efficient ordering process, perfect for those with limited time.
Kid-Friendly Amenities: The inclusion of a kids' menu and high chairs makes McAlister's a very family-friendly spot.

Features and Highlights

Famous Tea Selection: McAlister's is nationally celebrated for its tea. Their "McAlister's Famous Tea" is a highlight that keeps people coming back, known for its fresh flavor and satisfying quality.
Extensive Sandwich Menu: The menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, from classic favorites like The McAlister's Club and The New Yorker to unique creations like the Jalapeno Turkey Crunch and Spicy Southwest Chicken. There is truly a sandwich for every taste.
Legendary Giant Spuds: The "Giant Spuds" are a signature item. These genuine Idaho-grown, oven-baked potatoes are generously stuffed with a range of toppings, including the popular Spud Max™ and the Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud, offering a substantial and comforting meal.
Healthy and Vegetarian Options: The menu includes a variety of healthy choices, such as fresh salads and vegetarian options like The Veggie sandwich and the Veggie Spud, catering to health-conscious diners.
Delicious Soups and Sides: The "Soups" menu features classic comfort foods like Broccoli Cheddar and Country Potato Soup, which can be enjoyed in a cup, bowl, or even a bread bowl. The side options are also diverse, ranging from classic Mac & Cheese to healthier choices like Fresh Fruit and Steamed Broccoli.
Flexible Payment Options: McAlister's accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions seamless.

Contact Information

Address: 4434 University Dr Suite 187, Houston, TX 77204, USA

Phone: (832) 842-5989

What is worth choosing

Choosing McAlister's Deli is a great decision for anyone in the Houston area looking for a meal that offers both quality and variety. What sets this sandwich shop apart is its ability to be a jack-of-all-trades while excelling in its core offerings. The handcrafted sandwiches are fresh and generously portioned, providing a satisfying meal that goes beyond what most fast-casual places offer. The McAlister's Club is a consistent fan favorite for a reason, and for those feeling adventurous, options like the Smoky Pepper Jack Turkey are a delicious surprise. But the menu's appeal doesn't stop there. The "Giant Spuds" are a unique and delicious alternative to a sandwich, perfect for a hearty and comforting meal. The variety of soups and salads also ensures that you can always find a meal that fits your specific craving or dietary need. Another major draw is the famous tea. It's not just a drink; for many, it's a reason to visit on its own, and the restaurant's reputation for having a "great tea selection" is well-earned. The convenience factor is also a huge plus. With options for outdoor seating, curbside pickup, and delivery, McAlister's has adapted to meet the demands of a modern, fast-paced lifestyle. The accessibility features and kid-friendly amenities make it a truly inclusive place for everyone in the community. While some customer feedback mentions isolated issues with service or a limited menu at this specific location, the overall consensus is that the food quality, famous tea, and wide variety of options make it a reliable and enjoyable choice. For a tasty and versatile meal in a trendy and casual setting, McAlister's Deli is a spot that is well worth your time and appetite.

McAlister's Deli Menu

Shareables
Terrific tastes that are simply too good not to share.
Nacho Basket
RO*TEL® cheese dip, sliced jalapeños and tortilla chips
Ultimate Nachos
Chili, RO*TEL®, black olives, tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, cheddar-jack, avocados and sour cream all on top of a crunchy bed of tortilla chips

Fresh Salads
The perfect combination of fresh vegetables, fruit, meats and cheeses, and over ten dressings.
Savannah Chopped Salad
Grilled chicken, dried cranberries, Gorgonzola, honey roasted almonds, tomato and cucumber on mixed greens
Southwest Chicken & Avocado Salad
Grilled chicken, roasted corn, poblano and black bean relish, red onion, tomato, cheddar-jack, blue corn tortilla strips, avocado on mixed greens
Grilled Chicken Salad
Grilled chicken, bacon, cheddar-jack, tomato, cucumber and croutons on mixed greens
Garden Salad
Cheddar-jack, tomato, cucumber and croutons on mixed greens. Try it with a scoop of our Harvest Chicken Salad.
Chef Salad
Diced turkey and ham, bacon, cheddar-jack, tomato, cucumber, and croutons on mixed greens
Caesar Salad
Parmesan, croutons and romaine lettuce served tossed with Caesar dressing.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Our Caesar salad with grilled chicken

Sandwiches
The most fun you can fit between two pieces of bread.
The McAlister's Club
Smoked turkey, Black Forest ham, bacon, sharp cheddar, Swiss, spring mix, tomato, mayo and McAlister’s Honey Mustard™ on wheat
McAlister's Club Wrap
The goodness of the McAlister's Club in a wheat wrap
Grilled Chicken Club
McAlister's Club with grilled chicken in place of ham and turkey
King Club
Twice the ingredients of the McAlister’s Club on country white
Orange Cranberry Club
The McAlister’s Club with Orange Cranberry sauce in place of honey mustard
Black Angus Club
Black Angus roast beef, bacon, sharp cheddar, Swiss, red onion, spring mix, tomato, horseradish sauce and mayo on wheat
Ham & Cheese Melt
Black Forest ham, Swiss, mayo, spicy brown mustard and tomato on toasted ciabatta
Four Cheese Melt
Provolone, Swiss, cheddar, Parmesan and tomato on toasted ciabatta
Harvest Chicken Salad
Chicken salad with cranberries and pecans, spring mix and tomato on croissant. *This product contains pecans
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken with spring mix, tomato, Swiss and McAlister's Honey Mustard™ on croissant
French Dip
Black Angus roast beef and melted Swiss on toasted baguette, served au jus
The New Yorker
Corned beef, pastrami, Swiss and spicy brown mustard on marbled rye
The Italian
Black Forest ham, salami, provolone, house-roasted multicolored peppers, spring mix, tomato, red onion, black olives, Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinaigrette and spicy brown mustard on baguette
Memphian
Smoked turkey, Black Forest ham and Black Angus roast beef, provolone, spring mix, tomato, mayo and spicy brown mustard on baguette
Reuben
Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss and Thousand Island dressing on marbled rye
Rachel
The Reuben with turkey in place of corned beef
The Veggie
Spinach, tomato, cucumber, red onion, house-roasted multicolored peppers, avocado and herb mayo on 9-Grain
Garden Fresh Turkey
Smoked turkey, avocado, spinach, tomato, Swiss and Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinaigrette on 9-Grain
Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap
Grilled chicken, Romaine, Parmesan and Caesar dressing
BLT+A
Applewood smoked bacon, spring mix, tomato, avocado and herb mayo on country white
Jalapeno Turkey Crunch
Smoked turkey, jalapeño spud chips, bacon, pepper jack, avocado and mayo on toasted jalapeño roll
Spicy Turkey Melt
Smoked turkey, bacon, pepper jack, avocado, chipotle ranch, spring mix and tomato on toasted baguette
Horseradish Roast Beef & Cheddar
Black Angus roast beef, sharp cheddar, red onion and horseradish sauce on toasted ciabatta
Sweet Chipotle Chicken
Grilled chicken, sharp cheddar and spicy sweet chipotle peach sauce on toasted ciabatta
Spicy Southwest Chicken
Grilled chicken, roasted corn, poblano and black bean relish, pepper jack, avocado and chipotle ranch on toasted jalapeño roll
Smoky Pepper Jack Turkey
Smoked turkey, bacon, pepper jack and McAlister’s Honey Mustard™ on toasted ciabatta

Giant Spuds
Genuine, Idaho-grown potatoes oven baked and stuffed with flavor.
Justaspud
A genuine Idaho-grown potato with sour cream on the side. Option to add bacon or cheddar-jack
Chipotle Chicken & Bacon Spud
Grilled chicken, bacon, cheddar-jack, chipotle ranch and green onions
Black Angus Roast Beef Spud
Black Angus roast beef, red onions and cheddar-jack, served au jus
Veggie Spud
Spinach, broccoli, red onion, house-roasted multicolored peppers and RO*TEL® cheese sauce
Spud Max™
Ham, turkey, bacon, cheddar-jack, green onion, black olives and sour cream

Soups
Hot and satisfying. Simmered slowly just for you. Try them in a cup, bowl or bread bowl.
Broccoli Cheddar
Hot, creamy, cheesy and delicious, our Broccoli Cheddar is great comfort food even when you don’t need comforting
Fire Roasted Vegetable
Vegetable soup with the flavor of tons of fire roasted vegetables, couscous and a deep tomato based broth
Chicken Tortilla
It’s packed with chicken, tomato, cilantro and cheese, with the kick of peppers.
Parmesan & Kale
Enjoy a creamy parmesan soup with hearty turkey sausage and the healthy kick of kale
Chili
our chili is chunky with beef, beef and more beef to give it a hearty flavor that will warm your heart
Country Potato Soup
Hot potato soup with the flavors of onion, bacon, chives and cheese
Veggie Chili
A hearty, meatless, all-bean chili that has all the seasoning you love
Tomato Bisque
Try a slow kettle style tomato soup, seasoned perfectly for your spoon

Kids
Big flavors and fun for our younger guests.
Kid's Mac & Cheese
There’s a reason kids love creamy cheese over macaroni. It’s the same reason adults will want to steal a bite
Kid's French Bread Pizza
Kids’ go-to favorite served the McAlister’s way on crunchy French bread topped with tomato sauce and cheddar-jack cheese
Kid's Garden Salad
Cucumbers, tomatoes, cheese and croutons served with fresh greens and topped with your little one’s choice of protein (chicken, ham or turkey)
Kid's Chicken & Broccoli Bowl
All natural chicken tossed with fresh, steamed broccoli and cheddar-jack cheese make the perfect fuel for active kids always on the go
Kid's Spud
A genuine Idaho potato served with butter and your choice of toppings: Cheddar-jack Cheese, Bacon, All-Natural Sour Cream
Kid's Toasted Cheese
There is such thing as a great kid’s toasted cheese. It’s made to not only taste good but to wow

Sides
For every sandwich there's a perfect side.
Mac & Cheese
This mac and cheese isn’t just for kids, it’s an adult five
Tomato & Cucumber Salad
This blend of tomatoes and cucumbers is the perfect addition to any meal
Superfood Slaw
Light and refreshing, this slaw has it all with kale, cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts and more
Side Salad
Enjoy our amazing dressings on a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers
Potato Salad
One taste of our chunky potatoes blanketed with our creamy mustard and egg dressing and you can almost feel the sunshine, even inside
Fresh Fruit
Melon, honeydew, pineapple, blueberries, we’ll grab whatever’s fresh and tasting great
Steamed Broccoli
This lightly seasoned broccoli isn’t just good for you, it’s just plain good
Chips
It’s the classic side for your classic choice. Try our Spud Chips in Sea Salt, Jalapeno, BBQ and Salt & Vinegar.
Applesauce
Our applesauce is made from real apples and has an intense, fruity flavor that’s yummy sweet, with a hint of tartness

Beverages
Our famous tea, lemonade and fruit flavors satisfy the biggest thirsts.
McAlister's Famous Tea
Rainforest Alliance Certified. Specially filtered. Made fresh, at least every four hours. Sweet or unsweet or half and half. Poured perfectly over ice. Then, served with a smile
Lemonade
What could be better than sitting back and sipping on an old-fashioned, pure cane sugar lemonade?
Lemonade Tea
Mix our famous pure sugar cane lemonade with our famous sweet tea and you get the best of both worlds
Fountain Drinks
McAlister's serves a whole line of Coca-Cola® products

Desserts
Make your day even sweeter.
Brownie
A bite of one of our moist, rich brownies is sure to put a chocolatey smile on anyone’s face.
Brookie
The best of both worlds with a delicious blend of cookie and brownie
House-Baked Cookies
All of our assorted cookies are baked throughout the day right in the restaurant and it’s a difference you can taste. Options include Chocolate Chip, Heath, Macadamia Nut, Salted Caramel, Sugar and Oatmeal Raisin

McAlister's Deli Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great tea selection

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible entrance

Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Counter service
Dessert
Seating

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy

Crowd
College students
Family-friendly
Groups
Locals

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking

McAlister's Deli Photos

McAlister's Deli Location

McAlister's Deli

Texas Harris County Houston South Side University Drive

4434 University Dr Suite 187, Houston, TX 77204, USA

McAlister's Deli Reviews

An average rating of ★3.6 from 159 user reviews.

saladpricescampusstudentlunchmac and cheesesweet teachilicollegehonor

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

The location is ok, staff greet you but arent aware of what they do and dont have. The website shows the location to have certain items without specifying that this location has a reduced menu available. The two items I went there to pick up for a coworker and myself werent even on the available menu.I ordered a peach lemonade, what I got was lemomade with syrup at the bottom unmixed. I asked for a fruit cup, no thats jot available. Instead of the Chipotle chicken spud I wanted, I ordered the spid max... and they still messed it up. The only toppings added to my spud are ham and bacon, nothing else. No green onion, black olives. 2 little paxks of butter and 1 thing of sour cream is all I got.I purchased 2 drinks and my order was to go, I wasnt offered a drink carrying bag but had to ask as I was leaving.1/10 location/service/food.
January 27 · louis gonzalez
Just got food here this morning and I had to come back to leave a review. The food was good but the service was not something I would want to come back here for. Having worked at customer service for 7 years of my life, I know it can be sometimes frustrating for employees to deal with customers all day so even a neutral service interaction works for me. What I am saying is that I don’t hold high expectations for customer service. The lady who took my order at the counter seemed super annoyed when I was not able to understand or locate the “sides” menu option, and was unnecessarily rude when I asked what are the options and told me to look up there and find it. I think I would rather prefer using a self service kiosk if the human service can’t improve.
April 14 · adil etc
Good sandwich and fun atmosphere.Location is great, especially for students. Parking isn’t far at all and they have a great menu. Wait for food was a bit longer than hoped, not bad though. Staff were somewhere between super nice and apathetic. Likely College students working a part time job. The food wasn’t anything to write home about but it satisfied a hunger craving for sure.
December 04 · Nate Church
Workers were lazy and rude. They keep the doors open till 6 due to policy but say they “won’t serve you after 5:00” even though it does not close till 6! The service is flip floppy like some days they are nice some they are rude asf. The food is very good though, sucks that the service does not match. Overall not worth the trips or the meal swipes.
May 06 · Haley Renee
Would be a nice place to grab a quick bite if not for the very poor service. Decent prices for a decent meal, and the only complaint with the food itself is with the very watery mac and cheese. Servers are extremely rude and rush you even when the store is empty, and they yell at you to clean up when you are in the process of cleaning up after yourself. I’ve never had to rate a one for service, but these servers should not be allowed to interact with customers.
February 07 · QueenSof