Opening Date Announced for the McAlister’s Deli Across from Saint Marys in Rochester

Rochester's restaurant scene is expanding again, and the wait for McAlister's Deli is almost over. I've never eaten at this chain, but a friend of mine who frequents their Mankato location has been raving for months about their sandwiches and loaded baked potatoes.

The fast-casual chain first made local news back in November when we learned they were officially headed for Rochester. Now, the wait is almost over.

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What Is McAlister's Deli?

The McAlister’s story began nearly three decades ago when a dentist from Oxford, Mississippi, had a vision to turn an abandoned movie-set diner into a charming neighborhood diner.

That vision became a reality in 1989. His original deli served sweet tea, handcrafted sandwiches, salads, and iconic giant baked potatoes, and was an instant hit. Today, there are 570 McAlister's locations across 31 states.

Where Is McAlister's Deli in Rochester?

The wait for that famous sweet tea and those massive spuds is almost over. When we first reported the chain was expanding to Rochester, the plan was to open two locations.

The first Rochester location to open will be in The Shoppes on Second Center.

When Is McAlister's Deli Opening in Rochester?

The grand opening for the McAlister's in the Shoppes on Second is officially scheduled for May 11th. No update on the northwest location yet, but we'll keep you posted as soon as we hear more.