Today we’d like to introduce you to Chaz Wendel.
Hi Chaz, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It was a beautiful day sitting on Folly Beach. A few of us were floating down the ocean discussing the next chapters in our lives. It was myself, Chef Tyler Hunt and my wife, Jacquelyn. We started talking about how much we love Delis and how we can all trace great moments of our childhoods to our home neighborhood delis. We shared stories and laughed. When we left the beach for lunch we started seriously discussing “What if we opened a deli?” Pulled out a stack of bar napkins and started writing down menu ideas. 10 months later we signed the paperwork on 41 George Street.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Opening a restaurant is the furthest thing from a smooth road. I have been lucky enough to open a few restaurants in town with my previous job so my expectations were real. Be ready for anything. For the most part things went as planned. We had a lot of great mentors and friends help us avoid some major mishaps. Big thanks to all of you who helped and listened when we were putting the pieces together.
As you know, we’re big fans of Legend Deli . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Legend Deli is a small deli located right across the street from The College of Charleston. Our specialty is chef driven takes on classic sandwiches. Our main goal was to create a space where when you walk in to Legend Deli you are treated like family. Which sounds cliche, but we felt that a major focus on customer service (for the most part) has been left in the dust. You can walk in get greeted like close friends and enjoy a damn good sandwich. Breaking the mold of what a restaurant “should be” and creating something new and different. We do not have the same music playing everyday or have the same shows on the tv. Legend Deli is a place to come hang out with the team, study for an exam, or hang out at our window seats and watch the world go by.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Come by, introduce yourself, have a sammie and a laugh.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://legenddeli.com/
- Instagram: @legenddeli_chs
