Walt Marek Catering and Deli is well known among local foodies, but easily missed if you are new to town. The family-owned business is hidden away among rows of small homes in on the South Side of St. Joseph off of U.S. Highway 59 (Lake Avenue).

You’ll find it on Virginia Street in what was originally a neighborhood grocery store. The building dates back to 1919 when it was owned by John and Frances Marek, the grandparents of the current owners, Walt and his sister, Elizabeth. Their parents, Walter and Mary Alice, started the deli in 1982.

Inside you’ll see the same wooden counter used by the Mareks’ grandparents, with all kinds of collectibles from that era along the walls.

But what Marek’s is famous for is the torpedo sandwich. It’s similar to a submarine sandwich, but some would say better.

“Torpedoes sink subs,” Walt laughs, when asked about how they came up with the name for the sandwich.

Both sandwiches have the deli meats, lettuce and tomato. But the torpedo bread is homemade, individually shaped and formed. The sandwich comes with a “secret” oil and vinegar dressing made with herbs that comes in a side cup to either dip or pour on your sandwich. Homemade polish sausage and Reuben sandwiches are some of the other specialties.

There are a few tables inside where you can sit for lunch, but most of the Marek’s business is carryout and catering. Elizabeth says besides meat and cheese platters, they cater a wide range of foods from appetizers to entrees.

The Marek Deli is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. They are closed Sundays and Mondays.