Meet Sam Tortorich, a cuisine connoisseur at the Smokehouse Deli. Learn more about Tortorich, the Smokehouse Deli and their menu below.
Can you tell us about the Smokehouse Deli?
The Smokehouse Deli is collaborative effort between AS Dining Services and the University Farm that proudly features traditional smokehouse-style hot and cold sandwiches made from meats processed at the Chico State Meats Lab. It also features produce directly from the farm and bread from local Chico bakery, Tin Roof. Tortorich says it’s important to expand relationships with campus and community partners and immerse themselves into the campus culture. AS Dining is thrilled to support the students, staff, and local business who work hard and are dedicated in their craftsmanship.
What is something that people may not know about the Smokehouse Deli?
The Smokehouse Deli’s featured barbecue sauce is a recipe created by Tortorich. The AS dining team held a barbecue sauce contest to determine what sauce to feature on the menu and Tortorich won. The sauce is on two sandwiches, the grilled cheese brisket sandwich and smoked brisket sandwich. If you want to try the sauce, get either of those options or ask for it on the side.
What is your favorite part about working here on campus?
While Tortorich loves cooking for others, the impact she has on her students and their daily lives is what she enjoys most. She comes from a family of teachers, so being able to teach life skills like how to sauté or cook chicken thoroughly is meaningful. Tortorich says, “having an impact on my students every day in such a crucial time of their growth and teaching them something new is very valuable, and that's something that I really enjoy here.”
What is one of the best-selling items?
The Smokehouse Deli offers weekly specials. Some of those specials have been very popular, such as the brisket Philly cheesesteak, buffalo chicken bacon ranch sandwich, and potato salad. As far as staples that are on the menu, the smoked brisket sandwich, featuring Tortorich’s barbecue sauce, is one of the best-selling items as well as the grilled cheese brisket sandwich. Anything that features that brisket has been a big hit!
If someone is trying the Smokehouse Deli for the first time, what should they order?
It depends on if you want something on the lighter side or a bit heavier and heartier. For the lighter side, the Smokehouse Deli Turkey Sandwich or Smokehouse Salad is a great option. The sandwich consists of Turkey made in house by Tortorich, pesto mayo, fresh lettuce and tomato. The salad includes mixed baby greens, topped with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, roasted sweet corn and red onions finished with shredded cheese, house-roasted turkey and bacon.
On the heavier side, Tortorich recommends the Smoked Brisket Sandwich. This is what you came for! The sandwich consists of smoked beef brisket served on a ciabatta roll, topped with crispy onions, pickled jalapenos, pickled Onions, slaw and enhanced with the Smokehouse BBQ Sauce.
What is an item on the menu that is underrated, and you think more students should try?
“Definitely the hot pastrami sandwich!” says Tortorich. The sandwich contains beef pastrami, layered with swiss cheese, caramelized onions and pickles, dressed with wholegrain mustard and grilled between two slices of swirled rye bread. Tortorich thinks people may not recognize rye bread or have never had it before so that could be a reason why it’s not as popular. Give the rye a try, but the deli is also more than willing to swap out the bread!
Are there any gluten-free options on the menu?
While the deli does not offer a gluten-free option on the menu, you can skip the bread completely on sandwiches and opt for a lettuce wrap style instead. AS Dining is aware that gluten-free options are limited, but hopes to provide more options in the future for those with dietary restrictions.
What about any vegan and/or vegetarian options?
For our vegan and vegetarian friends, the deli offers tofu as a substitute for their dishes. They also have the Classic “Awesome” Burger and BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich on the menu. The burger features Sweat Earth’s Awesome Plant-Based Burger Patty on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickle and Wildcat Sauce. You can also add on plant-based cheese. The sandwich features tender jackfruit served on a ciabatta roll, topped with crispy onions, pickled jalapenos, pickled onions, slaw and enhanced with the Smokehouse BBQ Sauce. The deli has sides as well, including french fries, onion rings, vegetarian chili, corn bread, and seasonal vegetable. Tortorich recommends not being afraid to ask for substitutions. The deli is more than willing to work with you to provide a meal that meets your dietary needs.
Whether you're buying food or not, the Marketplace Café is here for you! Tortorich enjoys seeing students utilize the space for not only eating, but hanging out and studying as well.
The Marketplace Café in the Bell Memorial Union is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Follow AS Dining Services (@dine_aschicostate) for new menu items, operational updates and more.
For more information about Associated Students Dining Services, please visit our website at as.csuchico.edu/dining.Chico State students, staff and faculty can use FlexCash, ReDD$, and Wildcat Dollars at dining locations on campus. For more info, click here.
