Long Island is known for its convenience stores, pizzerias and, of course, delis, and Merrick is no different, but there is one deli in particular that is doing something right.

Recently, Patch had chance to talk to Doug Gerber, owner of the New Smith Street Deli, during a brief down time after the breakfast crowd had made its way through and before the lunch crowd was expected to pour in. 

Having been in the business for thirty years, Gerber was the original owner of all the Boswell's Delis, but about two and a half years ago he brought his expertise to what had been previously called the Smith Street Deli; it was Gerber's vision that made it the New Smith Street Deli.

"There's always been a deli here," Gerber said, of the 241 Smith Street location just north of Sunrise Highway.  

In addition to the traditional but extensive deli fare of sandwiches, Boar's Head products, and a refrigerator case filled with a variety of beverages, the deli also offers the ever popular chopped salads and paninis.

The outside appearance is welcoming and if folks are too hungry to wait to take their order home or to their workplace, there is seating available inside to sit down and enjoy the gleaming, bright ambiance where the service is friendly. In addition, if their neighbors are too busy to leave their home or place of business, the deli makes deliveries.

While sitting with Gerber, we couldn't help but notice that the staff was preparing for the lunch crowd while a number of customers were continuously streaming in.

One customer, Vinny Formisano, said he patronizes the deli everyday, seven days a week. When asked why, especially since there were other options around, he was quick to explain that the service was the best and the place always clean, which may confirm what Gerber had said earlier,"Ham on rye is ham on rye," meaning that his deli provides more than just a great sandwich.

Another customer, Eric Schnitzer, who was perusing the deli's newspaper selections, said he stops by the deli every so often and particularly liked their heroes, but was emphatic about their breakfast wraps.

"They're really good," Schnitzer said.

Apparently, Gerber enjoys the food business since he also owns a bar and restaurant in West Dover, Vermont called Valley View Saloon, which is located two miles south of the Mount Snow Resort.

However, luckily for Merokeans, they don't have to travel nearly that far to get a taste of Gerber's magic.  

For more information, check out the deli's flashy Web site (including a musical touch),  http://www.smithstreetdeli.com.