Tessa Delicatessen Information

Walking into Tessa Delicatessen on E Colfax Ave, you immediately get the sense that this is a neighborhood spot that takes its craft seriously without ever feeling pretentious. The moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked breads, cured meats, and simmering sauces hits you, setting the stage for a menu that’s both comforting and inventive. The interior manages to feel warm and bustling at the same time, with a mix of cozy seating and communal tables that encourage conversation, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal. Staff here strike a perfect balance between friendly and professional, moving efficiently while taking the time to answer questions about the menu or suggest pairings, making the service feel genuinely attentive without hovering. The menu itself is thoughtfully curated, offering everything from hearty sandwiches loaded with house-cured meats and fresh cheeses to lighter options that showcase seasonal vegetables and house-made spreads. Popular items like their pastrami on rye or the roasted vegetable panini consistently earn glowing mentions in reviews, and it’s easy to see why-the ingredients are fresh, flavorful, and layered in just the right way. Beyond the classics, Tessa Delicatessen frequently rotates in specials that highlight local produce, giving even repeat visitors a reason to explore new flavors. Drinks complement the food well, with locally roasted coffee, refreshing iced teas, and a selection of artisanal sodas that pair effortlessly with a midday meal. Despite being in a busy stretch of Denver, the deli manages a sense of calm and order, allowing guests to enjoy their meals at their own pace, whether dining in or taking food to go. Overall, the combination of a thoughtfully assembled menu, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service makes Tessa Delicatessen a standout on Colfax, offering a dining experience that feels both genuine and carefully crafted, one that locals and visitors alike keep returning to.

Business Info

What People's Say About Place

My wife and I love this spot! We usually get their amazing deli sandwiches that are loaded with veggies and meat and fresh cheese, but today we tried their breakfast for my wife’s birthday. It was so good! We got the cheesy hash browns with eggs and bacon and the BEC Sammy. They did it again with fresh ingredients, generous portions, and the most delicious and fluffy eggs. Can’t recommend more! Also, they gave us a free carrot cake for my wife’s birthday! Genuine people, amazing food, and a great atmosphere.

Amazing sandwich place! We went twice on our trip and the staff were so kind and in great moods. I had the turkey sandwich and my husband had the patty melt. The turkey sandwich was so so good, we both got it the second time. The bread is very fresh and soft and I loved the pepper spread. Wish I could go there all the time!

If you haven’t been to Tessa’s yet, YOU NEED TO! I say this with 100% confidence, this place is one of the best on East Colfax. Pesto chicken is so delicious and a huge portion for what you pay. Happy hour cheeseburger is unbeatable with their house sauce. As a native NY’er the pastrami sandwich is truly on par with the east coast! My family and I go here often, and have never had a bad experience.

Beautiful place with a great community-driven atmosphere. Woman working there seemed to know the locals and was very welcoming. I had the Miso spinach which was delicious although I recommend getting it with a protein.

Everything about Tessa’s is perfect. The sandwiches are probably the best I’ve ever had. The bread is crunchy and soft and flavorful, the deli meat is fresh and tasty, the desserts, salads, everything is phenomenal here. My go to sandwiches are the Deli Turkey and the Italian. The provolone is fresh, veggies are crisp, pickles are perfect, and the mayo/mustard and other sauces make this sandwich so bomb.

Wonderful sandwiches and possibly the best Cuban I have ever had (and I’ve lived in Miami). Nice layback atmosphere with a great staff. We had a combination of a Reuben, Cuban, BLT and soup/cheese sandwiches….all delicious and incentive.

Wow! I’ve lived in the area for almost 5 years and discovered Tessa Delicatessen from the inKind app. I wish I found it sooner! Unassuming on the outside with an open floor layout offering plenty of seating. The breakfast burrito I got was incredible! I grew up in NYC and I miss delis, which there aren’t many of in Denver. I will definitely be back for lunch. Don’t sleep on this hidden gem— especially with Colfax under construction— they’re there, they’re open, and they’re delicious!

We kicked off the year at Tessa Delicatessen and it felt like the right move. We started with their traditional black eyed pea soup, a classic for bringing in good luck. Whether or not it actually worked is debatable, but the soup itself was comforting and well done. From there, we tried a good spread of the menu and everything landed. The cheeseburger was satisfying, the Reuben was properly balanced, and the macaroni salad tasted exactly like it should. For dessert, both the cheesecake and carrot cake were standouts, especially the carrot cake, which was moist and flavorful without being overly sweet. Tessa Delicatessen feels like a true neighborhood spot. It’s approachable, reliable, and clearly focused on doing the basics well. No gimmicks, just solid deli food that makes you want to come back.

Tessa Delicatessen