Memphis’ culinary scene just got a major upgrade with the grand opening of Hard Times Deli, the city’s newest sandwich shop that’s already making waves in the Edge District. Located at 655 Marshall Avenue, this new venture from Harrison Downing, Cole Jeanes, and Schuyler O’Brien is a tribute to resilience, creativity, and Memphis’ thriving food culture.
With a $25,000 Inner City Economic Development (ICED) Loan from EDGE, Hard Times transformed a long-abandoned building into a vibrant, inviting space, proving that strategic investment can breathe new life into neglected corners of the city.
A deli with a mission
Hard Times Deli isn’t your average sandwich shop. The menu boasts carefully crafted, high-quality sandwiches using locally sourced ingredients. Home Place Pastures supplies grass-fed beef and pork, while Hive Bagel & Deli provides fresh, hand-crafted bread. Every detail, from the way vegetables are sliced to the condiments used, reflects the owners’ passion for great food.
The restaurant is also committed to fostering a sense of community and sustainability, choosing to invest in local businesses for their ingredients and contributing to the revitalization of Memphis.
From pop-ups to permanent roots
Before Hard Times Deli, Downing, Jeanes, and O’Brien made a name for themselves through The Secret Smash Society, a pop-up burger concept that quickly became a citywide sensation. Their ability to craft next-level sandwiches and connect with food lovers helped pave the way for this permanent location.
Hard Times’ menu features a mix of classic deli favorites and innovative creations with house-smoked meats for maximum flavor. The offerings include a Memphis twist on the New York favorite chopped cheese burger, a reimagined Italian sub with house-made mortadella, vegetarian options curated for bold, satisfying flavors, and more.
The name Hard Times Deli is deeply personal. The owners have all experienced the grit and grind of the restaurant industry: long hours, burnout, and uncertainty. Opening this deli represents a new chapter, one where they get to build something sustainable – both for themselves and for the community.
A game-changer for the Edge District
Hard Times Deli is part of the ongoing revitalization of the Edge District, an area that has seen a resurgence of new businesses and development. Located near the world renowned Sun Studio, the Edge Motor Museum, and other attractions, the deli’s presence brings fresh energy to a historic area of Memphis.
With support from the ICED Loan program, the owners took on the challenge of revamping an abandoned building instead of opting for a new, move-in-ready space. Their efforts created a unique dining destination and contributed to the neighborhood’s economic growth and vibrancy.
The future of Hard Times Deli
With its doors now open and a growing buzz around town, Hard Times Deli is just getting started. The owners already have plans for expansion, envisioning additional locations and more food concepts that celebrate Memphis’ culinary identity.
For now, Memphis food lovers can stop by, grab a sandwich, and experience the atmosphere of Hard Times.