A THOUSAND WORDS: Deli Days

A trip to Koch's Deli and Take Out Shop is almost overwhelming. Walking into the crowded deli, the first thing that meets the eye is the line. The small shop is usually packed with people, with the line snaking from the register to the back and around again to the front door. The people in line usually chat, although some bring a newspaper or book. But, however they pass the time, Koch's veterans know that the hour-long wait is well worth it. At the end of the line are sandwiches that define humongous. The double-decker sandwiches look as big as one's head. And the hoagies are so stuffed, they appear perfectly round. Most specials have at least half a pound of meat. For those undaunted by Koch's standard fare, with advance notice, they can prepare an even bigger three-foot hoagie, which is an amazing sight to behold. Few people can manage to eat an entire specialty sandwich at one sitting -- combined with an award-winning milkshake or a serving of New York cheesecake. A Penn Special usually ends up being both lunch and dinner. According to Kristofor Varhus, an Engineering junior, "Eating a Koch's sandwich is an all-day affair." Not only are the sandwiches delicious, Koch's also has scrumptious desserts, thick milkshakes, savory lox and delicious knishes. The walls are covered with rave reviews and adoring letters. In fact, Koch's has been endorsed as "the best deli food anywhere" by a certified chef. While Bob and Lou Koch share often familiar jokes and stories, samples of freshly-cut meat and cheese are passed around. But they can either simplify or complicate the choice of a sandwich. The Kochs make a genuine effort to welcome everyone who walks in, greeting many by name. Many of the customers are regulars and some have been coming to the take out shop for as many as twenty years. For the quintessential deli experience, everyone from senators to students go to Koch's, located just off campus at 4309 Locust Street.