Iconic Salt Lake City Deli Set to Reopen on Valentine's Day

Grove Market and Deli, a beloved local institution, is making a comeback after closing last year.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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After shutting down in late 2025, the iconic Grove Market and Deli in Salt Lake City is poised to reopen its doors on February 14, 2026. The beloved deli, which first opened in 1947, is known for its massive sandwiches and low prices, and has been a fixture in the community for decades. The business recently changed hands, and the new owners are planning a soft launch in time for Valentine's Day.

Why it matters

The return of Grove Market and Deli is significant for the Salt Lake City community, as it represents the preservation of a beloved local institution that has been a part of the city's fabric for over 75 years. The deli's closure last year had left many longtime residents and fans wondering about its future, so its impending reopening is sure to be welcomed with open arms.

The details

Grove Market and Deli first opened in 1947 as a neighborhood grocery store, with the deli component added in the 1970s. The business was operated by the Savas family for decades, with James 'Jim' Savas running the deli for an impressive 61 years. Sadly, Savas passed away earlier this year, leading to the deli's temporary closure in the fall of 2025. However, it appears the business has now changed hands, and the new owners are planning to reopen the iconic deli in time for Valentine's Day 2026.

  • Grove Market and Deli first opened in 1947.
  • The deli component was added in the 1970s.
  • James 'Jim' Savas operated the deli for 61 years.
  • The deli closed in the fall of 2025 after Savas' passing.
  • The deli is set to reopen on February 14, 2026.

The players

Pete Savas

The original founder of Grove Market and Deli, who opened the business as a neighborhood grocery store in 1947.

James 'Jim' Savas

The son of Pete Savas, who took over the deli at the age of 19 and operated it for 61 years.

Grove Market and Deli

A beloved local institution in Salt Lake City, known for its massive sandwiches and low prices, that first opened in 1947 and is now set to reopen under new ownership.

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What’s next

The new owners of Grove Market and Deli have not yet provided many details about their plans for the reopening, but the community is eagerly awaiting the return of this iconic Salt Lake City institution.

The takeaway

The impending reopening of Grove Market and Deli is a heartwarming story of resilience and the preservation of a beloved local business. After a period of uncertainty following the passing of its longtime owner, the deli is set to make a comeback, delighting longtime fans and introducing its famous sandwiches to a new generation of Salt Lake City residents.