Chris & Natalie: Meet the Husband-and-Wife Team Behind the Counter and on the Line
Our Story: A Four-Part Series
Every family business has a beginning, and ours is rooted in tradition, faith, and the joy of feeding people well. In this four-part series, we’re sharing the heart behind Executive Deli & Cafe — from the people who run it to the prayers that brought it to life.
Part One: Chris & Natalie — Meet the husband-and-wife team behind the counter and on the line.
Part Two: Why We Took Over the Deli (coming soon) — The leap of faith, answered prayers, and vision that keeps us going.
Part Three: Our Four Kids (coming soon) — The Crew That Keeps Us Smiling
Part Four: Chris’s Parents & Banana Bread (coming soon)— The quiet support and sweet legacy that show up twice a week.
Meet the Team Behind Executive Deli & Cafe
We’re Chris and Natalie, the husband-and-wife team behind Executive Deli & Cafe, a family-owned deli located at 1660 Hotel Cir N #100, San Diego, CA 92108. For us, the deli is more than a business — it’s a family story in the making. You’ll meet Chris at the register and Natalie on the line, working side by side to keep things running with heart and purpose.
Meet Natalie and Chris
The Husband-and-Wife Team Running Executive Deli & Cafe in San Diego with Heart and Purpose
A Morning at the Deli
Most mornings follow a familiar rhythm. Chris brews the coffee, restocks the shelves, and sets out the sign. I set up the line — opening the prep table, organizing supplies, and getting the soup and lunch special started so they’re ready by 11 AM.
By 8 AM, the doors are open and the hustle and bustle of the day has begun. Our wonderful customers start walking through the doors, sharing stories, placing orders, and setting the tone for the day.
Welcoming Our Customers
Chris brings connection and calm to the front counter — greeting guests by name and making every transaction feel personal and friendly. I run the line with intention and care, making sure the orders are accurate, managing the kitchen flow, and keeping the food fresh and consistent.
Weathering the Storms
Over the months, we’ve weathered our share of storms. From plumbing and electrical issues to equipment failures and tech challenges, we’ve faced them — and overcome them — together.
The Week We Streamlined
One week, all four of our kids were away in Indiana for a church youth conference, and Chris’s parents were on vacation. It was just the two of us. We streamlined the specials to two easy-to-serve options each day to reduce wait times, pulled long shifts, prepped everything the night before, and kept the kitchen spotless. It was exhausting, and we were so happy to have everyone back the next week. Yet during that time of being short-staffed, our customers showed up with patience, encouragement, and kindness.
That week also marked the beginning of our Grab-n-Go section, which has since become a steady success.
What We’re Known For
If you’re visiting for the first time, don’t miss our most popular sandwiches:
The Italian
Mortadella, Salami, Ham, Provolone, Banana Peppers, Onions, and Mustard on a Toasted French Roll with Italian Dressing. It’s bold, savory, and layered with flavor.
Turkey Pesto Panini
Turkey Breast, Pesto Sauce, Provolone Cheese, and Tomato on Sourdough Bread. Warm, melty, and packed with fresh, herbaceous goodness.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch near Mission Valley or looking for a family-run deli with heart, we’re here to serve you with consistency, care, and a little extra joy.
Keep Reading
Want to know what led us to take over the deli? (coming soon)
In Part Two, we share the leap of faith, answered prayers, and vision that keep us going — even on the hard days.
Curious how that vision plays out day‑to‑day? (coming soon)
Read about our partnership with Too Good To Go and how it helps us reduce waste while welcoming new faces.