The word deli is a shortened form, or common nickname, of delicatessen, an American English version of the German delikatessen, the plural of delikatesse, "delicacy," or "fine food." Many delis specialize in the food of a certain region, country, or ethnicity — like a Jewish deli, a German deli, or a Greek deli.

TooJay's began as a modest New York-style delicatessen on the Island of Palm Beach in the spring of 1981. Started by Jay Brown and Mark Jay Katzenberg, they used the common portion of both of their names to derive the name TooJay's Gourmet Deli.

The word "deli" comes from the German word "delikatessen": The word "deli" is derived from the German word "delikatessen," which means "delicious things to eat." Delis in the United States are known for their delicious sandwiches, soups, and other lunchtime favorites.

A delicatessen, or in short, a “deli,” is a store where people can go to buy ready-to-eat items such as cold cut meats, sliced cheeses, sandwiches, breads, salads and so much more. If you're from the Mid-Atlantic or New England areas, you probably have a favorite deli — or a list of at least a few favorites!