Dining Out: McAllister's Deli

Towers used to be the red-headed stepchild of malls back when I lived in Roanoke in 2000. Back then, Tanglewood was still happening, and all of the mall walkers relegated themselves to Crossroads.

Now, though, Towers is getting some new things and coming up, albeit somewhat slowly. I had a chance to go to the newish restaurant, McAllister's Deli, in between the Colonial Ave main entrance and CiCi's Pizza. The place is big, with tons of seating that you mosey through on your way to the ordering counter in back.

Being a vegetarian, I love the fact that they serve veggie chili, not to mention it's quite good. The veggie spud and a macadamia nut cookie completed my meal, which I actually split with my wife, since it was large enough to fill my plate.

The staff was mostly teens, who were nice and helpful, busing the table and refilling drinks without being in any way overwhelming. It was a little tough interpreting tipping etiquette, though, since my receipt had no slot for tip, and I never carry cash. I guess next time, I'd tip much like one might in a Chinese buffet place.

The environment was nice: good lighting, nostalgic pictures and memorabilia adorning the walls without it being too busy like in the fictional "Shenanigans" from the film Waiting. The price - especially considering my wife and I were sharing - was very reasonable - rounding out at around $10 - $11 for the both of us, though we drank water and the coffees we'd brought with us.

So while I can't speak much to the rest of the menu, McAllister's spuds and chili proved well worth the visit, as did the welcome courtesy of the staff and the roomy, clean dining area.