The Smiling Moose Deli has migrated to Wisconsin, finding a home in the college town of Eau Claire. Since December, the first out-of-state Smiling Moose franchise has enjoyed an outpouring of local support and appreciation for the family atmosphere and menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and soups.
Deli co-owner and Eau Claire/Altoona locals Colleen Weber and Lisa Schuetz were looking for the right sandwich shop to open up in the newly redeveloped Phoenix Park Neighborhood, near the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. With a background in restaurant and business management, Weber started an exhaustive search for the right fit and personality to match the area. She chanced upon the Smiling Moose Deli through Google.
“The Smiling Moose Deli was the right fit in many ways, because there’s something for everyone. We’re not just selling sandwiches—we're selling atmosphere, fun environment, fun food,” Weber says. “The community has responded enthusiastically not only to the unique menu and specials, but also to our brand new store and our wide catering options. And they are really starting to call ahead and use our pickup window.”
Located across from the Downtown Farmer’s Market in an area known for its social climate and high energy has proven to be a huge asset to the store.
“We have enjoyed getting to know our customers, and we want to be their destination for food and fun for years to come,” Weber says.
