Tacoma’s MSM Deli, now with a walk-up window

MSM Deli doesn’t post often to social media, despite having nearly 18,000 followers.

Before posting on March 16 that it would remain open for takeout during the coronavirus shutdown of bars and restaurants, its last note fell on December 31, and before that April 8, 2019.

But desperate times call for desperate measures. Er, Facebook posts.

On March 23, following the statewide stay-at-home order, arguably Tacoma’s favorite deli said it would close for the safety of its customers and its staff, who would receive full pay. Sandwiches would be sent to area hospitals.

“We have a great following and we obviously appreciate it,” said owner Jamal Muthala in a phone call, who, as it turns out, once wrote for The News Tribune. He and his brother Faer took the reins from their father and Mike’s Deluxe namesake a decade ago.

“That great following was hard to manage as far as keeping our employees and our customers safe. When you have a line of people to the door, with people waiting to pick up” — he paused — “it just didn’t feel right.”

More than 100 fans chimed in, thanking them for their “selfless and honorable decision,” as one Tacoman put it.

Well, MSM reorganized its ordering system — “a light remodel,” per Muthala — and as of Thursday, allows customers to call ahead or place an order at a newly installed walk-up window. No one except staff is allowed inside. You can still order beer and drinks, but you’ll have to trust the MSM family to find your favorite in the coolers lining the interior walls.

“We’re not just gonna sit back and hope this thing goes away,” said Muthala.

MSM Deli

▪ 2220 Sixth Avenue, 253-272-4814, facebook.com/MSM-Deli

▪ Details: daily, 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., call ahead or order at walk-up window

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This story was originally published April 2, 2020 at 11:42 AM.