A Brief History of Publix
Before we map out our epic deli tour, it’s worth understanding why Publix holds such a special place in the hearts of Floridians. Founded in 1930 in Winter Haven, Florida, Publix has grown into a supermarket powerhouse with over 1,300 stores across the southeastern United States. The deli is a cornerstone of the Publix experience, famous for its subs (“Pub Subs”), fried chicken, and custom platters.
Mapping the Journey
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The Northernmost Publix Deli
The northernmost Publix location is in Richmond, Virginia. It’s the starting point for our journey, and it’s here you’ll find a deli stocked with classic items and some regional specialties. -
The Southernmost Publix Deli
Heading to the southern tip of Florida, you’ll find the southernmost Publix deli in Key West. Imagine enjoying a Cuban sandwich and fresh Key lime pie while soaking in the island vibes. -
The Largest Publix Deli
Located in Tampa, Florida, this sprawling Publix GreenWise Market boasts one of the largest deli sections in the chain. With an expanded menu and gourmet options, this stop will be a highlight for foodies. -
The Most Unique Publix Deli
Don’t miss the Publix at Lake Ella Plaza in Tallahassee, known for its historic charm. The deli here is a fan favorite, offering a nostalgic Publix experience. -
Publix Delis in Hidden Gems
Smaller towns like Apalachicola and Mount Dora have Publix locations with a hometown feel. These delis are perfect for discovering regional twists on Publix favorites.
The Logistics of Visiting Every Publix Deli
- Number of Stores: With over 1,300 Publix locations and the majority concentrated in Florida, this is a marathon, not a sprint.
- Travel Time: Assuming you spend 15 minutes at each deli and account for travel, you’re looking at several months of dedicated road-tripping.
- Mileage: Driving to all Publix locations would mean covering over 10,000 miles, depending on your starting point and route.
Planning Your Trip
- Must-Have Gear: A Publix-branded cooler for keeping food fresh, a journal for documenting your stops, and a GPS app to plan your route.
- Tips for Efficiency: Group locations by region to minimize travel time. Focus on Florida first, as it has the densest concentration of Publix stores.
- Don’t Miss Seasonal Favorites: Time your trip to coincide with special promotions like the Thanksgiving turkey subs or holiday platters.
Fun Facts About Publix Delis
- The first Publix deli opened in the 1950s, marking the beginning of a love affair with fresh, convenient food.
- The Publix chicken tender sub has achieved near-legendary status and is often the centerpiece of deli adventures.
- Publix delis serve enough fried chicken annually to feed a small nation.
Call to Action
Think you have what it takes to tackle the ultimate Publix deli tour? Share your plans, photos, or favorite deli stories with us. And while you're planning, check out our Unlawful Threads Florida Collection for road-trip-ready t-shirts and mugs that celebrate the Sunshine State. Let the great deli adventure begin!