American Deli Plans Location in Bartlett, Tennessee

American Deli plans Bartlett location in former Wendy’s building

American Deli is planning a new Bartlett location at 7920 U.S. 64, with the restaurant chain proposing to renovate and remodel the former Wendy’s building at the site. The approximately 3,000-square-foot building is already zoned for commercial restaurant use. American Deli has submitted plans for an interior remodel, according to the City of Bartlett. Todd Halford, chief communications officer for the City of Bartlett, said the city has received renderings showing the proposed interior renovations. “At this time, we have received no plans for anything to be changed on the exterior,” Halford said. “All we have are the renderings for an interior remodel, which does not require board approval.” Because the current proposal is limited to interior renovations, American Deli does not need to go before the Bartlett Planning Commission at this time. That could change if the plans are revised to include exterior modifications beyond a sign change.

Reusing an existing restaurant space

The proposed American Deli would occupy an existing restaurant building along the U.S. 64 corridor rather than require construction of a new commercial building. The location was previously home to Wendy’s, making the project an example of an existing commercial property being repositioned for a new restaurant use. Atlanta-based American Deli has operated since 1989 and offers a menu that includes sandwiches, Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, salads, gyros, fried rice, fish and wings. The company has an established presence in the Memphis area, with 14 locations in Shelby County and another location in DeSoto County. American Deli also has plans for a location at 4265 Hacks Cross Road in Memphis, where the former Original Hot Dog Factory building is expected to be remodeled.

What comes next

For the Bartlett location, the current proposal remains focused on the interior renovation of the former Wendy’s building. No exterior changes have been submitted beyond a potential sign change, and no Planning Commission review is currently required. If the project proceeds as proposed, American Deli would bring another established fast-casual restaurant operator to the U.S. 64 corridor while putting an existing restaurant space back into use.

FAST FACTS:

• Business: American Deli
• Proposed location: 7920 U.S. 64, Bartlett
• Existing building: Former Wendy’s restaurant
• Size: Approximately 3,000 square feet
• Project status: Interior renovation and remodeling plans submitted
• Exterior changes: None currently proposed
• Planning Commission: Not required for the interior remodel
• Company: Atlanta-based American Deli
• Shelby County presence: 14 existing locations

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