Philosophy

The Golden Rule is Momma Goldberg’s business creed: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It is crucial to conduct business with honesty, open-mindedness, and respect. Maintaining a strong relationship with the community has always been a top priority.

“Listening to customers, vendors, fellow employees, and friends formed the structure of Momma Goldberg’s that has led to our success,” Don said.

origin of the name

So, who is Momma Goldberg? No, it is not Don’s mother or grandmother. The restaurant was actually named after a hard working colleague who became a mentor to Don in his early professional life. Mr. Goldberg was a friendly, honest person with lots of drive who exhibited the qualities Don placed in his own business model.

Don felt that adding “Mama” in front of “Goldberg” provided the perfect touch of home and helped create a welcoming environment for the deli. “Mama” was changed to “Momma” when Don’s brother, Mike, offered to make a sign for the building. Although the name was misspelled, the sign looked great and showcased the deli’s southern roots. The little error has become part of the Momma Goldberg’s culture.

Signature Items

The most famous sandwich is, without a doubt, the Momma’s Love. It is a tasty combination of roast beef, ham, smoked turkey, muenster cheese, lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, and Momma’s Sauce on a steamed, seeded bun. Don spent many hours perfecting the signature sandwich, and as a result, the Momma’s Love accounts for approximately 45 percent of all sandwich sales.

Another popular specialty item is the one-of-a-kind Nachos. The recipe for this item was created by two Auburn University students who worked at the original Momma Goldberg’s Deli. The young men’s creation included Doritos® tortilla chips topped with Pepper Jack cheese which they preceded to steam. At first the students only served their new recipe to friends who frequented the restaurant. Once the word got out, however, a “nacho craze” began. Momma’s Nachos became so popular that Don decided to make them a mainstay on the menu.