So many things today are made-to-order. Even recently on Yahoo!news (are you seeing a pattern? This is where I get my news) there was an article about how traditional family-style, casual-dining restaurants are struggling. The reason? My generation is boycotting. We want things the way we want them. That is why fast-food places like Five Guys Burgers, Chipotle, Panera Bread, etc., are doing so well. They offer up quick food made-to-order. We would rather go there than Applebees, Friday's or Ruby Tuesdays. We go for the more "boutiquey" restaurants.
So, then it would make sense that I saw a new form of "deli" yesterday while walking around Wicker Park in Chicago. It's called the T-Shirt Deli, and it's just like what it sounds: customizable t-shirts, made-to-order, just like ordering a deli sandwich. It's very cool, but you walk in and have to do a double-take because your body instinctively knows you're in a deli, but your brain is confused because instead of meats and cheeses you see t-shirts and decals.
And, all of it is made-to-order. Pick your t-shirt style, color and size, decide if you want letters, a decal or your own design, order up and voilá: your own personal t-shirt! So, for your next walk-a-thon, party, promotional event or just personal desire to have a noticeable t-shirt, make your way Chicago-side. Then maybe head over to the Chipotle a few feet south for a customized lunch.