Elephants Delicatessen opening breakfast lunch and holiday hours are something you will want to check before you head out the door. Elephants Delicatessen opens its doors for breakfast sandwiches and bakery goods, then carries straight through lunch without a service gap. This means you can grab a morning pastry and stay for a midday meal without ever having to leave your seat.
Located in Portland, Oregon, this local favorite has built a reputation for fresh ingredients and a warm, busy atmosphere. Whether you are a regular or a first-time visitor, knowing exactly when they are open can save you from a wasted trip. Here is everything you need to know about their daily schedule and what happens during the holidays.
Elephants Delicatessen Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours
The standard weekly schedule is pretty consistent across their locations. Most stores open early to catch the breakfast crowd, and they do not close between breakfast and lunch service. That is the key detail for most people. You can walk in at 10:30 AM or 1:30 PM and still order from the full menu.
Standard Weekly Schedule
- Monday to Friday: Open at 7:00 AM, close at 8:00 PM
- Saturday: Open at 8:00 AM, close at 8:00 PM
- Sunday: Open at 8:00 AM, close at 6:00 PM
These hours apply to most of the main deli locations. However, you should always double-check the specific store you plan to visit. The Pearl District location might have slightly different times than the one on Northwest 23rd Avenue.
Breakfast Service Times
Breakfast is served from opening until 11:00 AM on weekdays. On weekends, breakfast runs a bit longer, usually until 11:30 AM. You can order items like their famous breakfast burritos, egg sandwiches, and fresh-baked scones during this window.
If you arrive after the breakfast cutoff, do not worry. The lunch menu takes over immediately. There is no dead zone where the kitchen is closed.
Lunch Service And Menu Transition
The lunch menu starts right when breakfast ends. This is a smooth transition. You will find salads, sandwiches, soups, and hot entrees available. The deli case stays fully stocked throughout the afternoon.
- Order at the counter or use the self-serve kiosk
- Grab a number and find a seat
- Food runners bring your order to the table
- Pay at the register when you are done
This system keeps things moving fast, even during the noon rush.
Holiday Hours And Closures
Holidays are where things get tricky. Elephants Delicatessen does not follow a standard retail calendar. They close completely on major holidays like Christmas Day and Thanksgiving. On other holidays, they might open late or close early.
Here is what you can generally expect:
- New Year’s Day: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Easter Sunday: Open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Fourth of July: Open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Thanksgiving: Closed all day
- Christmas Eve: Open from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Christmas Day: Closed all day
These times can change from year to year. The best approach is to call the location directly or check their social media pages a few days before the holiday. They usually post a notice if there are any changes.
How To Confirm Current Hours
Do not rely solely on third-party websites like Yelp or Google Maps. Those can be outdated. The most accurate source is the official Elephants Delicatessen website. They have a store locator tool that shows real-time hours for each branch.
You can also follow these steps:
- Visit the official website
- Click on the “Locations” tab
- Select the store you plan to visit
- Look for the “Hours” section
If you are in a hurry, a quick phone call is always the safest bet. The staff is friendly and will give you the exact times for that specific day.
What To Order During Your Visit
While you are there, you should try some of their signature items. The chicken salad sandwich is a crowd pleaser. The tomato basil soup pairs well with any grilled cheese. For breakfast, the bacon, egg, and cheddar on a croissant is a solid choice.
They also have a bakery section with cookies, cakes, and tarts. These are available all day, not just in the morning. You can grab a dessert to go or enjoy it with a cup of coffee at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Elephants Delicatessen Serve Breakfast All Day?
No. Breakfast is only served until 11:00 AM on weekdays and 11:30 AM on weekends. After that, the lunch menu takes over completely.
Are The Hours The Same For All Locations?
No, they are not. Each location may have slightly different opening and closing times. Always check the specific store page for accurate information.
Is Elephants Delicatessen Open On Labor Day?
Yes, they usually open on Labor Day but with reduced hours. Typically, they close around 5:00 PM instead of their usual 8:00 PM closing time.
Can I Order Takeout During Breakfast Hours?
Yes, takeout is available from the moment they open. You can call ahead or place an order at the counter. The kitchen prepares it just as fast as dine-in orders.
Do They Offer Catering For Holiday Events?
Yes, they do offer catering. However, you need to place your order at least 48 hours in advance. During major holidays like Thanksgiving, you should order even earlier to guarantee availability.
Knowing the exact Elephants Delicatessen opening breakfast lunch and holiday hours makes your visit smooth and stress-free. The continuous service between breakfast and lunch is a huge plus for people with flexible schedules. Just remember to verify the holiday schedule before you go, since those times are less predictable. A quick check online or a phone call will ensure you never show up to a closed door.