SACRAMENTO – Today Assemblyman Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) proudly announced that Pocket Deli has been named the March 2026 Small Business of the Month for the 7th Assembly District.
Pocket Deli is proud to celebrate 40 years of serving the Rancho Cordova community and surrounding Sacramento area, honoring a legacy that began in 1986 as Ike’s Deli & Bakery and continues today with the same handcrafted recipes and commitment to quality.
From its earliest days, the deli became known for something truly distinctive: house-made bread pockets — a cross between focaccia and pita — baked fresh daily and filled with generous, thoughtfully prepared sandwiches. What started as a blue-collar neighborhood favorite quickly earned a devoted following, with locals willing to plan their day around the deli’s famously limited hours because the food was simply worth it.
In March 2018, Cari and Allen Zarou purchased the deli and have proudly carried on its traditions. While the name and space evolved into what is now Pocket Deli, the heart of the business remains unchanged. The original bread recipe is still used today, along with longtime customer favorites like the famous house-made chicken salad, prepared the same way it has been for decades.
Honoring tradition while embracing creativity, Pocket Deli has also introduced a lineup of signature bread pockets created by its current employees — many of which have become fan favorites. These include Cari’s Caprese, Big Al’s, Hot Connor, Erin’s Lobster, and Brando’s Pocket, reflecting the deli’s team-driven culture and deep pride in craftsmanship.
At the center of it all is Isabel, who has been the deli’s bread maker for 15 years and continues to knead, roll, and shape the dough by hand each day. Her dedication and care embody the spirit of Pocket Deli — where food is made with patience, pride, and heart.
“As Pocket Deli celebrates its 40th anniversary this March, the milestone represents more than longevity. It reflects a small business rooted in community, sustained by loyal employees, and committed to doing things the right way,” stated Assemblyman Hoover. “I am proud to honor Pocket Deli on their anniversary for being an outstanding small business in my district.”
Pocket Deli is honored to serve generations of families, workers, and neighbors and looks forward to many more years of feeding the Rancho Cordova community and surrounding Sacramento area.
Pocket Deli is located at 11210 Sun Center Dr., Rancho Cordova, CA 95671
Josh Hoover represents Assembly District 7, which includes the cities of Citrus Heights, Folsom, and Rancho Cordova and the unincorporated communities of Carmichael, Fair Oaks, FoothillFarms, Gold River, Mather, McClellan Park, North Highlands, Orangevale, and Rosemont.
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