You’re driving down Mall Road, past the usual chain sprawl of Florence, and there it is. Izzy’s. It’s not just a sandwich shop. Honestly, if you grew up around the Tri-State, Izzy’s is basically a cultural landmark disguised as a deli. The location at 7651 Mall Rd, Florence, KY 41042 is the modern face of a legacy that started way back in 1901.
But here’s the thing: people get weirdly defensive about their Reubens.
Some say you need to be in a cramped booth in downtown Cincinnati to get the "real" experience. I disagree. The Florence spot manages to keep that old-school Kadetz family soul while actually offering a drive-thru and a parking lot that doesn't require a prayer and a sacrifice to find a spot.
The Legend of the "World's Greatest Reuben"
Is it actually the world's greatest? That’s a bold claim. But when you bite into the Izzy's Florence Florence KY 41042 classic Reuben, you sort of get it. It’s the corned beef. It isn't that rubbery, overly salted stuff you find in a plastic packet at the grocery store. It’s slow-cooked, tender, and piled high—though some regulars will argue it was "piled higher" back in the day.
They use imported Swiss cheese and a kraut that actually has a crunch to it. No soggy sandwiches here.
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And then there's the dressing. It’s not just Thousand Island. It’s Izzy’s "special" dressing. It’s got a bit more tang, a bit more depth. You’ll probably want an extra side of it for dipping.
Why the Potato Pancake is Non-Negotiable
If you go to Izzy's and don't get the potato pancake, did you even go?
These aren't your grandma’s latkes. Well, maybe they are if your grandma was into deep-frying massive, crispy-on-the-outside, pillowy-on-the-inside pillows of seasoned potato. They are huge. They’re basically a meal on their own.
Pro tip: don't just eat it plain. Most people go for applesauce or sour cream, but I’ve seen locals dip them straight into the Matzah ball soup broth. It sounds chaotic. It works.
What’s Actually on the Menu at Izzy's Florence?
A lot of people think it’s just Reubens. It’s not. They’ve branched out.
You’ve got the Reubenator, which is essentially a double-decker version for when you haven't eaten in three days. Then there's the Joe Walter, named after the Bengals legend. That one’s a massive stack of turkey, roast beef, and American cheese. It’s a lot.
If you're feeling adventurous, the Izzy’s Mex is a weirdly delicious mashup. Corned beef, onions, jalapeños, and chipotle sauce on rye. It shouldn't work. It does.
The "Hidden" Stars
- The Pickles: You get these for free when you dine in. They’re whole, garlic-heavy, and famously snappy.
- Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup: This is the sleeper hit. It’s thin but packed with flavor and a distinct "kick" that clears your sinuses in the best way.
- The Codfather: For those Fridays when you’re skipping meat but still want something fried and satisfying.
The Vibe on Mall Road
The current location at 7651 Mall Rd (right next to Chuck-E-Cheese) is a stand-alone building that replaced their older, smaller spot. It’s got a "retro-modern" thing going on.
You’ve got a heated outdoor patio, which is great because Kentucky weather is... unpredictable. One day it's 70 degrees, the next it’s snowing.
Service is usually fast. You'll often see the same faces behind the counter, which is a good sign. It feels less like a fast-food machine and more like a neighborhood joint, even if it is a local chain.
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Factual Breakdown: Hours & Info
If you’re planning a trip, here is the "need to know" stuff for the Florence location:
Address: 7651 Mall Rd, Florence, KY 41042
Phone: (859) 525-2333
Standard Hours: * Monday - Saturday: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Sunday: Closed (usually, though sometimes holiday hours vary)
They have a drive-thru window, which is a lifesaver if you have kids in the car or just don't feel like being perceived by other humans today. You can also order online through their site or the usual apps like DoorDash or UberEats.
Dealing With the Critics
Let’s be real for a second. Some people complain about the prices. A "whole" sandwich can run you $15 or $16.
Is that expensive for a sandwich? Yeah, maybe. But you have to look at the weight of the meat and the fact that it comes with that massive potato pancake and a pickle. You’re not just getting a sub; you’re getting a heavy-duty meal.
There have also been some gripes about consistency. Some days the potato pancake is a golden masterpiece, other days it’s a bit oily. That’s the reality of a kitchen that actually cooks things rather than just reheating them.
Is It Worth the Trip?
Honestly, if you’re in Florence and you’re tired of the same three burger places, Izzy’s is a no-brainer. It’s a piece of Cincinnati history that happens to be sitting right in Northern Kentucky.
It’s not "fancy" dining. It’s messy, it’s loud, and you’ll probably leave with a slight garlic scent clinging to your clothes. That’s just part of the charm.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check for Coupons: Izzy’s is big on their email list and local mailers. Check their website for "Izzy's Coupons" before you go; they almost always have a "Buy one, get one" or a discount on the Reubenator.
- Dine In for the Pickles: If you have 20 minutes, sit down. The free table pickles are a tradition you shouldn't skip.
- Friday Visit: If you want the Matzah Ball soup, you usually have to go on a Friday. It sells out fast.
- The "Half" Option: If you aren't a competitive eater, the "half sandwich and soup" combo is the most logical way to experience the menu without needing a nap immediately afterward.
Next time you're stuck in Mall Road traffic, just pull in. Get the Reuben. Extra dressing. See for yourself why people have been talking about this place since the turn of the century.