Near the intersection of Union and Center Street is one of the best lunch deals in town. Open since early April, The Melon Seed Deli & Frozen Yogurt has sandwiches, salads, homemade soups, frozen yogurt and more, all at prices that made me do a double-take.

No pre-made, soggy sandwiches and wilted salads here.  At The Melon Seed, expectations are exceeded with fresh, local produce, and items made to order. On a recent visit, their pastrami sliders ($4.95/two, $5.95/three), were a delightful melody of hot pastrami, mustard and pickles on toasted Tacoma-made Baker Boys rolls. The premium salad ($3.95) is an entrée-sized serving with your choice of up to five toppings, including deli meats, cheeses and vegetables. The spring mix was crisp, and toppings plentiful, all for no more the cost of a latte.

Unlike other local frozen yogurt shops, The Melon Seed prices theirs by size, and not by weight. A small with toppings will set you back a mere $2.95, all the way up to a large with toppings for $4.95. The deli's friendly staff and colorful, fun interior are a bonus.

MELON SEED DELI, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 3807 S. Center St., Suite D, Tacoma, 253.279.0029