For years, the small market on Columbus Avenue between 60th and 61st Streets was the little deli that couldn't. For starters, it was gross: dirty floors, disorganized goods, and passive service. The only time I went was for emergency refreshment while taking Bar/Bri at Fordham Law School across the street.

About a year ago, Alan's Marketplace opened in this space. The entire store is redone, with bright lighting, fabulous deli sandwiches, a choose-your-own salad stand, fresh baked goods, and basic produce. The place at lunchtime is packed--judging from much of the chatter I overheard, with many Fordham Law students. Alan's Marketplace is one of the area's best delis, and it deserves its large crowds.

Hooray for the visionary entrepreneurs who took a dilapidated deli and transformed it into a veritable hub, creating jobs, pumping tax revenue into the economy, and feeding many hungry students and professionals.