Carey Hansen, Owner. Photographer: Duane Tinkey.
Q: How would you describe yourself?
A: A foodie to the core and travel aficionado who is not afraid to roll up my sleeves and work hard. I am the owner of three businesses. Manhattan Deli, Greek House Chefs, and I am a partner and co-owner of JR’S SouthPork Ranch at the Iowa State Fair. I love the food service industry.
Q: What do you love most about Greater Des Moines?
A: I feel like Des Moines is a “best-kept secret” of the Midwest. I travel extensively and coming home to Des Moines always feels good. Although we are a smaller city, we have live music, art, theater, an excellent restaurant scene and the desire to keep growing and becoming better.
Q: What do you love about your career?
A: I love being in kitchens. I employ over three hundred Chefs; I am married to a Chef and I collaborate with Chefs and foodies every day. We all love to eat out and “talk shop.” Watching the industry evolve and change over the years has been interesting. I’ve never met a sandwich I didn’t like.
Q: What are some guiding principles you’ve used in your career?
A: At Manhattan Deli, a definite guiding principle is this: Honor the Tradition. Manhattan Deli is an institution. Its traditional style didn’t need to be changed when we purchased it almost two years ago. Freshened up? You bet. But the foundation was already there. The people of Des Moines love the Deli, just as it is.
3705 Ingersoll Ave | Des Moines, IA 50310 | (515) 274-1208 | www.hansensmanhattandeli.com
