Inside Groucho's Deli with Max Miller

Pictured: Bruce Miller (L) and our guest for the episode, Max Miller (R).  Both of Groucho's deli.   In this episode we sit down with Max Miller, owner-operator of Groucho’s Deli in the Charleston area, for a deep dive into sandwiches, family history, and what makes a hometown deli last. It is a lively conversation about the classic lunch-counter vibe, community connections, and the recipes that built a South Carolina institution. We trace Groucho’s roots back to Columbia in 1941 with founder Harold “Groucho” Miller and learn how the shop evolved under Max’s grandfather, Ivan — from a go-by-the-pound deli to the signature sandwich and side-focused menu the family is known for today. Hear the origin stories for their iconic dippers and sauces (including the famous 45 sauce, developed in 1945, and the 95 sauce), the Apollo-era influences, and why those flavors still set Groucho’s apart. Max shares his personal journey — growing up in Columbia, studying entrepreneurship at the College of Charleston, and opening the Mount Pleasant location in October 2020 in the middle of COVID. He talks candidly about the risks and rewards of launching during the pandemic, community support, and the day-to-day of operating neighborhood sandwich counters with long lunch bars where regulars gather. There is also behind-the-scenes anecdotes about family lore (including immigrant roots and a surprising Philadelphia orphanage chapter), menu favorites like potato salad and coleslaw, the mechanics and appeal of dipping sandwiches, and fun moments (TikTok prep, pre-interview coaching, and loyal customers who buy sauce by the pint). The episode also touches on future plans — retailing the sauce, trademark ideas, and keeping a local brand growing while staying authentic. Groucho's Mt. Pleasant: https://www.facebook.com/grouchosmp https://locations.grouchos.com/locations/sc/mount-pleasant Groucho's Deli: https://www.facebook.com/GROUCHOSDELI https://www.instagram.com/grouchos_deli