Newport’s Big Belly Deli getting a new name and ‘fresher vibe,’ but pizza and sandwiches will remain

Beloved Newport Beach sandwich shop Big Belly Deli will soon have a new name and a fresh look.

Since its opening 14 years ago, Big Belly Deli has attracted surfers and Newport locals looking for a massive sandwich a block from the sand.

But owner Marcy Noelte says Big Belly Deli will become 6310 Deli — after the shop’s address on West Coast Highway — in coming weeks.

Noelte helped open another Big Belly Deli on 19th Street in Costa Mesa about six years ago, but she hasn’t been involved with it for about three years. That location, she said, will keep the Big Belly Deli name.

Noelte didn’t want to go into detail about the reason for the Newport deli’s name change, but she said difficulties with the state tax board that led to an audit “didn’t measure up well for our business.”

“It was not an easy decision,” Noelte said of the name change. “It’s heartbreaking to let go of Big Belly Deli, but I’m looking forward to starting fresh.”

The location closed for a few weeks but has reopened. The sign outside has not yet changed to reflect the new name.

The business is still waiting on its license to sell beer and wine. It had to reapply under its new name.

The menu at 6310 Deli will be similar to Big Belly Deli’s pizza and sandwich staples, except for a few alterations. The restaurant will be remodeled inside to give it a “cleaner, fresher vibe,” Noelte said.

Noelte said she has been overwhelmed by the community’s support for the business and said 6310 Deli will continue to cater to the locals who have visited Big Belly for more than a decade.

“I’ll still make their favorites, even if it’s not on the menu,” she said. “I’ve been known for going to the store to get ingredients we’re out of just to keep everyone happy.”