When Richard Kreush decided to help his mother, Jody Kreush, open a restaurant in South Carolina, he never imagined it would grow into a beloved local spot known for warm cinnamon rolls and comforting deli fare. Now as co-founder of Cinnamon Roll Deli, he is bringing a piece of home to Lexington.

The youngest of three, Richard grew up around his mother’s restaurants in Maryland, where he helped out at a young age.

After moving to South Carolina, he switched from an accounting profession to the hospitality industry to assist his mother.

“I tried the desk job thing and did not really enjoy it,” he said. “I like dealing with people and love dealing with food. Food gives you a connection to people.”

The name Cinnamon Roll Deli highlights a beloved family recipe.

“She started making them and everyone kept telling her how good they were,” Richard said.

The deli concept reflects the family’s New Jersey roots and offers more than just baked goods. Every meal includes a mini cinnamon roll.

“It gives you that little dessert at the end of a meal without overindulging,” he said.

The Lexington location opened less than a month ago following 10 years at the restaurant’s Devine Street spot in Columbia.

“We had such a response from the community that we were a little bit overwhelmed,” Richard said. “They have been very patient with us.”

Popular items include giant cinnamon rolls in flavors like bourbon caramel, strawberry cheesecake and wild berry. Breakfast favorites feature the bacon egg and cheese sandwich and the smoky Farmhouse, while the Godfather Italian sandwich stands out for lunch.

“I am hoping that when they walk in, they instantly feel at home,” Richard said. “That is the feeling of my mother. She just wants you to leave here better than when you came in.”

The restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. It is closed on Mondays. The address is 309 S. Lake Dr.