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Local picks in California

Chicken salad lunch spots

A chicken salad that treats the chicken as the main event rather than a dry afterthought buried in greens.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Royal Bakery & Café image 1
Royal Bakery & Café image 2
Royal Bakery & Café image 3
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Small, clean bakery with cozy atmosphere and outdoor patio seating. Warm, welcoming vibe with energetic music playing continuously. Popular spot for casual gatherings and enjoying fresh, unique baked goods.

Lunch features a healthy menu with options like the Turkey Delight made from real turkey. Seating includes a patio area for outdoor dining, and lunch service runs until 4 pm, including Sundays.

Walnut chicken salad comes with rolls and butter. The chicken salad sandwich pairs well with cookies or tropical tea. Both sandwich and salad options appear regularly.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious cake I got from here."

"You have to try their amazing cow cookies; they're a local favorite."

"This lunch spot has delicious sandwiches and fresh, yummy food."

Good to know

1

The bakery now has extended hours for breakfast and lunch until 4 pm.

2

Miguel is the new owner and has introduced Sunday openings.

3

The bakery offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and soups.

02
Milk Belly Bakery image 1

Rustic red-brick walls and banana-leaf wallpaper create a cozy, inviting space with wooden tables and a separate coffee bar. The atmosphere is chill and warm, with a peaceful courtyard nearby. Staff prepare food visibly, adding to the welcoming vibe.

Chicken salad stands out as refreshing, bright, and flavorful. The chicken salad sandwich is light and fresh, often paired well with a hash brown.

People are saying

"The Japanese Egg Salad Sandwich here is one of the world's best."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are fresh and flavorful."

"The chicken salad here is so refreshing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines on weekends, often over an hour wait.

2

Preordering is recommended to avoid sold-out items.

3

Parking can be tricky; metered spots are a block away.

03
Dad's Sandwiches and Things image 1

Family-run restaurant with homemade bread and sides creates a chill, friendly atmosphere. Sandwiches feature quality meats and unique flavors, drawing a loyal crowd. Prices lean toward the higher side but reflect the craftsmanship and care in each dish.

Fresh bread, lunch meat, and salads make for quick, satisfying meals. The spot offers fast service and mentions pizza nights midweek to weekend.

Chicken salad sandwiches stand out here with a reputation for being very good and even called the best around by some. The chicken salad itself is a go-to choice for many.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were great."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches, like the Italian beef and pastrami, are outstanding."

"I loved the chicken salad sandwich; it was phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Everything is made from scratch, including the bread and gardenaire.

2

Expect generous portions; two half sandwiches cost over $35.

3

Pizza nights are held Wednesday to Saturday.

04
Off the Vine Gardens Deli And Catering image 1

Family-owned deli offers customizable a la carte meals with a focus on breakfast and lunch. The atmosphere suits busy workers seeking large, reasonably priced burgers and sandwiches. It closes early, around 2 to 2:30 PM, and charges a small fee for card transactions.

Busy area workers find this spot ideal for big lunches during the work week. It serves well for both breakfast and lunch pickup, making it convenient for a quick meal.

Homemade chicken salad shines with a unique, epic sandwich served on squaw bread. The recipe feels crafted with love, making it stand out.

People are saying

"The food here tastes homemade and is super fresh."

"It's a great lunch spot for people working in this busy area."

"I really enjoyed the homemade chicken salad sandwich."

Good to know

1

They charge 50 cents for every card transaction.

2

The owner explained they have a $5 minimum for card payments.

3

They close around 2 to 2:30 PM, so plan accordingly.

05
Classics Flowers and Confections image 1

Small space blends flower shop with cozy tea house vibe, decorated with plants and charming knick knacks. Atmosphere stays serene and inviting, ideal for relaxing or quiet conversation. Frequented for afternoon tea and light meals, it offers a unique, calming escape from busy surroundings.

Offers a wide variety of teas, coffee, breakfast, and lunch options with reliable sit-down service. The brunch box and tea for two box lunch stand out, and sandwiches leave a lasting impression.

Chicken salad comes in sandwiches on croissant and brioche. Both versions offer a good balance of flavors and textures.

People are saying

"I loved the Afternoon Tea and the chicken salad sandwiches."

"It's such a cozy and welcoming little place."

"I loved the chicken salad sandwiches on their croissant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the afternoon tea service, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait for food as the kitchen is small and food takes time to prepare.

3

The menu includes a wide variety of teas, coffee, breakfast, and lunch options.

06
Grecian Cafe image 1
Greek restaurant

Old building houses a family-owned Greek restaurant with a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Generous portions of homemade dishes like chicken salad and gyros draw regular takeout crowds. Prices stay reasonable, matching the quality and freshness of ingredients.

Lunch here draws a steady crowd, with many opting for takeout on Fridays. The spot has a long history as a reliable lunch choice for over 20 years.

Greek style chicken salad stands out with a great portion size and comes with a fluffy pita. It ranks as the top-selling menu item and is consistently very good.

People are saying

"This family owned spot has the most amazing Greek food."

"The Greek food here is so tasty, especially the gyros full of meat."

"This Lunch Spot's food was really awesome and abundant."

Good to know

1

There is lots of parking available.

2

The food is affordable and generous in portion size.

3

Grecian Cafe has been family-owned for over 40 years.

07
D'Onza's Old World Deli image 1

Old-world European deli design creates a family atmosphere with warm hospitality and excellent music. Large dining area features clean decor that complements the cozy vibe. The place offers a classic Italian deli feel with a modest, inviting ambiance.

Deli sandwiches pair well with a cold Coca Cola for lunch. This spot offers quick service and solid options for immediate or future meals.

Chicken salad comes on toasted sourdough bread and tastes delicious. It stands out as a favorite sandwich often sought out even from a distance.

People are saying

"The meatball sandwich here is amazing, especially the meatballs."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are delicious, especially the bread."

"I loved their chicken salad sandwich on toasted sourdough."

Good to know

1

They offer vegan options, but gluten-free choices are limited to salads.

2

Onions and cheese for chili come with an extra charge.

3

Prices are generally high for the portion sizes offered.

08
Joe's Gourmet Sandwiches image 1

Small sandwich shop offers cozy atmosphere with small tables and a fun table game to enjoy. Sandwiches come at unbeatable prices with a wide variety including hot, cold, and salads. The vibe feels homey and welcoming, attracting many who prefer quality over corporate chains.

Lunch offers an unbeatable value with deals that make sandwiches both cheap and tasty. It serves as a casual spot to meet friends for a late meal without breaking the bank.

Chicken salad comes with avocado and is served on rye bread. The California chicken salad sandwich pairs well with macaroni salad and chips.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"This lunch spot has delicious, freshly made sandwiches with quality ingredients."

"I really liked their chicken salad with avocado."

Good to know

1

The sandwiches cost $5.55 each or $8.00 for a combo.

2

They close at 4 pm on weekdays and are closed on Sundays.

3

The total cost for a sandwich, chips, and drink is $10.

09
Rascal's Teriyaki Grill image 1
Japanese restaurant

Large, spacious Japanese restaurant with an old school Hawaiian style and tons of seating creates a laid back, lively atmosphere filled with happy people. Known for fast, well-organized takeout and huge portions, it draws those seeking satisfying meals like the standout Chinese chicken salad and teriyaki dishes.

Meals come in complete portions that satisfy for lunch or dinner. Food serves well for sharing or multiple meals, making it a solid choice for a team lunch or a return visit after time away.

Signature dish features a Chinese Chicken Salad known for its amazing flavor and satisfying taste. It pairs well with other menu items like the beef deluxe plate.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese chicken salad was superb."

"This lunch spot has delicious, generous portions perfect for sharing."

"I thought the chicken salad was the best."

Good to know

1

The combo plate costs $10.95 after taxes, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Expect large portions that are filling, perfect for sharing.

3

There is plenty of parking available for customers.

10
Sienna Deli image 1

Small deli with fresh bread and generous portions creates a casual, quiet atmosphere ideal for conversation. Friendly, family-owned vibe welcomes regulars and newcomers alike. Offers high-quality cold cuts and large breakfast burritos that stand out among sandwich shops.

Casual deli vibe sets the tone for lunch with friendly service and a nice menu. Salads and sandwiches stand out as fresh and satisfying options.

Chicken salad here is light yet filling, served both on sandwiches and in salads. It offers a delicious and satisfying meal option.

People are saying

"The deli sandwiches here are freshly made with quality ingredients."

"I found the chicken salad sandwich to be amazing and light yet filling."

"The sandwiches at this lunch spot are really good quality."

Good to know

1

Prices at Sienna Deli are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

2

Portions at Sienna Deli are generous, ensuring good value for your meal.

3

There is ample parking available near the deli for easy access.

11
Choice Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Building resembles an old Taco Bell with indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels like a mom-and-pop greasy spoon with a complete salsa bar offering various heat levels. Menu includes large, flavorful burgers and Mexican dishes, served in a casual, straightforward setting.

Burgers stand out for lunch, especially the bacon avocado cheeseburger. Small sides like fries and zucchini often accompany meals. Prices can add up quickly for multiple lunches.

Grilled chicken salad comes with ranch dressing and stands out among the menu. It appears alongside other favorites like chorizo and egg breakfast and chili fries.

People are saying

"This local spot has satisfying, affordable burgers."

"The staff here is always super friendly."

"This lunch spot has a good, tasty burger."

Good to know

1

The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, breakfast plates, and Mexican dishes.

2

A typical meal costs under $15 and includes a large burger, fries, and a drink.

3

Parking is easy and free on a side street with plenty of spaces.

12
Gail's Grand Avenue Lunch Co image 1

Sandwich shop offers huge sandwiches and an expansive menu with daily specials. The space feels tight when busy but maintains a cheerful atmosphere with a big screen showing current movies. Calling ahead is common to avoid long waits during lunch.

Offers a very diverse menu with good quality food at prices comparable to fast food. Service is great and calling ahead to order is recommended for a quick lunch.

Creamy texture defines the Chicken Salad Sandwich here. It tastes consistently delicious and earns praise for being great.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has huge portions and the food is amazing."

"The sandwich service here is super kind and friendly."

"I found the chicken salad sandwich to be great and delicious."

Good to know

1

Customers can order ahead over the phone or come park and order in line.

2

Calling ahead to place your order is highly recommended if you’re planning to eat here during lunch.

3

Be prepared for a long wait if you don’t call ahead.

13
Falafel Express image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers affordable, flavorful dishes with large portions and excellent sauces. Atmosphere includes a TV and parking, making it a convenient spot for lunch or dinner. Menu features crispy falafel, juicy chicken shawarma, and authentic gyro sandwiches.

Offers a good lunch break option with reasonable pricing. Serves meals suitable for both lunch and dinner.

Chicken salad comes with a large tray option topped with garlic sauce. It tastes very delicious and is well-liked by groups.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has tasty, warm, and well-seasoned food."

"I found the chicken salad to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The prices are very reasonable, with meals around $8.99.

2

Falafel Express offers plenty of vegetarian options.

3

Expect to pay extra for pita with your salad unless ordered ahead.

14
Little Sister image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Stylish modern Vietnamese restaurant with an open kitchen and full bar creates a bright, inviting vibe. Outdoor seating with heaters and open window walls bring in cool coastal air. Space feels intimate and festive, though tables sit close together.

Dishes focus on Thai fusion style, offering lighter options for lunch. The spot suits groups well, with a great atmosphere for sharing meals with family or friends.

Chicken salad mixes come in shareable portions and pair well with fried shrimp. The salad stands out as a great dish alongside vermicelli noodles and prawns.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is amazing with flavorful Vietnamese food."

"This Lunch Spot's pho portions are so large, I could barely finish one bowl."

"I loved the Chicken Salad; it was great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for happy hour.

2

Happy hour is only available in the outside seating area.

3

A 3% credit card usage fee is applied to all transactions.

15
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Outdoor seating with cozy patio, vegetation surroundings, and dog-friendly areas creates a relaxed vibe. Live music and mid-2000s rap and R&B add to the fun atmosphere. Family-friendly features include a supervised play area and games for all ages.

Lunch hours offer a relaxed vibe with fewer crowds on weekdays. Saturdays bring a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying beers alongside your meal.

The chicken salad sandwich features a simple and small portion with a high price point. It has a flavor that appeals enough to make it tempting to share.

People are saying

"The beer here is always amazing, especially the IPAs."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is great and delicious."

"I've never had a better chicken salad sandwich in my life."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available behind the brewery, but it may require a fee.

2

Brass Bear Funk Zone is family-friendly with a fenced area for kids' activities.

3

Reservations are recommended for hosting events, especially for larger groups.

16
Imperial Garden #2 image 1

Old school Chinese restaurant with plentiful lighting and a clean, stylish atmosphere. Offers authentic Cantonese BBQ with gigantic portions and dishes served in large quantities. Known for whole roasted duck and a wide variety of traditional dishes in a cozy setting with only two tables.

Lunch offers an extensive variety of dishes beyond the limited lunch specials. The lunch experience feels welcoming and worth repeating.

Chicken salad features a very good taste and pairs well with dishes like orange chicken and chow mein. It stands out as a delicious option alongside Mongolian beef and hot and sour soup.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy pork and juicy roasted duck Chinese food here."

"The Dim Sum here is authentic and delicious, especially the Shui Mai."

"I really enjoyed the chicken salad; it was very good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect large portion sizes, perfect for sharing among friends or family.

3

The restaurant specializes in traditional Chinese BBQ, including roasted duck and pork.

17
Ciné Café image 1
Convenience store

Half liquor store, half convenience store, and half deli, the space offers counter service with made-to-order sandwiches and a folding table and chairs at the front. The atmosphere feels homey and welcoming, with a variety of snacks, drinks, and deli items available for quick meals or carry-out.

Lunch offers quick service with waits under 10 minutes. The Reuben sandwich stands out as a solid choice during busy hours.

Chicken salad sandwich comes on marble rye and pairs with chips. It stands out as a superb choice here.

People are saying

"The sandwich here is so friendly and attentive."

"I thought the chicken salad sandwich was the best I ever had."

"This Lunch Spot's Reuben sandwich is excellent, top 5 material."

Good to know

1

Ciné Café offers made-to-order sandwiches and grab-and-go options that are made fresh daily.

2

Breakfast is served all day, including breakfast tacos.

3

Expect a quick service experience, ideal for a fast meal.

18
Greek Chicken image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant combines fast food style with fresh, well-prepared Greek dishes like gyro and chicken salad. The space feels clean and remodeled, with some booths offering privacy and TVs showing sports. It attracts a busy lunch crowd, creating a lively, noisy atmosphere.

Small gyros salad offers a just right portion for lunch. Greek Chicken provides enough food to save for the next day. This spot serves as a reliable go-to lunch place for local business folks.

Freshness stands out in the Greek chicken salad, which tastes very good and is consistently tasty. It comes with bread and dressing, though sometimes the order misses these.

People are saying

"The food here is great and consistently good."

"I loved the gyro sandwich; the Greek Food here is excellent."

"I found the Greek chicken salad to be very fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is currently undergoing renovations, which may limit menu options.

2

Expect cleanliness issues as some areas may not be well-maintained.

3

Prices are higher than average for similar restaurants in the area.

19
Bread Head image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a bright, well-designed space with an eclectic gallery wall and Margaritaville-themed bathroom. Atmosphere is loud and lively with a laidback, neighborhood vibe that feels fun and relaxed. Seating is limited but includes a gorgeous curbside patio that adds charm to the setting.

Gourmet quality sandwiches come on house-baked focaccia, including a notable Muffaletta Sandwich. Portions are generous, with a half sandwich often enough for lunch.

Tender chicken and sweet apple create a flavorful and fresh chicken salad. Tarragon adds a nice herbal touch, and bacon can be added for extra richness.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were fantastic."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches on house-baked focaccia are incredible."

"The Chicken Salad sandwich has delicious, thin focaccia bread baked daily."

Good to know

1

The joint is small, so seating is tough.

2

Expect long queues around lunch hour.

3

They don't accept cash, only touchless payment methods.

20
Andy's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small diner-style space offers an old-school fast food atmosphere with adorable decorations and TV screens playing shows. The vibe is friendly and open, though noise levels can be high due to heavy traffic and lively crowds. A drive-thru adds convenience for quick service.

Lunch hours bring a busy drive-thru and a crowded dining area. The menu focuses on lunch items, with no breakfast options available during lunch or dinner.

Chicken salad features a generous amount of chicken that makes it large enough for multiple servings. It pairs well with other items like chili fries and breakfast burritos.

People are saying

"The bacon cheeseburger here is delicious and always fresh."

"I thought the chili cheese fries were the best I ever had."

"The staff at this lunch spot is quick and friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easily accessible for wheelchairs.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The restaurant is always clean inside.

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