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New Yorkers 1st Choice
El Cajon's best

American sandwich shops

You want a sandwich that honors the American tradition of a hearty, well-made meal. You aren't looking for anything complicated, just something done correctly.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. Ray Rays Gourmet Sandwiches image 1
Mr. Ray Rays Gourmet Sandwiches image 2
Mr. Ray Rays Gourmet Sandwiches image 3
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Bright, clean sandwich shop with generous seating inside and out and a dog-friendly outdoor area. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a comfortable, welcoming vibe. Offers many toppings and condiments, with fresh ingredients packed into flavorful sandwiches.

Philly cheesesteak stands out with its incredible flavor. The menu also features amazing clam chowder and a fresh, flavorful Campus Club sandwich.

Sandwiches come fresh, generous, and flavorful with quality ingredients. Options like the 12-inch roast beef and Reuben are packed and tasty, making it a reliable spot for lunch.

People are saying

"The owner's kindness makes the sandwich experience truly welcoming."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are packed with fresh, quality ingredients."

"The American Food here, like the roast beef sandwich, is fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The price is fair for the quality provided.

2

The location has convenient parking available.

3

Seating is limited to only three tables.

02
Janna’s Burgers, Fish and Fries image 1

Cozy hamburger restaurant in a food court setting offers an extensive menu with juicy burgers, crispy fish and chips, and seasoned crinkle-cut fries. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, attracting families and casual diners looking for flavorful, classic fast food. Known for fresh buns and lightly battered seafood, it stands out for quality and taste in a mall environment.

Classic cheeseburgers come with bacon and cheese, offering a tasty and straightforward American meal.

Fish sandwiches come fresh and old-fashioned with a delicious taste. Both the fish sandwich and burger improve with each visit.

People are saying

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

"This American Food, especially the cheeseburger, was cooked to perfection."

"I loved the fish sandwich; it was so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in the food court.

2

There is plenty of parking and dining space.

3

The menu is extensive, offering a variety of options.

03
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, clean chicken restaurant with customized artwork and a retro vibe. Atmosphere feels welcoming and chill, with some patio seating available. Food service is fast and efficient, featuring crispy, flavorful chicken with customizable spice levels.

Fried chicken comes out crispy and juicy with customizable spice levels and Cajun seasoning. Sliders, loaded fries, and mac and cheese complement the meal well, with the macaroni cooked just right.

Chicken sandwiches feature customizable spice levels and Cajun seasoning with juicy, high quality ingredients. Honey coleslaw and pickles add a sweet and tangy contrast, while the Dave sauce complements the flavors well.

People are saying

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

"The American Food here, especially the chicken, is perfectly seasoned and juicy."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging due to a small lot impacted by the IN-N-OUT drive-thru.

2

The dining area is not attended, so customers must clean up after themselves.

3

Expect a hectic atmosphere during free slider days.

04
The Barbecue Pit image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Old-school barbecue joint with 1970s nostalgia and cafeteria-style seating creates a relaxed, country music vibe. Family-owned atmosphere feels welcoming and unpretentious, offering hearty portions and visible kitchen action. Regulars come early for well-regarded brisket and barbecue sauce.

Brisket stands out with its tender, pull-apart texture and melt-in-your-mouth quality. Pulled pork and burnt end sandwiches also feature prominently alongside the brisket in various dishes.

Barbecue sandwiches feature brisket, burnt ends, and pulled pork with rich BBQ sauce. Options like the chopped burnt ends sandwich pair well with soup for a filling meal.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was fantastic and a great throwback."

"The American Food brisket sandwich just melts in your mouth."

"I found the brisket sandwich to be terrific and stacked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is closed on Sundays.

3

Expect limited menu items if you arrive late in the day.

05
AB’s Philly Steak image 1

Restaurant offers traditional Philly cheesesteaks with soft, fresh bread and customizable toppings. Atmosphere feels like a Chicago or New York eatery, located in a mall food court. Portions are generous, and the menu includes halal options and crispy, well-seasoned fries.

Philly cheesesteak features a toasted roll and pairs well with Cajun fries. Combos include a 3-piece chicken tender option alongside the cheesesteak.

Melted cheeses cover tender, juicy grilled steak in sandwiches cooked fresh to order. They come inside a lovely roll and offer a savory, delicious experience that keeps people coming back.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I thought the American food, especially the Philly cheesesteak, was the best I've had."

"I thought this sandwich was one of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The Philly cheese steak meal, including fries and a drink, costs $15.

2

Halal meat is available upon request.

3

Everything is customizable, including peppers, onions, and seasoning on fries.

06
Sinbad Mediterranean Cuisine image 1

Restaurant offers cozy, authentic Mediterranean vibe with warm, inviting atmosphere and beautiful, clean decor. Indoor seating is plentiful, supporting a relaxed dining experience. The setting feels like a vibrant corner of the Mediterranean, combining comfort with elegance.

Juicy, flavorful hamburgers stand out with a unique taste reminiscent of Iraqi style. The fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and well seasoned, making both dishes solid choices.

Bold, flavorful spices define the Zinger sandwich, making it a standout choice. Beef and chicken sandwiches also feature amazing taste, with tabbouleh adding a fresh, vibrant touch.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and full of flavor."

"Their American Food hamburger was juicy and flavorful."

"You have to try the Zinger sandwich; it's so flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves Iraqi-style fast food in a unique Arabian nights atmosphere.

2

Expect a diverse and authentic menu with high-quality ingredients.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained environment.

07
Dickey's Barbecue Pit image 1

Smoky aroma fills the air, creating a pleasant and friendly atmosphere. The space is clean and family friendly, attracting those seeking tender, flavorful barbecue like brisket and ribs. It serves as a reliable spot for catered business lunches and casual dining.

Brisket stands out with its tender texture and melt-in-your-mouth quality. Ribs share the same succulent and flavorful profile.

Pulled pork sandwiches come with a sweet and original sauce that complements the flavor well, though the meat to bread ratio can feel off and cheese is not very melted. Brisket sandwiches are sliced but tend to fall short of expectations.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is smoky, tender, and packed with flavor."

"This American food's brisket and pulled pork are tender and packed with flavor."

"The pulled pork sandwich was tender, smoky, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Sundays.

2

The restaurant is family-friendly with multiple menu options.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

08
Philly Steak Subs image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant with east coast retro decor and old school decorations creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Seating is ample with cool wall art and a vibe that feels both genuine and comfortable. The place offers an authentic experience for Philly cheesesteak lovers outside Philadelphia.

Philly cheesesteaks feature perfectly grilled meat, melted cheese, and a fresh roll. The Philly Cheesesteak 'The Works' comes loaded and flavorful, often with meat crumbles for extra texture.

Philly cheesesteak sandwiches come fresh, hot, and packed with flavor. Each sandwich is made to order with fresh ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, and avocado, offering a satisfying and filling meal.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were great and generously portioned."

"This Philly Cheesesteak was perfectly cooked with great flavor."

"This American food, the Philly cheesesteak, was amazing and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky because the lot is narrow and doesn't outlet in the back.

2

They charge extra for using Visa.

3

Expect a wait time of about 10 minutes during busy hours.

09
Abn Al Sham - مطعم و فروج ابن الشام image 1

Small restaurant offers authentic Syrian atmosphere with a cozy, relaxed vibe reminiscent of Damascus. It serves highly praised shawarma and fried chicken known for their flavor and tenderness. The space feels like a hidden gem for Middle Eastern cuisine.

Fried chicken here is super crispy outside and juicy inside, packed with bold flavor. The chicken shawarma and fried chicken combo offers a strong taste experience.

Shawarma sandwiches come loaded with fresh ingredients and generous portions. They are flavorful and moist, often served sliced like wraps with garlic sauce and coleslaw.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the shawarma."

"The fried chicken here is super crispy, juicy, and packed with bold flavor."

"The chicken shawarma sandwich is so flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

Parking is located at the back of the restaurant; front parking is for the store next door.

2

Shawarma prices are around $10 each, which is reasonable.

3

Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes, even if told otherwise.

10
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen image 1
Chicken restaurant

Recently remodeled space offers great scenery inside and out with a clean environment. Food features crispy chicken sandwiches and red beans and rice, with some menu items occasionally out of stock. Service can be slow during busy times but remains accommodating for large orders.

Fried chicken features a crispy coating with a decent flavor. Coleslaw tends to be very runny, which stands out alongside the chicken.

Chicken sandwiches feature thick, juicy chicken with a crispy, buttery crunch. Fish sandwiches are also available and taste good. Sandwiches stop being made after 9 pm.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I thought the chicken sandwich was the best, thick and juicy."

"I got the fried chicken and it was good."

Good to know

1

They don’t make sandwiches after 9 pm.

2

Each car took nearly 15 minutes to receive their food.

3

I paid about $19 for a 3-piece chicken strip meal.

11
Mr. Shawarma El Cajon image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a spacious, clean interior with an open kitchen layout and traditional Middle Eastern decor. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with lively music and enticing aromas creating a comfortable dining experience. Families frequent the place, enjoying authentic shawarma and falafel in a friendly setting.

Habibi hamburgers use high-quality meat and come in large portions. The menu also includes hot dogs and shawarma wraps, but the chicken wings can be overcooked.

Shawarma sandwiches come fresh and well made with a great selection of sauces and sides. Some sandwiches can be a bit too salty, and fries come separately, adding to the price.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing and authentic."

"These American Food hamburgers are mouthwatering and made with the best meat."

"I found the shawarma sandwiches here to be fresh and well made."

Good to know

1

Expect a special deal on Wednesdays that could save you money.

2

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for night owls.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but check for any additional fees.

12
El Cajon Bistro & Bakery-Bistro image 1

Cozy café with relaxed atmosphere and pretty outdoor landscaping offers a friendly vibe ideal for breakfast or brunch. Music adds to the inviting, casual setting where people often wait due to popularity. High-quality seating enhances comfort during visits.

Eggs Benedict stands out with rich hollandaise sauce and consistent quality. Breakfast options include hash browns, breakfast sandwiches, BLTs, and club sandwiches that all deliver solid flavors.

Egg salad and pastrami sandwiches come on sourdough bread with healthy sides. Roast beef and Swiss sandwiches stand out for their rich flavors. Breakfast options include a satisfying BLT and club sandwich.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, rich, and delicious."

"Their American Food, especially the eggs Benedict, has the best hollandaise sauce."

"I had a great BLT and club sandwich here."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak breakfast hours.

2

Menu prices may be higher at checkout unless paying with cash.

3

Happy hour portion sizes are smaller than regular menu items.

13
Habit Burger & Grill image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Large dining area offers spacious seating but feels impersonal and inefficient due to minimal staff and low energy. Burgers stand out as fresh and hand-made, with options like teriyaki and chicken club praised for flavor. Cleanliness is consistent, though noise levels run high during visits.

Hamburgers come juicy, tasty, and cooked right with great portions. Cheeseburgers stand out as the absolute best around, with options like char mushroom and sides like sweet potato fries.

Grilled chicken sandwiches come with juicy chicken but sometimes feel small for the price. Chicken club sandwiches are big and juicy but may have issues with cleanliness.

People are saying

"I thought the hamburgers were juicy, tasty, and cooked right."

"These American burgers are juicy, tasty, and cooked just right."

"I found the grilled chicken sandwich to be delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

Curbside pickup is available in addition to drive-through service.

2

Parking is available, but it can be tricky in the area.

3

The restaurant operates on a self-service model with no waitstaff.

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