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Delis in San Diego

A deli that prioritizes fresh, house-made ingredients over the convenience of pre-packaged shortcuts.

Based on 456 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Deli Mart image 1
Deli Mart image 2
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Family-owned deli with fresh bread and hearty sandwiches like the Sinatra and Reuben. Clean, cozy spot known for well-assembled, large sandwiches served with pickles. Hours vary, so checking ahead is necessary.

Club sandwich features sourdough bread and fresh ingredients. Reuben sandwich offers hearty, juicy pastrami without excess fat.

Fresh bread and huge sandwiches like the Deli Deluxe stand out here. The family-owned spot offers a friendly atmosphere with consistently delicious club and #5 sandwiches.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were delicious and yummy."

"The club sandwich here is fresh with crunchy bacon."

"The deli staff here is super friendly and nice."

Good to know

1

The shop's hours are not typical 9-5, so check before visiting.

2

The deli offers a variety of sandwiches and snacks.

3

The place is very clean and well-maintained.

02
Beyer Deli image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers friendly, laidback atmosphere with busy, harmonious energy and cash-only policy. Space feels old school and welcoming, creating a homey vibe despite limited seating. Regulars enjoy fresh, well-prepared sandwiches and a community-focused environment.

Reuben and Pastrami sandwiches stand out with rich, classic flavors. The chicken club sandwich offers tender, flavorful bites. Brownies come recommended as a sweet finish.

Sandwiches feature fresh ingredients and generous portions with reasonable prices. Service stands out as exceptionally nice and friendly, enhancing the overall deli experience.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious sandwiches with tons of meat and flavor."

"The owner Dena at this deli is so sweet and remembers everyone's name."

"Their American Food sandwiches are fresh, flavorful, and simply sublime."

Good to know

1

Beyer Deli only accepts cash payments.

2

There is no ATM on site if you need cash.

3

The deli closes early at 3 pm on weekdays.

03
Evanโ€™s Deli & Brew image 1

Cozy deli with a laid back, bright atmosphere and ample space for groups. Offers top notch craft beer alongside handmade Philly cheesesteak sandwiches that stand out for quality and flavor. Casual setting includes outdoor seating and a TV showing sports, creating a friendly, lowkey vibe.

Philly cheesesteaks here feature perfectly cooked meat, melted cheese, and a well-made bun. The Veggie Philly Cheesesteak also stands out as absolutely incredible.

Offers Philly cheesesteaks that stand out for quality and flavor. Includes squaw bread, a rare find in delis. Feels like a genuine East Coast deli with great sandwiches and friendly service.

People are saying

"This Philly cheesesteak sandwich is the best I've ever had."

"This Philly cheesesteak is the best American food I've ever had."

"You have to try the Philly cheesesteak at this deli; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day until 6pm with $1 off select beers.

2

The deli is dog-friendly, allowing pets inside and on the patio.

3

Evanโ€™s Deli & Brew offers high-quality meats and cheeses sourced from Philly.

04
Knockout Deli image 1

Deli with original gangster decor and Al Capone era pictures creates a cozy, welcoming vibe that feels like a down-home spot. Seating is comfortable and sleek, suitable for families, with a clean and modern layout. Atmosphere stays quiet and chill at times, offering a relaxed experience.

Philly Cheesesteak stands out with its rich flavor and authentic taste. Fresh ingredients shine in the cobb salad and California Club, both well-prepared and tasty.

Subs come in huge portions with fresh ingredients and strong East Coast deli vibes. Staff are kind and generous, making the experience feel welcoming.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were the best I had in a long time."

"The deli sandwiches here are huge and incredibly delicious."

"You have to try the American Food sandwiches; they're huge and amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited if driving to the deli.

2

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

Expect large portions; a sandwich can cost nearly $20 with extras.

05
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli image 1

Small butcher shop with outdoor counter seating and a smoker trailer emitting strong aromas. Atmosphere feels like a casual bro hangout with high-quality meats and a focus on takeout sandwiches. Limited seating encourages quick visits, often with a wait for popular items.

Philly cheesesteak stands out with a flavorful roll, shaved steak, and subtle peppers and onions. Huge portions of double cheeseburgers and roast beef sandwiches come with fries and reasonable prices.

Offers a great deli with hot food and sandwiches ready to take home. The deli serves delicious and excellent options consistently.

People are saying

"I thought the turkey sandwich was the best I'd ever eaten."

"The Philly cheesesteak here is amazing and melt-in-your-mouth."

"I thought the deli sandwiches were so delicious."

Good to know

1

The deli offers great quality meat and delicious sandwiches until 5 PM.

2

It's important to consider the wait time, which can easily be 40 minutes to an hour.

3

There isn't much seating at The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli.

06
Cloud 9 Deli image 1
American restaurant

Corner deli style space offers indoor and outdoor seating with three 42-inch TVs showing ball games. Atmosphere feels warm and neighborly, enhanced by 1950s and classic ballads music. Clean, inviting environment draws a steady crowd enjoying fresh, flavorful sandwiches.

Lobster roll features well-toasted bread without burns or excess butter, similar to Boston styles. The chicken noodle soup uses egg noodles and tastes like homemade, while the steak plate comes with mashed potatoes, asparagus, and clam chowder.

Offers an extensive menu with amazing sandwiches, salads, cheese, and deli meats. Open from 8 AM to 8 PM, it provides great service and a variety of drinks and snacks for any meal or quick bite.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with tons of options."

"The deli food here is delicious and freshly cooked."

"I can't find better American Food sandwiches anywhere."

Good to know

1

The deli has a huge menu with a wide variety of sandwiches.

2

Most sandwiches cost around $14 to $15.

3

You should order online if you're in a rush.

07
The Gourmet Bagger Restaurant image 1

Small sandwich shop with cozy interior and outdoor seating offers a welcoming, friendly vibe where regulars greet each other warmly. Sandwiches are affordable and high quality, featuring phenomenal bread and standout chocolate chip cookies. Closing times are strict, with kitchen closing before advertised hours.

Chocolate chip cookies stand out as a highlight, drawing crowds. The club sandwich and grilled cheese also deliver solid American flavors.

Deli sandwiches stand out for their exceptional quality and refreshing taste. Options include a turkey sandwich and a deli cheese sandwich.

People are saying

"This sandwich is loaded with fresh ingredients and tastes delicious."

"I thought the American food, especially the cookies, was beyond fresh."

"The deli sandwiches here are refreshing and exceptional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; walk-ins only.

2

The kitchen closes at 3:30 PM, but phone orders stop at 3 PM.

3

Parking is available at the nearby Loma Square Shopping Center.

08
Carnivore Sandwich image 1

Bright, minimal, and modern deli with a community-oriented atmosphere and chill vibe. Offers all-day breakfast and Chicago-style sandwiches with large portions and high-quality ingredients. Small indoor seating complements nice outdoor tables, creating a cozy and friendly environment.

Club sandwich stands out with solid flavors. The breakfast burrito packs roast beef, hash browns, and egg. Chili cheese fries and Philly cheesesteak add hearty, classic American tastes.

Traditional delicatessen with a Detroit flair serves standout items like the matzo ball that rivals classic spots. The vibe is charged by an energetic and charismatic presence behind the counter.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with generous portions and great pricing."

"The American Food here, especially the sandwiches and chili, is excellent."

"I thought the matzo ball at this Deli was the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Chicago-style hot dogs and sandwiches.

2

There is both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

3

The prices are very reasonable.

09
Girard Gourmet image 1

Small bakery with homey vibe and old world style kitchen offers limited indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels warm and family-friendly, focusing on comfort rather than fancy decor. Frequented for high quality homemade recipes and a wide variety of fresh bakery and deli items.

Apple pie stands out with well-cooked, seasoned apples and a perfect crust. Other dishes include hearty chicken noodle soup, chicken pozole, cowboy quiche, and chicken pot pie, plus sugar and chocolate chip cookies.

Classic west coast deli vibe shines through with thoughtful owners and attentive service. Display case offers a variety of desserts, salads, entrees, and deli sandwiches.

People are saying

"I loved the freshly made salads and sandwiches at this lunch spot."

"You have to try the apple pie; it's the best American Food."

"I thought this was the best deli in San Diego."

Good to know

1

Girard Gourmet is open from 7 AM to 6 PM every day.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Street parking can be tricky; plan accordingly.

10
Papanani's Deli image 1

Outdoor patio overlooks marina with unbeatable views and a peaceful atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and deck options near boat slips. Sandwiches and breakfast items draw a steady crowd seeking generous portions and casual dining.

Reuben sandwich stands out with its rich flavors and hearty build. Breakfast #1 offers a generous portion of eggs, toast, hash browns, and sausages, all cooked well.

Casual take-out spot with made-to-order sandwiches and a marina-side eat-in patio. Offers a good variety of tasty breakfast and lunch items with friendly, accommodating service.

People are saying

"I had the most amazing sandwich I have ever had."

"I found this deli to be a good place for breakfast and lunch."

"I had the most amazing Reuben sandwich I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Hot sandwiches are often only available after 11 or 12.

2

Parking costs $9 for 18 minutes, with no validation available.

3

The deli is not easily visible from the street and is located at the back of a yacht club.

11
Elijah's Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering image 1

Spacious seating and a bright, clean interior create an airy, relaxed atmosphere with a modern twist on traditional deli vibes. A separate room supports private events, while a bar offers casual drink options. The environment balances pleasant ambiance, event-friendly setup, and spacious layout.

Reuben sandwich with pastrami and beef stands out as a favorite. The turkey meatloaf and brisket dishes also deliver solid American flavors. Cranberry sauce adds a nice touch to the meals.

Over-stuffed sandwiches and a great selection of Russian-style kosher deli sandwiches stand out here. The deli also serves very good onion rings and offers a quality close to a New York kosher deli.

People are saying

"You'll find over-stuffed sandwiches and a great selection of meats at this deli."

"I thought the Reuben sandwich with pastrami was flavorful and awesome."

"The Reuben sandwich with pastrami and beef was awesome."

Good to know

1

Elijah's is suitable for hosting large events with ample seating.

2

Parking is free and plentiful for guests visiting the restaurant.

3

Expect generous portions, especially for sandwiches and breakfast items.

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San Diego, California

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