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Local picks in Santa Monica

Sandwich lunch spots

Made for those who view a well-constructed sandwich as the only acceptable standard for a midday meal.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Rabano image 1
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Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with open, airy design and natural lighting creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Heated outdoor patio welcomes dogs and offers a spot for people watching. Consistent focus on healthy, organic, and vegan options defines the dining experience.

Offers a variety of Korean, Mexican, and healthy dishes for lunch. Serves fresh, healthy food and drinks in a clean, functional setting.

Chicken pesto sandwich stands out with its juicy, flavorful, and fresh qualities served on a French baguette. Pork bahn mi sandwich offers a tasty option with a good portion size for the price.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and always good."

"The staff here is super friendly and helpful."

"I found the chicken pesto sandwich to be delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Rabano offers a variety of dishes suitable for all tastes, including options for kids.

2

The kids menu includes a drink for a very reasonable price.

3

Rabano now offers breakfast burritos all day.

02
Lady & Larder image 1
Cheese shop

Compact cheese shop offers grab-and-go bodega style with a curated selection of fine cheeses, charcuterie, and sandwiches. Atmosphere is adorable and cute, with patio seating and occasional cheese samples enhancing the experience.

Two sandwiches come from a secret lunch menu including the French Girl. A box of Lady Crackers often accompanies the meal.

Sandwiches feature amazing ingredients and a creative menu. French ham and cheese baguettes rank among the best outside Paris.

People are saying

"I had the best sandwich Iโ€™ve had in such a long time."

"The sandwiches here are amazing, especially the creative spread."

"The charcuterie here is beautiful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a variety of charcuterie board fixings, wines, and sandwiches.

2

Lady & Larder features products from local and independent artisans.

3

They accommodate dietary restrictions when curating gift baskets.

03
Hungry Pocket Falafel Halal House image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean spot offers cozy, inviting atmosphere with halal and vegetarian options. Menu features fresh falafel and flavorful lamb gyro, often paired with tahini and garlic sauces. Location near college brings a mix of students enjoying reasonable prices and occasional parking challenges.

Offers a quick and convenient option for lunch, ideal for grabbing a meal between classes. The spot serves Halal falafel and has been a reliable choice for over 10 years.

Euro sandwiches stand out with generous portions and spicy, flavorful lamb gyro cooked to perfection. Falafel sandwiches come with a unique hot sauce that adds a delicious twist, while the Dolma sandwich tastes exactly as expected.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and served hot."

"This lamb gyro sandwich is spicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection."

"I considered the falafel sandwich the best Lunch Spot I had ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking may be hard to find during school hours.

2

There is a free parking lot with about 10-15 spots available.

3

Only some items on the menu are halal.

04
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Lunch features a burger and fries with a house-made dipping sauce. The spot works well for casual meetups and family lunches with kids.

Grilled swordfish stands out in the sandwich options, served on house-made rolls and brioche buns. The menu also features a Thai satay sandwich and a shrimp po' boy, all with pickles made in-house.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and prepared with fresh ingredients."

"The steak sandwich had actual steak, not shaved."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

05
Offhand Wine Bar image 1

Modern interior with vinyl DJs sets a lowkey stylish vibe. Bright, well-kept space hosts a welcoming community enjoying natural wines and simple, tasty food. Atmosphere suits early evening hangouts or smooth Friday nights.

Lunch features a new service with amazing sandwiches. Food quality stays fabulous throughout.

Amazing sandwiches appear as a new lunch option with great flavors. Sandwiches look appealing and taste great, making them a solid choice for a meal.

People are saying

"I loved their natural wine selection, especially the skin contact options."

"The staff here are super nice and give great recommendations."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM, Monday through Saturday.

2

There is ample street parking available nearby.

3

The wine list features mostly California natural wines.

06
A Cut Above Butcher Shop image 1

Local butcher shop offers a large selection of quality meats including A5 Wagyu and unique sausages. The atmosphere feels neighborhood-focused with a popular sandwich counter serving flavorful options like Italian beef and Cubano. Lines often stretch long, reflecting steady demand for both meat and sandwiches.

Large selection of quality meats stands out, including steaks, lunch meats, and sausages. Sandwiches and lunch offerings get the most attention.

Sandwiches come warm and flavorful with soft bread and generous fillings like beef and giardiniera. Options include a Cubano sandwich and a muy grande chicken sandwich offered at affordable prices.

People are saying

"Their sandwiches are fantastic and expertly prepared."

"You have to try the Cubano sandwich; it's got a nice, mild spice."

"The staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable about steak."

Good to know

1

They have high-quality cuts of meat, including A5 Wagyu.

2

They serve a wide variety of affordable sandwiches.

3

The shop offers a large selection of quality meats, including steaks and sausages.

07
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art creates an inviting atmosphere. Soft jazz music plays quietly, supporting a calm, work-friendly vibe. The environment blends Midwest/East Coast big city classiness with a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Strong espresso and smooth lattes pair well with fresh, satisfying salads and light lunch options. Breakfast and lunch menus offer healthy, not overly heavy choices for any time of day.

Smashed egg and tuna sandwiches stand out with rich flavors. Pepperoni pizza pressed sandwiches offer a savory twist. Croissant sandwiches come off as average.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and delicious."

"You have to try the ร‡ฤฑlbฤฑr for your lunch spot; it's rich and comforting."

"I loved the delicious pepperoni pizza pressed sandwich."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait during weekend brunch hours, especially after 10am.

3

The cafe accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but not personal checks.

08
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.

Sandwiches feature perfect ingredient ratios and high quality bread. Options like the Reuben, turkey, and mortadella with olive tapenade stand out for their flavor and balance.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were fantastic."

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

"You'll love the Margaritaville-themed bathroom; it's got a humorous touch."

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.

09
Katsu Bar image 1
Restaurant

Bright and lively space with indoor and outdoor seating and a mini-library for book swapping. The atmosphere feels casual but thoughtful, welcoming both people and dogs with treats and water. Known for huge portions and a cute aesthetic, it offers a friendly and cozy vibe with good music.

Lunch features specials and accepts credit cards. Options suit a casual midday meal or early dinner.

Katsu sandwiches stand out with their crunch, tang, and tenderness in every bite. The Yuzu slaw adds a bright finish, and the perfectly fried waffle fries complement the sandwich well.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu sandwiches, is perfectly fried and juicy."

"The chicken katsu sandwich is juicy with a perfect crunch."

"The fried chicken at this Lunch Spot is crispy and not greasy."

Good to know

1

Katsu Bar has a parking lot with plenty of free parking.

2

You pay at the counter first and then receive your food.

3

They have lunch specials and accept credit cards.

10
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with authentic music enhancing the vibe. Seating includes a nice outdoor area and high chairs for kids, though indoor space can feel warm and smokey. The place fills up during busy times but maintains a low-key, friendly energy throughout.

Offers a quick lunch option with a casual vibe. Serves well for a fast meal during work breaks or casual outings.

Gyro sandwiches feature juicy, flavorful meat with fresh toppings and soft pita, complemented by a perfect touch of tzatziki. Sandwiches take about 25 minutes to prepare, reflecting their quality.

People are saying

"The Greek food, especially the gyros, is delicious."

"I loved the Mediterranean food, especially the amazing falafel pita."

"It's a great lunch spot for a quick bite."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

11
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery image 1

Traditional Italian deli combines market, cafรฉ, and quick-stop in a bustling, cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian grocery offerings. Outdoor seating includes stone picnic tables for enjoying sandwiches. The vibe recalls Little Italy in Manhattan with a quaint, small-town charm.

Ordering online helps skip the wait during lunch. The Godmother sandwich stands out, alongside potato and cucumber salads and a chicken salad option for next-day meals.

Godmother sandwich stands out with its unique flavor and light, delicious bread. The tuna sandwich and pre-made Caprese sandwich also offer fresh, well-seasoned options.

People are saying

"The Godmother sandwich with the works is the best choice."

"The bread here is remarkably fresh and enhances every sandwich."

"I thought the Godmother sandwich was the best I had ever had."

Good to know

1

They accept only cash and debit card.

2

You need to grab a ticket with a number and wait until they call out the numbers.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

12
Cafe Zella image 1

Small cafe with cramped interior tables and limited outdoor seating creates a cozy atmosphere. Menu offers large portions with a focus on breakfast and lunch items, attracting locals and nearby workers. Service requires ordering at the counter, and wait times can be noticeable during busy periods.

Lunch includes solid options paired with great matcha. Both breakfast and lunch menus offer reliable choices.

Sandwiches come with great price points, around six dollars each. Options include an Avocado with Egg-White sandwich and egg sandwiches on croissants. The menu also offers a variety of breakfast items alongside sandwiches.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"I found the avocado with egg-white sandwich to be great."

Good to know

1

Customers must walk to the counter to order and pay.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait for coffee and 20 minutes for burritos.

3

Salsa with the burrito is available only if paid extra.

13
Snug Harbor image 1

1940s-style diner with vintage decor and original bar stools creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Cozy indoor booths and a dog-friendly patio with private dividers offer varied seating. Intimate space fills with lively energy, blending classic charm with relaxed outdoor vibes.

A historic spot with a throwback vibe offers counter seating and a menu featuring a notable burger. Parking is usually easy even on Main Street during lunch.

Cilantro chicken stands out as a flavorful sandwich option. Breakfast sandwiches come with fries and salads pair well with the sandwich menu.

People are saying

"The food here felt like a home-cooked meal in an untouched-by-time diner."

"This lunch spot has such a cute diner charm."

"The breakfast burrito sandwich was excellent with spicy salsa."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually easy to find in the neighborhood behind the restaurant.

2

The menu features a diverse selection of traditional American diner dishes.

3

Daily specials and fresh juices are offered regularly.

14
Augie's On Main - Chicken Restaurant Santa Monica, CA image 1

Outdoor seating fills driveway and backyard with a quiet courtyard and pleasant patio featuring heaters. Atmosphere stays chill and cool, inviting relaxed hangouts without indoor dining. Menu highlights include crispy, juicy chicken and creative sandwiches praised for freshness and flavor.

Quick and healthy lunch options stand out here. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed vibe for a midday break.

Spicy and fried chicken sandwiches stand out with bold flavor and good value. Grilled and roasted chicken options offer healthy, flavorful choices, often paired with red cabbage slaw.

People are saying

"I found the spicy chicken sandwich to be one of the best."

"I really enjoyed the spicy chicken sandwich."

"The chili dog at this Lunch Spot has fantastic, thick chili."

Good to know

1

Only outdoor seating is available, so dress appropriately for the weather.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

You can bring your pets onto the patio, which is a nice touch.

15
George's Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Classic diner with retro-inspired decor and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere. Seating includes simple benches and booths, some showing wear, with both indoor and outdoor tables. The space feels unpretentious and familiar, offering step-free access.

Lunch combos include a burger, fries, and drink for under $15. The spot offers good value for quick meals. Booths can be hard to find during lunch due to repairs.

Pastrami sandwiches come with generous portions of meat, enough for multiple sandwiches. The menu includes steak sandwiches and egg cheese bacon breakfast sandwiches, all consistently solid choices.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best I've had."

"This lunch spot's burgers are reliably excellent and charbroiled."

"I found the pastrami sandwich to have an excellent amount of meat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on weekends, but orders are prepared quickly.

3

Ample parking is available for guests visiting the restaurant.

16
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Lunch offers fresh seafood with a great ocean view. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy a beachside vibe while eating.

Lobster and crab sandwiches stand out for their fresh and delicious taste. The shrimp po' boy and fried chicken sandwiches offer solid options for a perfect lunch.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's seafood is so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the fresh and delicious lobster sandwich."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

17
Kafe K image 1
Restaurant

Cozy cafe with warm Eastern European vibes and a spacious sunny patio offers a calm, friendly atmosphere with good background music and a mix of locals and visitors. Seating suits quiet moments or casual chats, and the place is dog-friendly with amenities for pets. The setup encourages an elevated state of mind for working or relaxing without crowds or trendy distractions.

Lunch options include original and generous dishes. The spot suits a quick lunch or a relaxed meal.

Some sandwiches here are very tasty, especially the panini. Others can be poor quality, which is surprising for the US.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and awesome."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was so friendly and efficient."

"I thought the sandwiches here were very tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak brunch hours.

2

Payment is made at the counter; no servers for outdoor seating.

3

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

18
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market combines fresh seafood displays with a lively oyster bar and casual dining space. Atmosphere balances bustling market energy with enough quiet for conversation. Offers a community hub vibe where people shop and eat in one place.

Offers a quick lunch option with a lobster roll deal that stands out. Works well for a casual meal solo or with friends, especially when arriving early to avoid crowds.

Seafood sandwiches come in large portions and include options like crispy halibut and po-boy sandwiches. Tacos and other sandwich choices satisfy a wide range of tastes.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot has excellent, fresh seafood and fish."

"The seafood sandwich here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

19
Cafe Bolivar image 1

Bright, elegant cafe with natural sunlight and artwork on walls creates a warm, creative vibe. Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating supports both casual dining and focused work despite background noise. Known for authentic, delicious arepas, it blends a cozy atmosphere with quality offerings.

Sunny, warm afternoons suit this spot well for grabbing a cold drink and light lunch. Weekday visits show it works nicely for a casual midday meal with friends.

Chicken sandwich pairs with Caesar salad but lacks flavor, coming off as bland. Sandwiches feel overpriced for a quick bite and do not impress.

People are saying

"The coffee here is strong, rich, and exceptionally good."

"The arepas here are packed with flavor and freshly made."

"The food here is amazing; it can't get any better."

Good to know

1

Cafe Bolivar has indoor, outdoor, and counter seating options available.

2

There is 20-minute parking available in front of Cafe Bolivar.

3

The parking meter accepts both card and coins for payment.

20
Shoop's Delicatessen image 1

Eclectic cafe with indoor market and outdoor seating on a sunlit terrace that was once a parking lot. Atmosphere blends classic American vibe with a laid-back local feel, offering a relaxed and casual environment. Space feels larger than it appears from outside, accommodating various group sizes comfortably.

Lunch offers Salmon Caesar Salad, wraps, and the Ambassador sandwich. The menu includes unique European treats alongside classic options.

Sandwiches come with fresh ingredients like salmon, shrimp, and tofu on ciabatta. Options include the BBQ chicken sandwich and the Ambassador sandwich, all delivering strong flavors.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the really good food on the nice patio."

"I found the sandwich combinations interesting and delicious."

"This lunch spot has a huge menu with amazing options."

Good to know

1

They offer a wide variety of meats, wines, candies, and pickles from Sweden.

2

Many vegan options are available on the menu.

3

The menu includes a large selection of vegetarian options.

21
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

Lunch offers a chance to enjoy shrimp cocktail with a tangy kick and join in on Taco Tuesday specials. Outdoor seating lets you watch people while having a beer and a meal.

IPA battered cod sandwich stands out with a fantastic flavor. Other options like the burger and fried chicken sandwiches are small and ordinary, while the pulled pork sandwich is decent.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"This Lunch Spot's food is tasty, well-seasoned, and beautifully presented."

"The servers here are so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

22
Urban Skillet image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with industrial/hipster decor and limited indoor seating complemented by outdoor tables along the sidewalk. The vibe stays friendly and upbeat, creating a welcoming space for casual dining or working on a laptop.

A really chill spot great for a quick lunch with friends or family. It works well for both lunch and dinner occasions.

Fresh, flavorful sandwiches include buffalo, brisket, and smash burger options. Halal hot dog sandwiches and satisfying burger sandwiches add variety.

People are saying

"These burgers are juicy, flavorful, and made with high-quality halal meat."

"This lunch spot's skillet burgers and crispy tots are fantastic."

"You have to try the brisket sandwich; it's so tasty."

Good to know

1

Urban Skillet is 100% Halal.

2

The restaurant served halal beef and chicken.

3

Urban Skillet is open later than other local burger places.

23
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, creating a chill and intimate vibe. Sidewalk tables provide a chance for people-watching in a lively neighborhood setting. Dog-friendly space adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Slices come as an option alongside whole pies for lunch. Options include Market Veggie and Buffalo Chicken pizzas, suitable for team meals.

Sandwiches come with Neapolitan style flair and pair well with salads. Expect a wait time around 30 minutes during busy periods.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"Ghisallo's sandwich outperformed others with its crisp bread and perfect giardiniera."

"The cacio e pepe pizza at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

A $5 per person cake cutting fee applies for birthday celebrations.

2

Expect to pay around $80 for two pizzas and two beers, including tip.

3

Online ordering may not work reliably; consider calling instead.

24
Bludso's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Brick walls and concrete floors frame a space filled with multiple TVs showing sports and a full bar serving distinctive cocktails. The atmosphere is friendly and casual with an easygoing vibe despite occasional loudness from busy take-out orders. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic barbecue and lively energy.

Lunch offers delicious sandwiches like jackfruit and brisket specials with two sides. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid choice for midday meals.

Pulled pork and brisket sandwiches come with mild BBQ sauce and pair well with mac & cheese and seasoned fries. Weekend options include ordering buns and coleslaw on the side to build your own sandwich.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so juicy and tender."

"The brisket at this lunch spot is the best I've had."

"The brisket sandwich here is tender, juicy, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5, but the lot is small and spaces are compact.

2

Dinner plates are large enough to share, but they are expensive.

3

A pound of rib tips costs $38, which is on the higher side.

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