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Best of CBD

Lunch and sandwich spots

A sandwich that is a proper meal in its own right rather than a flimsy snack.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 1
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 2
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 3
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Deli-style setup with counter seats and a nice patio creates a welcoming atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with a mix of American and Korean deli sandwiches and homemade items. Frequented for lunch specials and a variety of snack options, it blends local favorites with new touches.

Quick, healthy bites dominate the lunch menu with options like a bulgogi lunch special and sandwiches paired with soups. The spot suits those looking for a satisfying, light meal during a busy day.

Club Sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and solid preparation. The menu includes a great selection of American and Korean deli sandwiches, with options like an excellent tuna fish sandwich.

People are saying

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

"The staff here is so friendly and quick with lunch."

"They made me Alfredo pasta sauce from scratch!"

Good to know

1

The deli offers a mix of Asian and American food and groceries.

2

Most items are homemade, including chicken salad options.

3

Expect a line during lunch hours, which may lead to a short wait.

02
The Davidson image 1
Restaurant

High ceilings and an open concept create a spacious feel despite narrow table spacing. Warm lighting and abundant plants contribute to a charming, inviting atmosphere that balances lively energy with moments of quiet in the bar booths. The space suits both social evenings and casual people watching.

Lunch features attentive service from waiter Kristen and fits well into a schedule before events at the Aronoff. The setting supports a quick, enjoyable meal.

Grilled chicken sandwiches stand out with spectacular flavor and a unique taste. They pair well with other dishes like rigatoni with vodka sauce.

People are saying

"The eggplant appetizer is a must-try for date spots."

"I've never had a grilled chicken sandwich I can compare to this."

"The service at this lunch spot is friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday between 4-6pm and Friday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm.

2

There is paid parking with EV charging available right beside the restaurant.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available at the bar.

03
Caffรจ Barista & Deli image 1

Bodega-style deli offers cozy, laid-back atmosphere with fresh, made-to-order sandwiches featuring Boars Head deli meats and daily specials. The place draws a steady crowd seeking affordable, high-quality breakfast and lunch options in a cute, convenient setting.

Daily lunch specials make this spot a solid choice for midday meals. Food is easy to grab on a break, fitting well into a busy day.

Sandwiches come with super fresh ingredients and stay affordable. The Chipotle Chicken Sandwich features pretzel bread, chipotle mayo, and spicy gouda, while breakfast options like the bagel bacon sandwich include hashbrowns.

People are saying

"The staff here are always super friendly."

"This is my absolute favorite lunch spot in the area."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever experienced here."

Good to know

1

You can order online ahead of time to skip the line.

2

They offer daily lunch specials and soups.

3

The deli uses only Boars Head deli meats for quality.

04
Red Fox Grill image 1
Sandwich shop

Old-school sandwich shop with cash-only policy and a classic diner-style interior that shows its age. Atmosphere feels friendly and nostalgic with no music playing. Known for double-decker sandwiches and fresh, crisp bacon, it serves generous portions at reasonable prices.

A reliable spot for double-deckers, sandwiches, and burgers draws a steady lunch crowd. It stays open long after other shops close, making it a consistent choice in the downtown business district.

Double-decker sandwiches stand out as a local specialty with strong flavor and generous portions. Options like the chicken salad and egg salad sandwiches deliver consistent taste and value.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly crispy."

"I thought the sandwich here was the best in town."

"I found it to be a great lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Red Fox Grill is cash only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

The prices are very affordable, with most meals under $10.

3

Expect long wait times during the busy lunch hour on Fridays.

05
Red Leprechaun image 1

Irish pub with authentic decor including a wood bar shipped from Ireland and rescued items. Atmosphere feels vibrant and chill, enhanced by live acoustic music and red lighting under the bar. Regulars enjoy engaging performers who take requests, creating a welcoming and fun environment.

Great atmosphere sets the tone for lunch here. Service is excellent, with helpful advice on the lunch menu.

Crispy chicken sandwiches stand out with rich flavor and perfect texture. Other options include a Reuben sandwich and a Goetta with fried egg and beer cheese sauce sandwich, all noted for their delicious taste.

People are saying

"The pub has delicious food and the best Guinness pour."

"I thought the chicken sandwich was so good."

"The fish and chips here are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Thursdays offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

On 'Toasty Tuesday,' enjoy free grilled cheeses with any beer purchase.

3

Bingo night occurs every Tuesday, providing a fun social atmosphere.

06
CityBird Tenders Fountain Square image 1

Small tables fill a space with both indoor and outdoor seating near a lively downtown square. Atmosphere shifts from comfortable to tense when yelling occurs, and the restaurant often gets busy. Chicken tenders and seasoned fries stand out as flavorful and fresh, with affordable prices and quick service.

Frequent takeout orders show it serves reliable lunch options. It also offers dine-in meals for lunch and dinner on weekends.

Chicken sandwiches come with herby thyme ranch sauce or BBQ bacon and slaw on top. Fries pair well with city sauce. The sandwiches are juicy and flavorful, with options like tenders and strips.

People are saying

"The food here is great, always fresh and piping hot."

"The spicy chicken sandwich with slaw is so good."

"This lunch spot has some of the best chicken tenders and fries."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Meals are affordable, with most items priced around $10.

07
Silverglades on 8th image 1

Deli with multiple ordering counters and a small market inside offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful mornings to a busy, dismissive vibe later, catering mainly to professionals on the go. Known for high-quality bread and large portions, especially in sandwiches like BLT and chopped salads.

Fast and friendly service stands out even during busy lunch hours. The deli offers quick, yummy food that suits people on the go.

Sandwiches feature high-quality meat and legit bread, especially in the Little Italy and Reuben options. Every sandwich delivers consistent great flavor without skimping on ingredients.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be fantastic and high-quality."

"I loved the fresh, massive salads here."

"I loved the BLT at this Lunch Spot; the bacon was crispy perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect a busy lunch crowd, especially during weekdays.

2

Prices are decent for downtown, with sandwiches around $8.

3

Food variety includes sandwiches, salads, and snacks.

08
The Filson Queen City Kitchen & Bar image 1

Large patio offers breathtaking river views and dog-friendly outdoor seating with fire pits. Energetic atmosphere fills the space, especially during sports games shown on wall-to-wall TVs. Seating is crowded and lively, creating an upscale yet bustling vibe for fans and diners alike.

Large groups gather here for lunch before events like Reds games. The spot suits both casual and social midday meals.

Large sandwiches feature perfectly proportioned layers like turkey, bacon, cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Options include a house-made vegetarian patty, fried chicken sandwiches, and a trout dip that stands out.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the burgers and fries; they were cooked perfectly."

"I'd eat the fried chicken sandwich 100 out of 100 times."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was excellent and the staff was so friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during busy events.

2

Happy hour offers $2 off craft beers and $10 food specials.

3

Thursday Martini day features $6 martinis, a great deal for cocktail lovers.

09
Pennyflower American Bistro & Bar image 1

Space combines tasteful design, beautiful furniture, and wonderful mosaic floors with private semi-circular booths and a communal table. Atmosphere feels chill and funky, suitable for dates or casual lunches, though music can be loud at times. Lighting includes individual LED table lights bright enough to read menus comfortably.

Atmosphere suits a company lunch, girlfriend get together, or lunch date. Elevated carbonara croquettes serve as a light lunch option. Meals feel fabulous and satisfying.

House made bread supports artisan pork and chicken schnitzel sandwiches. Some sandwiches have messy slaw with sauce that can overflow.

People are saying

"The S'mores dessert is nostalgic and creative."

"This lunch spot's menu reflects the chef's incredible culinary journey."

"I loved the juicy tender artisan pork sandwich."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

3

Lunch is not served on Saturdays and Sundays.

10
Potbelly image 1
Sandwich shop

Submarine sandwich shop offers fantastic sandwiches with options like ghost peppers and smaller 'skinny' sizes. Lunch hours bring high volume and order delays, especially with online orders. The atmosphere is busy and sometimes backed up due to staffing challenges.

Lunch hours bring long lines and frequent backups. Staff levels struggle to keep up, causing waits around 15 minutes or more, especially with many online orders.

Submarine sandwiches come in a 'skinny' smaller size that tastes great and avoids feeling bloated. Sandwiches can be toasted and include ghost peppers for a spicy kick, with fast and usually polite service.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were great."

"The lunch spot line moved faster than I expected."

"The food here is great; the staff made our visit better."

Good to know

1

Potbelly gets very busy during lunch, especially with online orders.

2

Ordering ahead does not guarantee the correct sandwich at checkout.

3

The store has ongoing issues with order management and staffing.

11
Jersey Mike's Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop features long lunch lines and a hectic atmosphere with many freshly trained employees. Sandwiches often come on white bread instead of the special parmesan bread, and flavors can be strong, such as heavy vinegar. The space carries a distinctive smell noticed consistently during visits.

Lunch rush brings a steady line of about 15 people. Staff handle orders with efficient speed and keep service moving well during busy times.

Consistently delicious sandwiches come out exactly right every time. The crew memorizes orders, ensuring each sandwich matches expectations perfectly.

People are saying

"The crew here is so friendly and remembers my sandwich order."

"This lunch spot is busy, but the service is fast."

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

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours due to high demand.

2

The location is newly opened, so staff may still be in training.

3

A strange smell has been reported during multiple visits.

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Central Business District, Cincinnati

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