50 Best Delis in San Diego

“great sandwich. best in town in my opinion“

“I stopped by The Market Place and it turned out to be a great local spot for a quick and satisfying meal. The place feels like a classic neighborhood deli and market, but the food quality is surprisingly good.

Their sandwiches are the highlight—fresh bread, generous portions, and really flavorful fillings. I especially liked how many options they have, from hot deli sandwiches to pizza and fresh salads. Everything is made quickly, so it’s perfect when you want something tasty without waiting too long.

Overall, it’s a simple but reliable place with friendly service and solid comfort food. A great stop if you’re near Balboa Park and craving a good sandwich.“

“eggplant parmagiana, lasagna and all the sandwiches. go eat it on the pier, beach, cliffs, or your favorite place“

“Very friendly staff the food is great.“

“Great breakfast items! Great family 💙“

“A very nice lady runs this place. The sandwiches are great and the prices are straight out of the pre-covid era they're so cheap. We came here because of the great reviews, otherwise I don't think I would have paid much notice to this unassuming establishment. But I'm glad we did!“

“Love the cheerful, friendly welcome and the first timer helpfulness! Delicious sandwiches prepared to order, personal preferences are catered to. Always something new to try, creative variations.“

“Since my First time eating at sunrise, Leara and David, have treated me w respect and kindness, and that kindness transfers over in to their food, as they have a variety of choices.
If your looking for neighborhood Deli, that’s welcoming, adorable, affordable, this is the place“

“Chicken Diablo sandwich is the BEST!!!! This place is delicious“

“Fresas con crema🍓 y smoothie 🍓“

“Can’t go wrong stopping at this gem! Excellent food(brisket is super-solid), creative/stylish menu, music/ambiance is on point, healthy drink options, and the best part: the peeps that operate it! Thank you to Justin & John for a great 1st experience! I’ll be back...🌞“

“I pass by Big Front Door often heading to work. Decided to stop in and give it a try this afternoon. I got their Cobbler salad and my friend got the chicken parmesan sandwich. The portion sizes are very generous, I asked for extra dressing with my salad and didn't really need it as there was a decent amount left. The food tasted great and was served up without much of a wait time. The star of the show was the gentleman that helped us though! I wish I had taken the time to get his name to give him proper credit. He greeted us, made small talk while my friend and I decided what to have and as we were leaving he offered to clear our table for us. Very polite and friendly! I will definitely be adding this to my list of regular places to go.“

“I can’t say enough good things about this place! ⭐️ Since moving back to San Diego, I’ve been looking for a solid deli with great food and an even better atmosphere - this spot delivers on both. The staff here truly go above and beyond, treating every customer like family. You can tell they put a lot of heart into what they do, and it makes all the difference.

The sandwiches are top-notch, made with fresh ingredients and generous portions. But what really stands out is the genuine kindness and warmth of the people who run this place. It’s the kind of spot that reminds you why supporting local, family-owned businesses is so important.

If you’re in the area, do yourself a favor and stop by. You won’t just get a great meal - you’ll get a great experience. 👏🏻“

“We have been visiting this area since September 5th, 2025. We are from Kentucky and have eaten at the Deli several times! Each time we have enjoyed many of their menu items. The service is excellent, as well as the friendly staff. We understand that they are preparing to add soft serve icecream to their menu. Not just icecream cones, but also sundaes, milkshakes, and possibly banana splits! Oh wow! We're definitely looking forward to this new addition! Thank you Chris, Natalie, and staff for providing a great atmosphere and variety of excellent items on your menu!“

“Under new management, but same great service. New owners are eager to improve the deli, which is always great to hear.

Just tried Chicken Artichoke sandwich for first time, the chicken actually tastes better seasoned! Not sure if due to a new recipe from new management, or I've just been missing out on this sandwich, but I'm happy quality hasn't gone down!“

“Growing up in Hampstead, spending a lot of time in Golders Green and Finchley it was funny to hear how the Deli got its name. Rugeleh was excellent. My wife and mother-in-law who was over from Hendon liked those plus their corned beef.“

“THE. BEST. turkey, bacon and avocado sandwich I've ever had in my life!“

“Let me take you down a little journey of a semi truck deliver driver, I’m hungry not from around this area and I google restaurants find this deli tucked in business buildings with parking in the back so I had to pull up, from a recommendation of the cashier I get the Coronado chicken club with chipotle mayo and honey mustard. Get my dirty deli jalapeño potato chips go outside. Get my sandwich and it was packed with so much flavor I can’t hardly handle it, chicken fresh a hot bread toasted and veggies fresh all while under these umbrellas outside with a nice breeze and I was in flavor town. I am sad I am not from around here but if I’m within a 30 min drive anytime in my life I will come back. I pray I deliver in this area more often they will continue to get my business. Delicious.“

“Omg!!! Wow! A hidden gem off Miramar rd! This bagel is DELICIOUS!!!!!! The place is super clean, great variety of drinks, snacks etc but the chef takes the cake!!!! I knew he was a pro as soon as I walked in, but the first bite of this breakfast bagle sealed the deal!!! Wow, my new favorite spot for breakfast!!!!!!“

“This place is great. Don’t be fooled by the few negative reviews. I’m not usually a fan of turkey or pepperoni, but I went with what the staff recommended—which had bot and I wasn’t disappointed. Definitely worth the $15 for a sub with quality ingredients.“

“Just discovered this place while attending a conference. Nice deli with decent sandwich selection for $12 each. I ordred the hot pastrami with kraut thousand island toasted. The owner greeted me and is friendly. They have TV inside toWatch while you eat hours are 8 to 5pm

Parking: 2min from 15 Aero drive exit freeway

Wheelchair accessibility: Lots of room“

“Fantastic sandwiches and great hospitality! I’d pick this place any day of the week over Subway :)“

“Aside from the fact this place is literally down the hill from me.. the owner & his beautiful family are Gucci ASF. Always smiling no matter what.. I've seen him take over this place, update & upgrade expanding not only his professionalism but the overall popularity in owning/running a well established business. I highly recommend stopping by for one of his infamous handcrafted deli sandwiches. Yooo, you don't even knoow!! 🤤 As for the liquor aspect of it, your boy's got a top notch selection of shelf spirits varying from Bourbon, Rye, Tequila, Gin, Vodka, Scotch whisky, Amaro & even Bitters! Oh Mylanta Georgia I almost forgot.. 🤗 this family owned business even has the types of snacks & munchies we all crave; don't let me get started on the Mexican candies yo 😆 I'm telling y'all if you still think it's too good to be true, just see for yourself!! Well worth the spending xoxo“

“The only family owned and operated Deli Restaurant and Coffee Spot in the heart of Downtown San Diego. If you're new in town, you won't find it just strolling through downtown San Diego, but ask anyone who works within a mile of 4th and B, they can point you to The Plaza Deli and 401 Brew Street. I've been eating here for 26 years. Beautiful family, amazing and friendly staff. Good portions. Sandwiches large enough for two meals, and more salad choices (and salad dressings) than you will find anywhere. My breakfast fave, the croissant with sausage, egg and cheddar - toasted :)“

“One of the hidden gems in this area. Whenever I'm in the area I always make sure to come by and pick up a sandwich or two.
The lady working there is always so nice and smiley, it certainly made today's rainy weather feel less gloomy.

The prices are very generous and the ingredients are very fresh.
-The mayonnaise, mustard, banana peppers, red onions, lettuce, tomato, and giant slither of pickle ("pickled" cucumber?) was very well-balanced, nothing overwhelmed one-another.

-I ordered The Valley Melt -corned beef, turkey (on sourdough I think)
The other was The Pastrami melt
And 2 slices of Bacon on the side (which was devoured as soon as I got in the truck)

Support small businesses and give Yummy Deli a try!

:]“

“Fresh and Yummy Banh Mi Sandwiches!!“

“This deli is very good! We got the monster (which absolutely lives up to its name, it was so big it was literally 4 meals) the olive spread on it was delicious too! As well as the san diegan which was also good however after only a 5m drive home was very soggy which was a shame. The service in the little store was amazing, what a nice man working the front and a unique shop, the people working the deli didn’t seem as enthusiastic to be there but that’s okay. The only thing is I find the price to be quite expensive for just their basic sandwich’s. They are very good quality but for a sandwich out of a deli like this expensive IMO.“

“LOVE the sandwich. It was huge, definitely big enough to share. I was delighted to get to try a bottle of Butterscotch Rootbeer, as well. Highly recommend!!“

“This is the only place I get lunch from! I started going because it’s so close to my work but I only go here now because the food is always delicious and seriously SO fresh. The owner and his family are really the nicest people ever. The food is such a great price and the portions are so big that even the half size fills me up! This place will forever get my business! I have photos of the Italian but forgot to take a picture of my delicious Cobb Salad. I recommend this place to all my coworkers!“

“We ordered the Smoked Turkey Breast Dinner with Green Bean Casserole, Loaded Mashed Potatoes, And Maple Sweet Potato Souffle for 4-6 people. We added on another side of Macaroni and cheese, gravy and Hawaiian rolls which got us $10 off the order, basically a free side dish. There was no line when I went early yesterday to pick up the food, and the cashier was friendly and got my order ready quickly. The food was really easy to cook. Just popped everything in the oven at 375 degrees for an hour and stirred and rotated food as directed. Four of us each had a large plate, and everything was delicious, on point, and as good as homemade easily, plus you don't have to do all the work! With the extra side I would say the meal would feed 5 to 6 people, so I would recommend ordering it. Thank you Honey Baked Ham Company for helping create a memorable Christmas Dinner!“

“Good little deli spot off the main road in Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Ingredients were fresh, good selection of bread choices, a huge selection of deli meat combination for sandwiches and a good balance of mayo, mustard, meats, tomatoes and lettuce.
Prices are also very affordable. Most of sandwiches were $8.50 and some were a bit more but not by much.
All its missing to complete the meal was a pickle but sadly it's not included with the sandwich.
It's available for purchase though, so maybe I'll do that next time ?“

“I’ve known the owner for years working downtown. Always welcoming. Never an issue. Sabrinas is a regular lunch spot for me. The croissant breakfast sandwich is really good. A business that has been in place for over 30 years is outstanding. Thank you.“

“The best quality , service and prices around! Don’t go anywhere else“

“The sandwiches are delicious and hearty!! At a great price too.“

“The Sandwiches hands down. The Italian sandwich is a must try. This place could get really busy around lunch time. So call in your order if possible.“

“They are so NICE here! I have crazy sandwich orders and they never complain. As a matter of fact, I always end up having a great conversation with the person working. If you are looking for Sandwiches that are PACKED with toppings, this is your place. Great experience every time“

“Cafe Aero is a small, no-frills neighborhood café that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch. The place has a simple, relaxed vibe, and it feels like one of those local spots where regulars stop by every morning for coffee and a bite.

Their menu focuses on classic deli-style food like sandwiches, breakfast plates, and fresh coffee. Everything tastes homemade and satisfying without trying to be fancy. The portions are solid and the prices are reasonable, which makes it a great option if you want a quick, casual meal.

The staff is friendly and service is usually quick, so it’s an easy stop if you’re in the area and need something simple and comforting. Overall, Cafe Aero is a nice little hidden gem for a laid-back breakfast or lunch.“

“Nice guy running this small local business. Fast and friendly service. Received a full hot turkey sandwich and it was better than expected, plus it came with a little soup, all for $12. This deli combo was much cheaper than nearby similar businesses. Not to mention, Fred’s hot turkey sandwich was much better (and fuller) than the sad, squished sandwich I received from corner bakery cafe the other day. I’d rather give my business to a place like this than the more expensive chain businesses.“

“Fast, easy, tuna and poke bowls are amazing.....and Jackie is awesome!!!“

“Staff are incredibly polite, and the acaí always hits. They take care to make everything on their menu as delicious as possible, including the aforementioned acaí which is ALWAYS the perfect consistency and topped with fresh fruits. Awesome place, definitely worth the visit.“

“Great service and seating“

“Delicious food and awesome service!“

“John Gotti was great. Tasty, high quality sandwich. Torta roll is excellent and the best part of the sandwich.“

“I love their food. Wish they have the langs challah bread, their challah bread is not something you can do kiddush with.“

“Great sandwich shop! Best in San Diego!“

“What an amazing place! The food is soooo amazing and the staff there are so kind and helpful! Beautiful location. Great place to grab lunch then go for a beautiful walk to spanish landing park! The mediterranean salad and roast beef sandwich was a 10/10!!! I would t care if I had to pay $50 for parking to go there! I would still pay it!“

“I’m a rode biker and I ride all over San Diego but I never miss my weekly stop for a quick mocha to help me make it up another hill. Miriam and Q treat me like family. So glad that I found this little paradise in Sorrento Valley.“

“A grill come small convenience store all rolled into one. Went there for some odd groceries and found that the grill was pretty good as well. There was nothing bad their. Again nothing fancy but certainly good value for money and could not complain about any of the dishes I ordered. Well worth a visit if you are in the area.“