50 Best Delis in San Diego

“Sandwiches are well made with fresh meat and vegetables. Large variety of bread to choose from. The SQUAW bread is my recommendation!
Friendly and helpful staff. Old school service and friendliness that is not common anymore these days. I hope it remains here at The Marketplace!.“

“I have been going here for my entire 34 years of existence this place is the best and most delicious....... you guys rock“

“Very friendly staff the food is great.“

“I honestly love this spot. This will be the third time coming here, and it’s totally worth it. They’re Caesar salad wrap is fantastic. They’re chicken quesadilla is always really well made. Went with a breakfast burrito and a sunrise sandwich today. My son loved both, and he’s a picky eater.“

“I walked into this woman’s restaurant after four days of suffering from food poisoning and unable to eat a single thing and she made me a smoothie that not only gave me back my appetite, but overall improved my actual health I’m so grateful and I will definitely be back thank you so much for restoring my body.“

“great sandwich. best in town in my opinion“

“Great breakfast items! Great family 💙“

“Went in for a quick lunch and ended up staying a little longer than I planned. The deli had a nice neighborhood feel and the staff seemed genuinely friendly. I ordered a turkey sandwich and a side of pasta salad, and both tasted fresh. The portions were fair and everything came out pretty fast. It wasn't anything overly fancy, but that's kind of what I liked about it. Just a solid place to grab a meal when you want something simple and satisfying.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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!!“

“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...🌞“

“We only got dessert here so we can’t attest to how good anything else is. We tried the coconut macaroon, white chocolate macadamia nut, sugar, oatmeal raisin, and snickerdoodle. All were very good! The service was excellent, the staff extremely friendly. They have a nice seating area outside.“

“When I needed it most, Bistro Europa came through in a way I’ll never forget. They didn’t just serve a sandwich — they served kindness, generosity, and a reminder of the good that still exists in this world. The sandwich? Absolutely the best I’ve ever had. Fresh, flavorful, and made with love — just like everything they do. I’m beyond grateful for this amazing team and their business. Thank you, Bistro Europa, for being there in a moment that truly mattered. We’ll be loyal customers for life! - Dustin Hufnal“

“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!!!!!!“

“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!“

“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.“

“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 ?“

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

“Yummy Deli is a great little spot in Kearny Mesa if you’re nearby and want a quick, easy lunch without a wait. I’m in this area often, so I’ve eaten here quite a bit, and it’s always been a reliable option.

I’m vegetarian, and Young has always had options for me, whether I’m grabbing a sandwich, wrap, soup, salad, snack, or drink. She is always nice, sweet, polite, and welcoming, which makes the place feel comfortable and easy to come back to.

There is seating available, handicap access, drinks, snacks, and plenty of quick lunch options. It’s a solid no-lines, no-hassle deli for anyone working nearby or passing through Kearny Mesa.“

“I love moms! Can’t go wrong grabbing a bite to eat here.👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼“

“This was our first time eating at the Executive Deli & Cafe as we had business nearby. The other patrons seemed like comfortable regulars, which is always a good sign. Parking was tight, but our sandwiches were made with fresh ingredients and were very tasty. They have lots of options for bottled drinks and they offer home made, pre-wrapped desserts. We shared a slice of yummy banana nut bread that was very generous.“

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

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

“Amazing customer service for starters! Thought I finalized my order online for pick up and had not. They made sure they expedited my order without me having to ask. Super sweet family owned place! Amazing sandwiches! Loved it and will definitely go back whenever I am in the area! Thank you Mali's!!“

“Fresh and Yummy Banh Mi Sandwiches!!“

“there natural waters are delicious and tostilocos are great“

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

“Hidden in a commercial complex but so worth the find. The owner was extremely personable. It was clean inside and outside. The bread tastes so fresh and they stack the meat! They also have a punch card so when you buy so many sandwiches you get one free. I will definitely be going back!“

“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 :)“

“Aguas frescas, tostilocos, torta de chipotle, ensaladas de frutas“

“Fresas con crema🍓 y smoothie 🍓“

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

“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.“

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

“Great service and seating“

“Great selection!!! Deli items, groceries, wine, liquor, beer, clean and well lit. Nice people working there too!!!“

“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. 👏🏻“

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

“Delicious food and awesome service!“

“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.“

“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!“

“If you're looking for one of the best sandwich shops in San Diego, look no further than The Girl's Deli!

From the moment I walked in, I was blown away by the incredible customer service. Everyone was welcoming, friendly, and genuinely passionate about what they do.

The deli itself was spotless, well-organized, and had such a great atmosphere.

A special shoutout to Gina, the owner, who was absolutely amazing. You can tell she truly cares about her customers and takes pride in every detail of the business. That level of hospitality is hard to find and made the entire experience even better.

I ordered a remix of the Damn Gina sandwich, and wow—it was absolutely delicious! Every bite was packed with flavor, the ingredients were fresh, and it was easily one of the best sandwiches I've had in San Diego.

You will not regret stopping by. Whether you're a local or just visiting, The Girl's Deli is a must-try. I can't wait to come back and work my way through the rest of the menu! Highly recommend!“

“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“

“Great sandwich shop! Best in San Diego!“

“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.“

“I got a sandwich from Sabrina Deli and honestly, it was so good! Everything tasted fresh, the sandwich was really flavorful, and the portions were great. You can tell they put care into the food. Definitely a spot I’d come back to and recommend to anyone looking for a really good sandwich! 🥪❤“