Home to some of the best sandwiches in San Diego, the city offers a remarkable variety of flavors that celebrate culinary traditions from around the globe. Among the city’s culinary highlights are its sandwich shops, which range from traditional delis to innovative eateries crafting bold flavor combinations. Whether you’re in search of a classic Italian sub, a decadent cheesesteak, or a vegetarian masterpiece, San Diego has a sandwich spot to satisfy every craving.
In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best sandwich places in San Diego, highlighting both iconic institutions and hidden gems. Each entry includes key details like price range, location, and a description of their must-try items.
Let’s dive into this delicious journey through San Diego’s sandwich scene!
The Wise Ox
$$ | North Park
2855 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
A true gem in North Park, The Wise Ox is a butcher shop and sandwich haven rolled into one. Known for its farm-to-table ethos, this spot offers meats prepared to perfection by expert butchers.
The prime rib sandwich, featuring tender, juicy beef, horseradish aioli, and crispy onions on a soft roll, is celebrated for its depth of flavor and impeccable quality. Pair it with their house-made pickles or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Antonelli’s Deli
$ | El Cajon
1354 N Magnolia Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020
This cozy, family-owned deli has been a community favorite for decades. Known for their friendly service and generous portions,
Antonelli’s serves classic Italian subs that hit the spot every time. Their best-seller, the Godfather sub, is a flavor-packed masterpiece of prosciutto, salami, capicola, provolone, and their house vinaigrette. It’s the authentic Italian ingredients and traditional preparation that make this sandwich a must-try.
Mona Lisa
$$ | Little Italy
2061 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
A cornerstone of Little Italy, Mona Lisa is both a deli and an Italian market where you can shop for imported goods.
Their Caprese sandwich, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, is a showcase of simple, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy it on their patio for a true Little Italy experience, and don’t forget to browse the store for Italian treats.
BMH Italian
$$ | Pacific Beach
972 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
BMH Italian delivers authentic flavors with a modern twist in the heart of Pacific Beach.
Known for their generous portions and rich, homemade sauces, their meatball sub is a crowd-pleaser. This sandwich, made with giant, tender meatballs smothered in marinara and topped with melted mozzarella, is a hearty delight. Pair it with their garlic knots for a perfect Italian meal.
The Deli Llama
$ | North Park
3562 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
This quirky neighborhood deli is as unique as its name, offering creative sandwiches and a welcoming vibe.
The Llama Love sandwich combines turkey, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and their signature tangy aioli on fresh-baked bread. It’s a great choice for a quick, delicious lunch, and the cozy, artsy interior adds to its charm.
Hillcrest Sandwich Shop
$$ | Hillcrest
3774 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
A staple in the vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood, this sandwich shop is loved for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and warm atmosphere.
The turkey avocado sandwich stands out for its perfect balance of roasted turkey, creamy avocado, and crisp lettuce. It’s served on freshly baked bread, making it a satisfying and healthy choice.
Rubicon Deli
$$ | Mission Beach
3819 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Known for their thick, fluffy bread and inventive flavor combinations, Rubicon Deli offers sandwiches that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
The Spicy Tuna sandwich, featuring a zesty tuna salad with jalapeños and a hint of sriracha, is perfect for spice lovers. The beachy vibes of Mission Beach add to the experience.
The Girls Deli
$ | Barrio Logan
1874 Main St, San Diego, CA 92113
A hidden gem in Barrio Logan, The Girls Deli is a small, unassuming spot that packs a big punch in flavor.
Their roast beef sandwich, served on ciabatta bread, is piled high with tender beef, caramelized onions, and a savory horseradish spread. The friendly service and neighborhood charm make it a favorite among locals..
Agrusa’s Super Sandwiches
$$ | Clairemont
4344 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Agrusa’s is all about no-frills, massive sandwiches that are packed with flavor.
Their Italian combo is a standout, featuring layers of cured meats, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy house dressing. The casual atmosphere and affordable prices make this spot a popular choice for lunch.
Giorgino’s
$$ | South Park
1237 28th St, San Diego, CA 92102
Giorgino’s specializes in authentic cheesesteaks that transport you straight to Philadelphia.
Their Philly Cheesesteak, made with thinly sliced steak, onions, and melted provolone, is a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The retro diner vibes and friendly staff add to the charm.
Beyer Deli
$ | Otay Mesa
3350 Beyer Blvd, San Diego, CA 92173
A no-frills deli with big flavors, Beyer Deli is beloved for its fresh ingredients and unbeatable prices.
The pastrami sandwich, featuring layers of smoky, tender pastrami, is a favorite for its simplicity and deliciousness. It’s the perfect grab-and-go option for a satisfying meal.
Cheers Deli & Liquor
$ | City Heights
4029 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
This humble deli surprises with its high-quality offerings.
Their BLT, featuring crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, is a simple yet perfectly executed sandwich. The unpretentious atmosphere makes it a local treasure.
Grove Grinder
$$ | Lemon Grove
7895 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Known for their giant sandwiches, Grove Grinder doesn’t skimp on flavor or portions.
The Italian Grinder is a fan favorite, loaded with layers of salami, capicola, mortadella, and provolone, all topped with their tangy dressing. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any appetite.
Cheba Hut
$$ | Pacific Beach
978 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
This cannabis-themed sandwich shop delivers on creativity and flavor without the actual cannabis.
Their “Chronic” BBQ chicken sandwich is a standout, featuring tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, crispy onions, and provolone, all served on perfectly toasted bread. The laid-back, fun atmosphere and quirky decor make Cheba Hut a hit among locals and visitors alike.
Big Jim’s Roast Beef
$$ | Serra Mesa
4680 Ruffin Rd, San Diego, CA 92123
Big Jim’s is the go-to spot for roast beef lovers in San Diego.
Their signature roast beef sandwich is loaded with slow-cooked beef, served with their house-made au jus for dipping. Known for its generous portions and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this sandwich has earned a loyal following. The cozy, diner-style ambiance adds to the classic experience.
Grab & Go Subs
$ | Downtown
2600 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Grab & Go Subs has perfected the art of fresh, no-frills sandwiches at unbeatable prices.
Their Italian sub is a classic favorite, featuring layers of salami, ham, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and a zesty house dressing. Conveniently located downtown, it’s the perfect stop for a quick, satisfying meal on the go.
Board & Brew
$$ | Encinitas
1212 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
Board & Brew has a cult-like following for its relaxed, beachy vibe and signature sandwiches.
The Turkey Club is their most popular item, thanks to its perfectly roasted turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and their legendary secret sauce. Whether dining in or taking it to the beach, this sandwich embodies the laid-back Encinitas lifestyle.
Gaglione Brothers
$$ | Mission Valley
7081 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111
Gaglione Brothers specializes in East Coast-inspired cheesesteaks and hoagies.
Their Garlic Mushroom Cheesesteak is a savory standout, with tender steak, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich garlic spread, all packed into a soft roll. The friendly, casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a hearty meal.
Pete’s Meats & Provisions
$$ | Point Loma
2829 Dewey Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Pete’s Meats & Provisions brings a gourmet touch to classic sandwiches.
Their Cubano, featuring slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and tangy mustard, is a must-try. Located in the vibrant Liberty Station complex, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite and enjoy the surrounding shops and attractions.
Devine Pastabilities
$$ | Midway District
3545 Midway Dr, San Diego, CA 92110
Known for their unique TorPasta, Devine Pastabilities combines two comfort foods into one: pasta stuffed inside a hollowed-out garlic bread roll. This innovative creation is both filling and delicious, offering a range of pasta options like marinara, Alfredo, or meat sauce.
The fun, casual environment adds to the novelty of dining here.
