Cajon Pass Deli

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723

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6 years ago

First impression of this small deli is that the staff are very friendly and welcoming. It's awesome. They truly make you happy to do business with them. I work in the area so I like to order my lunch over the phone and pick it up . The sandwiches are outstanding here. They have an incredible amount of sandwiches to choose from. My mother absolutely loves the San Diego Native. She told me it's the best sandwich she's ever eaten. That made me happy to hear her so happy about her meal here. My daughter loves the chicken club and the Reuben is my favorite. We are so stoked we discovered this great deli. read more

Cajon Pass Deli - San Diego Native Sandwich - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

Cajon Pass Deli - El Diablo Sandwich ..... extremely spicy !! - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you soo much for this review! We are more than ecstatic that…

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Richard

1 year ago

This place has great Food the staff/ family are awesome. I begrudgingly went there for a coworker and was so impressed I eat there at least 3 times per week there are plenty of decent places in el cajon but very few stand outs where they treat you like family read more

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Anthony G.

1 year ago

Awesome customer service & very delicious sandwiches best egg head breakfast bagel in the city read more

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Stacy O.

1 year ago

Quick service. Ordered some sandwiches and chili and was ready when I arrived ten minutes later. Small deli, a few tables to eat inside and outside. Fresh food and good taste and fast service. read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for the great review! We’re glad you enjoyed the fresh food…

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Courtney P.

161

2 years ago

This place is a gem. The offer so many types of sandwich , salads, pasta salads, drinks and chips. Small interior but still has tables available inside and out to enjoy your food at. All of that backed by great quality food that's fresh and an amazing staff that's fast and efficient. read more

Cajon Pass Deli - Veggie sandwich , no sprouts for me , add banana peppers. - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

Cajon Pass Deli - Chips and drinks galore!!! - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for your great review!

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Lea T.

2 years ago

I love their spicy Italian sandwich! As a first time customer I asked Danny and he recommended a favorite of his that is now my own. Very welcoming environment and Danny's attentiveness and friendliness makes me want to come back. Delicious food and I plan to try everything ! read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for your awesome review! We’re always creatively making new…

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Mike P.

2 years ago

Great breakfast and sandwich deli in a small, clean spot with plenty of parking. Fresh ingredients and breads. Great prices.

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Parker K.

2 years ago

Love the garlic griller so much. These guys are the best in the business. Wish I could come here for lunch every day. Love love love. read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you so much for your kind words! We also agree with your first…

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Amanda B.

1 year ago

Amazing family owned business! Amazing food, always fresh and never disappoints!! Even if you come at lunch rush, they still take their time, listen, and the wait is never too long and always worth it! Thank you all read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you so much for the kind words and support! We’re proud to be a…

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Aaron M.

1 year ago

Really good sandwiches, friendly service and quick. I like the selection they offer. Just make sure you check the hours because they are somewhat limited. read more

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L B.

1 year ago

Very good food and customer service! Never disappoint on any of the sandwiches I have ordered!!

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you so much for the 5 star review! We’re thrilled to hear you…

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Michelle K.

2 years ago

Great little family run deli. Food was amazing, service was great. I had the chicken noodle soup and tuna melt both were delicious. Hubby had the Geary. read more

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Mikey V V.

1590

2 years ago

If you need to grab a quick bite for lunch this is always my go too spot, excellent food and great service. Friendly, Fast and very Fresh

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Tony B.

133

2 years ago

First time ordering from here and called in my order around 10 30. Got the San Diego native on sourdough and the Cindy hot pastrami and one of each of the soups, tomato basil, and potatoe bacon. Let's start with the soups both were hot and creamy with the potato having a good amount of cheddar cheese on top! The Cindy special was delicious and layered perfectly, and the bread held up to all the juices coming out of the sandwich! The SD native was also delicious as you really can't go wrong with bacon and avocados. However, they put it on wheat instead of the ordered sourdough and were a bit shy with the bacon. Overall a great spot and can't wait to try another sandwich. Oh you can check in and get a free small side or bag of chips! read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for your review and for being patient during our crazy…

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Stuart R.

1 year ago

I had a fantastic Hot pastrami sandwich. The meat was perfectly cooked. The sandwich was prepared perfectly. This place knows how to make sandwiches. Don't think twice about coming here. read more

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Jake R.

1 year ago

Very friendly staff. Great food. Be prepared to wait a few minutes during the busy lunch hours. But there is a reason for it, the food is tasty and worth the wait. read more

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Y N.

1 year ago

I just recently found out about this spot. And I wish I would have found it earlier. The sandwiches are amazing so much variety. The have great soups and salads,. I highly recommend trying this place. My to go sandwich is the el Diablo, sou much flavor read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

We’re so glad you found us and thank you for the awesome review! It…

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Nieder T.

2 years ago

I was very pleased to discover this gem. The prices are excellent and my food has always been beyond expectations. I was sad I didn't discover this place sooner. read more

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ADAM V.

2 years ago

Great sandwich on very delicious bread. Service was fast and very helpful give the large volume of options they had.

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Frank M.

2 years ago

chicken bacon, ranch on sourdough toasted plus a nice bottle of soda equals a day of happiness

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Katina P.

170

3 years ago

I love this place. They have friendly, quick service and the sandwiches are great! Definitely recommend this small family owned business. read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for your kind review and recommendation!

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Roger M.

3 years ago

Ahhhhh, Feels like a NYC Bodega! It has that type of feel. Sometimes you just need a good sandwich in your life. A family owned restaurant that always puts a smile on my face. I've been eating there since COVID and there food has never disappointed. Someone please tell me a better Sandwich shop in San Diego???? I'll wait...Nobody disagrees....I thought so...Here aren't positive's 1. An Abundance of Sandwiches I guarantee whatever you order you won't be disappointed. This place is a dope lunch spot for some quick eats. 2. Service with a smile Sometimes you just want to eat your food and feel as though your a valued customer. That's how I feel here. The owner's are always so polite and they ask you how you are doing . 3. Wait time There is none. I am always in and out in 5 to 10 minutes. The Negatives 1. Potato Chips If you are like me, you like to eat chips with your sandwich. I need them to get bigger size bags of chips. I always have to go to Walmart after I get my food to get chips. That's just my preference but everyone is different. 2. Only location I hope the owners are thinking about opening a location downtown. Think about it, after the clubs let out all the drunk people want food. All in all. It's time to expand. 3. Turkey Products Offer an Turkey Bacon Option for customers who want Bacon on their Sandwiches. A lot of people are staying away from pork nowadays. Customer Service (10/10) Ambiance (9/10) Reminds me of NYC Food Quality (10/10) Food Taste (10/10) Take my word for it. Food is read more

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Fred C.

2 years ago

The food? Top tier! The Deli is a little shop, nothing grand or spectacular, but their sandwiches are. GET THE GARLIC GRILLER. Service is quick and when we had a major order to put in, it was done before I even go to the place, and I was working less than 3 miles away. The inside is cozy, for lack of a better term, but I grab my sandwiches to go and listen to less radio friendly shows on my phone anyway. Great place with great people! read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thanks for the review! Hope to see you again soon!

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Robert Y.

2 years ago

Great choice of sandwiches with excellent taste! Owners are very friendly and more than happy to provide suggestions. Have been there a few times and am never disappointed with the selection and service. We will be back! read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for the awesome review! Hope to see you again soon!

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Sarah I.

2 years ago

I had a wonderful experience at this place! The food was fantastic, and the staff were exceptionally kind and welcoming. I highly recommend checking it out! read more

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Michael C.

2 years ago

I have been to this deli many times and the food is excellent and the service is great. Would recommend this to anyone who loves a good sandwich. read more

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Valerie N.

2 years ago

First time trying this place. One of THE BEST sandwiches I've had in a while. My boyfriend and I tried The zinger specialty chicken sandwich on sourdough bread and the spicy Italian sandwich, we also bought a peach cream soda. Really nice spot. Check them out read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for leaving us a valued review of our establishment! We…

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serena ..

2 years ago

Bbq ham for the kids and The Native for mom. My husband had The Diablo. Nice and spicy! read more

Cajon Pass Deli - BBQ Ham for the kiddos and The Native for mommas! Yum! - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Atakin M.

6 years ago

Do you ever just crave a good sandwich? Delicious meats, fresh veggies, flavor filled dressings, soft warm bread? Are you craving one now?? Cause its been about a week since we've had these sandwiches and posting this is sure bringing the cravings back. I love little "secret" spots like this with a wide variety of delicious specialty sandwiches plus the classics. Family owned and dedicated to taking care of their guest. Thanks for the tasty lunch! read more

Cajon Pass Deli - Roast beef - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

Cajon Pass Deli - Diablo - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Victoria B.

196

200

6 years ago

Soooo I've now been here two days in a row since I just started working down the street -- it's kinda dangerous for my wallet, but my belly is always happy and craving a good sandwich! I'm so happy my boss recommended Cajon Pass Deli. I'm a vegetarian, so I can't speak for a majority of the sandwiches, but the veggie on wheat is amaaaazing! I already want another one just thinking about it. I also have to add that the service is super quick and so friendly :) read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

There is absolutely no better compliment then when we receive…

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Jonathan L.

2 years ago

Visiting El Cajon on business and stopped at the Cajon Pass Deli, best food choice. It's my second time eating here and everything is delicious. Highly recommend it. I ordered the Chicken Cordon Bleu. Service and ambiance is amazing! Thanks!! read more

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John K.

Elite 25

177

125

820

3 years ago

Great food at great prices! Also this is a family run business, Husband, wife, son and daughter. Lots of parking too!!

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Stephen C.

130

199

7 years ago

So the other day we had to get something for lunch but we couldn't have a sit down. One of my coworkers said hey did you try El Cajon pass deli? To which I answered no! My friend was very upset that I had lived in the area for four years and have not tried it. Well we did go and I was blown away by the number of different sandwiches that were on the menu. Each sandwich was numbered if you take a look at the menu you'll see. Not to confuse myself or waste so much time I chose number one which is the "San Diego". Is bacon turkey lettuce tomatoes avocado. I had a chance to either have it on white bread sourdough bread and a plethora of other breads however I went with the croissant. Which was really good. My coworker got a lettuce wrapped excel at sandwich which she could not stop raving about. So if you are in the El Cajon area on Cuyamaca and want to get a good lunch sandwich look no further than the El Cajon pass Sandwich shop. It looks like a mom-and-pop type place family on most likely so I felt good about giving them my business....try it out! I don't have any pictures because we ate so fast because sandwiches were great! read more

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Gab Z.

4 years ago

Is a small place with not so much room to dine in, BUT, the food is excellent, Y have tried two styles of signature sandwiches and they both were absolutely delicious. Kudos to the crew for fast cooking and the guy in the front counter is very friendly and cool. read more

Cajon Pass Deli - Ready for lunch break! - Delis Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Tito R.

342

293

5 years ago

Omg the New York and the Cindy are the best sandwiches I've ever had!!! I can't believe I passed by thousands of times and never stopped

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Anna R.

3 years ago

Wonderful deli! Very fresh sandwiches with quality ingredients. We will definitely be getting sandwiches from here from now on.

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Paul D.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

273

111

5 years ago

Fantastic Rueben, great egg salad, Basically to go but one table inside and another two outside. Fast and friendly.

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Alvandra E.

Elite 24

2 years ago

This deli is great , bomb sandwiches/salads & good service everyone is super friendly and quick ! Definitely recommend trying it out

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thanks for this awesome review! We strive on making the best…

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Denis A.

3 years ago

I only "discovered" El Cajon Pass Deli ~1-2 mon ago but, since doing so, I've returned ~6x. Why? Because their food choices, food quality and taste, and employees are all great. Any selection I made tasted better than its counterpart I've had elsewhere. Moreover, the folks who work there are uniformly friendly and helpful. I strongly recommend ECPD for anyone interested in good breakfast/lunch food served by people who appear to enjoy their work towards serving people good food. read more

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Mark P.

3 years ago

Excellent service and very good food. Perfect breakfast sandwich. Type of place where you walk in and they make you feel like home. Very amiable and you can tell they care about their clientele. They are family owned and operated very clean and wide selection of sandwiches. Worth your time to come down and check it out and have a great meal. read more

Business owner information

Danny C.

Thank you for your review! Hope to see you soon to try one of our…

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Back

Page 2 of 7

1195 Cuyamaca St
El Cajon, CA 92020
Directions
(619) 562-1689
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order

Full menu

Hours

What time does Cajon Pass Deli open?

Cajon Pass Deli opens at 8:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

What time does Cajon Pass Deli close?

Cajon Pass Deli closes at 3:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Cajon Pass Deli is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 3:00 PMSat-Sun Closed

Payment methods

Does Cajon Pass Deli take Bitcoin?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli takes Bitcoin.

Does Cajon Pass Deli take credit cards?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Cajon Pass Deli have catering options?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli does have catering options.

Does Cajon Pass Deli have a drive thru?

No, Cajon Pass Deli does not have a drive thru.

Does Cajon Pass Deli serve alcohol?

No, Cajon Pass Deli does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Cajon Pass Deli allow dogs?

No, Cajon Pass Deli does not allow dogs.

Does Cajon Pass Deli have TVs?

No, Cajon Pass Deli does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Cajon Pass Deli have bike parking?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli has bike parking.

Does Cajon Pass Deli have outdoor seating?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli has outdoor seating options.

Does Cajon Pass Deli have parking?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Cajon Pass Deli wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli is wheelchair accessible.

Does Cajon Pass Deli have free WiFi?

Yes, Cajon Pass Deli has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Family owned and operated since 2000! All from breakfast to soups, salads, full sandwiches, half sandwiches, and catered platters. Some like to call us the catering specialists, orders ranging from 10 to 3000 people! Catering available 7 days a week! Open 5 days a week Monday thru Friday, we serve sandwiches, wraps, green salads, side salads, soups and of course, we can forget desserts! Come give us a try, we won’t disappoint!

History

Established in 1977.

Serving El Cajon & Santee for over 40 years.... AND counting! Family owned since 2000!

Meet the Manager: Danny C.

Family Owned Deli for the past 20 years and counting!

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Cajon Pass Deli

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Good golly these are some crazy sandwiches. We asked to do the fat bastard in the pickle and it…read morecame out looking gorgeous. Worth the wait of roughly 20-25 min. Potato salad side was a good bite to refresh the palate before diving back in. The hot poppa in the onion roll fatboy style was a delight with every bite

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Mal Al Sham -The Taste Of Damascus

Amazing food and great service Does get crowded so the new…read morelook and outside seating is wonderful ! Reasonable prices for the big portions of food that's given !

Jordan might've failed the entire levant region at any hope of the world cup, but at least the…read moreSyrians taught us to make the most mouthwatering delicious teta-outdoing Shawarma and rice to ever exist in the Middle East... dare I say the planet. This restaurant taste like HOME. I'm sick of all the Middle Eastern places that just serve kebab... NO I WANT TO TRADITIONAL STUFF MAMA MAKES. No wonder this place is a staple in San Diego and literally every arab who is returning from the Jordan vs Columbia match, the prices are amazing and the food is absolutely incredible that the line went to the street. I had never had so many flavors dance on my tongue over a plate of rice and you get so much meat for the pricey pay. The beef was so tender moist don't even eat beef that much, but I'd become a carnivore because of this place. I bumped into my Syrian friend in the line and she was absolutely stunned and said this tasted like Damascus. If you are new to Arab cuisine, it's not just falafel. Please branch out and find unique restaurants like this where every customer looks like they came out of the desert bro. AMAZING AMAZING I DONT EVEN LIVE HERE COME TO RANCHO CUCAMONGA PLEAAAAASE--

Mal Al Sham a taste of Damascus, Syria cuisine in El Cajon.

Platter for (3 People) ( beef shawarma swapped out with chicken cream chop)

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Leftovers from two meals

China 1968

Been living in El Cajon for a few years now and when we are in the mood for some Chinese food, we…read morealways call China 1968. Our family favorites are Beef Broccoli; we love their kung pao chicken and kung pao shrimp. We recently tried the honey walnut shrimp and man those things are addicting, in a good way of course ;) We have done a few catering orders through them and the quality and service are always great. Plenty of seating and parking if you want to swing by and have a meal with family or friends. Ambiance is great and highly recommended China 1968.

Invited here for dinner. I was skeptical from afar and was I wrong. This little spot serves up some…read moregreat food coupled with fantastic service. The Orange Chicken is a house favorite and is delicious. The Fried Rice was great and every meal was on par. Definitely a good spot to satisfy an Asian food craving.

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Gillespie Field Cafe

Great cute little Cafe right on the air strip…read more Indoor/outdoor seating. Plenty of shade and fans going to keep the outdoor dining bareable. It wasn't too bad. Plenty of parking and handicap Got seated within 5 mins. Service was a tad slow, however it was busy. Although seemed like there was plenty of staff to be a little more attentive. Other than that, no stars docked. Young kiddos and they did thier best. Food came out hot, its pretty decent food. Good coffee, and the salsa was our favorite thing. Packed with flavor and just enough spice. Great little place to have breakfast or lunch. Very simple menu, great view of the planes landing and taking off. Feels like an honor to see pilots and retired pilots. We have leagues on Saturdays and this has made our place to go to right after for breakfast . Happy yelpers!

1st time here and we enjoyed our breakfast here. Good good…read more Good diner food selection. Friendly service. Fast service. Nice view and ambiance. Classic American diner. Love this place.

On the corner of the air strip

Food & Views

Protein Plate

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Broken Yolk Cafe

The food is always delicious, and the service is consistently top notch! Yesenia and Roy are always…read moreso welcoming and helpful,they're a big reason why we choose to drive to this location, even though there are others much closer to us. Whether it's ordering at the counter or table service, the staff is always efficient, friendly, and attentive. The restaurant has a fun atmosphere and is always clean and well-maintained. It's definitely worth the wait on weekends because the team does everything they can to accommodate their guests. Highly recommend!

We've been coming here for a while, and every visit has been a great experience. Lisa is always so…read morefriendly, welcoming, and helpful. She truly makes us feel like family every time we walk through the door. The restaurant is always clean, the service is consistently excellent, and the food never disappoints. This visit we ordered the 2 Eggs Plus breakfast, the Belgian waffle, the Mom Omelette, a parfait, a Messy Caramel Latte, and coffee. Everything was fresh, delicious, and exactly what we were hoping for. If you're looking for a place with amazing food, a clean and inviting atmosphere, and staff who genuinely care about their customers, this is it. Thank you, Lisa, for always making our visits so special. We can't wait to come back!

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Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse San Diego

Rodizio Grill in El Cajon is an absolute gem for a group celebration. We came here with a party of…read morefive to celebrate my sister's birthday, and the entire experience was great from start to finish. The gauchos were super friendly, incredibly attentive, and kept the meat coming at a perfect pace. They actually took the time to check how each of us preferred our meat cooked, making sure everyone at the table got exactly what they wanted. Every cut was seasoned well and cooked to perfection. On top of the fantastic meat selection, the side bar is loaded with a variety of delicious options to round out the meal. Great atmosphere, amazing food, and stellar service. We'll definitely be back!

I threw a surprise 80th birthday party for my husband on Saturday. We were 43 people all together…read more I couldn't have found a better place to celebrate his birthday. The place was a hit. We had a semiprivate area reserved for us which was perfect. The array of meats was flowing and was absolutely delicious. The "salad bar" was not only full of all kinds of different salads, but there were also yummy appetizers and sides dishes. As though this wasn't enough, there was also a small hot food section with rice, pasta, a bean dish and stews. The "salad bar" section was perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone with gluten allergies. Everyone was raving about the food and many of my guests said they would definitely return; my husband and I included. Simon, the manager, was very helpful and accommodating. So, whether you're planning a party or in the mood for a delicious dinner you have try this place.

Main buffet

Chicken spicy & sweet

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Saland Bar

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15 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Danny C.

180

5 years ago

Amazing deli! Prices are very reasonable and the service is extremely quick! I think they understand that most of us have short lunch breaks so they get food out very quickly! Calling ahead is smart as now this is my go to deli for lunch! Our business just recently did a 30 person lunch meeting and they showed up delivered earlier than the time we suggested! Fresh bread is a hugeeeeee plus and the fresh produce meats and cheeses can easily be identified for the freshness! Sandwiches, soups and salads made fresh to order??? How much more could I ask for! read more

Jason M.

15 years ago

Recently stumbled across this small but very friendly and most importantly family owned deli! Tried a few different sandwiches and everyone has been amazing i just had to write a review. Its hands down the best deli in east county and a no brainer if you live in el cajon, moderately priced and huge sandwiches. Triple the meat of any other deli i have been to, and their avocados are as fresh as they get. If you are ever in el cajon this place is a must stop! read more

Charity P.

8 years ago

This is my favorite Deli in all of San Diego. No joke they are the best. They are always friendly and the sandwiches, soup, salad and whatever you chose to get is always good. The prices and portion are great. Love the people that runs the place. They are amazing. read more

Ryan M.

2 years ago

my favorite place to grab a quick bite while at work, the workers and cooks are amazing and very friendly. food is fantastic & i love dining in for a quick business meeting, if you're ever in el cajon, be sure to stop by as you will not be disappointed !! read more

Evan P.

15 years ago

We order large orders for our office.. not only is this place so delicious, clean and healthy, but they are fast. They are super yummy. they are so helpful and love the family environment.. they always make you feel welcomed! read more

Joshua G.

2 years ago

I got hired in the area last year, and this place has become an instant go to for a good sandwich for lunch. Highly recommend coming back multiple times and trying out everything they have to offer. read more

Clark G.

12 years ago

Great local deli. Staff is super friendly, prompt delivery. We order these guys 2-3 times a week at work San Diego native is my favorite. Great prices as well read more

Riley J.

412

3 years ago

They have the best croissant breakfast sandwiches! I believe it is family owed and the people there are very nice! I'm very impressed with there food! read more

Sircalvin C.

2 years ago

Great service, great selection, and great sandwiches they have a large amount of options for sandwiches hot or cold, drinks, and sides.

Mario R.

2 years ago

the best sandwiches in El Cajon. Fantastic owner, very quick and kind. Did I mention amazing sandwiches?

J K.

7 years ago

Every time we're in El Cajon we go to the sandwich shop for a wonderful sandwich. Never disappointed.

Teresa G.

5 years ago

Thursday's lobster bisque is AMAZiNG!!!! Three sandwiches are amazing and their salad is amazing!!!

Rebecca C.

10 years ago

Love this little local place. Great food with excellent service. Everything on the menu is yummy.

Ryan S.

9 years ago

Super-fast, super-friendly, super sandwiches!

Caroline B.

6 years ago

Delicious and great service !!!

Cajon Pass Deli - delis - Updated August 2026

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Executive Friendship Deli

4.8

(48 reviews)

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Was in this location picking up some equipment. Saw the deli next door. Menu is a freshly prepared…read moresandwiches. I had the turkey avocado. Soft bread and high quality meat. The pricing is simple and a good value in today's prices. Thank you and always willing to promote high quality small businesses.

I stopped in on the recommendation of Frank Cogliano at El Cajon Guitars and Music a few doors…read moredown. When I walked in Vicky greeted me and told me of the Specials I Chose the Roast Beef sandwich which proved to be a good choice. Being from Ohio, I'd say I have a good grasp on what constitutes a good Roast Beef Sandwich. Vicky had a good idea about it. For me there has to be a good balance between beef and bread. Vicky wasn't far off, she would have to raise her price to meet my expectations, so this didn't affect my review. Another thing every Ohio knows is that tomatoes on Sandwiches must be sliced thickly. I believe this is a fact no So Cal restranteur has an idea about. Again no stars deducted. PLEASE NOTE: This statement was based on personal preference and was by no means meant to be a put down. All ingredients were fresh and delicious. Vicky listened to my stories and was quite pleasant. I'll definably plan future visits to El Cajon Guitars and Music to include a visit to Friendship Deli. I highly recommend Friendship Deli. Stop in and tell Vicky that Frank's friend George sent you.

The Lunch Box Cafe & Deli

4.4

(580 reviews)

READ ENTIRE REVIEW... Service, amazing. You can tell these…read morepeople have worked there for YEARS and the customers are ones probably who've grown up going there. If you want quick, comfort food it seems the spot. I will say the potato salad has a liquid ish base to it and no other spices or veggies inside. The sandwiches lack a lot of flavor and excitement. I think this spot is perfect for a shopping center where you wanna carb up and just get with the family a quick meal. Everyone was so nice but if you're into food with flavors and spice and excitement I think it's a pass. I'd be back for some muffins at the register and a friendly waitress however.

Came here again, this time to dine in. Had the BLT and a cole. Sat right down and they took my…read moreorder quickly and serviced in less than 5 minutes. BLT is good. The ambiance is very relaxing and calm. Light music playing in the background The nice ladys working there checked on me a few times ti make sure i didn't need anything else. Meal was $25 with tip

Main Street Donuts & Deli

4.3

(123 reviews)

•$

Stopped by Main Street for breakfast. All of the staff were friendly, helpful, and welcoming. We…read morehad the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich on a croissant. The sandwich was a great size -- definitely enough to share. Loved that it came with two donut holes as a bonus. The donuts were delicious as well. Will be vising again.

Stopped into Main Street last week following an early morning meeting in El Cajon. I was drawn in…read moreby the high ratings and my rating is based solely on the breakfast options alone. Decent amount of donuts available and a pretty vast menu (lunch mainly). I was craving a BEC bagel so went with that. Bagel was missing the freshness I'm used to. Everything tasted like it was microwaved instead of made fresh to order. Bagel was slightly chewy. Bacon and egg were definitely reheated. I would come back to give another shot but only if items are being made fresh.

Grove Grinder

4.4

(353 reviews)

Grove Grinder located in the heart of Lemon Grove. They offer indoor and outdoor seating. Not ideal…read morefor large crowds but, definitely a location to try for amazing sub sandwiches! When you see the entire store front packed with City Workers enjoying their meals...IT'S A MUST TO STOP AND TRY THEIR FOOD! That speaks volume in itself! I just love "MOM AND POP" locations! I believe this shop is a mother and son ran operation and they are an amazing duo dishing out amazing subs for reasonable prices! Watch out other sandwich chains out there cause Grove Grinder IS WHERE IT'S AT!!!! They have been in business since 1972...NUFF SAID! I ordered the Ann Special with everything on it. They do not skimp on meat and the proportion of bread to meat to veggie ratio is spot on! A full size sandwich is enough to feed two people easily or one very hungry person. I did not try any of their side items or large selection of root beer drink options to choose from but, I will be back many more times to try all they offer! Thank you Grove Grinder for amazing eats and allowing me to snap all my photos of your small shop for my review! If in Lemon Grove, show some love to Grove Grinder and grab you one of their amazing affordable, delicious subs...YOUR WELCOME IN ADVANCE!

I'm a little heartbroken about this because I had a 5-star review drafted up for this place that…read moreread: "Grove Grinder is the GOAT of neighborhood sandwich shops. Over the years that I've been coming here, I've been pleasantly surprised to find that the quality, portion size, and price point has kept pace with inflation and remains the best sandwich option in East County." I'm certainly not the longest-running customer of this spot, but I have been coming to Grove Grinder ever since I moved to the area four years ago. I kept coming back, wrote rave reviews in San Diego food-related social media groups and threads, bugged food influencers about them, and sent many of my friends and family their direction because I was that big of a fan. My husband and I have taken these sandwiches on roadtrips and plane rides, grabbed them in the middle of household chores, and picked them up for each other when the other is too tired or sick to cook. The reason why I'm ultimately knocking this review back and heavily questioning whether I should return has to do with a disappointing experience from my last visit with my husband that we now think was part of a larger pattern. The past couple of times we saw this person at the register, we used my name for the order. This time, though, my husband gave his name instead and the person at the register gave him some attitude about it and asked "You're *really* going with that?" I don't understand what their problem was with his name, but both the person in the front and the staff in the back refused to use it. They called out everyone else's names (and they usually call out mine when I order) and we noticed that our sandwiches were looking skimpy compared to how stacked we know they can come. My husband uses a nickname that might not be the name he was given at birth, but is a name he has used for over 20 years and might as well be his "real," name. We don't want to make assumptions, but most of the staff has always been at least a little cold towards us at best, slightly rude at worst, and even though this experience might seem relatively small to some, it's ultimately the straw that broke the camel's back. We suspect that their distaste for us might be politically motivated. We know it can't be personal because we've been nothing but polite. It sucks, but it seems to be that if they perceive you to not be "their people," your money isn't as green at their establishment, even if it spends all the same. I loved this place and felt lucky that they're close to my house, but feeling disrespected and like the staff are trying to fire us as customers is enough motivation to take our business elsewhere.

BMH Italian

4.3

(522 reviews)

Step aside Jersey Mike; these are the best subs in town. The bread is PERFECT. The outside doesn't…read morelook like much, but you're not eating the outside. The staff are all really friendly and everything is fresh.

This place had me at Fresh baked bread!…read more From the outside it is easy to miss this place on this busy street but there is more than meets the eye at this Mom & Pop shop. We ordered the turkey sandwich and the meatball sandwich, both of these sandwiches were fresh and made from scratch. We enjoyed the sandwiches prepared here they were very good! Street parking is available, I don't know if there are other places to park I didn't look. The menu has depth here, salads, hot and cold sandwiches, desserts and drinks in containers are available. I did not see fountain drinks as an option. The sandwiches are huge here, one is enough to feed two adults or have leftovers for the next day, which we did and they were still tasty. Inside you order from the counter and they call your order when it's ready. There are plenty of seats inside near the counter. The other side of this place are more tables for groups. Tuesday is 2 for 1 pizzas. We will be back. Enjoy!

Bravo Cafe & Yogurt

4.8

(241 reviews)

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Excellent salads and sandwiches. Great family-run spot in Jamul…read more Just a few tables... so plan on takeout.

Chicken salad wonderful staff very polite Clean…read moreWould highly tecommmend delicious Well worth the drive Don't miss out your stomach Wii appreciate

Gus's Subs & Pizza

3.8

(460 reviews)