My boyfriend and I just came back to La Jolla for our one year anniversary, and one of the places that we had to revisit was the cheese shop. Huge portions, fresh food, and friendly staff. We were so fond of the famous oatmeal cookies, that we bought a dozen for our friends to try. Special thanks to the amazing staff, and especially Phil, who made our anniversary very memorable. This is hands-down the best deli in La Jolla We will be back soon for more cookies:) read more

Cheese Shop - Best anniversary ever! - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

The most friendly staff, especially for being as crowded as it was. Man at the register, who I'm assuming was the owner, made you feel welcome and he was as sweet as can be. I ordered a turkey, Munster cheese sandwich on marble rye. It was delicious and was a perfect fresh meal after a day at the beach. They serve fresh brewed iced tea and fresh squeezed lemonade. I love Mom and Pop shops like this that have its own personality and quality food. And I have to leave a review about their unique cookies! I love oatmeal cookies and I love molasses cookies, so when I heard that these cookies have oatmeal and molasses in them I had to try it! It did not disappoint, there was such a richness in flavor that you can't just have one. read more

Cheese Shop - Turkey, Munster cheese on marble rye! - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

I was very excited to try the popular Turkey, Pepper-Jack, and Avocado sandwich, but when I got home it was not what I expected. I ordered it with no mustard. To my surprise at home, my sandwich was missing tomatoes and onions and had extra mustard! Not very cool. I don't plan to try again. read more

Great and friendly staff here! I love the sandwiches and super friendly staff. I came here and it was my first time, I asked the staff to see what their favorites were and I let them steer my taste buds into a heaven of taste bud galores. The owner was so amazing and friendly! Offered me and my friends more pickles if we needed it and their flourless oatmeal cookies ARE A MUST GET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Why are you still sitting and reading this review... get up and go!!!! read more

Cheese Shop - Candy!! - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

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I came here recently, on perhaps the perfect La Jolla day. No, not one where the weather was 85 degrees and the sun was shining upon the numbers of surfers, but a day right after the rains, where the sky has this mesmerizing glow of blue, and the air still tastes fresh. Clean. One of those days that you're happy to be outside, and everything sits still. Cheese Shop is a pleasant little walk from the shore, the parking a headache in this neighborhood as usual. But that doesn't detract from the air, the view, the village feeling streets. You walk in, and you're transported back in time, to an era where candy lined the walls of the shops, and people actually made the sandwiches they sell. The menu's a bit long, so take your time reading it, and when you order, prepare for a small wait - they make it only once you order. But that's a good thing. I got the pastrami reuben, and I have to say, it was good. Good in that did-it-melt-in-my-mouth sort of way, shocked at how a sandwich could possibly have such a texture. The bread is incredibly soft (and gets stuck in your teeth, boo), and the flavors are clean. But being pastrami, not overly so. On a day like this, though, you gladly sit outside, eating your sandwich and sipping on a drink, talking with friends about happy things. Life? Life is good. read more

I haven't had a sandwich in a while, but there is something about scuba diving that really brings on the hankering for one. We recently dove La Jolla Shores and my first instinct once out of the water was to head straight toward the Cheese Shop. There is something about their old school candy selection, the homemade cookies and the freshly made-to-order sandwiches that just satisfies your hunger. I opted for a seasonal sandwich this go around with the turkey and cranberry on rosemary bread. The concoction they put together really brought on the flavors of thanksgiving but on a sunny June day. The sandwich itself was loaded with meat, cheese and other treats that really brought all the flavors out. It was a bit messy, so you definitely have to get after it and enjoy every minute of the tasty goodness. The staff were extremely friendly, available for questions and knew everything about the location in order to sell the amazingness that is the Cheese Shop. The parking situation is a bit of a situation but if your patience wins out, you are in for a fantastic homemade sandwich that is beyond fulfilling. read more

Ordered: 1. Deviled eggs 2. Half soup/half salad - curry lentil soup (nice flavor) with a standard green salad 3. Half soup/half sandwich - curry lentil soup with half club 4. Cheese sandwich - they don't do grilled cheese at this location (need to go across the street). They have a wide candy selection grouped by decade of popularity (20s, 30s, 40s, etc). Even if you eat there everything is served "to go". Very close to the beach. Decent value. The owner was really nice and came out to make sure we had everything we needed and offered another pickle. read more

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Yum! Delicious, filling, fresh sandwich that feels good in the body. Also, the oatmeal cookie is heaven.

Yum! Grabbed a sandwich for the first time - turkey, bacon, avocado. It was DELICIOUS! The owner insisted I try a famous oatmeal cookie on him. Wow, it was great. So happy to have found a local deli serving fresh carved turkey. Decent outdoor set up on the pedestrian walkway to be COVID-safe. Can't wait to go back. read more

Good sandwiches. Good idea to order beforehand and come pick it up. They have fun candy in the store too.

Cheese Shop is an iconic staple of La Jolla Shores. No day at the beach is complete without stopping by this family owned since 1972 gem. I remember my first visit in 1990 when I was on college tour for UCSD. As a student and eventually SIO staff member I've been coming here for decades. Sandwiches are the best, love the cookies, amazing soda and drink selection, love the old time candy from my youth. Dave the owner is nicest guy around! read more

The turkey, jack, and avocado sandwich is the perfect beach lunch. Every time we come to LJS we order from the Cheese Shop. The sandwiches are fresh, tasty, and piled high with veggies and meat. The potato salad had a nice flavor too. I highly recommend. I only took one star off because I found the roast beef sandwich to be a bit chewy last time. Still good, but I'll stick with turkey, jack, avo from now on. read more

Do you in fact have any cheese? No. Great sandwiches. But not a cheese shop Candy sodas and sandwiches. Not a lace to stock up fir cheese snd charcuterie. read more

Stumbled upon this gem after a recommendation from our kayaking tour guides. I got "The Club Sandwich", the bread was perfectly toasted, I substituted the Swiss for Muenster and it was amazing! They have a good selection of drinks non-alcoholic/alcoholic and chips. Now on the customer service...Mr.Dave- so nice! He takes the time to check on customers and start conversation, very welcoming! He gave us a little history on the shop and their delicious oatmeal cookies! Would definitely stop by again! read more

I came here a few months back with two friends but I haven't had a chance to write a review about it because I was busy with school. And now that it's summer break, I'm catching up on all of my reviews. So I apologize for not remembering what we ordered but I do remember my reaction to this place. So here it is. Meh. Nothing special. One of my friends really liked it and the other was just meh about it, too. Though I don't remember what we ordered, we did ask the owner what the most popular sandwiches were and ordered those. A bit pricey. But I'll probably go back one more time to give it a second chance. read more

Every time I'm in La Jolla at the beach or hiking somewhere around Torrey Pines I always make it a point to stop by here for lunch. Coolest little deli right by the beach, friendly staff, great atmosphere & even greater food! I've been a fan of the 'torpedo' for years but their menu can suit just about anyone's appetite. They even have deviled eggs you can add on to your meal and don't forget to try their homemade oatmeal cookies! You'll notice on the walls that they have pictures from their customers who have travelled all over the world wearing a 'cheese shop' shirt or holding up one of the other 'cheese shop' memorabilia that you can purchase. I was in there the other day with a friend (it was her first time) and she immediately noticed a picture from her hometown in Crimea. She thought that was really cool how a tiny shop in California is basically all over the world...so to speak. Be warned: La Jolla is a zoo on the weekends & street parking is a rarity. They also close at 5pm so keep that in mind. Being that I'm a local, I try to visit during the week when the town is bit "quieter". Check 'me out! read more

Cheese Shop - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

I was a tad disappointed when I realized this place wasn't a place that specifically sold cheese, for I love my cheese, but the sandwiches made up for any disappointment. The New York(er?) sandwich is pretty dang good, and the pork loin! Wowza! After I write this review, I'm going to get dressed and head over there! The cool thing about this place is that they have shelves of vintage bottled soda, including my favorite cream soda. They also have shelves of awesome candies that were popular in my childhood! Brings back memories :) They sell Warheads, the super sour yummy candy that I can't find ANYWHERE anymore! The only problem with this place is that it's only outdoor seating. This means that when it rains, good luck... read more

Cheese Shop - The Pastrami Sandwich - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

By far THE best turkey sandwich I've ever had. Great ingredients and fresh. So good. My daughter and I split the sandwich and it was perfect. Family owned. Try it! read more

Was originally gonna go somewhere else for breakfast, but found it to be too full. Walked and found this little place, which was a nice surprise. A lot of seating available in front and the workers were nice. Food wasn't anything overly special, but still good. read more

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I live near The Cheese Shop and just love walking over for a delicious sandwich. The prices are reasonable (even by La Jolla standards!), the servings are generous, the flourless cookies are sublime, the vintage-era candy shoppe is a whimsical walk down memory lane, the pickles are delicious, the sandwich options are wide and tasty. David, the owner, is hard-working, friendly and welcoming. We LOVE supporting a local business. I would have given The Cheese Shop a five-star rating, but the woman who takes our orders and serves us the sandwiches is RUDE, unsmiling and unwelcoming. She's the one un-bright spot in an otherwise wonderful local deli and eatery. It's fun to sit outside, enjoy the weather, the scenery and the people-watching. We love the vintage-style, hand-painted sign, replete with Swiss cheese holes and a funky appearance. Enjoy a hearty sandwich on delicious bread, a seasoned pickle, a vintage style soda and some candy from your youth. The Cheese Shop is really a treasure in town. read more

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Nothing beats a good sandwich and soup combo! My favorite sandwich personally is the evergreen sandwich - super fresh, filling, and delicious (get it with cheese if u can). I don't know why it's my favorite veggie sandwich of all time i just love everything that's in it :-) the soups are also delicious and my favorite was the indian lentil soup! they change everyday so be sure to ask what they have! read more

Cheese Shop is has an old-school family-owned deli vibe, which is awesome. This place is filled with unique candies and sodas that you don't normally see in liquor stores or markets. You have to come back several times to try all the interesting soda pops. Yes, I just said soda pops, which is appropriate considering the vibe of this establishment. Like many others, I ordered the Pork Loin Sandwich + Jalapeno Chips and it was delicious! The pork itself was delicious, but they added a little extra sauce, which might be mayo, but different. What's awesome about the place is that it's right next to the La Jolla shores, so you can order your food and walk 2 blocks to the beach and have a picnic. Parking: Good luck finding parking. It's soo difficult to find street parking since it's next to the beach. read more

I love the Cheese Shop!! This tiny hole in the wall place is where to go if you are at La Jolla Shores, especially if you have the family...and kids! They make a great sandwich and have an excellent selection of sodas and candies for the kids. The owners are super friendly and always willing to help you with a recommendation. I just wish there were more places like this in San Diego, excellent food, friendly staff and great service. I'd get the foot long sub and split it with another person. read more

I was dying to try this place after all the reviews I read. When I went the line was beyond long. I ordered a sandwich it was just yuck. The meat seemed cheap, tasted cheap and the bread was thick while they only put 2 slices of meat on it. Subway would have been way better. My kids love the candy selection so we stop in for that and that's about it. read more

Classic sandwich place in La Jolla Shore Business district. Even nicer since the road is closed and there is more outdoor seating. The no-frills egg salad is piled high. The wife enjoys the bagel and lox. The owner is usually there and is a hoot. He is entertaining and always has something to say. read more

Great find, right near the beach! Service was quick and everyone was very friendly. Cute little shop with a deli, chips/snacks, and old school candy. I ordered the turkey, jack, and avocado on rye. Simple yet delicious! I substituted lettuce for sprouts. I also got the Arnold Palmer which was the perfect balance sweet and tart! Will definitely be back, looks like i need to try this oatmeal cookie! read more

Cheese Shop - Turkey avocado jack on rye with sprouts. Delicious! - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

I arrived with breakfast on my mind, and came here on my way back from San Diego. What a unique sandwich shop! Great selection of cheeses and sandwiches and a variety of old skool candies. A must stop when in the area! read more

There aren't many sandwich shops like this is San Diego. Everything is awesome. I got the egg salad, my usual when trying new sandwich shops. It was fresh and delicious. What I was really impressed by was the cole slaw. Honestly, the best I've ever had. Get the cole slaw!!!! Also an added bonus, for dessert, they have an old school candy selection. Mars bars, tootsie rolls zebra gum yummmm read more

Cheese Shop - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

Always my favorite sandwich to grab to go and head to the beach. I love that they have all the toppings like sprouts and jalepanos. I always order the Turkey, Jack (sub for pepper jack), and Avocado - extra pickles! They slice whole kosher pickles into 4s so they are fresh and crunchy and not soggy like the pre sliced ones. Bread is always soft and fresh. I've had their deviled eggs before but I am intrigued to try their egg salad and chicken salad as a side. They have chips and little snacks like meat and cheese plates and sodas and beer you can buy. Plus a larger menu of smoothies and breakfast sandwiches. Their homemade oatmeal cookies are to die for as well! What is really fun is that they have all the old school candy you can think of so if you are looking for those hard to find Necco Wafers or something for a party this is your place! It is a small place so please do not bring all your beach things inside with you - leave them outside with someone and just have one person come in to order. There is a menu outside the front door so everyone can look to see what they want. Someone actually came in yesterday with beach chairs on their back and had to shimmy around. read more

3.5 stars to be exact. Nice location next to the beach. I had one with avocado, turkey and monterey jack on sourdough. I enjoyed it. The sandwiches were big enough to share with a friend. Also enjoyed the decorations inside the shop :) I've had better sandwiches in other cities, but this place is definitely my "go-to" sandwich place in La Jolla :) read more

Cheese Shop - shared this sandwich with my bf - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

When I was asked if I wanted to go eat at the "Cheese Shop" my mind drifted to images of us grating blocks of cheese by the beach while laughing heartily and then crying later at night because all that dairy took a toll on my stomach. This place is not that. While it does offer a variety of cheeses the menu was more sandwiches as well as a selection of candy of I hadn't really seen before. The shop is small but it wasn't busy so we weren't stepping over other people. It is located by lots of kayak rental places so you'll get a nice view of people coming and going from kayaking if you sit outside. I took a while deciding what to get as a lot of the sandwiches sounded quite good. I ordered the Leg of Lamb sandwich and thought it was pretty decent. While the lamb wasn't as gamey as I tend to like it, it had nice flavor and it went well with the cucumbers and the other veggies. I didn't taste the veggies as much as I would like because the lamb was quite thick in some places but it would be absurd to knock a sandwich for having too much meat. The dark rye I selected for the sandwich was quite good with it and was glad they recommended that with the sandwich. I had the chance to try a bite of the Roast Pork Loin and would definitely grab that if in the area again. The flourless oatmeal cookies might not be everyone's cup of tea as the reception at our table was quite mixed. I, however, enjoyed the sweetness, crispiness, and the lack of flour. Definitely worth a visit. read more

Cheese Shop - Roast Leg of Lamb - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

Found this place on yelp. I had a couple hours to kill and discovered this gem! I've been living in La Jolla for the last 6-7 years and haven't even seen this place. The seating is so cute and they have lots of trees/greenery around, making it a peaceful place to eat. The owner, David, is such a nice and warm person. You can totally tell he truly loves this place and puts his heart into it. I ordered a turkey sandwich (it was bomb). As I was halfway done with my sandwich, David came out and offered me the best cookie I've ever had. It's an oatmeal cookie made without flour. It's the best thing ever, definitely a must try!!! read more

Cheese Shop - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Monster sized sandwiches!! Great to buy one and share. We didn't know that and bought 1pork loin (wow) and 1 turkey avocado (another wow) with 1oatmeal cookie (sugar steroids!!) Price with drinks was $20. Fair for the size quality and quaintness atmosphere of the store. Will definitely eat here again. The reason it is not 5 stars is the lack of seating with a view and in sun- so we walked to beach. read more

Cheese Shop - The monster size sarnie from Cheese Shop - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

Sandwiches + cheese + Candy = what more could you want? We stopped here for lunch. I wish there wasn't so much road construction. We couldn't sit by the shop. Can't wait to go back to raid their candy selection. read more

Cheese Shop - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

Can't believe I haven't been here sooner! We got the grilled cheese and the turkey, jack, and avocado on sourdough. Great ingredients, perfect amount of sauce, and overall just a really solid sandwich. The owner was really personable and shared some of the history of the shop and surrounding area. Highly recommend stopping by and make sure you try the flourless oat cookie! read more

Wow, this is one awesome sandwich place! It's pricey, but you do get a pretty huge sandwich for the money. I normally order the "Stuffed Turkey Breast Sandwich" and have then add cheddar (doesnt come with it). This is good fresh unsalted, unprocessed turkey. It tastes like actual thanksgiving-style turkey. I will usually order a side of macaroni salad, which is also super-tasty. It has chunks of cheddar and has a tarragon flavor. They also have a huge selection of rare sodas that you can't find anywhere else. My favorite is the Sioux City Sasparilla and any of the many different varieties of black cherry sodas. I've also tried the salami sandwich is was great, and the reuben, which was a disappointment because the bread was not grilled or cooked in any way, so it was just soggy. So yeah, just stick with the basics and you should be good to go! read more

Best sandwich shop I've been to! I came here with a pretty large group for lunch on a weekend and absolutely loved my experience. This place uses an order-then-pick-up system and since it wasn't too busy when we went, the line moved really quickly. They also don't have you pay until you get your food, which definitely says good things about their business philosophy, in my opinion. I ended up going for the Evergreen (vegetarian) sandwich on wheat bread, and for the relatively few ingredients it had, I was definitely surprised by how good it was. The freshness of the ingredients definitely came out in the flavor, and the avocado was especially amazing! The sandwich was also decently sized, as I certainly felt full after finishing it in its entirety. Overall, I'd highly recommend this place if you're looking for a solid sandwich. Although sandwiches can be pretty simple, this place turns it into more than you expect. Basically, you get more than your average sandwich here. The service was also a huge plus to our experience - we got to speak with the owner at various times and he was super friendly and welcoming. No complaints for this place! (Except for the parking situation, but I guess that's to be expected in downtown La Jolla.) read more

Cheese Shop - Evergreen sandwich on wheat bread - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

This place was a local favorite and lots of people stopping in for their sandwiches! The staff is super friendly and helpful and the street is closed off for tables outside for all the businesses! read more

Cheese Shop - Pork sandwich - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Today I had my first Cheese Shop experience and it was great. I'm actually still eating my delicious Turkey Avocado Jack sandwich as I type this (trying not to make a total mess). This is a really cute little shop. The service was really friendly and quick. In fact, when I was in there, a young man came in and said he had forgotten his wallet at work and was wondering if they would comp him a sandwich if he promised to come back next week and pay them back. The ladies asked where his office was and he said Mira Mesa. Then the women said "sure" which I thought was very nice of them. And then I thought, wow... this must be a really good sandwich if he drove all this way for lunch. :) And it is! I highly recommend this place. BUT, only if you can sit and relax and unbutton the top button on you jeans afterwards because you'll be stuffed like a pig. Or if you have any self control (unlike me), you could save the other half of your sandwich for later. haha. read more

Cheese Shop - Turkey Avocado Jack on 5 grain - Sandwiches Near Me - La Jolla, California

my friend got a leaf in her hot chocolate here! I guess that's by accident!! No big deal.....my problem is that it's not tasty. This place is known for its sandwiches. Try only that. read more

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