Nice little deli. It's a old-fashioned deli with old-fashioned prices. When you walk in it feels like you've gone back in time 50 years. There is only one little old lady that works there. She makes each sandwich by hand. Don't come here and expect to be in and out. Every sandwich is between $2.50 and $3.00. You don't have many options. White or wheat bread, Swiss or American cheese. Meat choices are turkey, Ham, or bologna maybe a few other options. They only take cash so make sure you come prepared. You better know what you want when it's your time to order. There will be no frills. They do not have a dinning area so you can only take it to go. read more

Duchess Variety Store - Out of chips - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

Park up. Come inside. Step back in time. Want something fancy? Go elsewhere. Here, you'll get a sandwich made just like you would make it at home in the 70's..... For only $3.50, I got the most stacked Roast Beef sandwich I've ever had outside of my house... If you're like me, you might feel guilty paying so little for such a sandwich, so you'll grab chips and a drink from the cooler.... We all want to keep this business open!! read more

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I love it here. Thanks to the friends on Facebook who posted it in their reels. This place is close to my family, which makes it convenient for me. This spot only sells 6 kinds of sandwiches. No sandwich is more than $3.50, and it's a cash-only store. The owner is Miss Maggie, if I can remember correctly. She is an angel. She works mostly by herself, and she is very fast. From my 2 visits, I tried 3 of them. I'm not a fan of Liverwurst or Roast Beef. At this place, you'll get a freshly made sandwich, option to buy a beverage or chips, and still keep the change you found in your sofa this morning. I will be back! read more

Duchess Variety Store - Front - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

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I seen this place multiple times while driving by and I got the curiosity to look it up Well, I'm glad I did because the of the sandwiches are exquisite Every bite is a taste of freshness weather you like turkey ham, roast beef. And the prices for the sandwich three dollars and 50 Cent where could you go wrong? A lot of places you can go wrong tbh lol. This place looks like hole in the spot. The lady that owns it and makes the sandwiches very very nice and amazing. read more

Hidden gem indeed. Great quality and great quantity. Be patient as it is being ran by a sweet, one-woman army, but its defintely worth the wait. For the price, I ordered 2 different sandwiches to try. They weigh just as much as on a regular deli for a fraction of the price. They are both fresh and delicious and for sure more than enough for one sitting. Support small businesses like this. Highly recommended. read more

Duchess Variety Store - Roast beef sandwich. - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

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I was finally able to try Duchess today. I ordered the turkey on wheat. I also got chips and found cookies that I used to buy when I was in elementary school! It brought back memories for me. I enjoyed the sandwich very much. I noticed there are a lot of regulars that come in to support this nice lady. I will definitely be back! read more

Really yummy sandwiches! This place is old school and so delicious. It is like stepping back in time and you can't beat it. The whole family loves it and has their special same orders. The price is awesome too! I don't know how she does it! We could eat it for lunch or dinner! read more

This lady is the BEST. If you're willing to wait, (and the smart ones are,) this place is the best bang for buck going. Sandwiches like a good corner store run by your grandma! read more

TIP: Cash only Where to begin!? Duchess is a must to try and add to your rotation of go to spots!! [enough said!] This little hidden gem is just that; a gem! From what I'm told; it's a family owned restaurant that put their heart and soul into this place for years in Ellicott City. I can attest this is true from my experience. The only disappointment was it took this long to try it. Perhaps I took advantage by the fact I live nearby but rest assure I will be coming back often. I already can't twice within a week. Now to the good stuff .... food! ORDER: * Roast Beef Sandwich * * Turkey Sandwich * Both the Roast Beef and Turkey sandwiches had everything on it: Lettuce, tomato, onions, mayonnaise, mustard; seasoned with black pepper on wheat bread. Man oh man, the first bite was heaven. It was certainly made with love. The tomato was perfectly sliced, the lettuce was fresh and the meats were sliced and stacked with perfection. * Ham Sandwich * This was for a picky plain eater that opted for lettuce, mayonnaise and seasoned black pepper on wheat bread. It was pretty delicious plain sandwich. Must be the love that was put into it. [I originally ordered Roast Beef but for the love of food and yelp; I took a bite of the Turkey and Ham sandwiches] SIDES Medium size bags of: * Potato Chips * Salt & Vinegar Chips * BBQ Chips [Score on the bag size] MILK SHAKES: * Chocolate * As a chocolate lover I was pleased to find out they used Hersey chocolate for this shake. Yum! I heard a lot of hype about how good the shakes are and the hype is real. The texture and flavor and size of the shake was everything you can ask for in a chocolate milkshake. * Strawberry * This will certainly fulfill your strawberry shake craving. It wasn't too sweet and had the best flavor and texture of a strawberry milkshake. Both shakes were so good, my goofy self took a sip of both at the same time for a taste of both worlds! These shakes are so good you're not going to want to share. Be sure to order a round for everyone in your party. SERVICE: As mentioned this is a family owned. Typically, you'll see the wife who is a sweet older lady. The daughter was there helping the first time we went [We went twice within a week] It can be busy with a family owned business; so be patient and kind as it is worth the wait. LOCATION/FACILITY: This is located in a hidden yet obvious spot off Route 29/Montgomery and Old Columbia Rd. You can't miss it. PARKING: Free restaurant parking. SEATING: None. This is a small family owned restaurant for carry out only. COVID-19: [July 2020] Due to the current pandemic; there's a sign on the front door with details. I can't recall the exact details but everyone wore masks. I used my card to pay as it is a cash only spot. The overall transaction was smooth. Overall, this place is great! Amazing food, yummy milkshakes, you get a nice size bag of chips AND the price is out of this world! For 3 sandwiches, 3 bags of chips and 2 shakes was under $25. I invite everyone to show this small business some love as you won't be disappointed. read more

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CASH & CARRY OUT ONLY!! Coming here is how I treat myself on a Saturday. I don't have nurturing elders in my family as they've all passed away. So, this is the closest to something homemade with love (by someone other than myself) that I'm gonna get. The lady here is 85yo. She genuinely asks you how you are and tells you to have a good day (and means it). Her sandwiches are hearty and piled high. She makes everything with love. This is not a deli or a sub shop. This store is her kitchen and you are her personal guest. My fav is a turkey sandwich with American on white with everything please (said sweetly and with respect). Everything is Mayo with a slide of mustard, lettuce, tomato & onion. She cuts it & wraps it in parchment and sends you on your way. My sandwich is $3.50. I'm full all day. Now the milk shakes.... I like the cookies & cream with mint chocolate chip. The lady who makes them is the milkshake master. In my opinion, she is the bees knees as far as milk shakes. Their shakes & sandwiches are better than any place and you can fight me on that. If you miss your grandma and her homemade lunches. You want a filling meal made from love, come here. But come with respect. These women are older. Treat them kindly, wart your mask and be patient. This isn't fast food. It's a loving lunch. read more

I just found out about this place recently so I wanted to stop by and try it out. Honestly, you can't get much better then piled high sandwiches of meat for either $2.50 or $3.50! For bread options, they offer both white and wheat bread. Even with the small menu and not fancy interior, Duchess Variety Store certainly delivers on quality. The ingredients were all fresh and the sandwich even held up on my drive back to Owings Mills from Ellicott City! I also do want to say, the interior looks very clean and well kept. During my visit I was told they have been there now for 50 years and I certainly hope they stick around for another 50! On my next visit, I will be trying out a milkshake. If you are ever in Ellicott City, be sure to drop by from 11am-4pm Monday through Saturday for some great old school sandwiches! read more

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This is the best example of a mom & pop shop. This place is the real deal. The owner does everything by herself. The wait may be a bit long but it's just fine once you get your turn. The sandwiches are simple and huge. You will not be disappointed. read more

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The Duchess Variety Store is a charming stop just outside Ellicott City. It looks like this was once a convenience store because the interior is larger than the fitures currently inside. What's there matters tho! The gal running the place has been running things since they opened in 1972. You will feel like you stepped into your grandmother's kitchen for a lunch. The sandwiches offer two options, white or wheat bread. She's got all your typical fixings: lettuce, tomato (sliced by hand per sandwich!), mayo, mustard, salt and pepper. She peppers each layer of the sandwich and it makes for a delightful and oh so filling lunch. We ordered two turkey sandwiches and one roast beef sandwich. As of October 2023, the price was $3.50 per sandwich, which is really unheard of given how much meat is in the sandwich. Each is wrapped in parchment or waxed paper and placed in a paper sack with a napkin! Details! They also offer milkshakes made to order and believe me, she can make them three at a time or more! For only $3.75, its a total deal! She also offers ice cream cones for $1.25 and there are at least 10 flavors! I wish there were seating, but that would likely take away from the speed at which she makes the sandwiches, shakes and ringing up the orders. So get your lunch and milkshake and take a ride, one further exit on Route 29 to Centennial Park and enjoy the fresh air with your lunch. Will we return? Yes Yes and yes!!! read more

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We've lived in Ellicott city for about 5 years and always drove by this place but never took the time to check it out. Location wise it's pretty easy to miss. It's right next to a gas station and not near a lot of other restaurants. Important things to know is that it's cash only, take out and the parking lot is quite small but we made a point to check this place out and have to say that the lady is the sweetest. I didn't get her name but your sandwich is made fresh. If you're looking for something fancy and Instagram worthy then this wouldn't be your place. This is just a good old fashion restaurant that makes simple, delicious and really affordable sandwiches. I didn't get to try the milkshake but will have to next time. She was so sweet and kind when taking my order. She asked if certain condiments were ok on each sandwich. She was generous with the meat and I think for 3 sandwiches I paid about $11. One thing that stood out for me was that once I paid I asked if she had a tip jar or something. She said no so I offered her a tip anyway but she said there was no need and just asked if she could keep the coin change since she needed it throughout the day. The sandwiches were good. I think this would be a place you'd want to go to if you wanted a simple lunch or wanted to take the family on a picnic and didn't want to make the sandwiches yourself. read more

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Duchess is a HoCo tradition known for good sandwiches and hand spun milkshakes. It's simple, but really hits the spot and is very easy on your wallet. Where can you get a fresh cut, old fashioned sandwich pulled high with lunch meat, and fresh cut onion, tomato and lettuce for $3.50 or less? No where buy Duchess! And your sandwich and chips are placed in a brown bag, like you were going to school. This isn't fancy, but it is good. Hint: come at 11am or after 1:30pm if you are in a hurry. This sandwich shop operates slow and steady. read more

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I went by there 4/21/25 and the sign says Closed Permanently. Does anyone know about rhis? She makes the best sandwiches just like mom made. I hope Miss Maggie is OK. read more

Amazing sandwiches!! Great prices. Highly recommend checking this place out. The lady making the sandwiches was super nice.

The most charming place in the Charming State. Within the humble doors of the Duchess Variety lies a simple and elegant sandwich shop. A menu with only a dozen items, each under $4, this solo owned and run establishment delivers lunches that will take you back to your childhood, whether it a sandwich and chips from your local deli, or a weekend lunch made by your mother. Each sandwich is made with only the simplest of ingredients: lettuce, tomatoes, salt, pepper, mayo, mustard, cheese, and meat, all served on white bread. But what you lack in exotic ingredients, you make up for with abundance, as your sandwiches are piled high with meat. If you have a sweet tooth, Duchess has you covered with fresh ice cream and milkshakes. And to wash it all down, classic soda pop is available. One thing to note: Duchess is a cash only establishment, so be sure to have $5 on you before you order. The owner handles a lot of customers, and it's best to be ready to pay before you reach the register. Duchess Variety Store is a little piece of American passed, one I plan on enjoying every time I need to be blasted back to nostalgia. read more

Delightful lady making tasty straightforward sandwiches. Wanted an ice cream milkshake, but the ice cream freezer was kaput‼

Once i entered this charming store i felt like i had gone back in time the simplicity of the decor of store was very warm and inviting. Ms Duchchess was very warm and friendly. This place sorta reminds me of an amish market. The sandwiches lets get to the sandwiches. She maticaliously prepare these huge sandwiches with loads of meat. She prepares the sandwich like mom did when i was a little girl. She wraps them in wax paper slices and place it in a vrown lunch bag. The price of two dollars in fifthy cents i waa floored. As you can see my favorite sandwich spot. read more

Took my middle schooler here for lunch today. He was shocked that his ham sandwich and cookies and cream milkshake cost less than a Starbucks drink. Great quality and value! read more

Stopped in to check this spot out and in the process ordered 10 Sandwiches, I can only assume that the duchess herself rocked them out in a big box for me to feed my crew for lunch The food is tasty and for that price how can you complain or compare it to anything else in this century! Will be coming back to order for myself when ever I'm in Ellicott city read more

Duchess Variety Store - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

The word "variety" is slightly misleading. Don't get me wrong. This woman is a genius. Her K.I.S.S. method works. Keeping it simple myself, here's what I got yesterday: 4 sandwiches and 1 vanilla milkshake. She shaves the meat TO ORDER! And you get a generous amount for each sandwich. Bologna sandwich was $2.50 while the turkey, ham and roast beef sandwiches were each $3.50. Totally worth it. Served on either wheat or white bread (walmart brand). Chips, bottled drinks - lots of choices. And there's ice cream! Cute little building. It's pretty much to go - not a single table or chair to be found inside or outside. Totally fine. She wraps each sandwich as carefully as she prepares them. So happy this is in my neighborhood. Will go back again and again. :) read more

Duchess Variety Store - a woman preparing food on a table - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

I'm confused. It's 2022 right? But some how i can get a huge delicious deli sandwich for $3.75 and an ice cream cone for $1.25... yes I will be back. read more

Duchess Variety Store - Roast beef sandwhich - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

The sandwich you will get here is like having your mom make you a sandwich. I get that there is a cozy nostalgia to that and maybe it's "just what you needed." But I prefer something a bit more special than what I can make myself. There are two types of bread (white or wheat sliced bread), one type of mayo, one type of mustard, two types of cheese, about 5 or 6 meats, and zero frills. No pickles. No pizzazz. The old lady running the shop is adorable, and yes it was nice to give her a few bucks to keep the gig going. But would I return? Nah. read more

A local institution. Great food. Support it please! Sandwiches and milkshakes like grandma.

I just had one of those experiences I had to share. This place strikes a chord in my heart. It's so simple: six kinds of sandwiches-- turkey, ham, bologna, liverwurst, salami, and cheese. The only toppings are lettuce, tomatoes, and onions (mayo and mustard too, of course). Your choices for bread are white or wheat. The turkey and ham sandwiches are $3.50, and the others are $2.50. I got the liverwurst with everything on it and a bag of chips for less than $4. The sandwich was HUGE and SO SO satisfying. The lady who owns it and makes the sandwiches has been doing so for over 50 years. She moved about the kitchen with such efficiency and grace I couldn't help but feel like I was in the presence of greatness. Besides sandwiches and chips, they also sell milkshakes and soda. If any of that sounds appealing, I encourage you to try it for yourself! read more

Can't even believe a place like this still exists Great sandwich for like 3.50 Woman behind the counter makes every single order by hand freshly sliced Classic American joint, last of a dying breed No yuppy stuff here read more

Great place if you are looking for a cheap simple lunch. 5 or 6 sandwiches on normal bread. Just like Mom used to make. read more

I am on the road all day for work going house to house and always look for mom and pop style places to try so when I passed by around lunch time I decided to stop in and I'm glad I did If you like good sandwiches and affordable prices this place can't be beat If you like over complicated menus and spending money at chain restaurants move along They have chips , for sides, milk shakes or hand scooped cones and sandwiches white or wheat , ham turkey roast beef salami American or Swiss sandwiches are deli cut to order ,and portions are good. Sandwich and a milkshake for under 8 bucks!! I will be coming back whenever I am working this area!!! read more

Duchess Variety Store - Roast beef on white bread with everything - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Ellicott City, Maryland

This place has awwwwwwsome sandwiches at prices that are just as awesome. I got the liverwurst, roast beef, turkey and ham, which is essentially the entire menu. The family loved 'em. Oh yeah I'll be back. read more

Very cute and a great deal! There's two gas stations with atms nearby in case you forgot this place is cash only! Loved the milkshake as well. read more

After our first bite in our sandwiches we were hooked. Totally an old-school sandwich shop with great character. The owner was so sweet. read more

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Brings back memories of sandwich delis from the 70s. Nothing fancy and great prices. Get a sandwich and a milkshake.

The first time I visited the Duchess was in the summer of 1979. Yes, 1979, 41 years ago! The husband and wife who ran the place (he has since passed) make simply the best sandwiches anywhere. To be honest, I've only ever had one type of sandwich there, ham and Swiss on white with mayo, lettuce, salt and pepper. And, of course, a vanilla milkshake. I remember the first time I went, I asked for a ham and swiss on rye. His response to make back, a short, curt, "No rye. White!" Strangely I wasn't offended. And over time grew to enjoy the banter. There would be times when I'd order a ham and Swiss on rye just to spin him up a bit--but all in fun. And did I mention, don't pass on the milk-shakes! The Duchess is spotless! And I mean you could perform open-heart surgery on the floor of the place. Watch her fix your sandwich, carefully, usually cuts the tomato by hand and tears the lettuce, per each sandwich. Nothing is pre-prepared. Constantly wiping, cleaning. Which adds to the wait; but you'll never get sick eating here. Manage your expectations, very simple place that has been making sandwiches for the locals for over half a century! Iconic. read more

Bless the old woman that runs and makes the sandwiches here. First time here so can only comment about this time- she singlehandedly is faster than Little Market Cafe in Old EC (while I like their sandwiches, service is unbearably slow). But back to Duchess, sandwich was good (for $3.5, plenty of filling) and I'm sure any one of us can make a better or good enough sandwich, the point is if you want a sandwich without making the effort to do so. We got the ham and also a roast beef. I'll try again and would support the place. read more

A delicious classic sandwich shop, I give it 5 for what it is a old timey sandwich shop that has really affordable food. Don't let the limited options deter you, you can sort of make your own creations if you're creative. I recommend making your own Italian on white with onions and tomatoes. Bologna, ham, and salami it's all sliced very thin on standard wonderbread. Nothing about this should be good but it all works perfectly. Duchess has been an institution in EC for decades. The old man who used to run the shop I believe has passed away so it looks like his wife and grand daughter man the shop. They're very sweet. This rating is probably one star too many but the nostalgia and sweetness of it all.makes me give it a 5. read more

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Great classic sandwich! You will be amazed at the speed of service provided by just one person.

A wonderful charming out of the way sandwich shop with a strange name. It really is a one person operation that offers 5 types of sandwiches, and home made milkshakes. Tucked by a gas station off of 103, you can miss it driving by very easily. Back to the one person operation - I dont know how she does it as she never seems rattled, or annoyed. The shakes were $3.75 and the delicious, simply fresh sandwiches were only $3.50. Nothing fancy, no sprouts or even pickles, or guacamole offered. She is nevery in a rush, and the customers are pretty use to her pace. Just like grandma made them specially for you. Opens only 5 days a week from 11-4. And no seats so grab and go and enjoy a throwback to the 1960s, at 1960's prices. What a Find! read more

As with many of the reviews, I also have been coming here since the 1970s. Sandwich's r great and over sized. When you look at the love and care she puts into each sandwich you will see why they have been in business so long. Go spend your cash at this place and support her!! 5+ stars read more