VIOLET, at the front taking our order was so kind and courteous!! She took her time to explain the menu when we let her know this was our FIRST TIME. The backstory on this place is amazing, they bake their own bread in house and have been apart of the Monrovia/Duarte community for a very long time! One bite into this hearty grinder and I can see why. WOW OH WOW my new favorite sandwich shop. FIVE STARS through and through. Service is top notch and the quality of the sandwich AKA GRINDER was elite! I went with the turkey add avocado; PERFECT!! My family had the Gene Special and the meatball special. Tried the meatball and was in heaven on the taste we asked for some marinara on the side and that made it extra delicious! I am looking forward to coming back to try the other grinders on the menu, they have daily specials during the week and the Italian sausage/chicken breast caught my eye. The shop is quite small but still has a few tables to sit inside and enjoy the meal. Menu is pretty straightforward, bread is soft and I think what really makes the grinder. Price is good for what you receive... two sizes on the grinders small or large. I was able to enjoy my second half of the SMALL later in the day which was a treat. Large you could probably split half with another person! These are perfect to take Togo and enjoy your day at the park or the beach!! I'm sad I barely found out about this place as I have missed out on some tasty grinders these past couple years. I got some catching up to do!! Thank you to the family who brought this business to life. You have gained a forever customer!! I will continue to recommend and visit this place any chance I get! YUMMMMMS. read more

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After closing in Monrovia, Gene's Grinders opened up a new location in the Target plaza. Inside is new, clean, and has a few tables. The interior isn't big, so to-go is a good option. I tried two sandwiches. The Gene's special is fantastic, layered with various ingredients that creates a symphony of flavors - one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. I also tried the regular meatball sandwich and I was surprised by the generous portion of protein and that it was not messy to eat. However, I would like it if it came with more sauce, because the bread soaked most of it and the meat was left a bit dry. If you bring cash, you can avoid a 3% credit card surcharge. Overall, I recommend others to come try the sandwiches. I'll be back for another go at the Gene's special! read more

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Came here for the first time today for lunch and it was not good. The customer service and the guy taking the order 5 stars for him he was friendly and went through the menu briefly with me. I got the Friday special which was an Italian sausage small sandwich for $13.25. Ugh it was soooooo DRY. Way too little sauce for this sandwich. There's no way they serve it this way. I'm thinking it was a mistake. See the picture for yourself and let me know if it looks appetizing. I would probably come back and stick to the basics like a turkey sandwich. read more

Gene's Grinders - Dry Italian sausage sandwich "Friday" special it was not good at all. - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

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My sister and I came to new location for a sandwich on a Saturday in early June. We ordered online for pickup. The new location is in the Target shopping center. Lots of people coming in and out for their sandwiches. We waited few minutes for the our order. My pastrami sandwich tastes so good and they make their own bread. It was not messy or oily and it was perfect. I would go back to try their other sandwiches. read more

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Unlike George Washington, I can tell a lie. I can. And I told one to Michael, one of the proprietors of this fantastic family owned business who was working behind the counter at the new location when I sauntered in to order - what else? - the world famous pastrami grinder. Everything on it? Why yes of course. Michael rattled off the ingredients and I said yes to everything. Put it all in there. OK the lie part... Michael asked whether my sandwich was for here or to go, and I said to go. Gulp. And there goes the lie. Now, technically, I did take it out of the shop and into my car. But when you tell someone you want it to go, that means you're going to take it home and eat it. And I couldn't wait. I just couldn't. So there I was, parked in front of the shop, unwrapping this overstuffed beautiful sandwich because come on, do you really think I can drive all the way back to Pasadena smelling the warm pastrami grinder without reaching over and fumbling with it? Dear Lord, I'll get in an accident. And I have no intention of telling my claims adjuster that I rear-ended someone on the 210 because of a sandwich. Now in my own defense, I only ate part of one half, and then I went home and finished that half. The grinder is just too big to consume all at once so I wrapped up the second half and that's lunch tomorrow. For the price of one sandwich, you're actually getting two meals. You can't beat that. OK anyway, another great eating experience. They've expanded the hours and frankly Monrovia's loss is Duarte's gain. Michael said his father Andy still gets to the shop at the crack of dawn and makes the bread. The bread is nothing short of a gift from heaven. Everything in this shop says made with family love, and we get to benefit. Every time I come here I have East Coast grinder flashbacks. It's really that good. Congratulations on the new location, and I wish you many years of continued success. And sorry about the lie, but it's sort of your fault. Next time? Gene's Special. read more

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We are so over the moon for Gene's Grinders! They are so warm and welcoming and their sandwiches are deeeelicious! They have a decent amount of seating so you can enjoy and wolf down your grinder immediately! I love my sandwiches and am thrilled about their new location. Not so thrilled for my waistline but the belly ain't going to complain about this deliciousness. Bonus, parking is so easy with the lot too. read more

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Gene Grinder just opened their new location in Duarte, and it's a solid spot for a hearty, no-frills sandwich fix. We ordered the Gene Special with everything, with the meatball sub. The Gene Special lives up to its name, loaded with layers of meats and fresh toppings. The meatball sub was another standout. Warm, saucy and comforting, with tender meatballs just the right amount of sauce soaked into the bread. The shop itself has a small dining area, making it more of a casual grab-and-go spot. Service was great, friendly, efficient, and welcoming. They also offer online ordering, which makes it super convenient if you're on the go. read more

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This review is for the Kielbasa special. Long time Gene's customer here 30+ years and this is the first time I ordered a kielbasa sandwich. It was perfect. The he snap of the sausage and toppings is great. Honestly it's right up there with the Pastrami Grinder for my favorite. I can't believe it took this long. No pictures, I was too busy enjoying it. read more

I ordered this through Uber Eats and the sandwiches were bomb. I got the pastrami, kielbasa, and genes special. Would definitely want to come and eat it in person because the sandwiches were solid even after being delivered. read more

This review was written while i was dancing in my seat trying the milanesa sub for the first time Refreshing genuine customer service thats only matched by how good the sandwiches are! Super chill vibes while u munch. Im glad their new location is up and running. Ive been coming around for years, the sammies are big the prices are good, and the staff is welcoming The genes special and the meatball is where I started, and I haven't looked back since that day haha. But any choice is going to be handled with care! Hope this helped you decide P.s. if you've always wanted to try gabagol this is the place Iykyk (just ask for it by it's government name- capicola) lol read more

I was greeted upon entering George and Terri are always very friendly and very attentive genes grinders makes me feel like home very welcome. And of course the sandwich's are very delicious read more

Gene's Grinders - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

Terrific service and delicious sandwiches. You can eat in or outside on their patio. Plenty of parking and great music while your there. There is a menu in the inside or you can order at the counter from the Patio. I didn't get to take a photo of my sandwich but I will next time. I ordered a tuna sandwich for my Son-in-law and by the time I remember to ask him for a picture it was gone... so YEA, I'd say it was good. LOL Respectfully Reviewed. read more

Gene's Grinders - Picking up lunch for my Son-in-law - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

Staff was helpful, sandwich large can definitely be shared, or be hungry. Sandwich was good and chicken had a nice crunch from the breading. The restaurant just reopened to Duarte and they are still getting adjusted so be patient. Inside dining holds about 3-4 tables and a counter. read more

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Saw an ad on Insta for a deli in Monrovia and had to go immediately! My fiancé took me and we were surprised to find Gene's Grinders, having passed by so many times, thinking it was a meat market shop with the name having "grinder" in it and all. We now know "grinder" is a term for a sandwich shop and both had that "oooohhhhh" look on our faces and had a good laugh, haha! We ordered online with our BOGO code to get 1 sandwich for free. We ordered a Large 12" Meatball Special and Large 12" Pastrami Dip sandwich for $16.25. The $16.25 is the regular price for 1 sandwich and we got the 2nd one for free. Such a great deal for our first time! Upon walking in, we informed the team members working there that we made an online order and told them the name on the order. "Coming right out," they said! They are very upbeat and friendly here! The sandwiches are indeed large and 12" and as long as my forearm. Both sandwiches were packed with meat and were very heavy in weight. I loved the condiments and sauces in each one, and I liked how we got one hot and cold sandwich to try both. My fiance loved it so much he ate most of our 2 sandwiches but for the parts I saved, I was able to enjoy it and be full since it was so packed! Now that we know Gene's Grindgers is a sandwich deli shop, we will definitely be coming back here for their great sandwiches and awesome service! read more

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Okay, so here's the details on the new location: *They now have self-serve drinks (though the ice machine wasn't working yet). *The patio is in-progress (please hurry!). *The dining area is small, but comfortable. *Now open on Sundays (or at least they're trying this out) *There's a crumbl cookie place next door (not open on Sundays though) The sandwiches? They're exactly the same. Worth the extra mile to get here and support an independent, family-owned business. Welcome back! read more

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Genes is a place that needs no introduction. In my opinion, this place has the best pastrami in the valley. Anytime I feel like a sub, this is my go to. I had the Meatball today and as expected, it hit. Staff is always friendly. Vibe is Sub shop right out of the 50's. Overall if you want a good sub and are in Monrovia, make sure you stop in. read more

Gene's Grinders - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

Great cold and hot sandwiches. They have daily specials. Love that they offer fresh brewed Ice-Tea and homemade lemonade. Fresh bread with every sandwich. Definitely try the pastrami and Beef dip with an jus. Huge fan of there cold genes's grinder Order a side of fries. Perfectly crispy. Not a big fan of the milanesa sandwich. The staff is always friendly and helpful. Seating inside and outside. Enough parking. read more

Gene's Grinders - Beef Dip - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

Very large sandwiches. Had the Meatball Special and Gene's Special. Both large, taking advantage of the BOGO deal. Gene's was pretty good, generous with the ingredients, very good overall. The meatball sandwich was a disappointment. Large meatballs, fair amount of toppings but severely lacking sauce. Which meant very bland overall. Maybe I'm used to more sauce at other establishments but the sauce typically adds a huge element of flavor which was sadly absent. I was looking forward to a very messy, flavorful meatball sandwich but was very underwhelmed. Not sure if I will return. read more

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Was really surprised but this was a great place to get a huge sandwich. The service was great. Place is small so large groups will have a hard time to get a seat. Oh and frequent buyer program ;) read more

So I tried the Gene's at the new location which is more convenient for me. And it's the same great sandwiches but what's most impressive is the wonderful service. The cashier, Terri was the sweetest most personable and kind hostess. I would return here just because of her service but the sandwiches are great too. You can't go wrong with their signature grinder with the works! Will definitely be back. read more

I am from Temple City. Did not know about Gene's Grinders until they relocated to Duarte. Been there twice. Like the idea they bake their own bread. Combination sandwiches are great. I must admit I was a little disappointed with the meatball sandwich. Marinara sauce was great but the meatballs were tough and hard. The staff is very friendly. I will be back to try some other sandwiches. read more

Grinders were great , the fries not so much. They needed to be crispier. That being said overall great taste and phenomenal value. read more

Genes is great been coming here for at least 10 years new location, service is actually a little better food is always on point, highly recommend read more

To make it clear I am rating the bread and deli meat, but I remain hopefully that the hot sandwiches are the winners, and what is even more of the win is the customer service. This is my response to Michael and an update to the stars. I am in no way trying to kick them while they are down. Hi Michael -- thank you for the thoughtful reply. I really appreciate you taking the time to explain the bread style and share a bit more about Gene's history. I love my East Coast breads when it comes to a good philly cheese steak, so the hot sandwiches make more sense now. That context makes sense, and I can absolutely see how expectations around bread play a big role here. It's clear how much pride and care goes into what you do, and the warmth from your team definitely came through during my visit. I'm glad I stopped in, especially given the timing, and I appreciate you engaging so openly with feedback. Wishing you and the Gene's crew all the best in this next chapter. -- Jeanette read more

Took my mom to Gene's Grinders for Mother's Day because we both love a good sandwich. The bread is made fresh daily in house and you can taste the love in every bite. All of the staff are so nice, friendly and accommodating which made for an excellent dining experience. I got the cheese sandwich and my mom had the Gene's Special, 10/10 for both highly recommend. This will be our go-to from now on for our favorite food (sandwiches). So glad this gem of an establishment was able to reopen and stay local to San Gabriel Valley. Thank you Gene's Grinders and see you soon! read more

Gene's Grinders - Small Cheese Grinder, Small Gene's Special, French Fries - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

Gene's Grinders in Monrovia is a true hidden gem for sandwich lovers. First time coming here and their famous Italian Grinder is hands-down the top menu item! So many layers of cured meats, fresh crisp lettuce and tomatoes, tangy pickles, and their signature house dressing, all perfectly tucked into a soft, toasted not too dense roll. Every bite is bursting with flavor, and the portion size is generous enough to leave you fully satisfied. I was only able to eat half of my sandwhich. One less star for sticky tables and lack of napkins. The staff at Gene's Grinders is exceptional, very welcoming, friendly, and always ready to accommodate special requests. They could tell this was my first time and was very patient in letting me know which sandwhich combos tast the best. Overall good service, will be back here soon. read more

The sandwiches are dry and not enough mustard. Sorry to give you a bad review. I would not recommend your sandwiches not to be eaten here.

Super and Superior Service. Love their sandwiches. The roast beef with onions and avocado is very good. Definitely a must

This establishment has been around for almost 50 years. The landlord decided not to renew their lease. The owner, Andy comes in the morning to bake their bread. You can actually taste the love, hard work & dedication that they poured in this sandwich shop. The staff is so nice & friendly every time you are there. Oh, I'm going to miss this place when they close. Hopefully this closure is a temporary & not permanent. Please visit this place before they close. You will never find the quality of food & wonderful service from the staff from anywhere else. read more

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Best pastrami in town, as well as everything they serve. Fresh baked bread every morning.

They're back!!' New location in Duarte; Target shopping center. Same great tasting grinders. I like the new look. Special Combo or Pastrami Dip is my go to. Hot or cold, they got you covered. Cheers! read more

Been eating here for years got nothing but greatness all the food is very good they no how to do it right very glad on the new haircut highly recommended read more

Everything is so good, the service is fast and friendly, and really like the new location. Thank you and can't wait to be back read more

Gene's Grinders - Couldn't wait til I got home, had to have a bite. So good 10/10 can't wait to come back! - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

We were thrilled to see that Gene's Grinders was open again. Same great sandwiches and friendly service. Two thumbs up!

Whenever my taste buds are calling for a pastrami sandwich Gene's is the place I head to. I live in Pomona and I will take the trip to Duarte for that tasty sandwich!! read more

Food and service good just as it has always been. Glad they are back. I have missed my favorite sandwiches.

$16 for a Sub... a sandwich that's all it is. Cold cuts on bread. Asked for extra mayo and oil got a dab of mayo no oil or seasoning....drab. If you're gonna charge $16 better be a lot better than Jersey Mikes or Firehouse! Eaten at the Monrovia location wasn't impressed then either. Staff friendly read more

Been a moment, but always have to make a stop at Gene' when passing through. Today, delicious Turkey Grinder! Everything made fresh to order. Partner it with drink and fries. Enjoy!! read more

Gene's Grinders - Turkey Breast Cold Grinders!! - Delis Near Me - Duarte, California

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New Location. Great Same Taste, nothing has changed, so glad they are still open. Line was out the door so I guess people don't t mind driving a little longer for a great sandwich. read more

I ordered online and didn't have any delay picking my order up. The meatball sub was very good, but the pastrami was a little salty to me.