I eat here too often because it's steps away from work, but I'm addicted to their "Chicken En Fuego," a recurring hot sandwich special that's not on their menu and takes a little while longer to make. Service is prompt and friendly without fail. The one thing missing is a menu board; customers have to walk up to the counter to grab a menu and then get back in line. But you really don't need the menu -- just go when the "En Fuego" is available. (It's actually available every day as long as you feed the tip jar!) read more

Chicken sandwich with a side order of eye-candy, please! My coworkers and I decided one day that we had passed by this place way too often not to eat there. It was one of the best lunch decisions ever made --- the sandwich I ordered (chicken w/ avocado spread) was delicious! So, for $6.25 I got a satisfying sandwich and an eye-full of hotties! The potato salad is also a must! There was a long line when we got there but it went fast & our food came quickly. If you prefer no crowd --- I'd recommend going after 1'ish. If you're on a budget it could be a bit pricey since sodas are $1.25 and lemonade is priced at $2 but not a shabby place to dine. Fast, friendly, good (looking) crowd! ;o) drooL~ Con: street parking can be a pain read more

I've been going to this place for over 6 years. In the days when I ate grains, the bagels here are top notch and so is the sour cream coffee cake - SO good. They are generous with the cream cheese on your bagel which is always a bonus in my book. Alas, we are now leading a grain free life. I started working back in Emeryville about 3 months ago and have typically stuck to the caesar salad at Rubys. Today...today was so different. I went in with the saddest lunch expectations. I was going to get the salad (again) and it just didn't sound good. Low and behold I see in small print "Gluten Free bread available". I.peed.my.pants. I haven't had a sandwich in MONTHS. I ordered the roast beef with fontina and I was so impressed with my meal. The ingredients were fresh, the bread was tasty and toasted and the fact that it was less than $10 was the icing on the cake. read more

Most places in Emeryville are closed for lunch by 2pm so my coworker and I didn't have very many options but we lucked out when we came across Ruby's Cafe. I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich with aioli and avocado spread. I LOVE focaccia - it might just be my favorite sandwich bread in the entire world (except maybe Iron Kids...). The focaccia was light, springy, and delicious! The sandwich portion was huge and all the ingredients tasted fresh. I was seriously tempted by the pastry display/selection but I managed to exert some self-control... Reasonably priced too! read more

Surprised that I did not really care for Ruby's after seeing the four star reviews on Yelp. Went here for lunch today and decided to order a half sandwich and half salad. Was disappointed when the waitress told me that I could not get a "half" curried chicken salad. The menu should have specified that that salad was not included in the "half sandwich and half salad" deal. The herb crusted turkey sandwich was just so-so. Really not as many cranberries as I would have thought and too much mayonnaise. The salad was basically lettuce, a few walnuts, a couple olives and two slices of tomatoes on the side (that looked like they used these for hamburgers too). Not impressed, especially when thinking of the four star Yelp average There might be better luck buying some of their baked goods. read more

I used to come here on a daily basis a few years back when I used to work down the block from it. I love their breakfast croissants. Beats anything coming out of any of the chain/fast food restaurants. Depending on when you go, the service will either be really fast or really slow. You know you're in for a wait when the line goes out the door. I also love their service. Jessica is really friendly & outgoing, and remembered my name and my usual order, since I was a frequent customer. The rest of staff was cool like that, too. I docked them 1 star cause just about everything on their menu is over-priced. But from what I've had (soups, salads, sandwiches, breakfast croissants), everything is very good, quality-wise. read more

My Saturday morning ritual is to drop the dogs off at doggy day care a block away and come here for the Belgian waffles with fruit and whipped cream and a cappuccino. I like it, but my wife hates the coffee. Therefore, this ritual only happens maybe once a month. They're really great about the waffles. We've gone in the early afternoon, after they've cleaned up the waffle iron and prep area, and despite my,"No, really, it's OK!" the staff warmed it back up and made my day. I can't think of anything negative other than my wife's objection, which is why I had to take away a star. Those are the rules. read more

Wasn't greeted and the guy at the register seemed like the owner. Caught an attitude about the Apple Pay. Given my sandwich as if I hadn't ordered an additional item. So had to ask about it. Then turns out my sandwich is soggy and missing avocado (ordered roasted chicken avocado). The blended iced vanilla latte is pretty good though. Came here because it was close by. I'm about second chances. Just have to check my sandwich before I leave the place. read more

Ruby's Cafe - No avocado in my roasted chicken avocado sandwich - Sandwiches Near Me - Emeryville, California

Nice little neighborhood cafe. Looks like the cashier (mgr/owner?) is a colorful guy with a sense of humor. The sandwiches are pretty good and the coffee is cheap. I like the set up as well. read more

My office is down the street so this is a great place to grab a little lunch. Sandwiches are fresh and tasty and the lemonade is delicious Giant rice krispy treats dipped in chocolate - YOU'RE NEXT read more

For quick yummy lunch in the dining abyss that is Emeryville, Ruby's offers hearty soup (a different kind each day), pretty good salads and sandwiches, and lots of cookies that you can take back to the office to beat the 3 p.m. slump. Plus, it's walking distance from my office. Word of advice, the line starts to snake out the door at about 12:30 each day, but it goes quick. read more

I worked a few blocks away from this cafe for a few months. I would say 3.5 but I rounded up because on all those days I needed to run and grab a quick lunch, I'm so grateful I had someplace other than Subway to go to. I usually pick up a half-sandwich/soup or half-sandwich/caesar salad. I would recommend trying either the "Chicken/Avocado spread on Foccacia", or the "Chicken with Mango Chutney" sandwich. Or if you're not in the mood for chicken, go for Roast Beef. I did not like the weird pasta salad option they had. Some people are averse to spending $8 on a sandwich, but the servers are friendly and the service is quick. read more

Little cafe type place on Hollis. I finally went in here one day when I was off from work. I'd never made it in here in a year in Emeryville because it seems like it's always closed. (And I typically don't get breakfast outside, so I guess I miss their prime hours) It was surprisingly big inside and had more food than I expected. They get decent bagels from some berkeley spot, decent sandwiches and overall solid food. It's not a life changer, but a solid local sandwich spot. read more

OK for a place to grab a soup-and-salad type of lunch during the workday, but the food is unspectacular. Sandwiches are pre-made, especiallly to anticipate the lunch crowd. Those who work on Hollis Street are their captive market. At least they take credit cards. Update: I'm adding another star to these guys. I've been going to them for their soups! They are delicious. read more

If you're stuck in Emeryville, and need a good, quick lunch (sandwich, salad, soup), try Ruby's. But get there early or you'll face a long line. If you can't make it early, they line usually moves pretty quick. I work in the area, and a week rarely goes by that I don't stop for lunch here. The Wed. special is usually a pulled pork sandwich, and it's good. Service is excellent, prices could be lower but they're not bad. read more

Okay, so I came here by accident. Was supposed to meet someone for brunch at Rudy's Can't Fail Cafe but because I hella don't pay attention and since they're about a few block from one another, I figured Ruby's/Rudy's...same thing, right? Anyway, the food here is good. Think quick breakfast stuff. I ordered the salmon bagel with capers and I rather enjoyed it. The place is cute, too. Very clean. read more

Ruby's is a nice local café, one of my nearby lunch stops. I think their food is solid and well-made, but not exceptional. They make pretty standard fare, different kinds of sandwiches, salads and soups, that are good, but not adventurous. One exception is the grilled eggplant and artichoke sandwich, which is unique and tasty. I love the staff and the convenience. They also have an ATM machine, which is very handy...when it works. Delivery service is really great. Our company uses them regularly, and they will deliver food for 12 people in a nice basket, with chips and cookies, for about $150. With two hours notice, they will deliver the goods reliably on time, enabling us to put together impromptu lunch meetings without a lot of warning. read more

This is one of the few decent choices in Emeryville (I'm looking at you Public Market). The line is long for a reason, but they are quick to get good fresh food out. I agree that the greek salad in a pita is runny, and I wouldn't order it again, but I love the turkey with cranberry sandwich and the curry chicken salad. Also, their soups are great. read more

I am new to the area, and I like Ruby's a lot. Very friendly staff, super quick service, and great tasting food. Sandwich selection isn't huge, but all freshly made, and will cater for veggie and omnivore... big salads and soup, and a huge cookie/cake selection. read more

This is a cute place. I've been here three times this week, so I think that merits a review! A little more than I'm comfortable paying for some things, like $7.75 for a sandwich that is 1/2 bread or $6.75 for a "bowl" of soup that comes in a to-go coffee cup with a piece of bread. But the food tastes good, and there are a decent amount of selections...especially in the baked goods department. Not that it matters to me, but the gluten free options are a bonus for some I'm sure. I never have to wait long, and the service has always been friendly. I wish they offered heartier lunches as opposed to salad/soup/sandwiches, but in a pinch it's a nice option! read more

In a town known for its industrial nature, the city of E'Ville has few appealing options for breakfast and lunchtime fare. Like a gleaming beacon of delicious delight, Ruby's Cafe shines as the most glorious Cafe and sandwich shop, not just in this city, but most of the East Bay. The Ceasar salads are especially magnificent, I'd recommend going for a salad and sandwich combo as the best value, with the salad literally falling off the plate. The turkey and roast beef sandwiches are my favorite. They also have a large selection of fresh sweet cookies and desserts, if you wish to indulge yourself. The staff are super-friendly and always cheerful, despite the large and impatient crowds that go for lunch on weekdays. If possible, try and avoid the 12-1p hour, as lines can be long, due to their devoted following of cubicle disciples. They recently started opening on Saturdays too, which is another way to avoid the crowds. They are only open for breakfast and lunch, so those of you that work far away during the week, try on Saturday to see what you've been missing. read more

Soups are delicious. Chicken Mango sandwich is too sweet. Long lines during lunch, so get here early on weekdays. Great atmosphere for Saturday morning coffee. Very friendly service. read more

Not bad, but there are better sandwiches around. I had the Roasted Chicken with Mango Chutney - pretty good, but the chutney quickly becomes overpowering. Also, the bread they use is spongy and oily. It doesn't taste bad, but I feel like they could use better bread. And $2 for a cookie? Really? Plus, the snickerdoodle I had was hard. A good snickerdoodle crumbles in your mouth, dammit. Still, it's a nice little place, and I've yet to try their other sandwiches or soups, so it may redeem itself yet. read more

I was invited to lunch by my supervisor and tasked with suggesting a place. After a quick check of Yelp in the Emeryville area, I chose Ruby's. He chose the roast beef (looked good. I'm usually a sucker for anything on a sourdough roll!) I chose the chicken breast and avacodo on foccacia. We sat outside, watched the people walk by with their dogs, and all food was good and finished. Would definitely repeat. read more

Came in early for an apple pastry and a large coffee to go. It's off the beaten path on Hollis but the baristas are friendly and the open space is welcoming with local art. A nice find in Emeryville. read more

Ruby's Cafe - Ruby's sign from da street - Sandwiches Near Me - Emeryville, California

Today was my first day at Ruby's Cafe and I was greeted with warm smiles and kindness. I had their croissant breakfast sandwich. I believe the one who took my order is the owner & he gave us a cute small Tshirt for our daughter to wear! We will definitely be coming back! read more

The food seems fine, even good. The atmosphere is friendly. However, It's hard to overlook that the entire place needs a thorough cleaning. I would not drink a drop of water from the communal water dispenser, which is beginning to resmble a fish tank. The place has the odor of an old farmhouse. read more

I'll admit it: I'm here enough that when I call in my large soy latte, they already know it's for 'Christina.' They remember your name and your order, and while I pay for the convenience of it being across the street, I wouldn't keep going back if the staff wasn't killer. The artichoke-eggplant sandwich is killer if you get it pressed; since going vegan I now get it from time to time with no feta, no pesto, add hummus. Pricey, but now that I've had a taste, nothing else hits that spot. And my little secret I'll share with yelp, so no more secret: If you're thinking that you want lunch to go, I highly recommend you call it in and then jump in line; by the time you get to the front your order will probably be ready. read more

I have worked in Emeryville for 5 years, yup that's right 5 and I just began going to Ruby's a few months ago. The good: One very yummy freshwater mozzarella sandwich with pesto and balsamic vinegar (I'm a sucker for balsamic vinegar). Hmmm I can't really think of anything else good, but the sandwich is so yummy. The bad: The sandwiches are not made to order. They have been sitting for who knows how long. The hanging menu only has drinks on it so you have to go up to the counter to get a menu with food on it. This may sound picky, but it is just silly that they wouldn't have a big menu with food on it. This whole waiting until you get to the counter to figure out what you are going to order means the line can go out the door. Their coffee sucks. Who puts mexican chocolate in a mocha and doesn't tell you! Call it a mexican chocolate mocha if you are going to use mexican chocolate. How deceptive. Only one veggie sandwich (the freshwater mozzarella) and the only veggie on it is tomatoes. Not really a healthy sandwich, but soooo good. Could we get a veggie sandwich please? So, you are probably wondering why 3 stars when I have one good thing and four bad things to say about Ruby's. Well here you go. The sandwich gets 3 stars. Yes, you read me right I'm actually giving the sandwich three stars. Go sandwich. read more

This place is great if you've got some time for lunch. All their food is freshly prepared, but be ready to wait a little if there's a lot of people inside. They get backed up fast. Their mozzarella and pesto sandwich is delicious! And they'll change the bread from a roll to whatever else they may have on hand. Try their hot drinks sometime. Their chai is absolutely delicious. Portions are fair sized but come stacked so you really don't need much. Unfortunately it's also slightly expensive, but you're paying an independent place that makes good food and is open early, so I think it evens out. Menu doesn't change but if you're an omnivore I suppose it doesn't matter! They carry a lot of local company products up front, like the Charles Chocolates and Dagoba, so it's nice to see a place representin'. read more

I am addicted to Ruby's. This probably has a lot to do with the fact that it's conveniently, and dangerously (for my bank account) located across the street from my work. But that doesn't make it any less tasty. Their staff knows regular customers by name, and are always exceedingly friendly and helpful. Jessica's smile always brightens my morning. The coffee is quite good, as are most of the pastries and cookies. The cakes and other treats also look amazing, but I have so far resisted giving in to them. When I'm feeling dangerous, I get the blended heath bar coffee concoction. So wrong, and yet so right. I love their sandwiches, salads, and amazing soups. They do start making the most popular sandwiches early in the morning and keep them ready for the lunch rush, but I can't really blame them when I see the line out the door at lunch time. I've never had a sandwich that didn't taste fresh, though. My favorite soup is the winter asparagus. I do a happy dance every time they have it. Oh, Ruby's... I can think of worse things to be addicted to, though. read more

I could happily have breakfast there 4 days a week.. you have to leave room for change right? Im a big fan of a bagel with cc and most of the veggie fixins. The lox bagel is served open face which is nice.. I just really wish their bagels were bigger. They are very dense and delicious but have that ever pressing and very messy tendency to squish out all the middle stuff while youre trying to take a bite. grrrrr. The staff is super nice and friendly, everyone in there seems happy to be there and smiles. I have tried one lunch sammich there, delish! I will need to go back for me. The coffee is on point, its self serve but suprisingly good. They have all the coffee fixins from sugar and splenda to cane juice and honey. Lids, stir sticks, straws, napkins. Youre covered. Bonus point for the cute counter boy ;) read more

I am so lucky to be working right around the corner. I've tried a couple of things on their menu (Yummy) but my all time favorite is the grilled chicken sandwich with the avocado spread. It's delicious every single time I get it (Regardless of whoever is making it). The staff is super fast and super friendly and did I mention that they have red velvet cake!!! Watch out, if you get there after 12 noon, the line goes out the door, obviously because it's MUY DELICIOSO. The only reason why I gave it 4 stars is because it so happens to be in close proximity to Rudy's Can't Fail Cafe (Which is pretty tough competition). I highly recommend. read more

I was all excited walking back with my second to-go order from Ruby's. I was anticipating typing a glowing review for their veggie goes Greek sandwich, which I'd had before. When I got to my desk I opened the box and admired what a pretty pita sandwich it was THEN I tried to pick it up! It was lacking the key element of "pita" - no pocket, just torn bread. What a mess I had on my hands and desk. It ended up being more of a salad. A Greek blowout if you will. In any case it was delicious but they lose a star for poor sandwich construction. I also got a side of their red potato salad and it was not what I was expecting it was however better!! Tangy and sweet at the same time with hints of herbs, it is the yum. I will definitely return to Ruby's but I'm sure I'll be more inclined to try the eggplant and artichoke sandwich next time after my pita mishap. Also worth mentioning is their brocolli cheese soup! It's quite good. Not the kind that gets all coagulated after it's been sitting for a minute and it was definitely one of the freshest brocolli cheese soups I've had, also quite herb-y. read more

I beat the lunch rush coming here around 1. There were about 5 people ahead of me. I saw the special "chicken en fuego" sandwich, so I ordered it based on the rave reviews. I also ordered a peach Italian soda. The service was reasonably quick, although the woman behind me in line for her sandwich before me. No big deal. I tasted my peach Italian soda. Peachy and a little too sweet, but nonetheless refreshing. The Chicken el Fuego sandwich consisted of chicken breast, avocado, Swiss cheese, onions all smothered in a chipotle sauce. Overall it was very good, but not as spicy as I had anticipated. For the price and quantity, I give the place an average rating. The friendly service bumps up my rating an extra star. read more

3.5 stars Nice staff, good fast service THis is a cute little cafe/lunch place. I really like the eggplant sandwich. I've heard great things about the chicken curry salad and the mozzarella sandwich. The baked goods look yummy but I have yet to try any. I will def be coming back here soon to try the other things read more

They have a "panini" eggplant and artichoke sandwich which is NOT a panini, it's served on panini bread was their explanation. WTF Its a cold, tasteless sandwich. I am consistently disappointed by this place and their weird menu. I waited a year to try it again and disappointed again. read more

I come here pretty much strictly for sandwiches. On that front, their sandwich specials are pretty good in general (they display 1 a day but you can actually order then whenever), although some of them are a little different than you'd expect. These two are my favorites for reference: The Nader: A croissant sandwich. Can't remember the exact ingredients. Chicken Fuego: A spicy, grilled chicken sandwich with slices of avocado and onions on ciabatta bread. The Fuego is by far my favorite and I get it almost every time. It takes them a lot longer to make when it's not the current special, however. They also have some pretty good cookies that I get occasionally, they're kept in jars near the register so you can inspect and pick one that you'd like. I can't say much for the rest of the menu, but I routinely come back for the sandwiches and cookies. read more

I love the mozzarella sandwich here. I get it on foccacia instead of french and sometimes I'll get it with a half salad or soup. I probably eat at Ruby's twice a week. Granted, I work within walking distance, so its kind of my default place to go, but the food, for lunch, is good. It can get pretty crowded if you go at lunchtime, but I usually eat a late lunch (1:30?) and the line is shorter by then. Also, the staff here is really nice -- they've clearly made an effort to remember the names of all the regulars -- and the coffee and baked goodies are good, too. read more

With a wonderful breakfast choice and excellent wait staff, I feel Ruby's is a solid place to feel comfortable and fill up on good food. Related to that, lunch time brings me back there for their Chicken and Avocado spread sandwiches. Let me just tell you, I hate tomatoes and the ones they put on their sandwiches are deep red, sweet and very firm with less seeds than I'[m used to. I(t adds a nice bit on top of the other items as well as being served on focacia bread, I go back at least once or twice a week. I urge all to go and check out their breakfast first, then come back for the lunch. Outdoor seating prefect for the coming summer months. Great spot to people watch and catch some rays. And remember on Thursdays you can make it for lunch and visit the Charles Chocolate factory just down the street. Mmmm good. read more