You know how when you put mayo on hot bread it is delicious? They have perfected the sandwich! They have this secret mayo spread that they put on all their sandwiches. They make their Sourdough fresh throughout the day so it is always warm when you get your sandwich! I love this place! Only down side... Their hours: Monday through Friday 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. Any place that can stay in business with these hours must be amazing!!! There is normally a line out the door, but it is worth the wait!!! read more

Fantastic spot and dealing with the pandemic well in terms of safety . Lots of outdoor seating and delicious food .

Really unique cash only place. It has a lot of character and some really great outdoor seating that you would not expect in this area. Sandwiches were made quickly right when you order. And the slice of carrot cake was delicious. This place is def in the rotation for when we need a quick lunch bite. But need to remember to bring cash! read more

Love this place. Best sour dough I have ever tasted. Great sandwiches for a great lunch.

The best sourdough bread so fresh this place has been here for ever A little pricey but it's worth it!

We walked in and it seemed like a maze! Everything was covered in decor and we weren't sure where to walk until we saw a sign that says "order here". We turned around and saw the owners standing behind a deli fridge. I LOVE mom and pop shops. They quickly welcomed us and were very nice. The menu consisted of a few sandwiches which made the decision quick and easy. The sourdough bread was soft and delicious. I had the turkey sandwich and the turkey was sliced very thin (which I really like) - it just dissolved in my mouth. The flavor of their spread is subtle but pair so well with the sandwich. Although, I wish I had a slice of tomato in my sandwich. Boyfriend had the beef and turkey sandwich. His sandwich had more flavor than mine, which I really enjoyed. The beef was also very thinly sliced. What I liked the most is that the sandwich wasn't just all about the meat; I could taste everything that was in it (unlike at subway). Next time I'm going to get the beef and turkey. We also had the German potato salad which was a bit different than american potato salad. It had more spices and flavor in it, but it paired very well with the sandwich. My boyfriend really liked it, so I'm sure we'll be getting that again. read more

Sort of a pale imitation of Freshly Baked but if it was placed inside a quirky old person's house. Otherwise, same concept, (open 11-2, cash only, etc..) same sandwiches, same style of bread, but also they have bottled beers and potato salad. On this experience, my bread was cold and missing a crunch, and it seemed like my sandwich didn't have as much meat as it did at Fresh Baked. Otherwise it was fine...and that's kinda it. It was fine. read more

I love this place! Just tried it out for lunch and had a great experience. I was surprised there was no line when I walked in, but I just came at the perfect time as a line formed behind me. I let them know it was my first time and Barbara showed me the menu. The bread has just come out of the oven so it was warm. I ordered the corned beef and it was simple but tasty. After I paid for my order, Barbara took me outside to show me the patio. I loved the whole atmosphere. I'll be back soon for another sandwich on the patio! read more

One of the best, if not THE best sandwich place in SJ! Love the staff, food, everything about this place! Consistent deliciousness! Fresh bread, delicious meat, fresh vegies, staff alway smiling and ready to help! read more

Very tasty sandwiches with fresh ingredients/bread. Love this place. Try their pastrami sandwich

My boyfriend brought me here after a friend recommended it. The decor is eclectic and filled with oil painting everywhere you look done by Barbara, the owner! From the outside its covered with greenery and ivy, seating out front and a huge patio out back. There's only one size sandwiches made with sourdough bread made FRESH everyday! And you can taste it. You order then head to the cashier where Barbara was waiting to take our payment. (It's CASH ONLY!) :) The back patio is nice, shaded and quiet. With a "no cell phone" rule. I have never seen it enforced but it's nice to have. Act like its the 80's or 90's people and TALK TO EACH OTHER! :) I chose the spicy turkey sandwich which was AMAZING! Can't say enough about this place. Thank you Barbara for awesome sandwiches and paintings to look at :) we'll be back soon! read more

Sourdough Eatery - Sandwiches Near Me - San Jose, California

The best place to go for lunch! Not only is the owner the sweetest person you'll ever meet, the sourdough is absolutely amazing. It's made fresh every day throughout the day. If you get your timing right, it will be fresh out of the oven and still steaming when they slice it open to make your sandwich. The sandwiches are very simple but it's delicious. Their patio is also gorgeous and relaxing. This is mine and my fiancé's all time favorite place for lunch. read more

Great bread, meat quality is poor. Great place to eat beautiful patios just subpar meat quality:

Talk about a half ass sandwich. Went here by mistake because I was trying to go to the one on 3rd Street instead. Figured how far apart could they be when it's just about the bread. Bread was more on the soft side. Sandwich doesn't come with any onions or tomatoes or any type of mustard. The mayo spread is just plain mayo. On top of that the place smelled like cigarettes. Not sure if there was a smoker in there prior but it wreaked. The guy making the sandwich was not friendly at all either. read more

This is a favorite.... pretty consistent with quaint atmosphere. Cash only, bring your "Chicken" $10 to go or a little more for staying in.

This place is related to Freshly Baked and Cali Sourdough. Has the same fresh bread, but tends to put less meat in their sandwiches. Hands down prefer Freshly Baked! read more

I happened to be in San Jose picking up a copy of my birth certificate when I spotted this place down from the buss stop. OMG, the sandwiches are fantastic. The bread was still warm from the oven. Wow, to bad it's way too far to go back again. I also had the potato salad which was also very good. I highly recommend this place. It even has a cute little patio to eat in. read more

MY FAVORITE SANDWICH SPOT....hands down. They make their sourdough bread from scratch everyday and it's always hot when you order your sandwich. The two proprietors are so nice and hospitable, they are always in the shop making sure everyone is happy. Get the peppered turkey with everything, it will make your day! Oh!!! Cash only and no cell phone use inside! read more

My least favorite of the Sourdough's. The proprietor's at this location can be just a wee bit gruff and, and.... you do not mess with their system. If they tell you to purchase a beverage, you do it. If they tell you to purchase a side, you do it. Why do we do it? Because the sandwiches more than make up for their rigid unfriendliness. Nothing comes close in comparison to the Sourdough's fresh baked sourdough bread. Warm, steaming, fragrant...... Warm, fresh sourdough, slathered with wonderful spread and stuffed with fresh, thinly sliced smoked meats and fresh veggie toppings..... just orgasmic! (Did I just say that? oh my........) Despite the surliness, I've been going here for more than 20 years - no joke. (Although recently we are finding California Sourdough more accessible.) Parking is a challenge and the bank next door will tow ya! read more

soooo good! if you don't like sourdough or lunch meat and don't plan on ordering it, then don't come here. spiced turkey is my usual, just tried the pastrami & turkey and it was exceptional as well. this place is definitely worth the CASH ONLY & no parking lot hassle. don't forget the relaxing garden seating in the rear. p.s- DO NOT ask to modify your sandwich or ask for avocado, lol. read more

Sourdough Eatery - secret garden- eat out back! - Sandwiches Near Me - San Jose, California

I can't tell you if the food is good. I went there, thirsty, not hungry. I walked in during lunch hour, went to grab a bottle of iced tea out of the cooler, and approached the register. The old guy behind the register asked if I had a sandwich; I said no. he then politely pointed out a sign (a sign easily missed since the place is a hoarder's paradise) that says beverages are not sold without lunch. What a weird policy. He was nice about it, but I won't go again, because who wants to deal with the sandwich version of a famous Seinfeld soup chef? read more

This place is COOL! Just really cool! The owners are funny and quirky with character, just like the "restaurant". You can almost get lost in there as it seems like there are a million little rooms you can venture into. All with cheesy old pictures of old-time celebs and athletes. The husband always jokes around how him and Marilyn Monroe had a 'thing'... hey, who knows! Most importantly is the food-- as many will tell you, bread can make or break a sandwich. It's true! You get up to the front of the line, there are about 10 or so sandwich combinations on the wall, and a sign that says NO SUBSTITUTIONS! I like this place already! I have had the hot pastrami sandwich and the turkey sandwich from here, and they have both been some of the best sandwiches my mouth has ever encountered! The mystery is whether it's the bread or everything else that makes the sandwich. Has a cute/interesting little patio area that's fun to eat out on, lot's of funny people walk by this place making for some high grade people watching. BTW... there's close to no parking... if you're not coming from the courthouse or somewhere else in walking proximity.. just light rail it from a place WITH parking or hunt in the street behind it. read more

I came here for lunch day and got the corned beef sandwich. The sandwiches are tasty, but are not totally filling. I do enjoy the fact that the meat is warm and looks really fresh. The people working their seemed to be quite nice. It is located in a nice, rustic spot in downtown. It is a very comforting spot and the greenery and old style building is nice to look at. I think they are a little highly priced for the sandwiches that they serve. It was about $10 for a sandwich and drink and I will still left hungry at the end. But, the sandwich was good and I would come back here again. read more

This is probably the best kept secret in San Jose. Even though this deli has been around for over 30 years and sits right off 1st street near the civic center lightrail station, it has managed to elude even the oldest San Jose residents. The atmosphere here is unique: there are paintings all over the walls/floor that the proprietors have painted, and the greenery outside keeps the young hooligans out. However, when you step inside where the register and deli display are, you'll be greeted by a super sweet mom&pop couple who will extend a hearty greeting and smile. All the meats are amazing and fresh tasting, and they bake their own bread there too! read more

I happened to stop by today since I was in downtown. I checked my "around me" app and saw this was close so I waddled on over. PLACE: This place this so unique! There is hand painted art everywhere, and quotes on wooden boards and all kinds of knick knacks that keep your eyes wandering. It literally looks like you stepped into some lady's cottage. Nice and inviting. They wont let you talk on your cell phone inside but if you are too addicted to your life line you can have lunch on their nice patio area that's covered with potted plants, more paintings and cute antique picnic tables. I LOVED THE AMBIANCE! FOOD: Nothing fancy, just your basic sandwich. Simple and good. I had the all white turkey breast sandwich (YUM). You walk up to this deli counter tell them & what you want from a wall that lists what kind of sandwiches they serve. The freshly baked sourdough was soooooooooo good (they make them every morning) . It was soft and warm until the last bite. Not too much mayo and no mustard. They won't sell you a drink there unless you buy a sandwich, so get one! Another plus, they have a good selection of beer and wine!!! They also have a small selection of chips and some macaroni salad. OVERALL: I thought this place was great for a nice quiet lunch. The people actually care about your sandwich when they make it because they don't rush you, and I was greeted with a smile from the beautiful older woman behind the counter (who I think is the owner and painter of all of the beautiful artwork there). She appreciates every "thank you" and person that comes through the door. It was like having lunch in "the secret garden" if that helps you imagine what this place looks like. So if you're in the neighborhood walk to the left of 1st instead of going to the other guys on the right. This place is worth the walk =) read more

This place is AWESOME! I call it the "identity crisis" because at first glance you would have no idea that it was a restaurant. It looks more like an odd crafts fair mixed with a rundown antique furniture store. The sandwiches are huge, cheap, and delicious. They all come with a pickle and the bread is always soft and warm. Just remember: its CASH ONLY! read more

A hidden gem in downtown SJ! I found this place while I was on jury duty. There weren't very many 'good' places around the court so when I found this place using Yelp, I was very intrigued. The place itself is kinda hard to find..it's small and unassuming. But oh my god, once you step into this place, you are in another world! The decorations were sooo unique and interesting. There were paintings and little collectibles and antiques. They have a garden in the back to sit in and it was just beautiful. Very intimate and cozy place. They don't allow pictures to be taken inside and they have signs that ask you to turn your phones off or in silent (not sure if they actually enforce this). Anyway, the sandwiches here are pretty simple. They have a menu and don't allow for much customization. The only customization you can do is whether or not you want mustard or tomatoes. I tried the regular turkey sandwich and the peppered turkey....the peppered turkey was delicious!!! Really high quality ad flavorful meat. BUT the star was the sourdough bread....it was so fresh, soft, fluffy, chewy, and crisp. Amazing. I think it was around $7 (cash only) for a sandwich. Portions are huge. Highly recommended if you are in the area or if you're doing jury duty haha. read more

I've always been skeptical about this place because I always hear bad things about it. I hear their sandwiches are amazingly good but not much to say about their service. :/ For example: I've heard that they get really upset if someone asks to have no mayo on their sandwich. Really? How about if their allergic? Also, if you walk in just to grab a bag of chips for a snack, they wont let you and that you have to purchase a sandwich. Geez...anyone ever see Seinfeld? Remind you of anything? Haha. Anyway, I'll get to the point. One of my clients brought me a peppered sandwich from here since I told him I didn't want to try the place because I hate places that offer bad service. Since he is a regular there, he insisted I try it. I thought the sandwich was good and ate it although I hate mayo (again because they put mayo whether you like it or not). What made the sandwich was the sourdough bread. Other than that, they put mustard, swiss cheese and lettuce. Tasty and very filling but the whole crappy service will keep me from going here. So they close around 2-ish. Another client of mine just came from there and told me that they wouldn't let her use the restroom because they "just cleaned it!" Yikes. I'm cool with all that attitude, thank you. I'll make the trip to Zanotto's for a sandwich. They have more of a variety and no BS. No soup for you! read more

If you are on jury duty, this is conveniently located around the corner on 1st street from the HOJ. The electic grounds offer a change of environment compared to the jury waiting room or courtroom. The actual area to order is small with just a deli counter and cashier. There are standard meat/cheese options on the board, but also look for things like German Salami and Pastrami. Delish! I hear the dough is baked daily. It's fluffy and not overly sour. Portion size of sandwich is healthy and the rich side salads are just right. About $7 out the door with sandwich, chips or salad and a canned soda. read more

Sourdough Eatery - All sandwiches are one size and price. This is the German Salami #17. - Sandwiches Near Me - San Jose, California

Sourdough Eatery is a hidden gem of both historic and culinary delight in San Jose. Nestled deep in the heart of Silicon Valley nerdiness, this joint offers delicious sandwiches made with high-quality meats and freshly-baked sourdough. The restaurant is set in a throwback historic charm, locked in a time before the present. Some might even call the experience a bit Twilight Zone-like. Definitely worth at least one visit. The restaurant itself is situated in an old brick building loaded with very interesting art/painting done by the owners themselves. Out back there is a nice patio with seating. You can also sit inside to eat. If you look carefully, there are some interesting historic relics hidden around the venue. The menu is very straight-forward: Sandwiches only, with no deviations. Meats include Roast Beef, Ham, Turkey, Peppered Turkey, Pastrami, Corned Beef, Salami, and Tuna Salad. They also have vegetarian options in Cheese or Veggie Sandwich. Parking can be a challenge in the area, since there is no easy street parking nor a parking lot directly serving this restaurant. The closest parking lot belongs to a credit union, who clearly state that parking is for credit union use only, along with some threat to tow you. I recommend parking behind the restaurant on N 2nd Street, by Burnett Middle School (set your GPS destination to 850 North 2nd Street, San Jose, CA). At the perfect intersection of taste, value, ambiance, and convenience, "Sourdough" makes GoerTek's Approved Lunch Vendor List. read more

3 1/2 stars. I tried this for the first time today with some friends from work. With no idea what to expect (except good sandwiches--mentioned in other reviews), I was pleasantly surprised by the quaint and quirky place. It's a little house with lots of little rooms and an outdoor area that looks deceptively small, but really stretches all the way from front to a spacious back patio. The walls and ceiling are covered with the wife's art, with dollar bills (there must be a story about those things hanging above the cash register area), with all sorts of quirky things. I had the ham and cheese sandwich and a really good german potato salad. It was about $8.50 for that. The reason I am only giving 3 1/2 stars is this: Picture a slab of sourdough bread. Picture it divided into thirds. Now picture that they only put a stack of ham and turkey and cheese in the center 1/3 of the length of bread. Then they sliced the sandwich in half. That meant that two-thirds of my sandwich only had mayo and lettuce on it (the two outer ends). That was disappointing. Having said that though....the sandwich was really good, as was the potato salad, and I was full despite the lack of evenly distributed sandwich fillings. I would go back to this place. read more

Fantastic classic sandwich, quirky atmosphere, quick and easy lunch spot with tons of outdoor seating. Great Jury Duty option! Cash only. The signs in the entrance telegraph that you are entering a passive aggressive haven where things are done the way they're done, and it's probably best to go along with the program. I did. Enter and make a left to place your order. I opted for a delicious peppered turkey sandwich. The meat was roasted in-house, sliced paper-thin. The bread was crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside. Perfect. The owner-artist rang me up, and insisted that I have a beverage even though I was about 50 cents short after tax. Called me "dear." Sold! I need to go back and explore the maze of rooms with the owner's paintings. There is a terrific, well-shaded garden patio. You're not going to find any trendy, fancy sandwiches. They're classics done right. Worth a visit. And no wait compared to the Togo's up 1st St. read more

So as an FYI to all you sandwich folks out there, this shop is owned by the father of the two brothers who both run California Sourdough (on Brokaw) and Freshly Baked Eatery (on 3rd). This is my least favorite shop of the 3, sometimes they get a little skimpy on the meat and the parking is out of control bad. Plus not crazy about all the Republican propaganda. If you aren't walking or riding bikes, I recommend going to Freshly Baked Eatery (the youngest sons shop). read more

This place is incredibly awesome. First, there's tons of parking all over the place. With food that filling you'll want to walk half a block, believe me. Secondly, this place is run by this couple, he's German and I think she was once something semi big in Hollywood or some such. He does a lot of the cooking (baking the bread, roasting the meats), she paints these enormous paintings of absolute Americana. They're just downright awesome. She also mans the counter where the sandwiches are created while he rings you up. In all, I think there are maybe 15 varieties. I always get the turkey, as it's my favorite. All sandwiches come the same way: mayo, shredded lettuce, swiss cheese. There are signs everywhere stating cash only, no substitutions, no cell phones, made by owners. I don't think Barbara puts together the sandwiches, but she's right there to make sure you want it as they come (also, no half sandwiches!). If it's your first time coming here for lunch (11-2 are the hours), before you go in to place your order, make sure to walk around. The scenery alone is worth 4 stars. Then, turn off your cell (or at least switch to vibrate), walk up to the counter, and order yourself one damn good sandwich. Everything's a la carte here, so if you want sides, order them separate. I've had the potato salad, which is good, but the sandwich alone is painfully filling if I'm brave enough to eat it all. Across the room from the counter is a huge assortment of beverages. My favorite accompaniment is a Nantucket Nectors apple juice! Seriously, don't let the no parking thing keep you from this place. Walking won't hurt, I promise! read more

It's a very unique and interesting concept for a sandwich spot. It has an old vintage feel however the deal breaker is it literally smells like a dog house in the room where the food is prepped. Makes me think if it's actually dog meat they're selling... nevertheless the Sandwich tasted good but the smell just makes me gag. I definitely will not come here again because there are other amazing delis out there such as "fresh deli bakery," that definitely outshine this place. read more

Bring cash! This place is a landmark sandwich place very close to the Courthouse and municipal buildings. Outdoor patio is quite, cool, shaded, comfortable, romantic in a unique garden setting. First time you walk in, its not obvious is is a place to eat, or where to walk or where to order. Just meander until you meet the owners. Then sit down, you will forget (if for just a moment) that you are in the hub bub of Silicon Valley when you take your first bite. Barbara and other owner have been there for 30 years (Barbara has some great paintings / art of herself and co-owner adorning the walls). They are part of San Jose history. Twenty sandwiches to choose from - all $6.99, all on freshly baked sourdough (other breads available), all with swiss cheese, lettuce and mayonnaise/mustard and a 1/4 pickle. Kinda like a Henry Model T sandwich shop. Sandwiches are ok, but the ambiance and owners and overall experience is what this place is all about. read more

I never thought I would find such a cool place hidden in down town San Jose! Sourdough Eatery is literally situated between down town San Jose businesses and if you're not looking closely enough you might just miss it. The restaurant/deli/whatever you wanna call it is pretty cozy. There's a few tables inside, but I think people typically come here to sit outside. They have a secret garden vibe going on in the rear of the restaurant. Picnic tables and cutesy tables and chairs are set up in the back with trees and flowers growing all around. It seriously feels like you stepped outside of hectic San Jose. The sandwiches are super yummy. The bread is amazing and their ingredients have always been fresh whenever I've visited them. They have a nice selection of sandwiches. Pretty simple, and you're not allowed to substitute anything for anything. They pretty much make it the way it says on the menu. I've heard that they're pretty mean and gruff when you order, but to be totally honest I APPRECIATE the non-small talk when there's a line of people waiting to order and get their sandwiches. To me that seems more efficient, I'm hungry! The only negative about this place, is that they only take CASH. Yucky yucky yuck! I never carry cash, but there is a bank next door! read more

This place is a trip. You get here and wind around through a maze to get to the actual deli. They aren't too flexible in what is in your sandwich, but you shouldn't need to switch out much. All sandwiches cost the same. The bread is delicious. I ordered the pastrami sandwich, but was tired of the pastrami about halfway through. Plus, I don't think I've ever had a pastrami sandwich that wasn't warm. I should have ordered the ham. It is ran by an older couple, they are sweet and to the point. Loved sitting in the garden to eat. Simple, fast, and good. I'll be back. read more

Today was my first time trying the Sourdough Eatery and it did not disappoint! As the daughter of two deli owners in Southern California, I have high standards when it comes to sandwiches. This adorable restaurant knows what it's doing. The meat is sliced nice and thin and is high quality - no funky pieces like you find at other sandwiches places. I arrived right as they were taking some fresh sourdough bread out of the oven, so my sandwich was nice and hot...and delicious! Great bread to meat to condiments ratio. As other reviewers have mentioned, park on 2nd st and walk through the credit union parking lot, which is convenient if you need to stop for cash, as that's all the Sourdough Eatery will accept. Great local place owned by a super nice couple for 30 years - check it out and support your local businesses! read more

this place is INSANE. The food is amazing and the building and the garden art gallery is second to only a museum. The bread and sandwiches are hand made and amazing!!!! It's only open 11-2 or something for the courthouse and county office lunch rush, but now I am going to look forward to jury duty. read more