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The Lunch Box Cafe & Deli

4.4 (578 reviews)
Closed • Closed
Updated a few days ago

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THE LUNCH BOX CAFE & DELI ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Moderate noise
Good for groups
Outdoor seating

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Recommended Reviews - The Lunch Box Cafe & Deli

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Blueberry pancakes
Gwyn C.

Cute little place bursting at the seems with people on a Saturday morning around 11am. Very friendly staff despite the hustle and bustle. We were able to snag one of the few seats outside. Mom had blueberry pancakes with potato's on the side. She thoroughly enjoyed them. We've been on a pancake hunt of late and she felt these were in the top two, maybe the top of her choices. She really enjoyed the home fries, real potatoes. She keeps talking about how real they were. Dad had the waffles and gave us the ok which is a good sign. He's a toughie. I had the spinach croissant and substituted beef chorizo for bacon. It was ok. Given how home made everything seems to be (including my past experience) I was disappointed by the croissant itself as it tasted store bought or pre manufactured. As they offer baked goods, I expected more. Otherwise it was good.. Great place to take the folks and grab a well priced breakfast. Still a go to place for us.

Side sausage
Chris A.

While back in SD visiting friends we were looking for a breakfast spot and the Lunch Box came highly recommended. When we arrived parking was tight with limited spaces but we found a spot on the street with no problem. We were greeted right away and seated immediately. Our server came over promptly and started our order right away. Our food came out fast and was hot and to order. Everything was good and tasted great. Overall the restaurant was clean , the service was good and the food was good as well. It wasn't loud and the atmosphere was great. We were very pleased with everything and will definitely return when we are back in town.

Mark P.

Lunch Box Deli is a hidden gem! My wife and I were craving some classic deli-style food and this spot popped up and we're so glad it did. As soon as we walked in, the place was busy. The servers were zooming around, hustling, and every plate we saw coming out looked incredible. At that point, we already knew we made the right choice. We ordered to-go, but the food was absolutely amazing. Everything tasted fresh and made-to-order. You can tell they put care into what they're serving. On top of that, the prices are very reasonable especially considering the portion sizes. They do not play around with portions... they're hella big!

Comfort Omelette 7/10
Dulce R.

First time , ordered a Pancake breakfast, and Omelette , and Benedict, and French toast. The food was subpar. Potatoes were not crispy as one would expect But rather closer to mushy potatoes. Dishes overall lacking flavor. The French toast was not edible (in our opinion) possibly made with too much egg , very mushy almost uncooked. Actually had it placed on a pan at home to see if it could be saved , but it could not and it was tossed. This was takeout so didn't get a chance to rate their service. Would most likely not return.

Kimberly H.

Service is excellent. All staff is fast, friendly and willing to help in any way. Food is amazing. Stuffed French Toast was divine.

BLTA Sandwich and Croissant Club Sandwich
Mercedes S.

The food was okay, My BLT was super salty and my boyfriend turkey club was super salty as well. The chocolate chip cookie was so delicious! The staff were sweet and kind, and the setting was super cute! We do want to come back and try their breakfast to give it another shot.

Turkey with Avocado Wrap Side of potato salad
Mary S.

I have eaten here before but never reviewed. When I went to order from GrubHub, I looked through reviews here to find a pic of the turkey wrap, but I didn't see one, so I wanted to add mine. I was sold by the description including pesto cream cheese. It was very good and fresh. A great portion for the price-including chips and a cookie. The highlight for me was they grilled the wrap. I added potato salad. Lunch box is reliably good for both breakfast and lunch.

The inside of the restaurant .
Joe C.

This was a very simple place to eat lunch. Simple atmosphere , the food is great, the prices are in mid range, but you can have half a sandwich and still get your fill. The service was quick and easy, the people that wait on you are nice to get along with.

Menu 2025

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2 months ago

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13 days ago

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14 days ago

Food was great but parking was a problem. The parking problem only made it more of a challenge to get there for the Italian Sub.

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1 year ago

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5 months ago

There people not reading the order notes I am allergic to tomatoes and they kept not removing once in it I can't have it.

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2 years ago

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1 year ago

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3 months ago

Food is delicious with large portions. the service good and it is a clean restaurant too.

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6 months ago

Customer service was great everyone was so kind . The place felt comfy and welcoming . Food was good n tasted fresh

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3 months ago

Only the best you guys gotta come try it out. Customer service is great just like the food.

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Ask the Community - The Lunch Box Cafe & Deli

Do they lettuce wrap their sandwiches and burgers?

Sorry unfortunately we don’t lettuce wrap our burgers and sandwiches.

Do they have a parking lot for their customers?

Yes, we have a parking lot right in front. There is also plenty of off-street parking nearby.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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4.3
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​I finally came and tried Mamma Mia, and now I'm asking myself: why haven't I been here sooner?!…read more​The food here is phenomenal. I tried two different slices of pizza, and they were absolutely delicious and incredibly flavorful. Even the crust is so good! My daughters ordered the chicken fettuccine, and it did not disappoint at all. They are so generous with the sauce, which is a massive plus because you never have to worry about dry noodles. ​The service was excellent, and the overall experience was fantastic. We will definitely be coming back!

I can't believe I've driven past this place so many times without stopping. Now I'm just mad I…read morewaited this long! This spot is such a hidden gem. I love the concept--pizza on one side, incredible sandwiches and gelato on the other, all connected to a fully stocked Italian market. It's the kind of place where you can grab lunch, dessert, and authentic Italian groceries all in one stop. The staff was welcoming and friendly from the moment we walked in, and the prices were very reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. The Meatball Sandwich is an absolute must-try packed with flavor and perfectly made. The Signature Sandwich was another standout because it's something different from your typical Italian sandwich. It had its own unique flavor that really sets it apart. I didn't get a chance to try the pizza this visit, but if the sandwiches are any indication, I already know I'll be back for it soon. The only small downside is that the parking lot is a little tight, especially during busy hours, but it's well worth the minor inconvenience. Overall, this place exceeded my expectations. Great food, friendly service, fair prices, and a unique setup that makes you want to keep coming back. This has definitely earned a spot on my regular rotation. Highly recommend!

Photos
Wine and Beer Cave
Wine and Beer Cave
Inside of The Godfather
Inside of The Godfather
Building front

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Building front
Cheba Hut Toasted Subs

Cheba Hut Toasted Subs

4.3
(1.2k reviews)
3.1 mi
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Kitchen open late
Full bar

I had to kill time because I had plumbing issue and it was too loud for my cat…read more So I came to Cheba hut hiding my cat Siti in my backpack. The bartender Olivia wanted to see my cat and told her manager Jessica. I was shocked because I thought they were going to kick me out since most places don't have animals unless you have a rescue animal tag.They welcomed Me and Siti with love besides having awesome sandwiches and drinks with the 420 vibe! Raven brought my sandwich out real quick with great customer service. This place rocks and I'll definitely come back with my cat.

Cheba Hut located in La Mesa, they have their own parking lot as well as plenty street parking…read more HOME OF THE BLUNTS! A large venue with full bar and garage door style walls that open for that indoor/outdoor concept. Indoor as well as patio dining is available. They offer a wide variety of specialty subs that are DELISH! I have only had the "5.0" (all meats of pork) with everything on it plus honey mustard and their jalapeño cilantro humus added...AMAZING! Customer service is AMAZING, vibe is AMAZING, and food is AMAZING! I've had their subs to go and not gotten around to eat it until about 1 1/2 hours later, and the bread still wasn't soggy! THAT SPEAKS VOLUME to the quality of bread they use for their sandwiches! I was NOT A FAN of their Kool-Aid it definitely lacked sweetness! DEFINITELY a spot to hit if you are in La Mesa!

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Cheba Hut Toasted Subs
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4.6
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This is one of my favorite delis. I love a solid sandwich, and Cheers Deli & Liquor consistently…read moregets it right. No gimmicks, no shortcuts -- just good bread, quality ingredients, and generous portions. My go-to is the BLT, and it never disappoints. Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, good tomato, and the right balance so every bite works. Simple sandwiches are the hardest to mess up, and this one proves they know exactly what they're doing. They also always show a little extra love by including a small side salad with every sandwich. Sometimes it's macaroni salad, sometimes potato salad, and today was a first for me with coleslaw. All of them have been a perfect accoutrement and a nice bonus you don't see everywhere. If you're anywhere near Cowles Mountain and want a dependable sandwich that actually earns the calories, this is the stop.

It may seem a little odd to find a deli inside a liquor store, but don't let that fool you. This…read moreplace makes some really good sandwiches. I've never had a bad sandwich here. Everything is fresh, delicious, and a great value for the price. My favorite is the turkey on a roll. It's simple, but they do it perfectly every time. And the pickles are incredible. Id say some of the best I've had and the perfect addition to any sandwich. If you're looking for a great deli sandwich without spending a fortune, this hidden gem is definitely worth checking out. I'll keep coming back!

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Beer cave
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Grove Grinder

4.4
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2.4 mi
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Grove Grinder located in the heart of Lemon Grove. They offer indoor and outdoor seating. Not ideal…read morefor large crowds but, definitely a location to try for amazing sub sandwiches! When you see the entire store front packed with City Workers enjoying their meals...IT'S A MUST TO STOP AND TRY THEIR FOOD! That speaks volume in itself! I just love "MOM AND POP" locations! I believe this shop is a mother and son ran operation and they are an amazing duo dishing out amazing subs for reasonable prices! Watch out other sandwich chains out there cause Grove Grinder IS WHERE IT'S AT!!!! They have been in business since 1972...NUFF SAID! I ordered the Ann Special with everything on it. They do not skimp on meat and the proportion of bread to meat to veggie ratio is spot on! A full size sandwich is enough to feed two people easily or one very hungry person. I did not try any of their side items or large selection of root beer drink options to choose from but, I will be back many more times to try all they offer! Thank you Grove Grinder for amazing eats and allowing me to snap all my photos of your small shop for my review! If in Lemon Grove, show some love to Grove Grinder and grab you one of their amazing affordable, delicious subs...YOUR WELCOME IN ADVANCE!

Holy Moly that place is BOMB! Soooo cute and quaint the people who work there are sweeties and seem…read morelike they genuinely love their job. I went for the first time two weeks ago, where I had a turkey bacon, avocado sub as well as the potato salad. Despite getting half a sandwich, it was huge! I was able to take home half a sandwich and most of the salad for later. The inside is very dated but in the best way possible it feels like you're coming into a family owned business that's been around longer than most of us have been alive. I love sitting on the right hand side of the building where they have a couple tables and seeing all the vintage items they have out. I can't believe I've lived in lemon Grove more than half my life and I've never been here. But I will certainly be frequenting more often. :)

Photos
Interior
Interior
Many many Root Beer Bottles.
Many many Root Beer Bottles.
Meatball sandwich

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Meatball sandwich
Submarina California Subs

Submarina California Subs

4.2
(180 reviews)
0.6 mi
•$

I keep coming here for the meatball subs! They are so good. The staff is friendly. No other…read moremeatball sub has compared thus far.

I really used to like coming here. But the customer service has become really bad. And I feel like…read moreyou have multiple people working here and the person taking your order gives it to the next person and the next person doesn't listen. I don't know the girl's name because no one here wears name tags, but they wear short shorts like if we're a hooters . But this has been the second time I've had an issue where the next person That gets handed what the sandwich actually is, isn't listening! I had to tell the girl multiple times while she's busy cutting avocados instead of just taking a minute to say, can you give me a second and having me repeat myself! And then I told her after she asked, anything else, I said, can I just can I get pepper? She gives me salt and I look at her and I said I didn't want salt. She said, do you want me to take it off? How are you supposed to take salt off a sandwich when one you cannot see it? Instead of just listening like when I'm speaking to you your too busy doing other things because you wanna be quick. You put salt on the sandwich when I asked for pepper. Those are not the same things. Their employees need to do a better job at focusing on what the customer is saying, versus doing 20 other things. I don't care about you taking longer to make my sandwich.What I care about is me not having to repeat myself three times because you are not listening. She asked me multiple times too. If I wanted anything else needed anything else? Well, I can't even get you to put pepper on my sandwich. And you expect me to believe that you're going to make my order correctly. What if I was someone cant have added salt or high cholesterol. Now, food has been wasted and I'd have to wait longer all because staff can't just slow down and listen to the customer. They also make no eye contact.They don't speak.They just pass the sandwich from person to person.I just feels very impersonal, and like you're just trying to make me a sandwich and get me out of there, and then your the machine wants to ask me to tip. What am I tipping for when i'm not even getting good customer service.

Photos
Storefront
Storefront
East Coast on Prairie bread
East Coast on Prairie bread
Business Hours

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Business Hours

The Lunch Box Cafe & Deli - breakfast_brunch - Updated July 2026

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