San Diego's Best Reuben Sandwich [Updated 2024]

Having spent countless years indulging in these delectable creations, I've sampled reubens from all corners of San Diego. From gooey melted Swiss cheese to perfectly sauerkraut-drenched corned beef, I've tried it all.

With thirteen different spots under my belt, I can confidently say that I have the inside scoop on where to find the absolute best reuben sandwich in San Diego. So grab your appetite and join me on this lighthearted journey as we uncover the ultimate reuben experience in America's Finest City.

Carnivore Sandwich

Highlights
Friendly and engaging owner
Amazing sandwiches
Best chicken salad
Outstanding chili cheese fries

Walking into Carnivore Sandwich, I was greeted by a friendly and engaging owner who clearly takes pride in his establishment. With high expectations for the reuben sandwich, I eagerly placed my order.

Let me tell you, this place knows how to make an amazing sandwich! The reuben at Carnivore Sandwich is a masterpiece of flavors and textures. The tender corned beef, perfectly melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and zesty Russian dressing all come together harmoniously between slices of toasted rye bread. Each bite was like a symphony in my mouth!

But don't just stop at the reuben; give their chicken salad a try too! It's the best I've ever tasted. The chicken is juicy and tender, mixed with just the right amount of mayonnaise and seasonings. Paired with fresh greens on a soft roll, it's a heavenly combination of flavors.

And let's not forget about their outstanding chili cheese fries! Crispy fries smothered in a rich and flavorful chili sauce topped with melted cheese - it's comfort food at its finest.

The atmosphere at Carnivore Sandwich is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to enjoy your meal. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, always ready to make recommendations or answer any questions.

Overall, Carnivore Sandwich exceeded my expectations with their exceptional reuben sandwich and other delicious offerings. If you're looking for the best reuben in San Diego (and some seriously tasty chicken salad), look no further than Carnivore Sandwich.

You might also want to check out the best reuben sandwich in Oceanside.

Sandwich Emporium

Highlights
Unique sandwiches
Pictures of San Diego history
Food is delicious
Fast and great service
Fresh sandwiches

Walking into Sandwich Emporium, I immediately noticed the unique sandwiches displayed on their menu. It was like a cornucopia of tantalizing options, but my eyes were set on one thing - the legendary reuben sandwich.

But before I could even sink my teeth into this masterpiece, I was captivated by the pictures of San Diego history adorning the walls. It was as if I was taking a trip through time while waiting for my food.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity (in reality, just a few minutes), my reuben sandwich arrived. The first bite sent me into a state of pure bliss. The crispy yet tender corned beef paired perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Russian dressing. Each layer of flavor danced harmoniously in my mouth.

Not only was the food delicious, but the service at Sandwich Emporium was also top-notch. The staff members were incredibly friendly and efficient, ensuring that every customer's needs were met with lightning speed.

What impressed me most about Sandwich Emporium was their commitment to using fresh ingredients. Every bite of my reuben sandwich tasted like it had just been assembled moments ago. It's clear that they take great pride in delivering quality sandwiches to their hungry patrons.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best reuben sandwich in San Diego, look no further than Sandwich Emporium. With their unique offerings, delightful atmosphere filled with local history, and impeccable service, they have firmly secured themselves as a must-visit spot for any sandwich enthusiast.

So go ahead and indulge yourself in this delectable creation at Sandwich Emporium – your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in San Diego.

Fatboy's Deli & Spirits

Highlights
Huge variety of toppings
Fresh and delicious sandwiches
Accommodating staff
Reasonably priced for quality

Let me start by saying, WOW! Fatboy's Deli & Spirits truly blew me away with their amazing reuben sandwich. As I walked into the cozy deli atmosphere, I couldn't help but notice the huge variety of toppings they offered for their sandwiches. From sauerkraut to Russian dressing, they had it all!

Now, onto the sandwich itself. The moment I took my first bite, I could tell that the ingredients were fresh and delicious. The corned beef was tender and flavorful, and the sauerkraut added the perfect tangy kick. The Swiss cheese was perfectly melted, creating a creamy texture that just melted in my mouth. And let's not forget about the rye bread, it was toasted to perfection.

What impressed me even further was the accommodating staff at Fatboy's. They were not only friendly but also knowledgeable about their menu. They were more than happy to help me customize my sandwich to my liking, ensuring I got the perfect combination of flavors.

Lastly, let's talk about the price. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Fatboy's offers their outstanding reuben sandwich at a reasonable price. Given the quality and portion size of the sandwich, I left feeling satisfied without breaking the bank.

Overall, my experience at Fatboy's Deli & Spirits was one for the books. They truly understand what makes a great reuben sandwich. So if you're in San Diego and on the hunt for the best reuben sandwich in town, don't miss out on Fatboy's Deli & Spirits!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Diego.

Rubicon Deli Mission Hills

Highlights
Pricey but worth it
Top notch ingredients
Delicious bread
Unique ingredient options
Excellent service

From the moment I walked through the door, I knew this place was different. The menu boasted a variety of reuben sandwich options, each one more tantalizing than the last. Yes, it may be a tad pricey, but trust me, it's worth every penny.

The first thing that caught my attention was the quality of ingredients. The corned beef was tender and flavorful, top notch in every way. Accompanied by sauerkraut that had just the right amount of tanginess, it was like a match made in sandwich heaven. But what really set this reuben apart from the rest was their choice of bread. It was perfectly toasted and had a delightful crunch with every bite.

What sets Rubicon Deli Mission Hills apart from other establishments is their commitment to offering unique ingredient options. They offer not only the classic reuben sandwich but also variations such as turkey or vegetarian options. This allows for a broader range of customers to indulge in their delectable creations.

I must say, the service at Rubicon Deli Mission Hills is truly exceptional. The staff were friendly and attentive, making sure every detail was taken care of throughout my visit. They even took the time to explain each ingredient and answer any questions I had about their sandwiches.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable reuben experience in San Diego, look no further than Rubicon Deli Mission Hills. It may be on the pricier side, but with their delicious bread, top-notch ingredients, and excellent service, it's an indulgence you won't regret.

You might also want to check out the best sushi in San Diego.

Elijah's Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering

Highlights
Excellent service
Plenty of parking
Relaxed atmosphere
Friendly servers
Delicious food

Upon entering Elijah's, I was immediately greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant had a relaxed vibe with comfortable seating and a delightful aroma that wafted through the air. The excellent service truly stood out, as the staff was attentive and friendly, making me feel right at home.

One thing I appreciated about Elijah's was the abundance of parking. In a bustling city like San Diego, finding a place to park can sometimes feel like searching for buried treasure. But fear not, hungry reuben enthusiasts, because Elijah's has got you covered!

Now let's talk about the star of the show: their reuben sandwich. Oh my deli goodness! This sandwich is truly divine. The corned beef was tender and juicy, layered perfectly with tangy sauerkraut and melty Swiss cheese. The Russian dressing added just the right amount of zing to each bite. And let's not forget about that toasted rye bread - crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside.

But it wasn't just the sandwich that impressed me; it was also the attention to detail in every aspect of this culinary masterpiece. From the presentation on the plate to the flawless execution of flavors, it was evident that Elijah's takes pride in their craft.

To top it all off, their servers were knowledgeable and passionate about their menu offerings. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and provide recommendations based on my preferences.

If you're in search of an unforgettable reuben experience in San Diego, look no further than Elijah's Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering. With its delicious food, friendly servers, and overall enjoyable dining experience, this gem is definitely worth a visit!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in LA Jolla.

Lucky's Lunch Counter

Highlights
Non-pretentious vibe
Fast service
Friendly staff
Affordable prices
Huge pancakes

As I stepped into Lucky's Lunch Counter, I immediately sensed a non-pretentious vibe that was both refreshing and inviting. The place had a cozy, old-school feel, with its red vinyl booths and retro decor. The friendly staff welcomed me with warm smiles and directed me to a comfortable booth.

I was pleasantly surprised by the fast service at Lucky's. In no time, a waiter approached me, ready to take my order. I wasted no time in requesting their famous reuben sandwich. While waiting for it to arrive, I couldn't help but notice the affordable prices on the menu, which made my taste buds even more eager.

When the reuben sandwich finally arrived at my table, it was a sight to behold. The perfectly toasted rye bread held together generous portions of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Each bite was an explosion of flavors that danced joyfully on my palate.

What impressed me most about this sandwich was its impeccable balance of textures and flavors. The corned beef was incredibly tender and succulent while the sauerkraut added just the right amount of tanginess. The melted Swiss cheese brought everything together harmoniously.

To accompany my meal, I couldn't resist ordering one of their gigantic pancakes as a side dish. These fluffy delights were truly awe-inspiring in size and taste—a perfect complement to the main event.

In conclusion, Lucky's Lunch Counter is definitely a must-visit destination for any reuben sandwich enthusiast in San Diego. With its non-pretentious atmosphere, fast service, friendly staff, affordable prices, and mouthwatering reuben sandwich selection—I can confidently say that Lucky's lives up to its name as one of the best spots in town for this iconic deli delight!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in San Diego.

Big Front Door

Highlights
Delicious sandwiches
Friendly staff
Nice atmosphere
Fresh, great quality sandwiches
Huge portions

Upon stepping into Big Front Door, I was immediately drawn in by the nice atmosphere and the mouthwatering aroma of sandwiches wafting through the air. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and friendly banter, making me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – their reuben sandwich. Oh, dear readers, prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion! The combination of fresh, great quality ingredients piled high between two slices of perfectly toasted rye bread was simply divine. Each bite was a harmonious dance of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Russian dressing, and melty Swiss cheese. It was like a symphony in my mouth!

What sets Big Front Door apart is not only their delicious sandwiches but also their generous portions. Seriously folks, these sandwiches are so massive that you might need a forklift to finish them. But don't let that intimidate you; it just means you get more bang for your buck!

The chefs at Big Front Door clearly understand the art of sandwich-making. They take pride in creating masterpieces that satisfy even the most discerning palates. And let's not forget about their other delightful creations – their menu boasts a wide array of options that will make any foodie weak at the knees.

So if you're on a quest to find the best reuben sandwich in San Diego (and isn't everyone?), do yourself a favor and head over to Big Front Door. Your taste buds will thank you for this culinary adventure!

You might also want to check out the best burger in San Diego.

Hub Market Deli and Liquor

Highlights
Huge portion
Fresh ingredients
Customizable sandwiches
Friendly and helpful staff
Delicious sandwich

First things first, let's talk about the portion size. When they said "huge," they weren't kidding! The reuben sandwich at Hub Market Deli and Liquor could probably feed a small army. I was almost tempted to call in reinforcements just to finish it all.

Now, let's move on to the ingredients. The moment I took my first bite, I could tell that everything was fresh. The corned beef was tender and flavorful, the sauerkraut had just the right amount of tanginess, and the Swiss cheese melted perfectly over it all. It was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds.

One thing that really impressed me about Hub Market Deli and Liquor was their commitment to customization. They allowed me to choose my bread (rye or marble), dressing (Russian or Thousand Island), and even asked if I wanted extra cheese or sauerkraut. It was like building a work of art, one delicious layer at a time.

The staff at Hub Market Deli and Liquor were not only friendly but also incredibly helpful. They patiently answered all my questions and offered recommendations when I couldn't decide between Russian or Thousand Island dressing (I went with both, because why not?).

But let's get down to business – the sandwich itself. Oh boy, it was delicious. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors that left me craving for more. The combination of the moist corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty dressing was simply perfection.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a reuben sandwich that will leave you feeling satisfied and possibly needing a nap afterwards, Hub Market Deli and Liquor is the place to go. Their huge portion, use of fresh ingredients, customizable options, and friendly staff make for an unforgettable experience. So, why not treat yourself to a delightful reuben sandwich at Hub Market Deli and Liquor? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in San Diego.

Crossroads Deli

Highlights
Incredible sandwiches
Fresh and delicious bread
Excellent service
Crave-worthy Hot Wing Sandwich
Family-owned and operated

Upon entering Crossroads Deli, I was immediately struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, beckoning me to indulge in one of their renowned reuben sandwiches.

As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to the section dedicated solely to these delectable creations. It was clear that Crossroads Deli takes their sandwiches seriously, as evidenced by the variety of options available. From traditional corned beef to succulent pastrami, they had it all.

I opted for the classic corned beef reuben, and boy, was it a wise choice. The sandwich arrived at my table looking like a work of art. The rye bread was perfectly toasted and boasted a delightful crunch with each bite. The generous portion of tender corned beef was piled high and topped with melt-in-your-mouth Swiss cheese.

But what truly set this reuben apart from the rest was the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Thousand Island dressing. These flavors danced harmoniously on my palate, creating a symphony of taste that left me longing for more.

The service at Crossroads Deli was exceptional, with friendly staff members who were eager to assist me in making my selection. They even recommended their Hot Wing Sandwich as another must-try option – a bold move for a place known for its reubens.

All in all, Crossroads Deli has earned its place among San Diego's top contenders for the best reuben sandwich. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and providing excellent service is evident in every bite. So if you're searching for an outstanding reuben experience, look no further than Crossroads Deli – your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in San Diego.

BB's Deli

Highlights
Friendly and lovely owner
Delicious and filling sandwiches
Lively atmosphere
Fast and attentive service

Upon entering BB's Deli, I was immediately greeted by the friendly and lovely owner. Her warm smile and enthusiasm set the tone for my visit. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, tempting my taste buds even before I had a chance to peruse the menu.

As a reuben sandwich aficionado, I must say that BB's Deli exceeded my expectations. The sandwich was a work of art, with layers of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted rye bread. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate.

Not only did the sandwich deliver in taste, but it also left me feeling satisfied and full. It was generously portioned with a perfect balance of ingredients that ensured each bite had just the right amount of everything.

The atmosphere at BB's Deli was lively and bustling, creating an enjoyable dining experience. The friendly banter between staff and customers added to the overall charm. Despite the crowd, the service was fast and attentive, making sure that no customer felt neglected.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best reuben sandwich in San Diego, look no further than BB's Deli. Their delicious sandwiches coupled with a friendly atmosphere make for an unforgettable dining experience. So why wait? Head over to BB's Deli today and indulge in their delectable creation – your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Downtown San Diego.

Giorgino's

Highlights
Authentic flavor
Fresh ingredients
Ample portion
Casual atmosphere
Variety of toppings

From the moment I stepped into Giorgino's, I could tell they take their reuben sandwiches seriously. The aroma of freshly cooked corned beef wafted through the air, instantly whetting my appetite. The first bite confirmed my suspicions - this was an authentic reuben with layers of flavor that danced on my taste buds.

Giorgino's uses only the freshest ingredients, and it shows in every mouthwatering bite. The sauerkraut had a tangy kick that perfectly balanced out the rich flavors of the corned beef and Swiss cheese. And let's not forget about the Russian dressing! Creamy and zesty, it added a delightful twist to an already outstanding sandwich.

Not only was the taste impeccable, but the portion size was also ample. This reuben was a behemoth of a sandwich, ensuring that even the heartiest appetites would be satisfied. But don't worry, if you can't finish it all in one sitting, they offer to-go boxes so you can enjoy it later!

The casual atmosphere at Giorgino's only added to the overall experience. It felt like stopping by your favorite neighborhood deli where everyone knows your name (or at least your order!). The staff were friendly and attentive, making sure every detail was just right.

One thing I particularly appreciated about Giorgino's is their variety of toppings. They offer several options to customize your reuben, from adding avocado for a California twist to piling on extra sauerkraut for those who can't get enough.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best reuben sandwich in San Diego, look no further than Giorgino's. With its authentic flavor, fresh ingredients, ample portions, casual atmosphere, and variety of toppings, this place is a true gem in the world of reubens. So go ahead and indulge – your taste buds will thank you.

You might also want to check out the best mexican restaurant in San Diego.

The Market Place

Highlights
Impressive market place
Amazing sandwiches
Great selection of sandwiches
Homemade soups
Fair prices

As soon as I stepped into The Market Place, I was immediately struck by its impressive ambiance. It felt like stepping into a lively market square, but with the added benefit of being indoors. The hustle and bustle of people chatting and enjoying their meals created a vibrant atmosphere that made me excited to dive into their sandwich selection.

Speaking of sandwiches, oh boy, were they amazing! The Market Place truly excels in creating reuben masterpieces. Each bite was a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. The corned beef was tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Russian dressing. The melty Swiss cheese added that extra touch of indulgence.

What sets The Market Place apart is their vast selection of sandwiches. From classic reubens to creative twists on this beloved sandwich, there's something for everyone's taste buds. Whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, you won't be disappointed by the variety they offer.

If you're looking for some warmth on a chilly day, don't miss out on their homemade soups. They are the perfect companion to your Reuben sandwich experience.

Despite the high quality of their food, I was pleasantly surprised by how fair their prices were. It's not often that you find such deliciousness at such reasonable prices in San Diego!

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best reuben sandwich in San Diego, look no further than The Market Place. With its impressive market-like atmosphere, amazing sandwiches, great selection, homemade soups, and fair prices – it's a sure winner in my book!

Cali Boys Deli

Highlights
Amazing deli
Fantastic wraps
Thoughtful service
Great sandwich
Busy but worth it

Walking into Cali Boys Deli, I was immediately struck by the amazing deli atmosphere. The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, enticing my taste buds and setting high expectations for what was to come.

The menu at Cali Boys Deli boasted a variety of options, from fantastic wraps to mouthwatering sandwiches. However, my focus was on finding the best reuben sandwich in San Diego.

The service at Cali Boys Deli was thoughtful and attentive. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every customer felt welcomed and satisfied. They even took the time to explain each ingredient in their sandwiches, showcasing their knowledge and passion for their craft.

But let's get down to business - the reuben sandwich. Oh boy, what a treat! The sandwich was a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender corned beef melted in my mouth while the sauerkraut provided a tangy kick. The Swiss cheese added a creamy richness that tied everything together.

I must mention that Cali Boys Deli is often busy, but don't let that deter you. Trust me when I say it's worth the wait! The popularity only speaks volumes about the quality of their sandwiches.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best reuben sandwich in San Diego, look no further than Cali Boys Deli. They deliver an experience that combines an amazing deli atmosphere with fantastic wraps and thoughtful service. Their reuben sandwich is truly a delight that will leave you craving more. Don't just take my word for it; go taste it yourself!