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Ham & Cheese Deli
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Ham & Cheese Deli
8.1
Playful Richmond corner deli mixing nostalgia with serious sandwiches, espresso, and a tiny arcade. Expect fresh-cut produce, balanced sauces, and well-toasted breads that make the classics pop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Griddled ham & swiss, Turkey avocado on Dutch crunch, Half sandwich + tomato basil soup
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Classic deli builds done with care plus a lighthearted arcade vibe.
Who should go: Deli purists and neighborhood lunchers
When to visit: Open-to-lunch for fastest ticket times
What to order: Ham & swiss; turkey avocado; soup + half combo
Insider tip: Grab a window seat—orders move quickly even during the rush.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, usually available on Balboa or nearby cross streets; meters turn over quickly around lunchtime.
Dress code: Totally casual—hoodies and jeans are standard; no need to dress up for this neighborhood deli.
Noise level: Low to moderate; expect chatter from counter orders and the small arcade area but still easy to converse.
Weekend wait: Typically no dinner rush since it closes early; minimal to no wait before 3pm.
Weekday lunch: Short 5–10 minute wait at peak noon hour; grab-and-go orders move quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several veggie sandwich builds and customizable combinations available.
Vegan options: Limited – can request vegan-friendly modifications (no cheese, extra veggies, olive oil spread).
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread, but can prepare lettuce wraps on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for a casual, lighthearted vibe—fun arcade games and quick service make it low-pressure rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—seating is first-come, first-served with quick turnover; most guests grab counter or window spots.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—kids enjoy the arcade corner and simple menu; parents appreciate the relaxed pace and affordable options.
Best For
Better for: Fast, quality sandwiches with nostalgic charm and playful energy unmatched by chain delis nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down meal or specialty sandwiches with premium meats—try Eat Americana instead.
Ham & Cheese Deli
7.7
Old-school corner deli turning out griddle-pressed breakfast sandwiches, omelets, and coffee at Lake Street pace. It’s efficient, friendly, and reliably under $15 for a quick brunch fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon-egg-cheese on roll, Veggie omelet, Croissant breakfast sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Made-to-order breakfast classics at true deli speed.
Who should go: Budget-minded locals on the go
When to visit: Weekdays 7:30–9:30am for shortest line
What to order: BEC; veggie omelet; croissant sandwich
Insider tip: Call ahead—orders are bagged and ready at pickup time.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly free street parking along Lake Street and nearby cross streets; generally available on weekday mornings, tighter on weekends after 10am.
Dress code: Totally casual—hoodies, joggers, or beachwear all fine. This is a grab-and-go deli, not a sit-down brunch spot.
Noise level: Low to moderate—expect the hum of the griddle and takeout chatter, but you can comfortably chat while waiting for your order.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—closes before dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; busiest 8–9am but even then orders move quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, veggie breakfast sandwiches, and avocado toasts available.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify sandwiches to remove egg and cheese, but options are minimal.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bread, but omelets or hash-style orders can be done without toast.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not really—it's more of a quick neighborhood stop than a sit-down experience. Great for grabbing breakfast before a walk, not for lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are a few small tables but no reservations or table service—everything is counter-order. Expect takeout-style dining.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—casual, quick, and easy for families on the go. No kids’ menu, but breakfast sandwiches and hash plates suit most ages.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive breakfast sandwiches made to order with minimal fuss—ideal for locals heading to work or early park walks.
Skip if: You’re looking for a leisurely brunch with espresso drinks, patio seating, or plated presentation—try Eat Americana or Iggy’s Place instead.
Ham & Cheese Deli
7.7
Corner deli turning out griddle-pressed breakfast sandwiches, omelets, and coffee with quick, friendly cadence. It’s a Lake Street morning staple for efficient, under-$15 fuel.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Egg & Cheese, Veggie Omelet, Croissant Breakfast Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Old-school deli pace with made-to-order breakfast staples.
Who should go: Budget-minded locals on the go
When to visit: Weekdays 7:30–9:30am for shortest line
What to order: BEC; veggie omelet; croissant sandwich
Insider tip: Call ahead—orders are bagged and ready right at pickup time.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Lake Street is generally available in the morning; meters start after 9am, so early visits are easy.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, gym clothes, and workwear all fit in.
Noise level: Low to moderate; mostly to-go orders and short dine-ins, so conversation is easy if you stay.
Weekend wait: Closed for dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, though pickup orders around 11–12 can stack briefly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, veggie breakfast sandwiches, and avocado toast options are available.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize toast or hash browns but no full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread or prep zone, though omelets and breakfast bowls can be ordered without bread.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not really—it's more a grab-and-go deli than a sit-down setting; better suited for casual coffee catch-ups than romantic meals.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t taken; small counter seating is first come, first served but usually open.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick breakfasts—simple menu and fast service, but space is tight and there are no high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable breakfast sandwiches under $10 and quick pickup efficiency.
Skip if: You’re looking for a brunch spot to linger—head to Eat Americana or Iggy’s Place for that.