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George's Zoo Liquor Deli
Master Critic Review
George's Zoo Liquor Deli
7.7
Sloat Blvd standby near the zoo with a surprisingly deep sandwich board. The signature ‘Little Puffer’ and chicken pesto on dutch crunch are the move before Ocean Beach.
Must-Try Dishes:
Little Puffer (turkey, gouda, dutch crunch), Chicken Pesto, Veggie Dutch Crunch
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Convenience-store deli with legit, well-priced sandos by the beach.
Who should go: Beachgoers and zoo visitors grabbing lunch
When to visit: Late morning before noon beach crowds
What to order: Little Puffer; Chicken Pesto; add jalapeños
Insider tip: Have them toast the bread extra for a sturdier beach picnic sando.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Sloat Blvd and side streets is usually available; expect more competition on sunny weekends near the zoo.
Dress code: Totally casual—beachwear, hoodies, and sandals all fine; most visitors swing by en route to Ocean Beach or the zoo.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic with a few counter seats, easy to chat while waiting.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a daytime deli, closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; brief midday rush between 11:30am–12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—solid veggie sandwich options like avocado or pesto builds.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize veggie sandwich or salad but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free bread, but can request sandwich ingredients over lettuce or salad base.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a sit-down date—it’s more of a grab-and-go spot, but could work for a casual beach picnic start.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no formal tables or reservations; a couple of benches outside and nearby beach spots serve as casual seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and proximity to the zoo make it a convenient stop for families with kids.
Best For
Better for: Quick, filling sandwiches before a beach walk or zoo visit—great for grab-and-go convenience.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service meal or indoor seating experience.