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Phil's Deli & Grill
Master Critic Review
Phil's Deli & Grill
7.8
Phil's Deli & Grill has anchored a corner of the Original Farmers Market since the 1930s, serving diner-style breakfasts, griddled sandwiches, and pastrami on rye to shoppers and regulars. Counter seating and quick service make it a reliable stop between browsing stalls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami on rye, Patty melt sandwich, Breakfast egg-and-cheese sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Long-running Farmers Market counter for classic deli and grill plates.
Who should go: Market visitors craving a sit-down deli sandwich.
When to visit: Weekday breakfasts or late afternoons for easier seating.
What to order: Pastrami on rye, patty melt, breakfast sandwich.
Insider tip: Grab a counter seat to watch the grill and get faster refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Use The Grove/Farmers Market parking structure; first 90 minutes are validated with purchase. Street parking on Fairfax and 3rd is limited and often congested.
Dress code: Casual; this is a classic counter-style deli inside the market, so anything from jeans to shorts is appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate; bustling market energy, but counter seating still allows for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: Minimal wait; dinner hours are less busy compared to breakfast and lunch.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes depending on market traffic; counter seats turn over quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options, including grilled cheese, omelets, and customizable sandwiches.
Vegan options: Limited; most items rely on deli meats, eggs, or dairy. You may piece together sides, but offerings are not designed for vegan dining.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread; some salads and breakfast plates can be modified, but cross-contact is likely given the grill setup.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date; the counter-style seating and busy market atmosphere feel more functional than romantic. Better suited for casual meetups or a quick bite during errands.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes; Phil's does not take reservations, and seating is first-come at the counter. Turnover is fast, even during peak market times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes; families frequent the area, and the Farmers Market layout makes it easy to navigate with kids. High chairs aren’t typical at the counter, but booths nearby provide flexible seating.
Best For
Better for: Classic diner-style breakfasts, quick counter service, and reliable griddled sandwiches in the heart of the Farmers Market.
Skip if: You want gourmet sandwiches, artisanal breads, or vegan-forward options; nearby stalls like Local Ice or HauteMess may be a better fit for specialty cravings.