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    Pearson Deli

    4.3 (81 reviews)
    InexpensiveDelis
    Closed 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Pearson Deli Photos

    Business Info

    PEARSON DELI ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Quiet
    Outdoor seating
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - Pearson Deli

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    Jocy C.

    Pearson Deli is a hole in the wall deli - located in Shelter Island area of San Diego. It was a Sunday morning, and I wanted to walk around (get some steps in on my FitBit). My manfriend suggested Pearson Deli to go eat, so that we can go right into walking around Shelter Island afterwards. There were 2 guys behind the counter at Pearson Deli. When I asked how long they have been around - the older gentleman said 21 years. I tried their Deviled Eggs (some other Yelp review said it was "worth the occasional drive from LA"). I also tried their Pastrami Sandwich (with everything). I'm usually not a fan of pickles or mustard in my sandwich, but for some reason, the combo worked. Bread and meat were really fresh! I had a nostalgic moment (like I was having some fresh pastrami from NYC). There is a little seating area outside the Deli to enjoy the San Diego weather / breeze. I also might add - GOODNESS. The bathroom (at least the ladies one) was REALLY clean. I was preparing myself for a gas station type of cleanliness and was pleasantly surprised. ENJOY!! SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!!

    Dock views
    Krystal L.

    Love this cute little mom and pop deli on Shelter Island. Located near the fuel dock for boats in the area, this deli is a tucked away gem that guests/travelers in the area might miss if they aren't paying attention. We were lucky to spot it while walking around Shelter Island and since I'm always a big fan of a good sammie, I figured we'd try them out! Look for the white sign with an arrow that says deli and you'll know you're headed in the right direction. The business is ran by a sweet older couple who promptly greeted us when we walked in. I ordered the pastrami and cheese on sourdough and my boyfriend went with the Italian hero. Let me just say their sandwiches are MASSIVE and worth every penny. They were so tasty and so filling, I almost couldnt finish mine! They also have snacks and beverages for purchase and a few side options as well if you are looking for something to pair with your sammie. I was glad we tried this place out and would be happy to try one of their other sandwiches on another occasion.

    PEARSON DELI TUNA MELT W JACK CHEESE. MY FAVORITE SANDWICH EVER. Perfection.
    Michelle N.

    Don't listen to the complaints from these bougie yacht owners. Its a fuel dock and deli. You get what you get. Don't expect the atmosphere or customer service of a waterfront restaurant. DO expect some fucking delicious and satisfying food. A few days ago my friend got a tuna melt from here and let me have a single bite of his sandwich. From that ONE BITE days ago I was hooked. I could not stop thinking about it. Last night I woke up dreaming about it and just had to get my hands on that tuna melt. I called in my order today and they had it ready for me when I arrived. It was just as delicious as that one bite I had days ago. The bread had the best golden crust I've ever seen on a piece of toast. I don't know how they do it. It was crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Per someone else's recommendation, I ordered it with jack cheese. It was all nice and melty on the sides of each slice of bread. The tuna inside - the heart of the sandwich - is so well seasoned. I didn't even like warm tuna before this experience but now this is my favorite sandwich of all time. The only downside is I am now physically and emotionally dependent on this tuna melt and will need to eat it regularly so I don't have withdrawals.

    Betsy M.

    My bestie always hits this place when visiting from Colorado so we thought we would give it a try for our make shift picnic on the island. The couple that owns the place are so cute. He told me they had been there for 20 years making sandwiches. We ordered a turkey/cheese on white with everything on it and a pastrami/cheese on sour dough with the works. The sandwiches are very hearty, I could have easily split mine. They sell the "Dirty Potato Chips" brand there which I love. I also would like to call out that they have clean restrooms which is a huge bonus along with an outdoor seating area on the dock over the water/harbor. Dog friendly!!!

    BLT with Avocado
    Sergio G.

    Prices are a little higher but not too high. I was impressed for my first time. The BLT with avocado, was very good and all the veggies were fresh. Good amount of bacon and Mayo. They portioned the amount of food well. My brother had the ham and cheese sandwich and he said it was simple but definitely delicious. I will be coming back. I would highly recommend this place. It's near a great view so why not!

    Look how big the sandwich is!!!

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    4 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

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    9 months ago

    We loved our sub. Delicious and authentic. We found the deli by chance and happy we did because it was tucked away and easy to miss.

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    4 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Just a simple deli with amazing subs and it sits over the water. They also make great deviled eggs

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    5 years ago

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Great sandwiches! Speedy and everything was fresh. Service was good. We called and picked up.

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    5 years ago

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    5 years ago

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    3 years ago

    Love these sandwiches, Order ahead of time pick up. Alway delicious and I am picky.

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    7 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    4 years ago

    The old man running this place isn't very friendly, but his team puts out a pretty damn good sandwich

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    5 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    13 years ago

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    12 years ago

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    7 years ago

    The best BLT on the planet. The stuffed jalapeños are great too.i e been going here for years and it's Point Loma's best kept secret, try it

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Pearson Deli

    Review Highlights - Pearson Deli

    It's usually referred to as "The Fuel Dock," which doesn't sound like a place you would want to get lunch.

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    The Girls Deli - The Club Sandwich

    The Girls Deli

    4.7(463 reviews)
    6.2 miNorth Park
    $$

    I wanted something quick for lunch and saw that this had good reviews so decided to check it out…read more It's located in the back of the liquor store and once you place your order you can pay up front. I went with a godfather sandwich and the first thing I noticed is that the sandwich is absolutely stuffed. They are not shy about putting meat in here which I appreciate as sometimes sandwich spots give a less than desirable amount. I was also surprised at how good the Dutch crunch I chose tasted (it had a slight chew but was also fluffy at the same time). It definitely wasn't the cheapest sandwich (after tax it was around 19 bucks) but based on the ingredients and amount of meat I'd say it's fair value!

    The Best sandwiches!…read more The sandwiches I ordered for my event at my new business were absolutely amazing! Everything was fresh, beautifully presented, and made with so much care. My guests couldn't stop complimenting how delicious they were--perfectly balanced flavors and high-quality ingredients in every bite. They not only looked great laid out for the event, but they also added such a professional and elevated touch to the experience. The service was smooth, timely, and stress-free, which made hosting so much easier. I'll definitely be ordering again and highly recommend them for any event or gathering!

    Photos
    The Girls Deli - Owner making our sandwiches and chatting with us

    Owner making our sandwiches and chatting with us

    The Girls Deli - Godfather Sandwich

    Godfather Sandwich

    The Girls Deli - The Mob Sandwich (A++), no onion or mustard, and a pickle...

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    The Mob Sandwich (A++), no onion or mustard, and a pickle...

    Fatboy's Deli & Spirits - American classic

    Fatboy's Deli & Spirits

    4.5(902 reviews)
    6.0 miNorth Park
    $$

    Don't let the outside fool you Fatboy's Deli & Spirits may look like your average corner liquor…read morestore from the outside, but inside they're serving up some seriously amazing deli sandwiches. Hidden in the North Park area of San Diego, this spot is definitely a hidden gem. They've got a solid sandwich menu with plenty of options, plus you can build your own exactly how you want it. I went with the "Fatboy's Special" made "Fatboy's way" with their full veggie selection, and it did not disappoint. The sandwich was stacked with meat, loaded with fresh veggies, and made fresh to order it also comes with a pickle and side of macaroni or potato salad. The staff was quick to take my order and kept things moving without making the experience feeling rushed. They also have a little outdoor eating area along the side of the building, which is a great spot to sit and enjoy your food. This is the kind of classic deli sandwich that hits the spot every time simple, fresh, and packed with flavor. If you're in the area, I highly recommend checking them out!

    First off I love the vibe in here, you can grab whatever you need convenience store, and the…read moresandwich shop in here is truly a gem. They have their signature sandwiches or you can build your own. Love how fresh made everything is! Will be back when I'm in San Diego!

    Photos
    Fatboy's Deli & Spirits - Tons of beverage/soda/beer options

    Tons of beverage/soda/beer options

    Fatboy's Deli & Spirits - Good meat, but nit a lot of it

    Good meat, but nit a lot of it

    Fatboy's Deli & Spirits - Outside.

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    Outside.

    DZ Akin's - Swiss Patty Melt add mushrooms, Homefries add jalapeño

    DZ Akin's

    3.6(2.2k reviews)
    11.0 mi
    $$

    Captain's Log, Stardate 21509.7…read more This past Friday I set my course for Did Z Akins in La Mesa -- a roadside star on I‑8 that my crew and I had passed a thousand times but never boarded. At long last we beamed down, and the experience surpassed every expectation. From the moment we entered, the atmosphere felt like coming home to a welcoming starbase. The staff treated us with genuine warmth and patience as we navigated a menu full of storied classics. Their attentive service turned a simple meal into a memorable mission. My first officer aka wife enjoyed a superbly composed salad, and chose the Turkey Club -- both delivered with thoughtful care. I began with the biscuits and gravy, a traditional hit that tasted like comforting shore leave. But the true highlight was the patty melt: perfectly seared, with lush caramelized onions and melted cheese that achieved harmony at warp speed. It was, without hyperbole, the best patty melt I've encountered in this quadrant. Each bite was a cascade of flavor that felt like discovering a thriving new world. This kitchen knows how to respect ingredients and execute classics flawlessly. No extra condiments were necessary -- the craftsmanship spoke for itself. DZ Akins is now a plotted course for every future convoy through I‑8. Highly recommended for anyone seeking honest, stellar diner fare and service that treats you like family among the stars. Captain 619, stay salty my friends!

    Nice place to eat Great staff…read morePastrami omelette was a little dry. Waitress recommended that we cheese with it. Should have listen. My fault never pancake style omelette Blue muffin good. Fruit good. Bakery nice. Waitress was super nice and helpful. Will go back

    Photos
    DZ Akin's - Crowded!

    Crowded!

    DZ Akin's - Matzo ball soup

    Matzo ball soup

    DZ Akin's - Swiss Patty Melt add mushrooms, Homefries add fried egg and jalapeño

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    Swiss Patty Melt add mushrooms, Homefries add fried egg and jalapeño

    Big Front Door - Ham & Poppy

    Big Front Door

    4.4(903 reviews)
    5.2 mi
    $$

    This place is one of the top 5 best sandwich shops in San Diego hands down. They also serve salads,…read moresoups, and some awesome sides. I heard they're going to start serving beer and wine soon as well! *Best 1st-timer options*: The Keeper (if you like it spicy) or the L.G.B.T. My favorite hot sandwiches are the Cali Cubano, B3, and The Keeper, while my favorite cold sandwiches are the Avocado Highway, L.G.B.T. (lettuce, gouda, bacon, tomato), and Caprese. My favorite salads are the Grapevine and Duck Cranberry. For sides I recommend the potato salad and tomato basil bisque. The aioli they use is to die for -- can't hurt to get a side of it with any sandwich! The restaurant is situated on the corner of Park Blvd. and Polk Ave. (more generally, it's on the strip of Park Blvd. between University Ave. and El Cajon Blvd.). There is usually a good amount of parking on Park Blvd. and Polk Ave., which is nice. The space has a simple-yet-tasteful modern design and interior, is always clean, with friendly and helpful staff. Great for lunch hour or a weekend date. Update: Came back today with my friend and we ordered the B3 and the Turkey & Cheddar Mousse sandwiches, plus sides of potato salad and cucumber salad, and a double chocolate cookie with pistachio and sea salt. Everything was really good, but the Turkey & Cheddar Mousse sandwich was the star of the show. The cookie was great too. We both agreed the potato salad could use some salt, but besides that it was a solid meal all around.

    Big Front Door has quickly become a new favorite for sandwiches, and visiting two days in a row…read moremade that very clear. On the first visit, Zack provided exceptional care and attention while helping navigate food allergies. Zack took the time to carefully check ingredients, double-check preparations, and personally come back out to verify everything to ensure safety. That level of care made the experience feel genuinely welcoming and stress-free. The chicken sandwich was fresh, satisfying, and thoughtfully balanced. Juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a bright splash of oil and vinegar came together beautifully on Big Front Door's roll, which had a great texture and held everything together well. The flavors were clean and vibrant. A little extra salt would have pushed it over the top for a salt-lover, but that came down to personal preference rather than any shortcoming. A dining companion ordered the avocado sandwich and could not stop raving about it, praising both the flavor and the freshness. The outdoor seating area deserves special mention. The shaded space was perfect as I do have sun allergies, especially for anyone who prefers relief from direct sun. The care taken in food preparation added an extra layer of comfort and trust. The second visit somehow raised the bar even higher. Micah went above and beyond to accommodate physical ability needs with patience, attentiveness, and genuine kindness. That effort did not go unnoticed and made the experience feel deeply respectful and inclusive. The roasted chicken sandwich ordered on the second visit was phenomenal. The roasted chicken was tender, savory, and full of depth, elevating the sandwich even further. Adding a bit of extra salt brought all the ingredients into perfect harmony, making every bite more satisfying than the last. This sandwich has officially earned a spot as a new favorite sandwich. Big Front Door was amazing not just for delicious, thoughtfully prepared food, but for the people who work there. Zack and Micah created an environment where care, kindness, and respect were clearly prioritized. No moment felt rushed, dismissive, or uncomfortable. At no point did anyone make the experience feel like a burden or inconvenience. A sincere thank-you also goes to the team members who prepared the food. Even without knowing names, the care taken to keep guests safer while serving delicious nourishment was evident and deeply appreciated. Big Front Door comes highly recommended for the flavorful sandwiches, the shaded outdoor space, the welcoming atmosphere, outstanding customer service, and the genuine kindness shown at every action.

    Photos
    Big Front Door - Ordering area

    Ordering area

    Big Front Door - Inside of the chicken salad sandwich special

    Inside of the chicken salad sandwich special

    Big Front Door - Checkout area

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    Checkout area

    Siesel's Old Fashioned Meats

    Siesel's Old Fashioned Meats

    4.2(501 reviews)
    4.5 miBay Park
    $$$

    I have been coming here forever. It is not cheap but the quality of everything here is fantastic…read more This is a real butcher shop. There aren't many left in San Diego. Other than its sister store, Iowa Meat Farms, Tip Top Meats in Carlsbad (yes, they have returned), and the Wise Ox, also in Carlsbad, there are hardly any real butcher shops around. But these guys know what they are doing. Try their burgers and meatloaf. They are easy to cook at home. Try their steaks. You can get a legitimately excellent steak here for a fraction of what you would pay at a steakhouse and it will be BETTER than the steakhouse version. Make sure you ask the counter guys to season it for you before they wrap it up. Try their freshly-made sandwiches. Make sure you try their beans behind the deli counter. Their pimento dip in the refrigerated area is legendary and more addictive than crack (or so I have read). They have interesting sodas, craft beers, different mustards, El Indio chips, fresh breads, and a small but very well-curated wine selection. Is there anything they do not do well here? "No," is the answer to that question. They do everything well here. They have their own parking lot but it fills up quickly. There is not much other parking in the area. In the past, I have walked several blocks away in the residential neighborhood to get to the store when there is no parking available. And it was worth it.

    This what was advertised and this is what I got. GOOD, but looks nothing like it's advertised.read more

    Photos
    Siesel's Old Fashioned Meats - If ever the phrase "A little slice of heaven" were appropriate, this is it.

    If ever the phrase "A little slice of heaven" were appropriate, this is it.

    Siesel's Old Fashioned Meats
    Siesel's Old Fashioned Meats - Meat deli

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    Meat deli

    Pearson Deli - delis - Updated May 2026

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