This is the place to get fresh salads and real homemade soups. The salad bar is massive; has just about everything you could put on it; except the kitchen sink. Homemade soups are hot and comes with rolls. It is a serve yourself place. Prices are reasonable. It has a small dining area inside and a few tables outside on a sunny day. It can get very busy at noon time on weekdays. Also takes phone orders. Definitely 5 stars, easily. read more

Can't beat The Salad Shoppe when it comes to fresh salad bar and hot soup choices!! Fresh selection of various salad compliments like pasta/potato salads read more

Rarely leave poor reviews but I can't help it with this place. All I need to know is how....how does this restaurant exist? Dark, dreary interior resembling that of a middle school cafeteria, no public access to bathrooms (unless you want to walk through the kitchen - I opted out being that I'm on crutches), poorly kept salad bar, food debris everywhere, and the outside 'patio' wreaked of cigarette smoke. The person working the counter was not helpful. Most of what I saw available on the online menu was not actually available in store. I stayed because of the person I was with and chose the Chicken Caesar wrap, which I presume to be at least 48 hours old. Spare yourself. Walk across the street to Jamba Juice. I wish I had! read more

This shop is incredibly clean and sanitary. The employees are always there to clean even the smallest crumbs .The food here is also very adorable and delicious. I would rate it a 10/10. read more

Always fresh food and they are constantly keeping everything neat and tidy. If I could I would come eat lunch here everyday. If only they had more seating available because it is always packed, but that's because they are good! read more

Salad Shoppe - Sandwiches Near Me - Salinas, California

So ideally I'd like to give this place 3.5 stars but since you can't assign a half a star I'm rounding up. Walking into the restaurant the first thing I noticed was the small size. I wasn't surprised since most of the units (other than CVS) in this little center are, well, little, but I was impressed with their maximization of space. I headed to the back and grabbed a plate, armed and ready for salad buffet fun. Observing the salad, I must admit, it was extremely fresh. I wouldn't be surprised if they walked down a couple of blocks to the fields with machetes and harvested the lettuce fresh as all the lettuce & spinach were bright green and downright pretty. Though I grew up in Salinas, I've lived in Hawaii for so long that I sometimes forget what gorgeous produce looks like. This also means, however, that I get REALLY excited when I'm reminded about it. I loaded up my plate with lots of delicious greens and proceeded down the line. I'm not sure how they decided on their salad bar organization but I was a little confused to see the lineup as follows: Leafy Greens; potato & pasta salads; green salad toppers (shredded carrots, sliced zucchini, tomatoes, cucumber, etc, cheese, egg, ham) then dressing then crispy carby toppers. I don't know why, I was just thrown to be confronted with potato salad when I was expecting to see stuff to load on top of my greens. A super minor issue, I know, but what would my reviews be without something tiny to grip about? Nevertheless, all the veggies were as fresh and gorgeous as the lettuce so I was super stoked. Also, they had a pretty decent variety of produce to choose from. Shredded carrots, zucchini, cucumber, tomatoes, beets, peas, corn, hominy, cauliflower, & mushrooms were all available. I noticed a lack of broccoli & artichokes (2 popular central coast grown veggies) but it may just be a seasonal thing? I would have also liked to see more protein options outside of egg & ham but that's just me being a picky pet peeve full review. I topped my veggie maxed salad off with some egg, ham, & cheese (something I'd have also liked to see more options for) on top and finished it off with a nice vinaigrette. There are also soups available but I didn't try any of them as I'm not really a soup person. My soup loving mom, however, did look at them and, she too, decided that they weren't appealing enough for her try. Though this did slightly affect my overall rating of the restaurant, I did keep in mind that the name of the place was SALAD Shoppe. We sat down and I was ready to enjoy my meal. Aside from my leafy greens and fresh veggie packed salad, I picked up some of the potato salad as well as two of their pasta salads. The potato salad was pretty good; I appreciated that it wasn't filled with relish as I hate relish in my potato salad. The pasta salads weren't the most exciting, though it's difficult to make a truly delicious pasta salad so I'm not holding it too much against the restaurant. My green salad, on the other hand, was pretty delicious. Though the only real way to screw up a green salad is to use sub par vegetables and you will not, in any way, find that here. The vegetable quality alone is what got this place rounded up to 4 stars in my book. The whole restaurant looks and feels pretty bare minimal and service isn't exactly an issue as it's all serve yourself. Still the staff members seem nice and the place is kept really clean. Also, considering it's a salad bar, I was impressed to see they have some semblance of dessert. Still, it would have been nice to see a companion fruit bar or a more broad offering of salad topping options. If I lived in Salinas and worked or lived on that side of town, I'd probably be a repeat customer. However, consider that Salinas is now just a vacation spot to see my family, I probably won't be taking any great pains to return though I am and have highly recommended it to my local area friends and family. It's a great spot to grab a quick lunch (especially since they also offer to go boxes and I think they also have pre-made salads) and the produce is all gorgeous. However, it lacks any kind of eatery pizazz or gimmicks which would really inspire me to make this a MUST EAT HERE stop on my very short but annual trips to visit the parents. (NOTE: I have NOT eaten here in almost 2 years but due to a review of my review communicated to me by another yelper, I have attempted to clarify my review.) read more

You walk inside, go all the way back. They have pre-made salad options refrigerated. Otherwise, you choose a box or a plate to make your custom salad. You select the lettuce and toppings such as beans, cheese, olives, tomatoes, the usual. They also have soup and ice cream. It's ok, but I never go out of my way to come here. * "Not everyone has an appeal for fresh produce and vegetables-but for those who do, it's a candy store" Sort of funny since I practically live off a raw diet and Berkeley has a plethora of standard and exotic fruits and veggies Salinas could only dream of. But I'll revisit and update the review. read more

I love the selection of items in the salad bar. Everything always looks fresh and clean. I like the takeout salads because you can really pack what you want into them. It's very fast and a convenient healthier alternative to fast food. read more

Very good concept. Very weak execution, did not expect everything to be in a can. In an area so rich in vegetables, I expected more fresh and organic. read more

This place was my first job ever. Yes, that's right. When I was 14/15 I worked for a few years through high school. They helped me buy my first car. That accompanied with the fact I have a definite love for salad(and salad bars), I can say I've always had a soft spot for the Salad Shoppe. They do a really great job of keeping fresh vegetables and fruits both at the salad bar and their prepared salads. They always have seasonal specialties. They are good at keeping the mainstay staples as well as adding the occasional "new and interesting". Pricing is reasonable given a few things. For one, you can stuff your big behind as much as you want for one price. It's salad people but those dressings aren't calorie free :-D Second reason is that it's fresh, healthy, and a one stop shop for lunch/dinner. The people are friendly. Always helpful. The environment is very casual but nice, not dirty or run down. Note on that though, place gets very busy during peak times so it can be tricky. Overall a much needed break from the Salinas monotony of fast food or chain restaurants serving up fried junk on a plate. read more

Tried this place based on the reviews. Just ok. They could do so much better. In America's Salad Bowl, come on people. Offer more choices, do organic, get some healthier homemade dressings out there, get some fresh lemons and limes and high end olive oil for people to put on their salads. The whole place needs freshening up. If you do it...people will come. Been eating at chain salad bars such as Sweet Tomatoes & Souper Salad for years in the Phoenix, AZ area, not to mention salad bars in restaurants all over the country. This place seems to have a following because they have a corner on the market for this type of restaurant. But honestly, I can take the money we spent for two and go to the local farmers markets around town and make a serious feast of a salad at home for way less money. Just a little effort guys and you would have a great thing going. Based on my experience, it's not worth a second visit. read more

Huge selection to cater to your salad needs. We came here close to 8:00 at night but none of their salad ingredients were stale -- everything was still fresh. My wife and I ordered the one-trip container for about $8. That was all we needed cuz we stuffed our containers to the gills. Although they had a huge selection of ingredients, I was surprised I couldn't find walnuts and/or other nuts to dress my salad with. But, this is a great place to patron if you're trying to eat healthy and sensible. read more

I appreciate the reply from the owner. I did decide to give it another try since the owner seems so concerned and responsive to the reviews of the people. However........ everything was still the same!!! I'm sorry but perhaps the salad choices are just TOO fresh but I just don't like eating green tomatoes!! Fresh is good but ripe and ready to eat is even better. At least the salad bar at Chuck E Cheese has properly ripened veggies for their salads...too bad my kids have outgrown that place. Perhaps I should borrow my neighbor's kids and take them there so I can enjoy a good salad.... read more

Our family of four loves this place for dinner. My 8 year old LOVES both the salad bar and the chili, and the baby is happy to eat chili and share bread, peas, corn and pasta salad off of my plate. Bonus, we have NEVER been hassled for sharing with our 18 month old, which I especially appreciate. We'd never try to "share" a portion with our older daughter but the baby just doesn't eat enough to justify her own plate and I appreciate not being forced into buying one for her. The produce is fresh, the soups and chili are delicious, and the options are plentiful. I am also a fan of their grab and go salads, and often stop by for one on my lunch break. Affordable and well put together - my favorite has chicken, cheese, bacon, and avocado, and they have some of the best ranch on the market (I'm a self-confessed ranch snob). One side note - I'm a huge avocado fan and would love to see it added to the fresh salad bar. That is the ONLY thing missing in my opinion. read more

Love love love this place! Need I say more. -Very fresh. I have read previous post and the one I find funny is when someone commented about being able to get better at Chuck E Cheese. Are you fricken kidding me? I would say the produce is about as fresh as they get it. I am sure the seasons have to do with that. The premade salad on the bar seem homemade and not from a carton. Dressings are great (ranch and oriental are my fav) -Their soups are just getting better and better (very inventive) while the chili is still as good as ever. -The premade salads are fresh and very good size. -Breads and muffins are fresh too -Lastly, the cupcakes they are now selling are too die for! Keep up the good work! read more

This is basically my favorite salad place ever. I like Whole Foods in Monterey, but Salad Shoppe is better (fresher, more variety). I also loved Crazy Horse Restaurant, but they went out of business, and again, Salad Shoppe is better. When I worked in Salinas I went here at least twice a week and often brought my co-workers along with me. The dressings here are to die for, especially the ranch. I also love the bread and treat options, although the majority of the time I take food to go. I have even converted my vegetarian/salad averse (he says he doesn't "believe" in vegetables) boyfriend into regularly visiting. He gets the ready-made wraps and is very happy with them. The one time I had soup I really liked it as well. Now that I don't work in Salinas I don't visit as often, but whenever I'm in town this is where I get lunch or dinner. There is also a rewards system for points (I think?) but it's not very clearly explained or promoted. Like, I'm a member, and I really don't understand what it does - I just give them my phone number? A note on service - the checkout guys (and occasional gal back in the day) are friendly in a standoffish way. Once I was a regular I feel like their demeanor kind of warmed up but my boyfriend reports they are still a little chilly towards him - and he's like the antithesis of warm and fuzzy - so chilly to him is probably distinctly off-putting to the average customer. Otherwise LOVE this place! read more

First time going here yesterday and the lady at the register was very nice to explain how things work since I told her it was my first time. The place is very clean and have a lot of options to put in your salad. It is all you can eat of you dine in, so I'm excited to try to dine in one day. Overall experience has been great and I have gone there my second time already :) read more

Great lunch spot! Food is fresh, service is quick & friendly! Lots of varieties & generous portions. This place makes me want a salad for lunch! They inspire healthy food choices! read more

Salad Shoppe - Sandwiches Near Me - Salinas, California

When I don't bring lunch to work, the Salad Shoppe is a great place to eat. It is healthy and hearty. Good place to grab lunch if you are on the go. Lost of choice to make a BIG salad. They even have salads already made. Here are some of my favorites: 1. CHILI!! That has to be number one 2. Cornbread....I can fill up on chili and cornbread 3. Cold pastas, plenty enough to choose from 4. Same goes with the dressing 5. Small skinny place, but there is still a lot of places to sit This restaurant is perfect for your 1-hour lunch break from work. The only downside I would have to say is I wish they had more meat toppings like cocktail shrimp or cold chicken. Though you can get a pre-made salad with those I would like to make it on my "random" salads. read more

love coming here for lunch they have the best choice for any salad that you can think of and they have different flavors of soups and muffins or rolls and the desserts is the best ever read more

A great place to get a quick and healthy lunch! The salad bar is always clean and fresh.. i do wish the chicken that you can purchase at the end of the salad bar wasn't so dry. They have a pretty good clam chowder and fresh bread to go with it. I recently tried the posole and it was pretty tasty! I do wish they had all the traditional posole toppings to go with it through (cabbage, onions, cilantro, limes!).. but the meat was very tender! They also have a really good thai chicken wrap with a yummy, spicy peanut sauce! read more

I get it. I live in the Salinas Valley I'm supposed to like or maybe even love it...well not so much. If I need a salad, I should make one. To go out to a all you can eat salad "bar" is wierd. But is it a good deal? $8.50 for a dine in all you can eat. That's the salad and the other salad that go's on to of that. Oh and soft serve and bread. Soda, soup and chili beans are extra. So it's 3:00pm and it looks like it's a one man show. He's taken money, cleaning tables, filling the bar. Doing it all! Great job. So we overlooked that they ran out of cones and bowls for the soft serve. But man! they ran out of soft serve to. Bummer. Anyway for the dough you plop down for the greens I could of had a pulled pork sandwich at my favorite BBQ joint. That's my bummer. Alright, so I had two plates of lettuce and other stuff like it on to of that to fill me up and then a couple of cups of soft serve to make me smile. Last words...no leftovers, that's cool. read more

Outstanding well run establishment! Clean & friendly. Enjoyed the couscous salad. Love their beets & especially love the fact that it's all you can eat! read more

Salad Shoppe - Outstanding eats!!!! The mustard dill dressing is the bomb! - Sandwiches Near Me - Salinas, California

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Love this place!!!! Always clean. Food is fresh. Soup, ice cream, desert and different breads are available as well. read more

Salad Shoppe - Sandwiches Near Me - Salinas, California

I'm usually really happy with my experience here. However, tonight they were out of bread when I got there at 6:30. It may not seem like a big deal to most people but I prefer to have some bread and butter with my chili and/or soup. Update: initially I was butt-hurt about not having cornbread with my chili. There were some other issues but I chock it up to the employees being young. My original (3-star) post was before I even took a bite of my food. I am adding the fourth star because everything I ate tonight was great...as usual. read more

I went here often when I used to work in Salinas, mostly because it's the only salad bar in that part of the city. It's overpriced and the selection of ingredients is majorly lacking and questionable freshness. The only part I find enjoyable is that they don't charge extra for bread and a little soft serve for dessert. Eight dollars just isn't worth a salad you have to make yourself with the shortage of creative ingredients. The staff is very nice, however, and efficient at ringing you in because the line is always pretty long during the weekday lunch hour. read more

An extensive salad bar with lots of fresh veggies as well as pre-made salads (potato, macaroni, etc.) and a good variety of salad toppers (croutons, raisins, sunflower seeds). My friend and I both decided to do the "takeout" salad bar. We filled up our little cardboard boxes with salady goodness. The cashier informed us we could also take our pick from either a roll or muffin. Oh, decisions, decisions! There were whole wheat rolls or mini blueberry muffins. I would have given the Salad Shoppe 4 stars, but I have to take off a star for there not being any tongs to grab the bread with! That's kind of disgusting to think that John and Jane who just payed cash for their bread of choice are now touching my mini-muffin! Fix the situation and I'll come back. Seating inside is limited (and LOUD) so avoid the rush hour (12-1). If you opt for the in-house salad bar, your meal also comes with all you can eat soft serve ice cream, now is that a deal or what? read more

I really love this place. I just wish they were open on the weekends!! They have really fresh ingredients and a great salad selection. read more

I greatly appreciate this restaurant and the healthy alternatives for food. They have a grab and go section of already made salads, you can order sandwiches and other entrees or you can sit down for a buffet meal. A little lacking on selection but overall a great place! Soups are a dollar more and you can make your choice based upon the soups available that day. This place is becoming a regular stop for me. read more

I've been going to the salad shoppe for the last 3 years and they have been nothing but amazing. I have seen their food and it's fresh!!!! They are always friendly and never have seen an angry employee.. amazing service and they are always asking how they can make my experience better.. their menu has expanded to amazing sandwiches. They have adjusted to covid rules and overcame. Outdoor seating is amazing( especially with the heaters). Indoor seating has been upgraded to a better more healthy indoor experience. Great place for lunch business meeting read more

If you were ever a lover of fresh choice restaurants this is your place only better. Very fresh great soups and very friendly

Good hidden gem. Never heard of the place. A co-worker insisted that we go there, and was right. Fresh salad and breads and soups. Free WiFi. Build any salad you can think of. Only problem I had is I didn't like there blue cheese dressing it was to watery. read more

I very much enjoyed my lunch here and can't believe I've never been! Wonderful salad bar, very fresh, with all toppings you can think of. I will definitely be back! read more

Great place for lunch, large variety of toppings very fresh and when you dine in its all you can eat! read more

Salad Shoppe - Create your own at your desire! - Sandwiches Near Me - Salinas, California

The best salads in town! Everything is super fresh, and the staff is always very friendly. A must-see in Salinas for a quick, easy lunch! They should bring back "Nanas Famous Pasta Salad"... That's the best pasta salad I have ever had. Thanks for all you do, Salad Shoppe! read more

Went here for lunch and it was pretty good, wish they had a larger selection of toppings and there's an additional charge for a toddler size side of chicken for your salad. Other than that, I guess it was okay. read more

The best salad bar by far on the Monterey Peninsula. It is certainly worth the drive to South Main in Salinas. I love it, and I consider myself a salad bar expert. If you like fresh veggies, try it out. read more

Healthy food with fantastic flavor, and inexpensive too. Their soft serve - a synthetic, diet friendly - is the best around! The soups are made fresh daily but often run low requiring a substitute flavor. Sign up on Facebook to know the flavor of the day. read more

Great value and good selection. Clean and well stocked salad bar. Great place for a quick and healthy meal. read more

I stopped into the shop during the last hour they were open for the day- it was late and hot and I wanted something for dinner that wasn't a greasy hamburger or pizza because I sure wasn't cooking anything. I got my order to go and just built my own salad instead of taking the premade ones in the case. The salad bar is very clean and has a lot of options for veggies in your salad. There were also a couple of pasta salads and what I believe was a potato salad! There are also lots of dressing options and topping as well. Everything looked extremely fresh so I wasn't worried. My three major issues that have me left with giving it only three stars are: 1. There isn't really a way to get a bigger sized salad to go. You are stuck with the one size to go container and it's not that big. 2. I saw this in a previous review- there isn't a huge selection of proteins to add to the salad. I would have liked to see some grilled chicken or something (I opted for ham- because it was that or tofu or the small containers of chicken/shrimp that you pay extra for and to be honest they didn't look all that appealing so i passed on those) 3. For the size salad I left with, the price was a bit much. They are convenient and maybe I would have gotten a better deal if I had dined in (I wasn't in the mood for that) but next time I feel like a quick salad for dinner I will go to the grocery store and get a premade one in the produce section. read more